UK tourists risk being turned away from hotels over a little-known 'walking' clause this summer. The clause allows chain hotels to turn away guests if they are overbooked, even if the guest has already paid for the room. Consumer group Which? has identified three major hotel chains that have policies allowing them to 'walk' guests: Travelodge, IHG, and Britannia.
What is the 'Walking' Clause?
Under the practice, UK tourists who have booked a hotel room and paid for it can be turned away with no compensation if the hotel is overbooked upon their arrival. This is permitted under the terms and conditions of many hotel chains.
Hotel Policies and Responses
Travelodge
Travelodge stated: 'When they do occur, our priority is to handle any move with the minimum impact on the guest, which includes arranging alternative accommodation and covering travel expenses. We share our terms and conditions with all customers at the point of booking to ensure transparency.'
Britannia Hotels
Britannia adds: 'In the event that we are unable to provide you with a room in either the hotel you have booked or an alternative hotel, we unfortunately will have to cancel your reservation. We will provide you with a full refund; however, no compensation or expenses will be paid.' Britannia Hotels told Sky News Money: 'As with all hotels, there are occasions when rooms may become unavailable due to unforeseen issues, including last-minute maintenance or operational requirements. In some cases, this may result in an overbooking. We always use our best endeavours to provide accommodation of an equivalent standard or higher. If relocation is not possible and a booking must be cancelled, guests will be informed as soon as possible and issued a full refund.'
IHG
IHG added: 'If your reservation cannot be honoured, the host hotel will provide a room at, and transportation to, another convenient and comparable hotel and pay for telephone calls to notify family of the lodging change. The host hotel will also pay the full cost of the first night's lodging rate, plus tax. Any advance deposit will be refunded.'
What This Means for UK Tourists
Tourists are advised to read the terms and conditions carefully before booking, as the 'walking' clause can leave them without accommodation despite having a confirmed reservation. While some hotels offer alternative arrangements or refunds, compensation is not guaranteed.
