Does Expedia Allow Name Changes? A Complete Guide for Travelers

Booking travel online offers convenience and speed, but small errors—like a name typo—can cause big stress later. Whether it’s a misspelled last name or an accidental middle name omission, many travelers ask the same question after hitting “confirm”: Does Expedia allow name changes?

Expedia, one of the largest travel platforms globally, connects users to airlines, hotels, car rentals, and vacation packages. But when it comes to changing details on a confirmed reservation, especially names, the rules aren’t always clear. This blog walks through everything you need to know about Expedia’s name change policies, how to request changes, what limitations exist, and what to expect during the process.

Does Expedia Allow Name Changes?

Expedia allows name changes under specific conditions. However, the ability to modify a name on a booking doesn’t depend solely on Expedia. Instead, it relies heavily on the policies of the service provider—such as an airline or hotel.

Expedia is a travel booking platform, not the service provider itself. That means your airline or hotel’s policies take priority when it comes to name change requests. Expedia acts as the communication bridge between you and those providers.

Generally, minor spelling corrections are permitted, while complete name changes are rarely allowed, especially for flights.

The Role Expedia Plays in Travel Bookings

To understand why Expedia's name change policies are somewhat limited, it's important to know how the platform functions. Expedia serves as an intermediary, allowing users to book travel services offered by third-party providers. When you make a reservation through Expedia, you’re entering into an agreement not just with Expedia, but also with the service provider (like Delta Airlines or Marriott Hotels).

This structure means Expedia does not have the authority to override the terms and conditions set by providers. Instead, the platform works within those boundaries to help users manage bookings and submit change requests.

Types of Name Changes Expedia May Allow

Not all name changes are created equal. Some are allowed with little hassle, while others are completely restricted depending on the type of travel and the provider’s rules.

1. Minor Spelling Corrections

Expedia usually allows minor spelling adjustments on a reservation. These changes are typically straightforward and can often be completed by customer support without additional fees.

Examples include:

• Correcting a typo (e.g., “Jonh” to “John”)
• Fixing a misplaced character
• Adding a missing middle name
• Adjusting a common misspelling

Most airlines permit small corrections (typically one to three characters), provided the intent of the name remains clear.

2. Full Name Changes or Transfers

Changing the entire name on a reservation—such as transferring a ticket to another person—is generally not allowed. Most airline tickets are non-transferable, which means you can’t assign the reservation to someone else after booking.

If such a change is necessary, the only option may be to cancel the existing booking and create a new one under the correct name. This process can involve cancellation fees, price differences, and additional hassle.

3. Legal Name Changes

In certain situations—such as a legal name change due to marriage or court order—some providers may allow name changes, provided you submit official documentation. Expedia can assist with this type of request by facilitating communication with the provider.

Documents that may be required:

• Marriage certificate
• Divorce decree
• Government-issued ID with the updated name
• Legal name change document

The provider’s approval is still necessary in these cases, even if Expedia handles the request.

How to Request a Name Change Through Expedia

If you've discovered a name issue on your booking, you should act quickly. Here’s how to submit a name change or correction request:

Step 1: Log In to Your Expedia Account

Go to the Expedia website and sign into the account used to make the reservation. Navigate to the "Trips" section to view your current bookings.

Step 2: Select the Trip with the Name Issue

Click on the booking where you want to make the name change. This will open the trip summary page.

Step 3: Click "Manage Booking"

Select the “Manage Booking” or “Itinerary” option. If name changes are allowed, you’ll see a note or link guiding you to start the process. In most cases, Expedia will ask you to contact customer support directly.

Step 4: Contact Expedia Support

You can reach out via live chat, phone, or message through their Help Center. Be ready with your booking ID and the correct spelling of the name. For legal changes, have scanned copies of the required documentation ready.

Are There Fees for Name Changes on Expedia?

Expedia itself does not typically charge a service fee for making name corrections. However, if the travel provider (such as an airline) has a policy that includes a fee, that cost will be passed on to you.

Potential Costs:

• Airline correction fees: $0–$200 depending on the carrier
• Cruise or vacation package change fees: Vary widely
• Hotel name updates: Often free, especially if no ID is required
• Car rental driver name changes: Usually no cost, but may require license verification

Always confirm the cost with customer support before making the change.

Expedia’s Name Change Rules by Travel Type

Different services booked through Expedia come with different flexibility when it comes to name changes. Here’s a breakdown:

Flights

• Minor name corrections may be allowed
• Full name changes or transfers are not permitted
• ID must match the ticket at check-in
• Airline policies determine whether a correction is possible

Hotels

• Typically the most flexible
• Can often update the guest name easily
• You may need to contact the hotel directly in some cases

Cruises

• Policies are stricter than hotels but more flexible than airlines
• Changes may be allowed up to a certain number of days before departure
• May require documentation and fees

Car Rentals

• Usually flexible
• Name on the reservation must match the driver's license
• Driver’s name can often be changed or additional drivers added

When Name Changes Are Not Possible

There are scenarios where name changes cannot be made:

• Full name replacements for flight tickets
• Last-minute change requests, especially within 24 hours of departure
• Non-refundable bookings where cancellation and rebooking aren’t viable

In such cases, travelers may have to cancel the booking entirely and make a new reservation. Depending on the provider’s policy, refunds may not be available.

Tips to Prevent Name Errors on Expedia

Preventing name errors at the booking stage is far easier than correcting them later. Follow these tips to avoid the need for name changes:

1. Double-check spelling before finalizing your reservation
2. Use the exact name as shown on your government-issued ID
3. Confirm middle names if they appear on your passport or travel documents
4. Review the confirmation email immediately after booking
5. Make changes early, ideally within 24 hours of purchase

What to Do If You Can’t Fix the Name Error

If a name change is denied or not possible:

• Review the cancellation policy: Some providers allow free cancellations within 24 hours
• Consider rebooking: Sometimes it’s cheaper to book a new trip than pay for corrections
• Contact the travel provider directly: They may offer a workaround
• Check your travel insurance: Some policies cover administrative change

Conclusion

So, does Expedia allow name changes? Yes—but within specific limits. Minor spelling corrections are often possible, especially if requested early. Full name changes or ticket transfers, particularly for airline bookings, are rarely permitted due to provider restrictions.

If you notice a name issue, act quickly. Reach out to Expedia support, understand the applicable provider policy, and prepare any documentation you may need. Being proactive can save you time, money, and stress during your travels.

Understanding Expedia’s name change policy helps you respond effectively and avoid common pitfalls—leading to smoother travel experiences and fewer last-minute surprises.