How to Reserve a Hotel Room in a Pandemic
If you're booking a room in late spring or early summer in hopes that travel restrictions will be lifted, pay attention to the fine print and book closer to your travel date.
The federal directive extending social-distancing guidelines to April 30, as well as multiple state recommendations to shelter in place, means that few people are traveling. Many hotels have closed for the interim and most major hotel chains have waived cancellation fees, often refunding even nonrefundable rooms.
But for travelers considering a trip in May or June — assuming travel restrictions aren't extended — the logistics are murkier, with fluctuating and often less flexible rates and variable cancellation policies.
The following are some considerations for booking a hotel in these uncertain times.
MIND THE GRACE PERIOD Most major hotel chains have established a grace period for penalty-free cancellations, which are largely intended to encourage travelers to book without fear of losing their money.
Hilton, which has 18 brands in its portfolio, from Waldorf Astoria to Hilton Garden Inn, and Marriott, which has 29 brands, including Ritz-Carlton and Courtyard, are allowing refunds and changes even on nonrefundable rates up to 24 hours before arrival through June 30.
