What to Do With Old Airline Tickets: A Guide for Travelers
Traveling can be expensive, and buying airline tickets is often one of the biggest expenses for any trip. When plans change, and you can no longer use the tickets, it can be frustrating to let the money go to waste. But what should you do with your old airline tickets? In this guide, we’ll explore some options to help you recoup your costs.
Option 1: Request a Refund
If your airline ticket is refundable, you may be able to get a refund or credit for future travel. However, not all tickets are refundable, and even refundable tickets may come with terms and conditions that limit your refund options. Check with your airline to see if you’re eligible for a refund, and if so, what the process is for requesting one.
Option 2: Exchange for Credit
If you can’t get a refund, some airlines allow you to exchange your old ticket for credit that can be used toward future travel. This option can be useful if you travel frequently and know you’ll need to buy more tickets in the future. However, make sure to check the terms and conditions carefully, as some airlines may charge a fee to exchange your ticket.
Option 3: Sell Your Ticket
If your airline ticket is transferable, you may be able to sell your ticket to someone else. There are a few online marketplaces where you can sell your airline tickets, such as StubHub or Craigslist. However, be aware that there are risks involved with selling your ticket, such as potential fraud or scamming. Make sure to use reputable sites and protect yourself by only selling to trustworthy buyers.
Option 4: Donate Your Ticket
If you can’t get a refund, exchange, or sell your ticket, consider donating it to a charity. There are a few organizations that accept airline ticket donations, such as Make-A-Wish or Children’s Flight of Hope. You may also be able to donate your ticket through your airline’s charity program. Not only will you be able to recoup some of your cost, but you’ll also be helping someone in need.
Option 5: Use Your Ticket for Upgrades
If you can’t get a refund, exchange, sell, or donate your ticket, consider using it for upgrades. Some airlines allow you to use your old ticket toward upgrades, such as business class or extra baggage. This option may not recoup all of your costs, but it can make your future travel experience more comfortable.
Final Thoughts
While it can be frustrating to have old airline tickets that you can’t use, there are still options available to recoup some of your costs. Remember to check with your airline to see what refund or exchange options are available to you. If you can’t get a refund or exchange, consider selling, donating, or using your ticket for upgrades. With a little creativity and resourcefulness, you can make the most of your old airline tickets.
