Last Updated: March 11, 2025

1. Introduction

We understand that travel plans can change. This cancellation policy outlines the terms and conditions related to canceling or modifying bookings made through Cheap Fare Travel. Please note that as we act as an intermediary between you and travel service providers (airlines, hotels, etc.), our policy works in conjunction with those service provider's own cancellation policies.

2. General Cancellation Rules

The following general rules apply to all cancellations:

• All cancellations must be made through your Cheap Fare Travels account or by contacting our customer service team.
• Cancellation policies vary based on the type of booking, fare class, service provider, and how close to the departure date you cancel.
• Some bookings may be non-refundable as clearly indicated during the booking process.
• In the case of a significant schedule change by the service provider, you may be entitled to a full refund even for non-refundable bookings.
• Force majeure events may affect the applicability of standard cancellation policies.

3. Service Fees

Our service fees are applied as follows:

• Booking Service Fee: This fee is non-refundable in all circumstances, even if the underlying booking is canceled or refunded.
• Cancellation Processing Fee: A fee of AU$50 per passenger applies for processing cancellations, except for cancellations within the 24-hour flexibility period.
• Modification Fee: A fee of AU$30 per passenger applies for changes to existing bookings, in addition to any difference in fare and taxes.

4. Flight Cancellation Policies

Flight cancellation policies vary based on the airline and fare type. Here are general guidelines:

4.1 Refundable Fares

Fully refundable tickets can be canceled for a complete refund of the fare and taxes, minus any applicable service fees. Cancellation must typically be made before the scheduled departure.

4.2 Non-Refundable Fares

For non-refundable tickets:

• You may still be eligible for a refund of certain taxes and fees.
• Some airlines may offer a credit voucher for future travel, minus a cancellation penalty.
• In some cases, you may be able to change your flight for a change fee plus any fare difference.

4.3 Basic Economy/Light Fares

These highly restricted fares are typically non-changeable and non-refundable. Cancellation usually results in forfeiture of the entire fare amount.

5. Hotel Cancellation Policies

Hotel cancellation policies are set by each hotel property and generally fall into these categories:

• Free Cancellation: Full refund if canceled by the specified date (usually 24-72 hours before check-in).
• Partial Refund: Cancellation charge of one night or a percentage of the total stay.
• Non-Refundable: No refund upon cancellation, though some hotels may offer credit for a future stay.
• Pay at Hotel: Most reservations with payment due at check-in can be canceled without charge up to 24-48 hours before arrival.

6. Package Booking Cancellations

For package bookings that include flights, hotels, and/or other services:

• Each component of the package may have different cancellation terms.
• Generally, package bookings have stricter cancellation policies than individual bookings.
• Cancellation fees typically increase as the departure date approaches:
  • 60+ days before departure: 10% of package price
  • 30-59 days before departure: 25% of package price
  • 15-29 days before departure: 50% of package price
  • 7-14 days before departure: 75% of package price
  • Less than 7 days before departure: 100% of package price (non-refundable)

7. Refund Processing and Timelines

Understanding when and how refunds are processed:

• Refunds to credit cards typically take 7-14 business days to process once approved by the service provider.
• For complex itineraries, refunds may take up to 30 days to process.
• Refunds are generally issued to the original payment method used for booking.
• We will notify you via email when your refund has been processed.

Note: Airline refunds are subject to the airline's own processing times, which can range from 2 to 12 weeks, depending on the airline and circumstances.

8. Changes and Modifications

If you prefer to change your booking rather than cancel:

• Most changes will incur a modification fee as specified in Section 3.
• Name corrections (minor spelling errors) may be permitted without fee, but complete name changes are typically treated as a cancellation and rebooking.
• Date and time changes are subject to availability and may result in fare differences.
• Route changes are typically treated as a cancellation and new booking.

9. Special Circumstances

9.1 COVID-19 Related Cancellations

Our policies regarding COVID-19 related cancellations evolve with the global situation. Currently:

• If a government travel ban prevents your travel, more flexible cancellation terms may apply.
• If you test positive for COVID-19 prior to travel, documentation will be required for special consideration.
• Policy details vary by service provider and are subject to change.

9.2 Force Majeure Events

In cases of force majeure (natural disasters, political unrest, etc.), special cancellation policies may apply:

• Our service fees may be waived or reduced.
• Service providers may offer more flexible cancellation terms.
• Each situation is evaluated on a case-by-case basis.

10. Contact Information

For cancellation requests or policy questions, please contact our Customer Service team:

• Email: bookings@cheapfaretravels.au
• Phone: +61 2 9000 0000 (Monday-Friday: 9am-6pm AEST)
• Online: Log in to your account and select "Manage Bookings"

For urgent cancellation requests outside business hours, please use the emergency contact form on our website.