A definitive guide on how to buy a plane ticket for someone else and make sure they will actually be allowed to fly.
Buying a plane ticket for someone else can be confusing, frustrating and stressful especially if you’ve never done it before. Add to that heightened security from 911 and now post Pandemic, ensuring that only vetted flyers are able to get on a plane is at an all-time high…and rightly so.It’s hard to know what information is required and whether or not the person you’re buying the ticket for will need additional documents to travel. You might even worry that your credit card details will get stolen or that you’ll pay too much money in taxes and fees. Therefore, it is essential to double check all information before finalizing the purchase.
We created this guide so that anyone could learn how to buy a plane ticket online from start-to-finish. If you are the one who has to buy a ticket for someone else, it can be tricky to know what information you need in order for them to fly.
This post will go over some of the basics and help you figure out how to successfully purchase a plane ticket for someone else so they are allowed to fly safely.
Understanding Airline Ticket Policies
1. Familiarize Yourself with Airline Rules and Regulations
When buying a plane ticket for someone else, it’s essential to understand the airline’s rules and regulations. Each airline has its own set of policies, so it’s crucial to research and familiarize yourself with them before making a purchase. This includes understanding their refund and cancellation policies, baggage fees, and any restrictions on ticket changes. By knowing the airline’s rules and regulations, you can avoid any potential issues or surprises down the line. This step ensures that the ticket for someone else is purchased smoothly and without any hitches.
2. Know the Terms and Conditions for Ticket Changes and Cancellations
It’s also important to understand the terms and conditions for ticket changes and cancellations. Most airlines have strict policies when it comes to making changes to a ticket, and some may charge hefty fees for doing so. Knowing the airline’s policies on ticket changes and cancellations can help you avoid any unnecessary fees or penalties. Additionally, some airlines may have specific requirements for cancelling a ticket, such as providing a doctor’s note or proof of travel insurance. Being aware of these details can save you from unexpected costs and ensure that the travel plans remain flexible and manageable.
How to Buy a Plane Ticket for Someone Else
The following steps will teach you how to buy airline tickets for another person safely so they are allowed to fly on their own. The trick is knowing exactly which information needs to match between the passenger and the actual ticket holder.
It’s really not that ‘difficult’, but you have to remember to follow all the right protocols so you don’t risk your flyer not getting aboard the airplane.
We’ll show you how it’s done in this step-by-step guide…
1. Make Sure They're on Board (so to speak!) and Will Provide All the Info You Need to Book Their Ticket
This may sounds obvious, but many times we’ve seen people try to buy someone else’s airline ticket without getting their info. If you want to book a flight for someone else, make sure that they know you’re actually doing it before doing all of the work.
You’ll need their date of birth and full name as well as where they live in order to get them set up properly. Make sure you have their name exactly as it appears on their government issue ID, passport, and passport details.
Expired IDs and passports will likely get your passenger stranded at the airport. Make sure they are current and up to date! Additionally, ensure they have a valid driver’s license to confirm their identity when traveling by air.
2. Have The Person You're Buying Tickets For Give You Their Exact Flight Information
Before you buy their flight tickets, make sure to get their exact departure and arrival times. This is especially important when you’re buying a ticket for someone in another country. This will help ensure they don’t miss the plane or have any other travel troubles. Use the ‘search flights’ feature to find the best options by inputting the destination and travel dates before clicking the ‘Search Flights’ button.
If the ticket is a gift for someone, but don’t know when they’ll be able to use it, make sure that the tickets are good sometime in the future. You can always buy them e-tickets so their recipient doesn’t have to worry about printing out anything at all.
3. Check What Information (ID) is Required at Check In
Regulations are different for every country and airline, that’s why you might be asked to show the credit card you used for your purchase at check-in. For this reason, make sure the person who bought your flight ticket brings evidence of it being paid with a credit card.
The regulations for traveling with a credit card are different in every country and airline, which is why you might be asked to show your wallet at the check-in desk.
4. Print Your Flight Booking Receipt, or Even Have it Emailed to You as a PDF file
It’s always a good idea to print out the confirmation email and keep an electronic copy of your airline ticket. That way you can access it anywhere, anytime. Creating a PDF file of the confirmation isn’t a bad idea either. When handling electronic documents, ensure that any visual content included is properly attributed and respects intellectual property rights.
Printing off those pesky airline confirmation emails can be tricky when you need something concrete from one person or another. Make sure each party has access to the document by saving it electronically on iphones, ipads, etc., so you’re assured of proof of purchase and identification.
5. Ensure The Person Traveling Has ALL The Necessary Documents to Board the Plane and Travel
The individual traveling must have their ticket receipt, their identification, a copy of their airline reservation in order to get on board at an airport kiosk or from personnel when checking them-in before heading through security. For international travel, it is crucial to have the necessary travel documentation, such as passports and VISAs, and to verify specific requirements based on the destination to avoid any issues during the travel booking process.
Can I Buy a Plane Ticket for Someone Else with my Credit Card?
Can you buy a plane ticket for someone else with your credit card? Yes, but there are some things that you should know. We’ll discuss the different ways to purchase an airline ticket for somebody else and how to avoid any potential issues.
First, you need to state who the airline ticket is for. You need the travelers information (name, address, phone number) and their billing information.
Then you need to state the departure and destination airports.
Finally, choose your flight dates and select a ticket type that is right for their travel preferences (i.e., Economy versus Business). It is also important to select the right payment method. Customers have multiple options for payment methods, and the chosen method does not need to match the passenger’s details, allowing flexibility in payment options.
Now it’s time to fill out personal information about yourself such as name and payment information.
Make certain that everything is entered correctly, or there’s a chance the flyer may not be able to fly.
Some carriers may ask to see the credit card that was used to book the flight. Obviously, in most cases, the passenger won’t have that (as it was booked for them).
Check if this is the case with airline first, then make a photocopy of the card along with a signed document that shows the flight was booked for them.
If you’re looking to buy a plane ticket for someone else on Expedia or another travel site then go check this out.
Adding Amenities to a Plane Ticket
1. Explore Options for Extra Legroom, Meals, and More
When buying a plane ticket for someone else, you may want to consider adding amenities to make their travel experience more comfortable and enjoyable. Many airlines offer options for extra legroom, meals, and other perks that can enhance their flight. Some popular amenities include:
Preferred seating: Many airlines offer preferred seating options, such as seats with more legroom or seats near the front of the plane. This can make the flight more comfortable and convenient.
Meals: Some airlines offer meal options, such as special meal requests or pre-ordered meals. This can be particularly useful for long flights or for passengers with specific dietary needs.
Early boarding: Early boarding can give your loved one a chance to get settled before the rest of the passengers board. This can reduce stress and make the boarding process smoother.
Extra baggage: If your loved one has a lot of luggage, you may want to consider adding extra baggage to their ticket. This can prevent any last-minute hassles at the airport.
By adding these amenities, you can make your loved one’s travel experience more enjoyable and stress-free. These small additions can significantly enhance their comfort and convenience, ensuring they have a pleasant journey.
Buying an Airline Ticket for an Unaccompanied Minor
If you’re looking to purchase a ticket for an unaccompanied minor, it is important that you do your homework. The regulations between airlines vary so the best thing to do would be research which airline will offer what type of service for children traveling alone and then proceed with booking their flight accordingly. Just like when buying your own ticket, it is crucial to provide accurate personal information such as the traveler’s full name and date of birth to avoid issues during check-in. For all those parents out there who are trying to buy a ticket for their child’s next flight, the airlines have different policies. Sometimes you need your credit card and other times just your ID is enough. Some airlines no longer allow minors to fly alone, hence why you must check with each carrier and their policies. When buying tickets online, it can be difficult knowing what type of information they want from you because, again, each airline has different requirements…so make sure to check and not assume.
Always tell the booking agent for the airline to send you a hard copy of their requirements and terms. And have your minor child carry a copy with him/her once you have made the flight reservation.
Some policies to note:
– Children under 5 cannot fly alone (in most cases…see below). – Children 5-7 typically can fly on a single direct flight but not on connecting flights. Spirit and JetBlue (for example) do not allow connections for children under 15. – Air Canada does not allow children under 8 to fly alone.
The above are a few examples…so make sure you check with the carrier for specific policies.
Buying Airline Tickets for Someone Else Isn't Hard...But You Have to Follow The Rules...
…and when in doubt, buy tickets directly from the airline.
They are there to help you. I know a lot of people are not huge fans of airline customer service these days, but most are trying hard to improve their service and their image.
Make certain to utilize them.