What should I check before booking a flight?

Before paying, confirm who is selling the ticket and review the fare conditions that will govern later changes or cancellation. For some qualifying direct-airline bookings made at least seven days before departure, the airline must offer either a free twenty-four-hour hold or penalty-free cancellation; this federal airline rule does not automatically cover third-party sellers.

Independent booking assistance

Need help with booking?

Select your airline first. The phone option appears only when this offer covers the airline and request.

What this answer depends on

  • The airline chooses which of the two models it offers.
  • A third party may voluntarily provide its own cancellation terms.
  • The airline may voluntarily permit a change.

Important exceptions

  • The airline is not required to offer both options.
  • Do not promise a third-party cancellation right without that seller's separately verified terms.

Important unknowns

  • The exact fare, availability, baggage terms and ticketing deadline depend on the selected itinerary and seller.
  • No airline-specific fee, flexibility or service promise is established by this unit.

What to do next

  1. Identify the seller

    Confirm whether you are booking directly with the airline or through a third-party seller.

  2. Review the fare conditions

    Read the displayed change and cancellation terms before completing payment.

  3. Keep the booking record

    Save the confirmation, receipt and the fare conditions shown when you booked.

Sources and last checked