This Is the Hotel Booking MISTAKE Every Family Makes!

Learn the one slip-up that could turn your family’s next vacation into a logistical headache—wherever you’re headed. 🌐 #News #DenverCO #Colorado #Travel

DENVER, CO — Colorado families are pros at rugged adventure, from scaling fourteeners to braving blizzards, but when it comes to booking hotels for trips beyond our peaks, we’re dropping the ball. There’s a common mistake we make that can unravel even the most epic travel plans. Here’s the scoop—and how to fix it fast.

The Blunder: Skipping the Cancellation Fine Print

The big misstep? Booking hotels without scrutinizing the cancellation policies. We Coloradans are used to unpredictable weather and last-minute changes—think sudden snowstorms canceling a weekend in Vail. But when we book a hotel in Florida, Italy, or anywhere else, we assume flexibility comes standard. Spoiler: it doesn’t. Strict cancellation rules can leave you stuck with a non-refundable room or hefty fees when plans shift, and they always do with kids in the mix.

Imagine this: You book a beachfront spot in Cancun for a summer escape, but a week out, a kid spikes a fever or a wildfire smoke advisory hits Denver, grounding flights. You go to cancel, only to find the hotel’s “no refunds within 14 days” policy means you’re out $800—or stuck traveling anyway. It’s a gut punch, and it happens because we didn’t read the fine print.

Why We Mess This Up

Back home, we’re spoiled by Colorado’s laid-back vibe—local spots often cut us slack because we’re regulars. But internationally or even coast-to-coast, hotels cater to mass tourism, not our mountain-town goodwill. We’re also busy juggling carpools and gear checks, so we skim the details, assuming “free cancellation” means what it says. (Hint: “Free until 24 hours before” isn’t the same as “free if I cancel two days out.”)

The Fix: Dig Into the Details

Here’s how to dodge the trap: always read the cancellation policy before you book. Look for terms like “fully refundable” or “no penalty up to [date]” and match them to your family’s needs. Traveling with little ones or during Colorado’s wild weather seasons? Prioritize hotels with 24- or 48-hour cancellation windows over rigid “non-refundable” rates, even if it costs a bit more upfront. Screenshot the policy, too—proof saves headaches if disputes pop up.

Keep Your Colorado Cool

We’re a resilient bunch, raised on high-altitude grit, but let’s not let a hotel booking snag steal our vacation mojo. Next time you’re plotting a trip—be it Bali or Boston—take five minutes to check the cancellation rules. It’s the Colorado way: plan smart, stay flexible, and keep the family fun rolling, no matter what curveballs come our way.

As a thank you for reading this article, enjoy 25% off our new Feel Good Stories eBook. Do you have an uplifting story or fascinating news tip? Email us! news@jackandkitty.com.

RELATED TOPICS: Colorado | Lifestyle | Travel