If I have a confirmed hotel reservation which is prepaid and check out early, can the hotel resell that room?

I booked a room through Expedia for 5 nights. On the 5th night I am traveling by air back to my home of record. My flight leaves after 9pm of that 5th night which is prepaid. Can the hotel re-sell that room for the night I already paid for. I ask this question because if my flight is delayed or cancelled I would like to be able to return to the hotel for that night.

Once you have checked out of the hotel, you have released that room for booking.

I agree with the previous answers. That said, be sure to explain your situation to the Front Desk and arrange for them to NOT check you out of the room with the understanding that you want it held for you in case your flight is canceled after you arrive at the airport. Since your room is prepaid, this should be simple to arrange. They'll just check you out of the room the next morning. It IS important however that you inform the Front so that your room is not released by Housekeeping simply because it's vacant. Also, you'll want them to hold the room key, and you'll need to sign for any incidental charges you incurred prior to leaving for the airport. When/if you do need to return to the room, you'll simply stop by the desk to reclaim your key. They may not be able to produce a copy of your bill until your room is actually checked out, but you call and ask that they send a copy to you. Have a great trip!

Once you check out, you forfeit the room. So check with the airline before leaving your hotel.