If you’ve been wondering how to cancel Airbnb and get full refund, you’re not alone. Maybe your plans changed. Or maybe something urgent happened. This guide will help you handle cancellations, including last-minute changes, last-minute cancellations and refund steps.
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Before you cancel, prepare your documents. Airbnb might ask for your TIN ID or PSA Birth Certificate, especially in special circumstances.
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The cancellation policy and Airbnb refund policies depend on the host. But there are steps you can follow to cancel a reservation. This 2025 guide explains how to cancel Airbnb and get a full refund!
How to Cancel A Pending Reservation Request
If your booking isn’t approved yet, you can cancel it for free.
Step 1: Open the Airbnb app or site. Go to ‘Trips’.
Step 2: Click ‘Your home reservation’. If you’ve started the trip, select your check-in time to find the info.
Step 3: Click ‘Cancel’.
If you’re on the move, keep a solar power bank ready.
Airbnb Cancellation Policies You Should Know
Always read the host’s cancellation policy before booking. Airbnb offers a few types:
Flexible
- Cancel up to 24 hours before check-in date:
Get a full refund of nightly rate and cleaning fees. - Cancel less than 24 hours before: First night is not refunded.
Moderate
- Cancel 5 days before check-in: Full refund.
- Cancel less than 5 days: First night is non-refundable. 50% of remaining nights refunded.
Strict
- Cancel within 48 hours of booking and 14+ days before check-in: Full refund.
- Cancel up to 7 days before: 50% refund.
- Less than 7 days: No refund.
Long Term (28+ nights)
- First 30 days are non-refundable. This applies to long-term stays, even if you cancel well ahead of time.
Note: Service fees are only refunded if canceled during free periods. More than 3 refunds in 12 months may lead to denial. Some hosts also have Super Strict or Stricter Policies by invitation.
Also, in high demand seasons, even flexible listings may not give a full refund if canceled late. Keep this in mind when booking.
Emergency Cancellations
Airbnb has a policy for emergencies, called Extenuating Circumstances. You might get a full refund if your reason fits. It may fall under Airbnb’s major disruptive events policy.
Needs Documents
- Death in the immediate family.
- Serious illness or health hazards.
- Jury duty or court.
- Damage to the property or broken appliances.
- Major travel issues like flight cancellations.
You may need to submit proof like death certificates or repair invoices.
Special Review by Airbnb
- Natural disasters or civil unrest.
- New visa or passport rules.
- Power loss or travel alerts.
You don’t need documents here. Airbnb decides the outcome.
Weather can change plans fast. Bring a portable umbrella for safety.
What To Do After Canceling
- Cancel your reservation in the app or on the site.
- Upload your documents if needed.
- Contact Airbnb and submit your claim within 14 days.
If you and the host agree to cancel and give consent, Airbnb may help with a manual payout. Refund amount depends on the policy.
Refunds usually show up in 3–5 days. Sometimes it takes 15.
Update your calendar and use the search input again to find new stays. If rebooking, you may see a discounted rate offered in the area.

Final Thoughts
Knowing how to cancel Airbnb and get full refund helps reduce stress. Whether it’s a last-minute change or a new scenario, knowing the rules gives you control.
Check policies, confirm standard rate, and read the fine print. Always look for listings with flexible policy options. Pack a water bottle to keep hydrated, too!
Also think about travel health insurance. If you book places with hot tubs or higher base price, review the cancellation policy again. Some listings charge higher service fees, so always review carefully.
If you’re a host, understanding the fine details can protect your earnings, especially when last-minute cancellations occur due to the guest’s inability to travel.
For peace of mind, carry tools, stay insured, and know your rights!
FAQ
Yes. If you cancel in time or qualify under Airbnb’s policies, you can get a full refund. That includes the guest refund policy, Airbnb’s cancellation policy, or special emergency cases.
Cancel during the free window. That’s usually 24 to 48 hours after booking. Check the host’s terms. Emergencies may qualify for penalty-free cancellation under special rules.
If it’s not as listed or unsafe, report it to Airbnb fast. Share photos and details. They’ll check if you qualify under their guest refund policy. You may get help or a refund.
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About the Writer

Hi there! I’m Fatima. My first major travel was in 2016 in the beautiful city of Cebu. After that, I got interested in traveling. Now I enjoy learning languages and other country’s cultures. My goal is to visit at least one country each year and to share my experiences with other people through writing or blogging. Witness my journey by following me on Instagram.