Holidu may apply a cancellation fee when a host cancels a confirmed booking. The fee is a percentage of the booking amount and depends on how close the cancellation is to check-in. This article explains what to do if you must cancel, how the fee works, and when it can be waived.

Holidu reserves the right to apply cancellation fees when a host cancels a confirmed booking, or is found responsible for a cancellation under this policy. The exceptions are extenuating circumstances.

Why does Holidu have a host cancellation policy?

Cancellations affect more than one booking. They create problems for guests, hosts, and Holidu. The policy helps keep the service reliable and protects the trust guests place in their holiday plans.

• For guests: Cancellations disrupt travel plans, cause frustration, and can make guests less likely to book again.
• For hosts: Cancellations can hurt your credibility, your property's reputation, your visibility in search results, and your future bookings on booking channels.
• For Holidu: Cancellations add costs for managing disrupted bookings, finding replacements, and completing extra administrative work.

Host cancellations do not happen often, but it is important to understand their impact. Learn more about the impact of cancellations and how to avoid them.

What should I do if I have to cancel a booking?

If you cannot honour a booking, act as quickly as possible. Offer an alternative property if you can. If you cannot, cancel early so your guest has more time to make other plans.

Any alternative property you offer should meet these conditions:

• It is listed on the same booking channel where your guest originally booked.
• It is in a similar price range.
• It meets the same or higher standards as the original listing.

When you offer a suitable alternative, the Holidu customer support team can help coordinate with the booking channel and the guest. This helps secure the guest's acceptance and reduces the chance of extra charges.

When does the cancellation fee apply, and how is it calculated?

A cancellation fee applies if you cannot offer an alternative that meets the conditions above and your guest accepts it. The fee is a percentage of the booking amount. It depends on how much time is left until check-in.

If the calculated fee is less than €50, the fee is raised to the minimum of €50.

What is the booking amount?

The booking amount is the total price your guest agrees to pay when confirming a booking. This amount determines your expected payout, after platform fees and any other deductions.

Example of a cancellation fee calculation

The following example is for illustration only. It is not based on a real booking.

• Booking amount: €800
• Cancellation made 20 days before check-in, which falls in the 10% band
• Calculated fee: 10% of €800 = €80
• Fee charged: €80, which is above the €50 minimum

If the same cancellation had a booking amount of €300, the 5% band would give €15. Because this is below the €50 minimum, the fee would be €50.

When might the cancellation fee be waived?

Holidu understands that some situations are beyond your control. In cases involving major disruptive events or other valid circumstances, Holidu may waive the cancellation fee.

If you believe your situation qualifies, share supporting evidence with the Holidu customer support team. The team reviews each request with support from your local Holidu team before making a final decision. Learn more about qualifying circumstances and how to request a waiver.

How do I submit a cancellation request?

Before you cancel, review the full impact of a cancellation, not just the fee.

If you still want to cancel after reviewing the consequences, submit your request through the Holidu host contact page. Cancellations are only legally valid when submitted through this process. Requests sent by email or through other channels will not be accepted.