How to Transfer a Hotel Booking to Someone Else

Unlike airline tickets, hotel reservations typically don't have the same strict name-on-booking rules. Most hotels care about occupancy and payment — not necessarily about who made the reservation, as long as someone shows up with valid payment and ID.

This creates a genuine opportunity: if you can no longer use your hotel booking, you may be able to sell the reservation to someone else by either changing the name on the booking or simply providing the buyer with the confirmation details to check in.

Policies vary by hotel chain and booking platform. Direct bookings with hotels are usually the most flexible — the front desk will often allow a name change with a quick phone call. Bookings made through Booking.com or Expedia depend on the hotel's own cancellation policy.

SpareHolidays verifies transfer feasibility during the listing process. Our AI cross-references the hotel's transfer policies to flag any limitations before you list.

Marriott & Bonvoy properties: Generally allow name changes by contacting the property directly. Non-refundable rates may be modified without cancellation penalty if staying within the same property and dates.

Hilton: Flexible rates allow free cancellation and rebooking. Non-refundable rates require direct contact with the property — policies vary by franchise location.

IHG (Holiday Inn, Crowne Plaza, etc.): Name changes are generally handled at property level. Direct bookings are more flexible than OTA bookings.

Hyatt: Similar to other major chains — direct contact with the property is the most reliable route. Hyatt's World of Hyatt program allows some flexibility for loyal members.

Independent hotels: Often the most flexible. A simple phone call explaining the situation frequently results in a name change at no charge.

Airbnb: Non-transferable by policy — the account holder is responsible for the booking. Airbnb's customer service may make exceptions in extraordinary circumstances.

The process for selling a hotel booking on SpareHolidays takes about 10 minutes to set up.

Buyers expect a meaningful discount — typically 20–40% below the original price. For a booking that cost €300, an asking price of €180–€240 is realistic.

Price your listing based on: urgency (how close is check-in?), scarcity (are there other rooms available at the hotel?), and season (peak vs. off-peak dates).

Last-minute listings — 2 to 7 days before check-in — can often command higher prices if the hotel is otherwise fully booked.