The U.S. Department of Transportation is finally putting more power back in travelers' hands.
Your Flight Refund Rights Just Got a Refresh
The Mike Tyson fight was disappointing.
I hope it was staged, because if not, Tyson shouldn't have been in the ring, and Jake Paul shouldn't have promoted the match.
But
I'm pretty sure the fight was fake. I mean, Mike was barely moving out there!
Flight refund policies have always been tricky to navigate. But recent updates have changed the game, and I’ve done the legwork so you don’t have to.
Here’s everything you need to know to make the most of your travel rights.
The Big News: Refunds for Flight
Delays/Cancellations
If your flight is canceled or significantly delayed, you're entitled to a full refund from the airline:
• 3+ hours (domestic flights) = refund
• 6+ hours (international flights) =
refund
No travel vouchers, no airline credits—just your money back.
BUT Here’s the Catch:
If you accept a voucher, travel credit, or a rebooked flight, you’re no longer eligible for a refund. (Yes, that’s considered double-dipping!) So, before you agree to an alternative, weigh your options carefully.
How Refunds Work:
• Refunds are processed back to your original payment method.
• Credit card payments: Refunded within 7 days.
• Other payment methods: May take up to 20 days.
Extra Perks You Might Not Know About
• In-flight services you paid for but didn’t get?
If Wi-Fi, seat upgrades, or entertainment you paid for wasn’t delivered, you’re entitled to a refund for those services.
• International flights: Bags delayed 15-30 hours = refund.
What This Means for
You
These changes are long overdue. The U.S. Department of Transportation is finally putting more power back in travelers' hands. Whether you're planning a quick getaway or a long-haul trip, knowing your rights can save you time, money, and headaches. It's a game-changer for all of us on the go! Official Link
Keep Traveling,
Andrew
How do you feel about the flight refund changes?
Cocktail of the Week
The Southside cocktail is believed to have originated in the United States during the Prohibition era, where it was favored by Chicago mobsters as a refreshing yet potent drink. Its name likely comes from Chicago’s South Side, where the notorious South Side Gang operated.
Ingredients:
• 2 oz gin
• 3/4 oz fresh lime juice (or lemon juice)
• 3/4 oz simple syrup
• 5-6 fresh mint leaves
• Ice cubes
• Optional: club soda for a spritz
Preparation:
• Add the gin, lime juice, simple syrup, and mint leaves to a shaker.
• Muddle the mint gently to release its flavor.
• Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for about 15 seconds.
• Strain into a chilled cocktail glass or over fresh ice in a highball glass.
• Garnish with a sprig of fresh mint.
• Optional: Top with a splash of club soda for a bubbly twist.
Random Travel Thought
Many come to America to work but Americans want to go to other countries to relax.
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The Plug
Cheap flights:
Going.com: This might be the only discounted flights website you need.It’s a paid service that sends you notifications when deals become available, but they expire in a couple of days so Act Fast!!
Secret Flying 🤫: This website emails you about free flight opportunities and even better… it doesn’t cost a thing!!
Skyscanner: An older, but still reliable website that’s also *FREE* so there’s no reason not to use it. Use the "Explore the World" feature and set your departure date to "Whole Month" to find the cheapest deals.
Insurance:
Safety Wing: I use Safety Wing as my travel insurance because the plans are flexible. You can easily insure a 1-week trip for like $11 dollars which is less than the cost of a cocktail at the bar.
Travel Gear
Compression socks: Sitting for extended periods of time is not good for the body, so keep
yourself healthy enough to go on more trips.Link
Apple AirTags: Consider getting Apple AirTags for the peace of mind of always knowing where your luggage is. Link
Smart Phone holder: It's a foldable sheet that can be used as a stand for your iPhone or iPad.Link
Packing cubes: Having a separate container works wonders for keeping clothes wrinkle-free. It also makes packing/unpacking much easier.Link
Donut Power Strip: Power outlets are always in demand, but sometimes they're in weird spots. I use this bagel because it's lightweight, and I don't have to think about it.Link
Travel Case Organizer: Cable organizers can be a pain, but this is what I use to keep my cables organized. Link
Backup batteries: I like these backup batteries because they have three important components for me: 1. They have enough power to recharge my phone multiple times at
once, 2. Are small enough to put in my pocket, and 3. Are sturdy enough to survive a fall. Link
Yoga Mat: I use this thin mat to get my stretching in even when I'm traveling. Link
Jump Rope: It's so easy to bring a jump rope with you for exercise because it weighs almost nothing and takes up no space. Link
Liquid IV: Great for hydration to keep you from dying. When you're traveling,
it's time to live it up! Link
*Above are Affiliate links at no additional cost to you.