I need to meet a friend in Munich, Germany. Either I will travel in August, before school starts for just 11 days.... or if his teaching job falls thru I can go in September and stay for several weeks. How do I purchase tickets from Seattle to Munich, with some sort of contingency for changing the dates? I can travel business or economy, but prefer to save money. I have been to europe twice before, but need to make my own arrangements this time.
Posted by
Frankfurt am Main, Germany
2779 posts
There are different kind of air tickets. The cheapest ones are usually non changeable, non refundable. The second cheapest usually can be changed for a certain fee. You'd have to ask the airline or go thru the fare's fine print. Full fare Economy tickets are free to rebook and or refund at any time but are almost as expensive as a business class ticket. And then most business class tickets are free to change or refund (only some business specials may come with limitations). If there's a really good deal now and it can be rebooked you might want to book now for the more likely of the two dates - given that adding the rebooking fee (with in some cases also may come in conjunction with paying the difference to a higher fee. Again, read the fare's fine print) still looks like a good deal overall.
Posted by
Anaheim, CA, USA
1455 posts
IF you are not sure on the airlines' policy, call them to doublecheck. Most will just issue you a slight penalty to change the date.
Posted by
Niagara Wine Country, Canada
808 posts
Also, you might consider purchasing an "Open Jaw" ticket for flexibility. Speak with a Qualified Travel Professional. They will point you in the right direction, even if you don't book with them at that time.
If they do help you out, why not get their name/card for future reference? Anyone who has ever worked on commission will appreciate this suggestion.