Travelers itching for a getaway can now score deeply discounted trips by buying non-refundable flight tickets and hotel bookings from individuals who had to cancel due to emergencies, last-minute illness, or travel delays. Platforms like SpareFare, Roomer, Plans Change, and Transfer Travel operate as resale marketplaces, allowing sellers to list unused reservations and buyers to grab them—often at 20–30% off the original price..

One Facebook group, “Holidays For Sale Booked & Paid But Can’t Go Or Cancel – Buy & Sell,” regularly hosts listings for urgent deals. For example, a Turkey trip listed at £800 was acquired for £400, and a three-night hotel room in Amsterdam sold for £350, down from £481.

These platforms typically charge seller commissions—around 12% on SpareFare and 15% on Transfer Travel—and hold payments in escrow to reduce fraud risk. They often assist when bookings have name-change restrictions or other transfer issues. While some reservations may not permit transfers, platforms usually help resolve such complications or refund the buyer as needed.

Experts say this resale trend has surged recently, particularly among spontaneous travelers. It benefits sellers recovering costs and allows buyers to get affordable vacations—though flexibility in dates and destination is key to finding the best deals.