Navigating Train Strikes: Turning Challenges into Opportunities

Train strikes can be a frustrating disruption to our travel plans, causing unexpected changes and inconveniences. However, amidst the chaos, lies an opportunity to adapt and make the most of the situation. Here we’ll explore the impact of train strikes and discuss a creative solution - reselling your hotel room when plans change.

Why are we having train strikes?

Train strikes are occurring more and more frequently. They happen for various reasons, ranging from labour disputes to safety concerns. Whatever the cause, they can lead to cancelled or delayed trains, leaving travellers stranded and searching for alternatives.

In the UK, travellers have been hit with 18 months of disruption since unions began their pay dispute with the Government and train operating companies. While members of the RMT union have voted to end their long-running dispute over pay and conditions this week, the Aslef union have voted to continue strike action for the next six months. This means that passengers will continue to face train cancellations and delays over the Christmas period and into 2024.

The Domino Effect on Travel Plans

When faced with a train strike, it’s not just your transportation that’s affected. Hotel reservations, sightseeing plans, and more can all be thrown into disarray. But rather than succumbing to frustration, why not see if you can turn the situation around with an innovative solution?

Reselling your hotel room

One unconventional, yet effective solution is to resell your hotel room if your plans are disrupted. Here’s a step-by-step guide to turning this predicament into an opportunity at planschange.com.

1. Check the Hotel's Cancellation Policy: Before making any decisions, review the hotel's cancellation policy. Some accommodations offer flexible options, while others may have strict policies.
2. Communicate with the Hotel: Reach out to the hotel as soon as possible. Explain your situation due to the train strike and inquire about any flexibility they might offer. Some hotels may be understanding and willing to make adjustments. However, if you booked a non-refundable hotel room it is unlikely that you will be able to get your money back or change your reservation date.
3. Explore Reselling Platforms: Very few online platforms genuinely allow you to resell hotel reservations. But here at www.planschange.com you can do just that quickly and easily! Our worldwide hotel resale marketplace connects sellers with hotel rooms they can no longer use, with buyers actively looking for last minute hotel deals. Sell your hotel reservation on our website and recover your money up to the day of check-in. All we ask is that you list your hotel reservation with a discount of at least 25% off the original booking price.
4. Adjust Your Travel Dates: If your plans are flexible, consider adjusting your travel dates instead of cancelling. This way, you can still make use of your reservation and avoid losing money.
5. Use Social Media and Travel Communities: Leverage social media and travel forums to connect with fellow travellers who might be looking for last-minute accommodation. Platforms like Reddit, Facebook groups, or even Twitter can be valuable resources.
6. Offer an Attractive Discount: Be fair and transparent when reselling your reservation. Consider offering the room at a discounted rate, as it's a win-win situation for both you and the buyer.
7. Transfer Reservation Details: At Planschange we do the hard work of transferring your reservation details to the buyer for you. We’ll ensure the process is smooth, and that the buyer is aware of any specific conditions. We’ll also transfer the funds to your online wallet, and you’ll be able to withdraw it 24 hours after the checkout time.

Train Strikes - Don’t lose out

So, train strikes may throw a wrench into your travel plans, but with a bit of creativity, you can turn the situation around. Reselling your hotel room not only helps you recoup some of your expenses but also provides an opportunity for another traveller to find last-minute accommodation. Embrace the challenge, explore alternatives, and transform disruptions into unexpected opportunities. Safe travels!