Have you ever dreamed of traveling to exciting places without spending a fortune? A buddy pass can make that dream come true. Buddy passes are special flight perks given to airline employees, allowing their friends or family to travel at discounted rates. However, flying with a buddy pass comes with its own set of rules and challenges. Let’s dive into the details so you know exactly what to expect.
What is a Buddy Pass?
A buddy pass is a discounted airline ticket provided by an airline employee to a friend or family member. This pass lets you fly at a much lower cost than a regular fare, but there’s a catch—you’ll be flying on standby. This means you only get on the flight if there are unoccupied seats after all paying passengers have boarded.
How to Get a Buddy Pass
Buddy passes are not available for purchase. You must know someone who works for an airline who can give you one. Employees have a limited number of buddy passes each year, so they can only share these with a few people. Keep in mind that buddy passes cannot be sold or traded, and using one means you’re representing your airline buddy—so follow the rules carefully.
How Much Do Buddy Passes Cost?
While buddy passes can save you a lot of money, they are not free. The price varies depending on the airline and route, but you’re typically charged a percentage of the base fare. For example:
- Chicago to Honolulu: $147
- Chicago to San Diego: $65
- Washington DC to Tokyo: $384
Tips for Using a United Airlines Buddy Pass
Flying with a United Airlines Buddy Pass or any other airline’s pass comes with some tips to ensure a smooth experience:
- One Segment Equals One Pass: If your trip includes connecting flights, you’ll need a separate buddy pass for each segment. For instance, flying from New York to London with a stop in Chicago means you’ll need two passes for the trip, and two more for the return.
- Know Your Standby Priority: You’ll be placed on a standby list with other travelers, and buddy pass passengers are often at the bottom. It’s helpful to check your position on the list before heading to the airport to gauge your chances of boarding.
- Dress Code: Although there may not be a strict dress code, buddy pass travelers are expected to dress neatly. Think business casual—avoid overly casual outfits like flip-flops or tank tops.
- Follow Etiquette: When flying with a buddy pass, you’re representing your airline employee friend. Don’t pester the gate agents for updates, as they’ll get to you once they’ve handled paying passengers. Also, be respectful and patient.
What to Expect During Your Flight
- No Seat Guarantee: Since you’re flying standby, you’re not guaranteed a seat until the very last minute. If there are any empty seats, you’ll be called to board.
- No Mileage or Status Benefits: Even if you have frequent flyer miles or status with an airline, you won’t be able to earn miles or enjoy special perks like priority boarding when flying on a buddy pass.
- Seating: You may not be seated next to your travel companion if you’re flying with someone. And because you’re getting a last-minute seat, it could be anywhere in the plane, even a middle seat by the bathroom.
When is the Best Time to Use a Buddy Pass?
Holidays can be hit or miss when it comes to flying with a buddy pass. Days before major holidays like Thanksgiving or Christmas are typically very busy, making it hard to get a seat. However, if you fly on the actual holiday, your chances improve, as fewer people travel on those days. Flexibility is key when using a buddy pass—being able to wait or adjust your plans can make all the difference.
What to Do Once You’re at the Gate
Once you’ve booked your flight with the buddy pass and arrived at the airport, the process is simple:
- Check-In: Go through the regular check-in process and get added to the standby list.
- Wait at the Gate: Show up early and wait at the gate. If your name is called, congrats—you’ve secured a seat! If not, you may need to wait for the next flight.
Final Thoughts on Flying with a Buddy Pass
Flying with a United Airlines Buddy Pass or a pass from any other airline can be an exciting, money-saving adventure. But, it’s essential to understand that standby travel requires patience and flexibility. You won’t always get on the first flight, and seating is never guaranteed. Still, if you’re open to the unpredictable nature of buddy pass travel, you can enjoy some incredible trips at a fraction of the cost.