No-Show Fee

A no-show fee is a charge imposed when a passenger or guest fails to check in for a confirmed reservation without prior cancellation. Airlines, hotels, and car rental companies apply these fees to offset revenue losses from empty seats, rooms, or vehicles. For flights, a no-show can result in ticket cancellation, meaning the traveler forfeits the fare unless the ticket is refundable. Hotels may charge for one full night or the entire booking, depending on their policy. Corporate travel programs should include clear guidelines on cancellation deadlines to avoid unnecessary expenses. Businesses can negotiate waivers with preferred travel partners or use flexible booking options to minimize no-show costs. Travel management software can also help track and prevent frequent no-shows.