AITA for not refunding my friend $600 after she bailed on our group trip?

Group trips are supposed to be a time for bonding and adventure—but sometimes one person’s last-minute change of plans can throw everything off course. In this case, a 19‑year‑old organizer and her friends planned an epic 12‑day ski trip over winter break, with everyone chipping in for a $600 rental. When one friend, “Sarah,” suddenly bailed citing a family emergency, the group was left scrambling to cover the cost. Initially, the trip organizer even promised a refund, assuming the emergency was genuine.

However, as the trip drew near, clues emerged that Sarah’s excuse was nothing more than a cover for choosing a beach vacation with her boyfriend instead. Feeling betrayed by the dishonesty—and facing extra costs due to the last‑minute cancellation—the organizer decided she wouldn’t refund the $600. Now, while some family and friends think she should relent, most commenters argue she’s completely in the right.

‘AITA for not refunding my friend $600 after she bailed on our group trip?’

Clear financial agreements are crucial in any group venture. When everyone commits to a shared expense, the expectation is that each member honors their obligation. In group travel arrangements, last‑minute cancellations can cause real financial strain on the rest of the group. Experts advise that if a person backs out without a valid reason, they should bear the cost. Establishing clear refund policies from the start can prevent these messy disputes and help maintain trust among friends.

According to financial expert Suze Orman, “If you don’t set clear boundaries around your money, people will take advantage of you.” This wisdom is especially relevant in group financial situations where everyone’s contributions are pooled. When someone lies about their circumstances to avoid financial responsibility, it undermines the trust and fairness that should bind the group. It’s a reminder that honesty isn’t just a moral choice—it has real financial consequences.

In addition to the practical side of expenses, group dynamics play a huge role in how such situations unfold. The breach of trust in this scenario isn’t solely about money; it’s about respecting the commitments made to the group. When Sarah misrepresented her situation, she not only jeopardized the trip but also forced her friends to shoulder a larger financial burden.

This behavior can be seen as a form of emotional manipulation, where the promise of a refund was used as a way to cover up her true intentions. Such actions damage long‑standing friendships and set a dangerous precedent for future group commitments.

Finally, experts recommend that clear communication and upfront policies can help prevent similar issues. Establishing in advance that non‑refundable deposits are standard for group trips, or that refunds are only granted under verifiable emergencies, can save everyone a lot of heartache later on.

This approach ensures that all members are aware of the stakes and that each person’s responsibility is clearly defined. It reinforces the idea that accountability is key in any financial or personal arrangement—ensuring that the group’s interests come first and that dishonest behavior is not rewarded.

See what others had to share with OP:

Here are some hot takes from the Reddit community—candid, humorous, and refreshingly blunt:

Redditors overwhelmingly agree that Sarah’s last-minute cancellation—based on a false emergency—is unacceptable. They praise the organizer for standing firm on her decision not to refund the $600, arguing that Sarah should bear the full cost of her actions. Many also note that group trips work best when everyone respects their commitments and that emotional manipulation has no place in financial arrangements.

In the end, this situation is about more than just a $600 refund—it’s about trust, responsibility, and the value of honest communication among friends. By refusing to refund the money after being deceived, the organizer is standing up for fairness and protecting the group’s interests. What do you think? Should Sarah be held fully accountable for her decision, or is there room for a compromise? Share your thoughts and experiences below—let’s discuss how clear agreements can prevent future conflicts.