How to Buy Airline Ticket Vouchers
Buying airline ticket vouchers can be a way to save money on flying. People often obtain vouchers when they're bumped from flights or are otherwise inconvenienced by airlines, and sometimes don't plan to use them for another trip. Unused vouchers can be offered at less than face value. However, while it is possible to buy vouchers from other passengers, keep in mind that each airline has different rules on who can use them and when.
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Instructions
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Determine how much the flight you plan to take is going to cost. Do a quick search of online travel sites; you don't want to buy a travel voucher for $500 when your flight is going to cost less.
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Log on to a searchable auction or sale website. Type in "airline voucher" in the search box and browse the results. Double-check that a particular airline has a flight that goes to your intended destination. Make sure the seller's voucher is transferable, meaning one person can give the voucher to another. An honest seller will provide this important detail; without it, you won't be able to use the voucher. Check the expiration date of the voucher; most are good for one year and you don't want to buy one that is near its expiration.
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Use a secure online payment site to purchase the voucher. Using a reputable option guarantees your purchase. If the voucher is for some reason not honored, you may have recourse to get your money back.
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Book your flight as soon as possible to avoid expiration dates. Each airline has different rules on where you can redeem vouchers, but as a guideline you likely won't be able to book your flight on a booking site when using a voucher. Generally, you can only use vouchers when you book over the phone with an airline or at an airline ticket office.
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Tips & Warnings
If you're using a site such as Ebay, check the seller's rating to get an idea of past sales and complaints. If the seller has a poor record, don't buy the voucher.
Read the fine print on your voucher. If you don't necessarily trust a seller, ask to see a scan of the voucher to examine before purchase.
Be suspicious if the seller does not offer information on voucher transferability. Email or call before you bid or buy that voucher. Each airline has its own policy on transferability. You can check online flying guides for a look at many airlines' policies on vouchers.
Try to get the name and phone number of the seller you will be dealing with in case you end up with a fraudulent voucher and need to report it to your online selling site. An honest seller will have no problem giving you some contact information, and you can use the request as a way to test the waters.
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