Video:Tips for Finding Bereavement Fare

Transcript:Tips for Finding Bereavement Fare

Hi, this is Omar Saad here for About.com, and today we're going to take a look at a few tips that you can use when searching for an airline bereavement fare.

The death or imminent death of a loved one is something none of us ever want to think about. Making last minute travel accommodations for such an event can be difficult, as well as expensive. Fortunately, most airlines offer bereavement fares for such situations.

Look Directly on Airline's Website When Finding Bereavement Fare

When searching for a bereavement fare, the first place to look is directly on an airline's website. Here, one can often see exactly what an airline offers in terms of price reduction, as well as who they deem eligible, along with any restrictions on the fare.

For those that would rather not deal with the process online, inquiries regarding bereavement fares can be made with most airlines over the phone. Furthermore, a bereavement fare can be booked in person, last-minute at the respective carrier's ticket counter.

Although each airline has their own distinct policies, there are some commonalities in how they all handle bereavement fares. Generally speaking, one can expect to receive anywhere from a 5 to 75% percent discount off a standard fare price when booking a bereavement fare.

Documentation Needed When Finding Bereavement Fare

Most airlines also make bereavement fares available to family members outside the immediate family circle. Since by their nature bereavement fares are often last-minute, airlines usually offer the ticket discount in the form of an after-the-fact refund.

To receive a bereavement fare, one usually must provide some form of required documentation. For example, when receiving the fare in advance of travel, it's not uncommon for airlines to require the name of the deceased person, their relation to you, and contact information for the funeral home being used. If you are seeking an after-the-fact refund, a copy of the death certificate is usually required, along with your relation to the deceased.

Besides the lowered ticket price, a bereavement fare is meant to offer some flexibility for the traveler at a time when it is much needed. Most airlines will not require a minimum stay, and in fact, will usually allow free changes to return dates and extended stays of up to 30 days.

Consult Other Sites When Finding Bereavement Fare

Some things to consider: bereavement fares are not always cheaper than posted specials, so if you have the time and inclination to compare fare prices, it might be a good idea to do so. Also, if you have a connection that requires you to change airlines, be sure to consult them on their bereavement fare policies. Just because you've gotten the fare on one carrier doesn't mean that it's been booked on the other.

The last thing anyone experiencing the loss of a loved one wants to think about is booking travel. Thankfully, most airlines, through bereavement fares, attempt to offer some flexibility and make the cost a little less painful on the pocket book.

Thanks for watching. To learn more, visit us on the web at About.com.