A growing trend in the travel industry is helping budget-conscious travelers access luxury vacations at significantly discounted rates. Dubbed ‘secondhand travel,’ this method allows individuals to purchase unused vacation bookings from other travelers, often at 20–30% off the original price. While the idea of buying someone else’s trip might seem unconventional, it’s effectively a way to capitalize on canceled reservations and recover some costs for the original traveler.
The trend, which is still relatively unknown to most Americans, relies on platforms like Transfer Travel and Sparefare to facilitate the exchange. These marketplaces enable buyers to access pre-organized itineraries, including hotel stays, all-inclusive packages, and sometimes even air travel, without the hassle of planning from scratch. For the seller, it’s an opportunity to recoup some of the nonrefundable expenses incurred from their canceled trip.
However, the appeal of secondhand travel is limited to those who can adapt to short notice bookings. Katy Nastro, a spokesperson for the travel company Going, explained that the term is somewhat of a misnomer, as the trips being sold are not actually ‘used’ but rather canceled. This method works best for individuals with flexible schedules who can commit to traveling within a week and are not tied to a specific destination.
Despite its benefits, secondhand travel is not without its challenges. The biggest hurdle for sellers is managing the logistics of airfare, as some airlines do not allow for name changes or last-minute alterations. Nastro emphasized that travelers should consult with multiple airline representatives before listing their trips on these platforms to ensure the process is feasible and smooth.
Additionally, this method tends to be more practical for single travelers or remote workers who have more control over their availability than families or groups planning extended getaways. While the options are often concentrated in major cities, remote destinations and national parks remain largely inaccessible via secondhand travel. As a result, the trend is more appealing to those seeking last-minute luxury experiences in urban centers rather than extended stays in less accessible locations.
To maximize the value of a secondhand travel booking, experts recommend comparing rates across different platforms and directly with the hotel or destination. For example, while a secondhand booking might offer a 30% discount, it could still be more expensive than a standard rate found on a traditional travel site. By shopping around, travelers can ensure they are getting the best deal available, while also maintaining the flexibility to make last-minute changes or cancellations if needed.