Frequently Asked Questions About Booking Flights
Answers about booking airline tickets with an independent travel agent: how pricing works, what bags and fees to expect, how changes and refunds work, and what to check for international trips. There are 65 answers across 7 topics.
Browse by topic
- Booking and Payment FAQs — How booking with TravelFarez works, what to have ready, and how pricing and fees are handled.
- Baggage and Fees FAQs — What is and is not included in an airline ticket, and how to compare the real total price.
- Changes, Cancellations and Refunds FAQs — How airline change and refund rules work, and what to do if your plans or your flight change.
- International Travel FAQs — Paperwork and planning questions for trips abroad, plus ID rules for flying within the United States.
- Airports and Routes FAQs — How to choose between airports, and how to read the route guides on this site.
- Family and Special Traveler FAQs — Seats, bags and special options for families, service members, students and older travelers.
- When to Book and Timing FAQs — How far ahead to look, how to handle last-minute and holiday trips, and what moves the price.
Most asked questions
Why does the website not show prices?
Fares change constantly, so we do not publish prices that might be out of date. A specialist checks live availability for your dates and confirms the full total before any payment. Any fares shown on this website are examples and can change.
Do you charge a service fee?
If we charge a service fee, we tell you the amount before you pay, together with whether it is refundable. It is separate from the airfare, taxes and carrier charges.
Are bags included in my airline fare?
It depends on the airline, fare level and route. A personal item is usually free, a carry-on bag is included on many but not all fares, and checked bags are often charged per bag and per direction. Ask for the total price with the bags you need.
What is the 24-hour rule?
For tickets bought at least seven days before departure on flights to or from the United States, U.S. Department of Transportation rules may allow a full refund if you cancel within 24 hours of purchase. How this applies to tickets bought through an agent can differ, so contact us as soon as possible.
What if the airline cancels or changes my flight?
If an airline cancels your flight or significantly changes it, you may be entitled to a refund under applicable law. The Department of Transportation sets what counts as a significant change. Keep your booking reference and we will help you request the refund.
What documents do I need for an international flight?
A valid passport is the starting point, and depending on your citizenship you may also need a visa, an electronic travel authorization or an e-visa. Use the destination government's official site. See our international flight checklist.
Does a route page mean there is a nonstop flight?
No. Route pages are guides, not schedules. Whether a nonstop flight operates depends on the airline and your dates, and some trips connect. A specialist confirms what operates on your dates.
How far ahead should I book a flight?
For domestic trips, many travelers find good options roughly one to three months before departure. For international trips, two to six months ahead is a sensible window, and earlier for peak summer or holiday travel. These are rules of thumb, not guarantees.