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Change Name on Expedia Flight Ticket: Step-by-Step Guide


Booking flights online is easy and efficient—until you realize there’s a mistake in the name on your ticket. Whether it's a small typo or a situation involving a legal name change, it’s crucial to ensure that the name on your flight ticket matches the one on your government-issued ID. If you booked your ticket through a popular online platform, this guide will help you understand how to change name on Expedia flight ticket, what rules apply, and how to avoid potential issues.

Why Changing the Name on a Ticket Matters

Airlines follow strict identification regulations, and your boarding pass must match your ID exactly. Any discrepancy, even a minor one, can lead to denied boarding. If your name is incorrect on your Expedia booking, addressing the issue immediately is your best option to avoid complications on the day of travel.

Here are common reasons passengers need to change name on Expedia flight ticket:

  • Typing errors or spelling mistakes

  • Swapped first and last names

  • Missing middle names or initials

  • Legal name change due to marriage, divorce, or court order

  • Booking done with a nickname instead of the full legal name

Regardless of the cause, the goal is to align your flight booking with your official documents.

Can You Change Name on Expedia Flight Ticket?

Yes—but there are some important caveats. Expedia is an online travel agency that sells tickets issued by individual airlines. This means the ability to change name on Expedia flight ticket largely depends on the airline's policy, not just Expedia's procedures.


What Expedia Can Do

Expedia typically allows name corrections, especially for minor typos, provided the request aligns with the airline’s rules. However, Expedia cannot transfer a ticket to a different passenger. Tickets are generally non-transferable.

Some airlines are more lenient and may allow corrections within certain limits, while others may not permit any changes at all, especially for basic economy fares or low-cost carrier tickets.

Minor Corrections vs Full Name Changes

When discussing how to change name on Expedia flight ticket, it’s important to distinguish between:

  • Minor Corrections: Fixing spelling errors (e.g., Jhon to John), adding or removing a middle name or initial, or correcting a title like Mr./Ms.

  • Full Name Changes: Replacing the passenger's name entirely, such as after a legal name change.

Expedia may assist with minor corrections, but full name changes usually involve airline intervention and are subject to approval. If the change is considered too significant, you may be required to cancel the ticket and rebook.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Change Name on Expedia Flight Ticket

Here’s how to correct your name on a ticket booked through Expedia:

1. Log into Your Expedia Account

Start by logging in to www.expedia.com and go to the “Trips” section. Select the flight with the name issue.

2. Review the Booking Details

Check if there's an option to edit passenger details. If available, it will typically allow for minor corrections only.

3. Check Airline’s Name Change Policy

Before you contact Expedia, review the airline’s policy on name changes. This helps you understand what kind of correction is permissible.

4. Contact Expedia Customer Support

If no self-service option exists, contact Expedia’s support team via phone or live chat. Be ready to provide:

  • Your booking reference

  • The incorrect name and the correct one

  • A copy of your valid ID or passport

  • Legal documents (if the change is due to marriage, divorce, etc.)

Expedia will coordinate with the airline on your behalf and let you know the next steps.

5. Wait for Confirmation

Once your request is submitted, you’ll need to wait for the airline to approve the correction. This can take anywhere from a few hours to a few days. Monitor your email for updates.

Fees to Change Name on Expedia Flight Ticket

Changing the name on a ticket may come with costs, depending on:

  • The airline’s fee structure

  • Type of correction (minor vs full name change)

  • How close you are to your travel date

  • Your ticket class or fare type

Estimated Fees:

Type of Change

Estimated Fee

Spelling correction (1-3 letters)

$0 – $75

Legal name change with documentation

$50 – $200

Ticket reissuance required

$100 – $300 + fare difference

Expedia itself usually doesn’t charge an extra fee for processing the name change, but it will pass along any fees imposed by the airline.

When to Request a Name Change

It’s important to act as soon as you notice a name error. Ideally, request the correction at least 72 hours before your departure. Some airlines won’t allow changes once online check-in begins, usually 24 hours before takeoff.

What if You’re Traveling Soon?

If your flight is within 24–48 hours and you need to change name on Expedia flight ticket, contact Expedia support immediately by phone. In urgent situations, they may be able to escalate the request with the airline.

Documents You May Need

To successfully process a name change, Expedia or the airline may request the following:

  • A copy of your government-issued ID (passport, driver’s license)

  • Legal documents (marriage certificate, court order)

  • Booking reference or ticket number

  • Proof of the original error (if applicable)

Make sure to provide clear and legible digital copies to avoid delays.

What to Do If Name Change Isn’t Allowed

If the airline doesn’t allow name changes and your request is denied, you may have limited options:

  • Cancel and Rebook: Cancel your ticket (if refundable or flexible) and purchase a new one with the correct name.

  • Use Travel Credit: Some airlines offer credit for canceled tickets, though you may still pay a change fee or fare difference.

Before canceling, consult Expedia to understand your refund or credit eligibility.

Tips to Avoid Name Errors in the Future

Here are simple ways to avoid the hassle of having to change name on Expedia flight ticket:

  • Always double-check your name before submitting the booking.

  • Use your full legal name as it appears on your ID or passport.

  • Don’t use nicknames or abbreviations unless they match your ID.

  • Verify your confirmation email right after booking to catch errors early.

  • Save your documents and account login so changes are easier to manage.

Final Thoughts

Realizing there’s an error in your name on a flight booking can be stressful, but with the right information and prompt action, you can often resolve the issue smoothly. While Expedia provides tools and support to help correct booking errors, the ultimate decision often rests with the airline.

 
 
 

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