what's a non rev travel

Non-Rev Travel 101: A Beginner’s Guide

Working in the aviation industry comes with its perk and non-rev travel is a big one.

Flying for free or very cheap is possible for flight attendants like me.

How ? That’s what I’ll explain in this article.

What Is Non-Rev Travel?

Non-rev or “non-revenue” travel is one of the main perks that comes with working for an airline.

It basically refers to the flight benefits that pilots, flight attendants, and even some gate agents receive.

It’s called non-reving because the airline does not receive revenue for the employee’s spot on the airplane.

Non-revs are also not guaranteed a spot on the airplane, they have to wait on the standby list and hope that there will be extra space.

Basically, non-revenue travel is the privilege airline employees have to sit in unsold seats and ride along on flights to their desired destinations during their off time.

The best part, they can usually share these benefits with their families, and even a few friends, depending on which airline they work for.

Who Can Non-Rev?

Non-rev benefits are usually given to the airline employee and their direct dependents including:

• Their partner

Some airlines also give their employees a limited number of “ buddy passes ” that can be given out to friends.

And if you aren’t legally married some airlines will allow you to anyone you choose as your “travel companion” for a set period of time.

⚠️ Not all non-revs are created equal though.

Most airlines have different “ pass levels ” that determine the order in which non-revs appear on the standby list .

➡️ Generally speaking, the employee, their partner (or travel companion), and their children will all have a higher designation on the standby list, meaning they will have higher priority to get the empty seats on the plane.

➡️ Parents typically come next. And people flying on buddy passes are last.

Can You Fly Standby on All Airlines?

No. But many airlines have agreements with other airlines that allow their employees to non-rev on other airlines.

These airlines usually include whatever code-sharing partners are connected to a given airline but may even include a few airlines outside of their specific airline group.

These agreements are part of a program known as ID90 .

Usually, only the employee and their dependents can fly with ID90 partners, and each airline will have different rules about who may non-rev with them and who may not.

🚨 Note : People flying on ID90 benefits will usually fall to the end of the standby priority list.

How Does It Work to Fly Standby as a Non-Rev Traveler?

Generally speaking, each airline has its own online portal that employees can access to arrange their non-rev travel.

Here I’ll quickly run through the basics of flying non-rev.

Booking your Non-rev travel

Usually, you start by going into this portal and selecting the flights you would like to be on.

The portal will usually tell you what the current “load” of each flight is.

Loads refers to the number of revenue passengers who are currently booked to fly on a given flight.

💡 As a non-rev you want to look for flights that have lower loads to increase the likelihood that you will get an open seat.

Signing in for your flight

Then, 24 hours before the flight you sign in via the portal.

At this time, you will be given a standing on the standby list that tells you about the order in which open seats will be assigned to hopeful non-revs.

Some airlines determine this by seniority, so the more senior a flight attendant is with the company, the higher they will be on the standby list.

Other airlines determine this on a first-come-first-serve basis, meaning those who sign in fastest will be at the top of the list. (Depending on pass level).

At the airport

After you have signed in you will arrive at the airport just like you would for any other flight.

Your standby boarding pass will get you through security and then you head to your gate.

👉🏻 At the gate, you should check in with the agent and let them know you are on the standby list.

They will then assign seats in order based on the standby list.

If the flight is full, they will usually do this towards the end of the boarding process, so you just have to hang out and wait to hear your name called.

If the flight is open, they might give you a boarding pass right away.

What happens if there isn’t an open seat?

At this point, you will have the option “roll-over” to the next flight and wait to see if there is an open seat on that one.

Or try to figure out another route to get to where you want to go. If you choose to do this you will be higher on the priority list, for the new flight(s).

Can You Get Non-Rev Loads?

If you have access to the non-rev portal or the ID90 website, you will be able to see the loads for flights you want to non-rev on.

Usually, the portals will tell you how many passengers are booked on each flight, what classes they are booked in, and how many seats are open per cabin . They will also tell you how many non-revs have already indicated an intention to be on that flight.

Not all airlines will share loads with non-employees though , so in that case, the best way to estimate is to look up your flight on the airline’s website and see how many tickets are available to book. This will give you an idea of the number of open seats.

How Much Does it Cost to Non-Rev?

Generally speaking, employees and their dependents will only be charged for international travel, basically to reimburse the airline for international landing taxes .

People flying on buddy passes will often also have to pay a small service charge that amounts to a certain percentage of the ticket price for their flight.

In the US, most employees can non-rev domestically for free.

I’ve traveled both on my own employee benefits, and now as a buddy pass non-rev.

Flying from the US to Germany I paid $130 round trip, for premium economy as an employee, since that was what the international taxes amounted to.

As a buddy pass non-rev, I paid $675 round trip, with a business class seat on one flight and a premium economy seat on the other.

Put simply the savings are significant .

When you fly as an ID90 passenger you will pay more than you do when you fly on your own airline.

Pros of Non-Rev Travel

The benefits of non-rev travel are clear!

It’s cheap and very flexible.

Cons of Non-Rev Travel

The cons are a little less clear until you’ve tried it a few times, but they generally include:

• Scrambling to find another way to get to your destination , sometimes by employing coming up with some very creative, multi-stop routes. For example, I once flew from Charlotte NC to Harrisburg PA, to get to Chicago IL.
• Not getting a seat and having to delay or cancel your trip.
• Waiting at the airport all day just to get a spot on the flight you need to get home.

The first time my parents non-reved it was to my flight attendant training graduation ceremony. They ended up stuck at DFW (Dallas Fort Worth) for 10 hours waiting to get a flight back to Charlotte.

On the flip side, they also enjoyed business class seats on the way to Germany, Hawaii, and Alaska. So, I think they got the most out of my benefits while I had them.

Non-revenue travel is one of the main benefits of being a flight attendant , but the system can be complicated and hard to navigate at first.

Once you get a handle of how it works, you’ll be sure to be jet setting off to all the places you dreamed of going when you decided to work for an airline.

Have you flown yourself with non-rev travel? How do you find it? Let me in the comments.

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What Is Non-Rev Travel? Breaking It Down for Newbie Standby Travelers

If you’re new to the airline industry, you’ll quickly find these terms thrown around everywhere. What is non-rev travel? How does flying standby work? We’re breaking everything down for all our newbie standby traveler friends. We’ve been at this non-rev travel thing for several years and want to share what it’s like for any beginner non-revvers out there.

First, what is non-rev travel?

Let’s start with the basics. What is non-rev travel? The term stands for “non-revenue”, which means you only pay a fraction of the actual ticket cost, if any. In many cases, the ticket may be free. The airline is not making money from non-rev tickets. In some cases (especially international) you may pay a small amount for taxes. Non-rev is a benefit of airline employees. And the term is used to describe how airline staff travel.

Who can take advantage of non-rev travel benefits?

A long list of people. If you’re not an airline employee, don’t count yourself out. Non-rev or staff travel benefits often extend to spouses, children, and parents, often called “pass riders”. Even family and friends can use some portion of the benefits. It may be slightly different airline to airline, but for us, spouse or domestic partner, kids under the age of 26, and up to two parents qualify to receive the non-rev travel benefits. Sometimes family and friends can also receive perks, using a buddy pass.

What are buddy passes?

For friends and family who want to use employee travel privileges, they use a buddy pass. Employees are typically given a certain allotment of buddy passes every year and they can disperse them to close friends and family. I say close, because it’s VERY against the rules to sell them or give them to random people who you don’t consider close friends or family members. Buddy passes cost more than what employees (or employee immediate family) pay, but they are a way to extend some airfare deals to family and friends.

What’s the catch?

It sounds a little too good to be true, right? Flying around the world for free (or very close to free). Well, it does come at the price of convenience. Flying non-rev means you’ll also have to fly standby. Another fun term. Flying standby means you don’t get a seat on the plane…unless there are leftover seats after all paying customers have boarded. Unoccupied seats can come from the flight not selling out, or people missing their flight. And standby life is not for the faint of heart.

It’s like a game. A twisted game. The Hunger Games. You’ll likely be able to access your own airline’s flight loads to get an idea of how many seats are open. But additional seats sell the day of travel. Sometimes people miss flights and seats become available. Sometimes the airline oversells flights. It’s really really hard to predict what will happen when you arrive to the airport. And that’s why non-rev travel can be a guessing game. And you may want to come prepared with a backup plan…or ten.

We created another article on flying standby about how we choose our destinations. It also has some videos of our standby experiences.

Can you fly non-rev international or on different airlines ?

I don’t want to provide a blanket statement here because it could vary for every airline. But I’ll talk about our particular experience. The answer to both questions, for us, is yes. You can fly international and on different airlines.

Related: The Ultimate Guide to Flying with a Buddy Pass

Flying non-rev internationally.

Flying non-revenue on international flights works largely the same as domestic except you’ll likely have to pay international taxes. You still put yourself on the standby list and you still only get to fly if there are empty seats. In our experience, international flights are bigger and often are easier to find empty seats. And from a cost perspective, international taxes and fees don’t run very high so it’s still pretty affordable. We’ve traveled non-rev to Paris, Brussels, Buenos Aires, London, Cancun, Tokyo, and Barcelona to name a few. And for each person, international taxes are usually only $100-$300. Not bad for international!

Flying non-rev on other airlines

Reasons for flying on other airlines:

• Your airline doesn’t fly to a particular destination
• Your airline looks pretty full on the day you want to travel

Many airlines have agreements with each other to extend non-rev travel privileges. So you can fly on other airlines. And other airline employees can fly on your airline. The downside? The cost is usually a bit more expensive than flying on your own airline. And you may not be able to access the flight loads, which makes planning difficult. Luckily, there are sites like Staff Traveler that can help with finding seat availability on other airlines.

How does the non-rev process work?

Now that you know what non-rev travel is, let’s talk about how it works in practice. You’ll have an employee system (often pass riders can access this system). Once you determine your destination and flight time, you put yourself on the standby list. You’ll get a standby ticket to get through airport security. And then you show up at the airport like a normal passenger. At this point you cross your fingers and hope the gate agent calls your name.

There are many, many factors that contribute to standby success. We won’t go into too much detail as it varies wildly from airline to airline. But there will be a prioritized list of all the non-revvers trying to get on the flight. Your priority on the list will be determined by things like how long the employee has been with the company, if you’re traveling with the employee, if you’re a buddy pass rider. Other airlines do it differently and base priority by when you listed for the flight. There are also dress codes for some airlines.

And a story about our first non-rev experience

That was a lot of information thrown at you. So, it’s time for a little fun. This is the story of our very first non rev travel experience.

It was about 2 months into working for the airline. And we were anxious to start using travel benefits. One Friday at work, I called up Nick and said “what do you think about going to Brussels?” Yes, Belgium. After a few seconds of silence, I followed up my original question with “also, how fast can you pack our bags?”

Nick went home on his lunch break, packed our bags and passports, and went back to work. About 5 hours later, the workday was over and we were making our way through airport security. I had noticed earlier at work that Brussels was wide open. Being our first standby flying experience, we wanted to wait for a flight that was a sure thing (or at least as close to it as you can get as an airline employee). Brussels fit the bill, so there we were. Waiting and not really sure what we were doing. One of the coolest parts of non-rev travel is you can decide last minute to take a trip, pack your bags, and go.

Related: How Does Flying Standby Work for Non-Airline Employees?

There were only a few people ahead of us on the list, so we got on the flight. Not only that, but first class seats were open. So we shelled out a bit of additional money and had one heck of a luxurious first non-rev experience. We got so filled up, we almost had to turn down an ice cream sundae. Almost. Yes, that sounds snobby AF. And I’m only saying it here because most of you reading this have access to the same experiences with your travel benefits. So I don’t feel that guilty. Also, I was pregnant at the time so I didn’t get to partake in the adult beverages.

Once we got to Belgium, it was Saturday morning and we were there less than 24 hours. We had to come back on Sunday so we could be back at work Monday. We booked our hotel using the secret hot rate hotels on Hotwire. When we got there, the hotel was closed so we had to roll our bags around everywhere for several hours. We had some Belgium chocolate. Waffles. Mussels. And since it was December, we visited the Christmas market. Ok, so we ate the whole time. I was pregnant and hungry.

The next day, we went to the airport and were cleared once again from the standby list. Like I said, we made sure before we left the flights were very wide open. At first, we were super terrified to take any risks. But that’s no longer the case.

How’s that for satisfying a chocolate pregnancy craving?

Family on Standby

That story painted kind of a rosy picture. But most times, it’s nothing like that. Especially adding kids (and extra travelers) to the picture. If you’re still appalled by the ice cream comment and flying first class, here are some of our other non rev travel experiences that didn’t go quite as smoothly:

• We once sat at the airport for an entire day after trying 7 different destinations and didn’t board a single flight. We tried flying on President’s Day.
• When flying home from Barcelona, there was an unexpected taxi strike. We had to find a public bus last minute and just barely made it to the airport on time.
• Flying home from Buenos Aires, it took us 3 flights, an Uber in between Miami and Fort Lauderdale, and a surprise overnight hotel stay. Sometimes that happens.

At the end of the day, whether lounging in first class or sleeping on the airport floor because you can’t get a flight out, non-rev travel is an adventure. And it comes with some hilarious, fun, and bittersweet stories.

Are you new to non-rev travel? Or do you have your own story?

Let us know where you are in your non-rev journey! We love hearing stories from other non-rev travelers. And if you have your own interesting non-rev travel experience, we want to feature your story. Tweet us at @FamilyOnStandby , leave a comment with your story below, or send us an email to hi (at) familyonstandby.com so we can feature you!

If you don’t yet follow our Youtube channel Family on Standby we film all of our standby adventures. The good and the bad.

So You Want to Fly for Free: A Comprehensive Guide to Non-Rev Travel

P eople often ask me for “insider tips” of scoring the best fare for a flight.

I hate to disappoint, but I haven’t purchased airfare in more than seven years. It turns out, I’m the LAST person to ask about plane ticket deals.

What I CAN tell you about is how I, and the people I love, fly. It’s called “non-rev travel,” and we’re going to talk about it.

You all know we flight attendants fly for free. (Why else would we do this?) What you may not know is that some of the lucky people in our lives also get to bask in the free-flighted glory of our job—just for knowing us! This might make you think dating a flight attendant is a great idea—beats actually working on planes, right? Well, before you set your Tinder profile to “FAs Only,” be sure to read The Dos and Don’ts of Dating a Flight Attendant . And maybe check out the 7 Most Annoying Things about Flight Attendants while you’re at it. Thank me later.

All jokes aside, being a family member, spouse, or close friend of a flight attendant has some serious perks. I think the whole non-rev game (don’t worry, we’ll be defining terms in a moment) is confusing for a lot of people. So I’m going to break it all the way down. I’m giving the 411 on all things non-rev travel for NON-FLIGHT ATTENDANTS.

I may do a separate post one of these days detailing how this non-rev travel process works for us flight attendants using our flight benefits, as it’s a bit different. But for today, I want to tell all of you on the peripheral of #flightattendantlife just what it would mean to get a “buddy pass” or be “on a flight attendant’s benefits.” WHO can fly standby? HOW do I non-rev? Is it FREE? And WHAT the heck is a buddy pass?

I’ll answer all these questions, break down the process of using someone else’s airline employee benefits, and provide the rules for non-rev travel and tips for a stress-free standby experience. I want to warn you, there is a LOT of information here. If you’re going to be using someone else’s flight benefits, I recommend saving this post to reference later, before you fly. Without further ado, let’s get into it.

Your Comprehensive Guide to Non-Rev Travel

From a flight attendant, i the basics, a. glossary of terms.

Let’s start from the beginning with a few basic terms.

Non-rev is a term to describe us (airline employees) using our flight benefits.

Non-rev is short for non-revenue. When we are using our flight benefits, we are not paying for a ticket. The company is not producing revenue from our flight. Simple, right?

The word can be both a noun and a verb.

Noun: “ This non-rev on my flight was so sweet, he brought chocolates for the whole crew!”

Non-rev as a noun means a person using flight benefits to fly. This could be an airline employee—pilot, flight attendant, gate agent, ground operations personnel, reservations, etc. Or it might be their parent, spouse, child, travel companion, or a “Buddy”. We’ll get into the different types and levels of non-revs a bit later.

Verb: “I’m planning to non-rev to Salt Lake for the wedding. I hope the flight doesn’t fill up.”

Non-rev as a verb means the act of using flight benefits to fly.

Pass-ride/Pass-riding/Pass-rider can be used interchangeably with non-rev. It is airline benefit travel.

Standby – All non-rev travel is space-available, or standby. If there is an open seat on the flight, you just might get to take it. When you non-rev with a buddy pass or as a dependent, you will be flying standby. Standby is a word that can be a noun, adjective, or an adverb. I KNOW, I’m sorry, I like grammar.

“I have to board last when I’m traveling standby.” Adverb qualifies a verb.

“The gate agent cleared the standby before me. I should be up next.” Noun. Standby is a person here.

“Ugh, standby travel is the worst!” Adjective, it is describing the noun.

Benefits – We often refer to our non-rev travel privileges as benefits. It is, after all, one of the biggest benefits of our job. But it is funny because people generally do not refer to their health insurance, dental, vision, or 401k in such generic terms. It would be super confusing. If you ever hear a flight attendant, pilot, or other airline employee say something like “I’m using my benefits”, “She’s on my benefits.” “They went on my benefits.”

You know now that we are talking about flights, not doctors’ visits.

Buddy Pass – This is a virtual “pass” given to airline employees to give out to their friends and family. Airline employees get a certain number of buddy passes at set times, maybe annually or quarterly. This pass allows someone who is not an airline employee to pay a heavily discounted fare and fly standby on the employee’s airline. We will get into the nitty-gritty of buddy passes later in this guide.

Clear – In the context of non-rev/standby/pass-riding travel, to ‘clear’ means to assign a seat. When you are a (lucky) standby, the gate agent will “clear” you—you will receive a boarding pass with a seat assignment, and you can be on your way to your destination.

Dependents -No, we are not talking taxes. Our dependents are the people who are listed on our benefits as recipients of our kick-ass flight privileges. This does NOT include buddy pass users. Separate and unequal.

List -(verb) The process of signing up for the flight you want to take as a non-rev. An airline employee lists themselves for a flight. They can also list someone else, like a travel companion or a buddy, for a flight.

Priority – There are many levels of non-revs, and we will learn about them in the next section. But they are not equal. Every different type of standby/nonrev/pass-rider is categorized with a set priority. The priority determines the order in which seats will be given. In other words, it is EVERYTHING.

Travel Companion – This is your person that you get to allocate benefits to. It is offered in lieu of spousal benefits if you are lucky enough to not be married. Just kiddinggg…haha…kind of. A travel companion can be a life-partner, sibling, or best friend. Whoever you want to reap the sweet sweet perks of this job. (NOTE: When we are choosing Travel companions, we are choosey. Because we have to keep them on our benefits for at least one year, brand new relationships are not up for promotion to Travel Companion. Nor is our best friend who we loooooove, but who never travels. We want the person to be awesome, respectful of the rules and our work environment, AND love travel enough to take advantage of this gift.)

Zed Fare – A zed fare is a heavily discounted standby airfare. Some other airlines require us as crewmembers to pay a zed fare when we travel abroad with them. Our dependents would also have to pay this. Our dependents also have to pay a zed fare to fly domestic on other airlines.

B. Priorities

Okay, now that we have got that out of the way, let’s talk about types and levels of non-revs.

There is a hierarchy in place here, of course, and not all non-revs are created equal. At least not when it comes to giving seats! As mentioned, “priority”, in non-rev travel, is a category that determines in what order seats are given to standby travelers.

Each airline has its own system for coding non-rev travel priorities—a different dialect, if you will. We all speak airline, but the language is slightly different depending on which carrier you call home. Like the Spanish word for jacket “chaqueta” meaning something a bit more scandalous in Mexico City, some airlines may use codes that look like S4, S5, S6, etc., and some may use D0, D1, D2 codes.

The codes may look a bit different, but generally across the board, the order goes something like this:

• Employees’ Dependents: Parents, Children, Spouse or Travel Companion
• Buddy Passes
• Retired Employees/Their families/Dependents of other airline employees.
• Other Airline Employees

If it seems weird to have other airline employees below their own dependents in the non-rev priority list, I’m right there with ya. This is something I just found out recently and was shocked to know. Apparently, it is because those non-airline beneficiaries will pay a Zed fare to the airline, whereas the flight attendant, pilot, or other airline employee will pay nothing. And we all know what they say about money. It talks.

NOTE: There are higher priorities than the ones listed here, at my airline anyway, but it is a lot of detail to get into for something that does not matter at all for the topic at hand. 😊

Again, all airlines have different codes, but this is generally the way the priority list goes. This is the order in which empty seats on the plane will be given to non-revs. And allll of those different categories of people are considered non-revs.

As you can see from the list above, when I fly on another airline I am always crossing my fingers that there aren’t other employees, dependents, or buddy passes. On a busy flight, any one of them could be the obstacle standing between me and the last seat on the plane.

This is why standby, or non-rev travel is often affectionately referred to as “The Hunger Games.”

C. Who Gets to Non-rev?

As an airline employee, I am permitted to extend my travel benefits to two parents, one spouse or domestic partner, and children up to the age of 24. The rules can differ slightly from airline to airline. These “dependents” are able to fly on my airline for free and can fly many other airlines for a small fee—the zed fare we talked about.

If you are reading this and you’re not an airline employee yourself, that means there are only three ways that you could have the opportunity to non-rev:

• Get a job at an airline.
• Encourage your parent, child, spouse or bestie to become a flight attendant and put you on their benefits.
• Be close enough to an airline employee that they want to give you a buddy pass.

NOTE : The emphasis on a close relationship here. Buddy passes are free for us, but we do not disperse them freely. You’ll find out more about why we don’t give buddy passes to just anyone in the sections below.

II. Using a Buddy Pass

For a refresh: Buddy passes are non-rev travel passes that are given to airline employees to distribute to family and friends as they see fit.

Buddy passes are great because they give the opportunity for flight attendants, pilots, and other airline personnel the ability to help out family and friends with heavily discounted fares. At my airline, the cost of a flight with a buddy pass depends on the length of flight.

A $20 buddy pass would be something like a one-hour flight—say Boston to New York, for example. A $60 buddy pass fare would be all the way across the country, like Boston to LA. Those middle-haul flights, Boston to Orlando or Miami, for example, would be a $40 buddy pass. Multiply it by 2 and add taxes, and you’ve got roundtrip airfare for SIGNIFICANTLY lower cost than buying a full price ticket.  But there’s a catch.

Buddy passes, like everything in non-rev travel, are space-available tickets. Meaning, yes, if the seats are all full you don’t get to go. And because you’re a buddy pass, you are lower on the priority list than employees and all their dependents.

Settle in, standby travel comes with a lot of waiting.

What if i don’t get on the flight.

What happens if you don’t get on a flight while non-revving?

1. You Get a Refund

First things first, and most importantly: You do NOT lose money when you don’t get on a flight as a standby.

In fact, you don’t lose money if you just decide not to show up for the flight. (I do not recommend doing this without cancelling a reservation, but things happen.) Because these are “non-revenue” tickets, meaning the company is not earning revenue, every penny of funds going into a non-rev travel itinerary will be refunded if the ticket is not used (Ie: if you don’t actually take the flight.)

2. You roll over

No, don’t physically stop, drop, and roll. If you don’t get onto the flight you have listed for (because there are no available seats), you can be rolled over and put in line to take the next available flight to your destination. The bad thing about rolling over is it means more time sitting waiting in the airport. The good thing about rolling over is it puts you to the top of your priority list on the next flight.

So, if you are on a buddy pass and the flight is so full that you don’t make it, on the next flight your position in the standby list will be at the top of all the buddy passers in line. You still won’t be able to cut an actual employee in line for obvious reasons (hello, WE work for these benefits), but still, every little advantage helps in the wild world of standby travel.

Hopefully this all works out for you, and you make it on the next flight. But if not…

3. You wait. Or you buy a ticket.

The golden rule of buddy passing (and non-rev travel in general) is: The first flight is the best flight. This is because you have more opportunities to “roll over” onto other flights throughout the day.

I once non-revved with my nephew and his family trying to get them to Orlando, and Disney World, on school vacation week. We hung out in Logan Airport for hours while we rolled over to FOUR different flights before finally getting seats on one. Non-rev travel is not for the faint of heart.

But what if there are no more flights?

Ahhh, good question! Traveling from Boston to anywhere in Florida on my airline is a pretty simple feat. There are tons of flights at different times throughout the day. But what about other destinations? Portland, Oregon, for example is a one-flight-per-day stop for us—seasonal even, so some months we have no service there. Sacramento? One flight. The whole rolling over thing becomes less feasible for less frequent routes.

At this point you’ve got to make the choice that is best for you. Wait—book a hotel, stay with family, or go home for the night and try again tomorrow. Or buy yourself a full-fare, positive space ticket. (Positive space is the opposite of standby. It means you have a reserved seat on the aircraft, even if you don’t have the numbered and lettered assignment for which seat you’ll occupy.)

Money savings or time savings, and for many of you, stress-savings is what this all boils down to. I can’t live your life for you. Just know, while you’re happily signing up to fly on a buddy pass, dazzled by the cheap airfare, that this could be you in the end. Choosing to buy a ticket or sit around waiting. It doesn’t always happen, often buddy-passing is a breeze. But it is always a possibility.

III. The Rules of Non-Rev Travel

Now that we have gone over what a buddy pass is, how seats are given to standby travelers, and what happens when you don’t get on a flight as a non-rev, let’s talk about some essential stuff. The rules of non-revving. Save this list if you ever plant to fly on someone else’s airline benefits. I promise you will not be invited to do it again if you break these rules.

1. Plan buffer days.

Do not, I repeat DO NOT try to non-rev the day of a wedding, funeral, or cruise. Do not plan to non-rev home on the last flight Sunday night and be at the office Monday morning. No matter how open a flight looks, there is always the chance of something crazy happening last minute. Assume that something will go wrong and give yourself a buffer day on either end to compensate for it. Yes, paying an extra night in a hotel sucks, but missing your pre-paid 11-day Alaska cruise because of a flight delay sucks 247623786538762 times more. This is an essential rule of non-rev travel.

2. The First flight is the best flight.

This goes hand in hand with the buffer days. This one is about buffer hours, buffer flights. The earlier you try to fly, the more likely you will get out on a flight sometime that day. If not this flight, roll over to the next. If not that one, then onto the next. Planning to take the last flight of the day is a very common kiss of death to a non-rev travel experience.

3. Dress to impress

Sorry, folx. I know everyone likes to be comfortable, but there is a time and a place for ripped sweats and pajama pants, and the time is when you’re not non-revving and the place is in your home. This really applies to any time you travel—or leave your home, for that matter—but I can’ tell you what to do in those circumstances. Non-rev travel? That’s another story.

Airlines have non-rev or “pass-riding” guidelines, including, yes, you guessed it, dress. You may remember hearing about the infamous Leggings Scandal years ago. Two girls were denied boarding in Denver for wearing leggings deemed inappropriate. A public outcry of Sexism! erupted, with strangers around the country coming to the girls’ defense. The thing that many of the angry tweeters did not know was that the two girls in question were in fact “pass riders”, or non-revs. They were using a friend or family’s buddy passes to fly for super cheap. Whether or not banning leggings is sexist (I’m certainly open to that argument), it was a part of United’s pass-riding dress code that leggings were not permitted as travel attire. And when you sign up to use these non-rev travel benefits, you are also agreeing to the terms the company has set. It is just that simple.

As employees, when we are flying on the company dime, we are, in essence, representing the company. To avoid an embarrassing situation and make sure you’re on the up and up to get that open seat, follow these simple points how to dress for non-rev travel:

• Ripped jeans. Ripped any piece of clothing, for that matter,
• Profane language. (I had to ask a woman on the plane to wear a jacket recently because her long-sleeve shirt was emblazoned with hot pink “Fuck”s floating in every direction.)
• Excessive skin. Crop tops are in, but not for pass-riders. Besides it being a bit “over the line”, having your bare skin directly on the used-by-millions-of-other-people seatback is just friggin’ gross. Ensure your bum is covered. And whatever gender you are, if you find yourself in danger of a nip slip when you move, it is time for a change of shirt.
• Flip flops. Not only do you look like you’re phoning it in, but they’re dangerous in an emergency.
• MAGA hats. Okay, fine, this isn’t banned that I know of. But it’s a fuck of a lot more offensive than the black and pink Fuck shirt.
• Dirty clothing. I mean. Come on. Clean up your act before you get in a metal tube with other people.
• Layers. Boarding is hot, cruise is cold, then cruise is freezing. And deplaning is hot again. Wear comfortable, presentable layers so that you can be cozy no matter the cabin temp.

Pro Tip: Unless you are in first class or flying internationally, US airlines do not give free, reusable blankets for you to use during the flight. Those days are over along with wearing our Sunday Best to fly and the origin of that terrible steak and lobster joke. Bring a sweater with you. Even if you don’t think you will be cold.

• Shoes you can walk (and run) in . Please save the sky-high stilettos for your power meeting, wedding, or hot date. If you puncture a slide during an evacuation—if you sprain your ankle and I have to CARE for you in an evacuation—I will be upset and it will quite literally put others’ lives at risk. If you are a pro in heels go all the way for it, but if your ass is wobbling like Bambi down the terminal then please throw on some crocs and save it for later.

Every airline has slightly different dress code requirements, so if you are lucky enough to be a pass-rider, or non-rev, and use someone else’s travel benefits, be sure to check them out in advance!

There is no better feeling, as a standby traveler, than getting that boarding pass in your hand.

4. be on your best behavior.

Like, duh, right? Obviously. You’re a good person, why wouldn’t you be on your best behavior?

I don’t know, maybe because you’re Type A and anxious AF thinking you might not get a seat. Maybe you don’t get a seat and you have a little crying baby with you and you will be stuck at the airport overnight. Non-rev travel can be stressful.  Maybe you don’t think the company dress policy matters until you get to the gate and then you learn it does and then you think the policy is sexist, classist, first-amendment-crushing garbage and you feel compelled to shout it from the rooftops. Maybe you took a pill to ease your fear of flying and then you had a cocktail and then you passed out like a fish in the middle of the aisle. Maybe the crew is treating you super nicely and going above and beyond. Maybe they even comped a free drink or two for you. Maybe you already had a few before boarding and, despite this, you keep chug-a-lugging. And maybe when you’re drunk you’re loud. Maybe you’re super obnoxious, as far as the people around you are concerned. Maybe you handle delays really badly. Maybe your TV is broken and you feel the urge to demand a refund or something “Extra” to compensate. Maybe you just don’t know how to not be a Karen.

There are a lot of ways you can fuck this up for all of us.

If a flight attendant, pilot, or other airline employee has allowed you to use their airline flight benefits, know that while traveling you are a direct reflection of that person. Before you act on any impulses, keep in mind you are at that person’s place of employment. Don’t get us fired. Don’t get our pass-riding privileges taken away. Don’t embarrass yourself and strain our relationship.

Above all, treat all of our coworkers with respect and decency.

5. Take a chill pill

Welcome to the world of non-revving, where the only certainty is that nothing goes according to plan.

If you want to be a pass-rider, flexibility is a requirement. Not a bonus, a requirement. Flights get delayed. Weather happens, medical emergencies happen, mechanicals happen. (This is when the airplane malfunctions in some capacity.) It can be a simple computer restart, or a flat tire, or a hydraulics system. But whatever level of severity, mechanicals can cause delays. Basically shit can hit the fan.

You also are not guaranteed a seat on the flight you’re listed for. And you show up to the airport knowing that. Pacing around the gate area, huffing and puffing, is not going to ensure an open seat for you. Yelling at a gate agent or snapping at your spouse over the phone will not make the delay any shorter. Do your best to prepare yourself—by having buffer days and taking early flights. And then once you get to the airport, try your best to just chill.

It is all going to unfold however it unfolds. You may get a seat and be on your way on time. You may have to have dinner in the airport, waiting for the next flight. Hell, you might sit around the airport all day if all the flights are full. But however it goes, a bad attitude won’t help. I know it is tough, but if you mentally prepare yourself in advance (Save and read this post before you non-rev!) you’ll be better off. You’ll be better able to roll with the punches knowing that sometimes you’re a non-rev winner and sometimes you’re a no-fly standby loser.

If you can master this relaxed attitude, you will find that non-revving can actually be really fun.

IV Pros of Using Airline Flight Benefits

Now that I have talked about all the things that can go wrong, you might be asking yourself why one would ever want to fly standby. Again, it is not for the faint of heart. But if you can follow the preparation and chill-pill regimen, you can reap some serious rewards. Here are the benefits to using the benefits:

1. Free Flights

Duh. Flying for free on airline benefits, or flying for very cheap on a buddy pass or zed fare is what this is all about. Flights are EXPENSIVE. This is one of the reasons that people only travel once or twice a year. (That and the way US society is set up to keep people working themselves to death thinking it will lead to a promotion, having a “wait-until-retirement” attitude about literally anything fun in life, and companies offering pitiful amounts of time off to their workers. But, I can’t fix all that.)

What I do know is that flying standby for cheap or free means you can travel far more often. This is the biggest benefit of non-rev travel for most people.

2. Being part of an exclusive club

Airline employees are like one big, global, extended family. When I non-rev on my airline or on other airlines, I understand what the crew deals with day-to-day, even if our coding, rules, and uniforms are different. We share the common thread of being a part of this crazy little world, so different than what most people do for work, and it is a kind of automatic bond. We treat each other very well, for the most part.

Sometimes we get free upgrades to business class. Sometimes we are offered free cocktails or champagne. Sometimes the crew cannot upgrade us because the flight is full, but they make a small gesture like giving us a first-class amenity kit instead of the basic economy one. We try to be kind to one another. To acknowledge the other airline employee. When we non-rev, we often bring goodies for the working crew—chocolates or facemasks, one time I got makeup, weirdly. Hey, whatever it is, the gesture is nice.

When you fly on our airline benefits as a non-rev, you have a little bit of access to this exclusive club. You can kind of be “in the family” by association. The crew will know you’re standby and might treat you a little extra nicely. You’ll get to talk to the gate agent in our airline language before boarding. “Hi there, I’m listed for this flight. I know you won’t be clearing standbys for a while, I just wanted to let you know I’m here.” You get to experience the joys of lightly-planned, inexpensive travel and the sorrows of missing that last seat on the flight. You get to feel that adrenaline that comes from non-rev travel. To have a little glimpse into what our lives, as airline crew, are really like.

Tips for getting the Airline Family Treatment:

• Be nice to EVERYONE. The gate agent. Other passengers who strike up a conversation. The baggage handlers. And of course, the crew onboard. You’re not in your world, you’re in ours. Go out of your way to be polite and friendly and it will go a long way.
• Introduce yourself. “Hi, I’m Toni, I’m crew for X Airline. Thanks so much for the ride. I’ll be sitting in 8A if you need anything.” I tell them I’m standby, who I work for and what I do for them, thank them, give my seat assignment, and offer assistance all in one 15-second exchange. When I tell them that I’m a flight attendant and where I’m sitting, they know in an emergency that I am a person who can assist. And they know exactly where to find me. Speaking up to say this instead of slinking off to my seat, unnoticed, is simply a courtesy. It’s nice. We like it. And saying thank you will get you further in any situation.

When non-revving on someone else’s benefits, you could say something like “Hi, I’m Jan, I’m flying standby today. My mom is a flight attendant for Delta and I’m on her benefits. I’m sitting in 10D, let me know if you need anything. Thanks for the ride.” Keep it short, simple and to the point and we will really appreciate this little effort.

• Bring goodies. I’m not saying we can be bribed, but I am saying we appreciate the effort that a gift represents. Chocolates or some kind of candy is an easy-peasy way to win over your crew’s hearts. We have received Beignets from customers and non-revs, Stroopwaffles, Starbucks gift cards, even a turkey sandwich once. I don’t eat meat, but I was won over by how thoughtful it was. It doesn’t have to be a huge expense or something grand. This step can absolutely be skipped and you can just go on your way. But a little gesture like this goes a long way and really helps bring you into the fold of this extended family.

3. Adventure

Learning to navigate non-rev travel opens up a world of endless adventure. Once you learn the nitty gritty of picking flights, getting listed, talking to crew, and being patient, above all else, you can relax and enjoy the benefits. You can decide last minute to hop a flight to visit your bestie in Colorado for the weekend, because a free-flight doesn’t require much pre-planning. You can change your plans as you go, because no money is tied up in non-refundable airfare. While waiting in the airport, unsure if I’ll make it on the flight I’ve listed for, I look for backup options. Maybe I can fly to Tampa instead of Orlando and rent a car. Maybe I can take a Southwest flight instead of this one in an hour. Maybe I can go to Aruba instead of Cancun because I have swimsuits packed and I might miss my flight, but I’m not missing vacation. Maybe instead of making the long journey straight back to the US from Singapore, I’ll fly to Paris and hang out for a few days to break up the flying and eat macarons.

The possibilities only expand as you become more comfortable using flight benefits and being flexible. This one might be my favorite part of non-revving. Instead of unexpected issues ruining your day, you start to see them as opening up opportunity for something different. You become creative with your planning, with your backup planning, and then with your last-minute, in-the-moment planning when the backup doesn’t work either. You start to see far-away places as not so far. You stop waiting for the perfect time of year to visit a place, or for someone in your life to want to go there with you. And you just go. You start doing what you want, knowing that no matter how many delays or missed flights, you can make something work.

Maybe you start to incorporate this non-rev attitude into other aspects of your day-to-day life. Flat tire? Okay, let’s make a new plan. Financing on the house fell through? Time to come up with a creative plan B. We don’t stop to realize very often that the curveballs life will inevitably throw our way are not the biggest obstacles we face to being happy, enjoying ourselves, living a good life. It is our attitude. It is how we handle these things that has the biggest impact on how the thing turns out. Learning to be a good non-rev can have positive benefits totally unrelated to travel. It might just give you the nudge of a perspective shift you’ve been needing.

Relax, breathe, and embrace the adventure of non-rev travel.

Alright people, I realize this comprehensive post was long and detailed. But there is a lot of ground to cover. (And I didn’t even get into the traveling as a flight attendant portion of the mess!) I wanted to put together a guide that hit all the bases for those of you who have been invited to fly on someone’s airline flight benefits or who are just curious about how the whole process works. I hope this piece was helpful, and I encourage you to save it and read it over for reference before you fly on that Buddy Pass.

If you have any questions about non-revving on airline flight benefits that I haven’t covered, please just reach out via the comments section, or DM me on Instagram. Flight Crews—is there anything I missed? What is YOUR favorite part of non-revving?

I hope you all have a safe, happy weekend, and have plenty of spur-of-the-moment, well-planned-but-also-flexible travel coming up!

Until next time.

I hope you enjoyed this Comprehensive Guide to Non-Rev Travel. If this is your first time to A Wheel in the Sky, welcome! I’m Toni and I write about travel, flight attendant life, and personal things for which I should probably seek therapy. If you’re interested in reading more flight attendant content, check out some of these posts:

My Flight Attendant Origin Story

Flight attendant pet peeves: 6 ways to be the worst, how to poop on a plane: a flight attendant shares, 7 things i wish i knew before becoming a flight attendant, my craziest flight attendant story ever.

Thanks again for stopping by!

Image Credit, in order of appearance:

Feature: Luggage by tookapic via Pixabay

Man waiting in airport by JESHOOTS-com via Pixabay

Boarding Pass by Joshua Woroniecki via Pixabay

Woman in airpor t by JESHOOTS-com via Pixabay

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Very thorough! Going to pass this along to anyone who ask now

As always, so well said!

Hi! I found your blog while searching for info on non-rev travel and love it! Getting ready for my first standby travel adventure in May to Rome, Italy! I’m planning to go to Newark and hopefully catch a flight from there since there are lots of options with different airlines. Should I buy a trip with each airline then see which one I get on and refund the others? Or can I actually buy other flights while I’m at the airport, if my first choice doesn’t work out? I didn’t know if they needed to be purchased a specific amount of time in advance. Thanks so much!! Tracie

Hey Tracie,

Thanks so much for reading and for taking the time to leave a comment! How exciting your first standby adventure! Are you traveling on your own benefits or someone else’s? It might make a difference in priority. You should be able to list for a plan B, C, etc. while at the airport, but the problem with that is some airlines (like mine) give seats based on check-in time. So, for these airlines it is beneficial to be listed and checked in 24 hours prior to departure. Again, this is not every airline, and sometimes you won’t be able to check in that far in advance. But this is the reason I prefer to list for multiple flights in advance. ***It is very important to cancel all the other listings as soon as you get a seat!*** If you don’t you could be penalized by your airline (or the employee can be). Also, it just makes it very hard for other nonrevs to see how many seats are really available.

If you don’t have it already, I recommend getting an app called Staff Traveler. You can put in requests to see how many seats are available. It can give some peace of mind.

I hope it all works out for you and I’m SO jealous of your Italy plans! Buon viaggio!

This is by far the best article I’ve read regarding non-rev. I especially liked the vocabulary portion, because as a newbie, the jargon had my head spinning. But I’m starting to grasp it now. I have a question I’ve been scouring the internet for. Can you help? In 2 days from now I have a 930am Southwest flight listed through myidtravel. This is my first non-rev trip and I’m equally nervous and excited. After reading your article, I’d like to get on the 6:45am flight instead. first=best

Should I cancel/refund through myidtravel, and book the earlier flight? Or is it ok to just show up and ask if I the agent can move me up to the earlier flight.

Vocab question: is “move up” the right term for showing up the airport early and getting an earlier flight?

Thanks in advance!

Thanks for stopping by and leaving a comment. I’m glad the vocab was helpful– it is a totally different language! It looks like your Southwest flight ahs already come and gone, sorry for not getting back to you sooner. In the future, I’d say it is best to change in MyidTravel in advance. This could be different fior Southwest and not the best advice, but for my airline, check-in time determines the order that seats get assigned. So, if you’re waiting until the day of to list for a flight, there could be other people in your priority class who checked in the day before and are now ahead of you in line. Always check in 24 hours prior if you are able to (some airlines and sometimes on international flights you will not be able to and will have to do it with an agent the day of flight.)

Also, you don’t even have to change your flight. If you are worried about getting on, keep your original reservation and then make a new reservation for the earlier flight. This way you are listed and checked in for both. Just make sure to cancel whichever one you won’t be using! I hope that helps!

Hi Toni – This is a great article! I am about to have my first non-rev experience! My husband works for a cargo airline so it’s hard to find all the “rules.” Are we able to purchase food and drinks on the flight? Since this ticket is booked separately from any airline mileage program, I wasn’t sure if there was a way to ensure there is a credit card on file.

I also wondered about the gifts you (and others) mention giving to staff. There are so many people you encounter getting on a flight! Who do you give them to?

Thanks! Stacy

Hey there Stacy, thanks for stopping by! You should be able to purchase food and drinks on board the plane with a credit card, you won’t need to have it on file.

As for gifts, people bring all kinds of stuff. Edible gifts (usually sweets) are the most common, but we also get Starbucks gift cards sometimes or even more personalized gifts. I’ve received a goody bag with a mini hand sanitizer, chapstick, and face mask on the plane. It doesn’t have to be anything extreme, and you can be creative about it if you’re inclined, or just grab something from the store. Chocolate is always a safe bet to bring for crew. I would say don’t bring individual bars unless you’re sure how many crewmembers there are, a box or bag will do just fine.

When I’m bringing goodies on a non-rev trip, I usually bring one bag of assorted chocolate for the gate agents and one for the flight attendants. Since there are usually more FAs than agents, I bring them a bigger bag. They can share with the pilots if they want. When I step onto the plane I say to the Flight Attendant up front “Hi, I’m Toni, I’m a flight attendant with X Company. [And flash badge]. Thank you so much for the ride. I brought you guys some goodies. I’ll be in 12F if you need anything.”

I let them know I’m a nonrev for multiple reasons: 1. If there is an emergency on board, I can help. They should know I’m an additional resource. and 2. If they feel like giving me some kind of special treatment I want them to be able to find me.

Best of luck on your first non-rev experience! I hope it goes off without a hitch!

Hi Stacy, Thanks for the article, very useful info for a non-rev newbie. If you had to be somewhere on a specific day (I know you mentioned not doing standby in that case), but would you or have you ever purchased a regular fare ticket and a standby ticket and get either one refunded? Thanks a lot!

Thanks for stopping by. The name’s Toni, but Stacy is a nice name too. for my airline, and for most, double dipping (buying confirmed and listing standby) is a big no-no. Definitely check with your airline’s specific rules for non-rev travel before doing this, as it could result in a suspension of benefits. Hope that helps!

Hi! I am new to the non rev universe myself as an employee of an airline and really loving it. It certainly adds a new layer of adventure to the flight.

Your post was extremely helpful in understanding the mechanics. I am Totally onboard with the plan A,b,c….i go all the way to X Y Z. Recently I made a transcontinental booking to Paris and if it wasn’t for the backup planning, I would be stuck.

I did have a question about upgrades as a non rev. As you are probably aware, if I work for airline A, I also able to fly standby on a selection of other airlines, say Air France or British Airways. My airline only allows me to book economy stand by. If the other airline had business class seats available, would they be generally available for purchase at a heavy discount as well at the time of approaching the gate agent for converting my standby boarding pass to a seat assigned on

Thanks for stopping by and leaving a comment! Glad you liked the post, and yes, backup plans ALWAYS help!

As for upgrades, this would be specific airline policy. The booking site I use is Myid, and you can click on each airline to read their policies for pass riding, including baggage and attire restrictions, check-in rules, refund instructions, and upgrades. Certain airlines allow me to list business, while others don’t. I don’t know that you would be able to pay for an upgrade if you are getting assigned an economy seat from the standby list, but you can always ask an agent at the airport. Trying to read up on the policies ahead of time will help, too!

Best of luck!

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• Travel Tips

Unlock the Secret World of Non-Rev Travel: How to Jet-Set Across the Globe on a Shoestring Budget

• 12 minute read

• March 31, 2023
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Table of Contents Show

What is non-rev travel, 1. know the rules: , 2. be flexible:, 4. be patient:, 5. dress appropriately: , 6. pack light: , 7. be prepared: , how to book non-rev travel, 1. delta air lines, 2. united airlines, 3. southwest airlines, 4. alaska airlines, 5. american airlines, 1. travel during off-peak times: , 2. look at the load factor:, 3. choose less popular routes:, 4. check-in early:, 5. be flexible:, 1. dress code, 2. be polite and courteous, 3. follow check-in procedures, 4. understand standby policies, 5. be flexible with travel plans, 6, respect your fellow travelers., 7. use electronic devices appropriately, 1. plan ahead: , 2. fly on weekdays: , 3. split up: , 4. use buddy passes: , 5. look for group rates: , 6. upgrade to paid tickets:, 1. stay in contact with the airline: , 2. have a backup plan: , 3. be patient and flexible: , 1. check seat availability: , 2. dress comfortably: , 3. bring water and snacks:, 4. be friendly and wait your turn:, 5. be flexible with travel plans: , 6. use lounge access: , 7. upgrade to a paid ticket: , conclusion: non-rev travel.

Non-rev travel, also called “space-available travel,” is a common way for airline employees and their families to travel at a much lower price. With non-rev travel, people can use empty seats on flights that would have been empty otherwise.

Non-rev travel can be a great way to save money on airfare, but it’s essential to know the rules, proper behavior, and possible problems that come with it. This article will discuss everything you need to know about non-rev travel, including the pros, cons, rules, and tips for making the most of your space-available travel.

Non-rev travel is a perk that many airlines offer that lets their employees, their families, and their guests travel for free or at a lower cost.

The catch is that you have to fly standby, which means you only get a seat if any are left after all the paying customers have boarded.

Seats are available at different times of the year, on various routes, and with other airlines.

The Benefits and Drawbacks of Non-Rev Travel

Non-rev travel has a lot of pros, like free or cheap airfare, but it also has a few cons. Here are some of the pros and cons of traveling without a stopover:

1. Free or cheap plane tickets

2. The chance to travel more

3. The opportunity to visit new places

4. A sense of freedom and adventure

1.No guaranteed seat on a flight

2. There could be delays, and travel times could get longer.

3. Not much room for luggage

4. Availability is limited during busy travel times.

Non-Rev Travel Tips for First-Time Travelers

If you have never done non-rev travel, it can be a lot to take in. Here are some tips for first-time non-rev travelers:

Make sure you know the rules and restrictions before you go non-rev. Each airline has its own rules about how to dress, how to check in, and how much luggage you can bring.

Knowing these rules is essential so you stay aware of problems.

Freedom is the key to non-rev travel. Flights can be canceled, delayed, or full, so it’s essential to have a backup plan and be ready to change your travel plans at any time.

Non-rev travel requires some extra planning. Research flights and routes beforehand, and have backup plans if your first choice is fully booked.

Having a rough plan of where you want to go and how you want to get is also a good idea. This will help you plan your travel and accommodations.

Traveling can be stressful, especially if flights are late or canceled. Especially when dealing with airline staff, it’s essential to stay calm and polite.

Most airlines have dress codes for passengers who aren’t in first class, so make sure you wear the right clothes. Avoid wearing clothes with offensive slogans or logos , and wear business casual clothes.

Non-rev travel often means you can only bring a certain amount of luggage, so ensure you only get what you need.

This will also make it easier for you to move around and change your plans if you need to.

Ensure you have all the travel documents and identification you need and any visas or shots you may need.

To pass the time on the flight, it’s also a good idea to bring snacks, water, and entertainment.

If you are eligible for non-rev travel, it is easy to book your flight. Most airlines have websites or portals where you can see what flights are available and book your trip.

But it’s essential to remember that non-rev travel is always on standby, so there’s no seat guarantee. I suggest always having a plan B in case the flight you want is full.

There are other ways to save money on airfare if you don’t qualify for non-rev travel. Some airlines offer lower prices for students, people in the military, and older people. You can also check third-party websites or travel agencies for deals and discounts.

The Best Non-Rev Travel Airlines

Non-rev travel is an excellent way for airline workers and their families to travel for less money. But not all airlines offer the same benefits for non-rev travel, and some are more flexible than others.

Here are the best non-rev airlines and why they are better.

Delta Air Lines is known for having an excellent program for non-rev travel. The airline gives discounts to employees and their eligible family members on tickets and lets non-revs fly for free on standby.

Delta also has an easy-to-use online portal for booking non-rev travel, which makes the process quick and easy.

This airline is also known for its excellent customer service and friendly staff, which can make a big difference when traveling on standby. Delta also has many destinations, making it easy to find flights to almost any place in the world.

United Airlines is an excellent choice for non-rev travel as well. The airline discounts employees and their eligible family members on tickets and lets non-revs fly for free on standby.

United also has an easy-to-use online portal for booking non-rev travel, which speeds up and simplifies the process.

United is also well-known for its many destinations , making it easy to find flights to almost any place in the world.

The airline also has a good reputation for customer service and friendly staff , which can make a big difference when traveling on standby.

The Southwest Airlines is known for its l ow prices and customer-friendly policies , which also apply to non-rev travel.

The airline gives its employees and their eligible family members free standby travel and discounted fares when space is available.

Southwest also has an easy-to-use online portal for booking non-rev travel, which makes the process quick and easy.

The airline is also known for its no-frills approach to travel, which can make it easier and less stressful for people who don’t have frequent flyer miles.

Alaska Airlines is an excellent choice for non-rev travel as well. The airline gives its employees, and their eligible family members discounted fares and free standby travel if there is room.

Alaska Airlines is also known for its excellent customer service and friendly staff, which can make a big difference when traveling on standby.

The airline also has a good reputation for being on time and reliable, which is essential when traveling on a “space-available” basis.

American Airlines gives employees, and their eligible family members discounted fares and free standby travel if there is space.

The airline also has an easy-to-use online portal for booking non-rev travel, which makes the process quick and easy.

American Airlines is known for its many destinations, making it easy to find flights to almost anywhere in the world.

The airline also has a good reputation for customer service and friendly staff, which can make a big difference when traveling on standby.

How to Maximize Your Chances of Getting a Seat on a Non-Rev Flight

You have to plan and strategize to get a seat on a non-rev flight. Here are some tips to help you get a seat as often as possible:

There are more empty flight seats during the week and the shoulder season. This makes it more likely that you will get a seat on the flight.

The load factor is the number of seats on a flight that is already taken. Before you go to the airport, check the load factor to see how likely you will get a seat.

Less-traveled routes tend to have more empty seats on flights. Think about other ways to get where you want to go to increase your chances of getting a seat.

You’re more likely to get a seat if you check in as early as possible. Some airlines let non-rev passengers check in as early as 24 hours before their flight.

Be ready to make changes to your travel plans if you have to. If a flight is fully booked, you might have to wait for the next one or think about other ways to get where you need to go.

Non Rev Travel Etiquette and Rules

Non-rev travel is a great perk of working for an airline, but it also comes with responsibilities and rules.

When traveling on a “space-available” basis, non-rev travelers need to know how to act and the rules so that everyone has a smooth and pleasant time. 

When traveling based on space availability, wearing the right clothes is essential. Even though there is no official dress code for non-rev travel, it’s best not to wear anything too casual or revealing.

A good rule of thumb is to wear business casual clothes . This shows respect for the airline and other passengers.

It is a privilege, not a right, to travel without a rev. Because of this, it’s essential to be friendly to airline staff and other passengers.

Be patient and understanding if your travel plans change or you run into trouble. Don’t ask for special treatment or get mad if you don’t have a seat on a flight.

When checking in for a flight without a stopover, be sure to follow the steps given by the airline. Check in at the right time and place, and bring all the necessary paperwork and identification.

Follow the rules for checking in to avoid being allowed to board or having other problems.

Different airlines have different rules about standby, so it’s important to know what those rules are for the airline you’re taking.

Some airlines prioritize non-revs based on seniority or job position, while others go by “first come, first served.” Find out the airline’s rules and be ready to wait if you need to.

Non-rev travel is unpredictable, so it’s essential to be flexible with your plans. Be ready to change your plans if needed, and don’t make reservations that you can’t cancel or change.

It would be best to have a backup plan if you can’t get on the flight you want.

When traveling on a first-come, first-served basis, being kind to others is essential. Please don’t take up too much space or bother other people; be aware of their personal space and belongings.

Also, only choose seats in the exit rows or near the bulkhead if necessary.

Knowing how to use electronic devices on a non-rev flight is essential. Don’t use electronics during takeoff and landing; follow the airline’s rules about using electronics during the flight.

Also, please pay attention to how loud the music or video is and what it says.

Non-Rev Travel Options for Families and Large Groups

Non-rev travel, also called “space-available travel,” is an excellent way for families and large groups to save on airfare while visiting new places. But finding seats for everyone can be challenging, especially when many travels. In this article, we’ll look at ways for families and large groups to travel without a car.

Families and large groups need to plan to have an excellent non-rev trip. Check to see if seats are available on multiple flights, and think about booking backup flights so everyone can travel together.

It’s also wise to book flights early to get a seat before they’re all taken.

Most people are less busy during the week than on weekends and holidays, which can help you find seats for your family or group.

If you want the best chance of getting a seat, try to fly on a Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday.

Even though it’s best to travel as a family or group, it may only sometimes be possible to get seats on the same flight for everyone.

In these situations, you should split up and take different flights to the same place. This may take planning and coordinating, but it can be a fun way to ensure everyone gets where they need to go.

If you work for an airline and can access buddy passes as part of your benefits, you can use them to help your family or group travel together.

Buddy passes let you book discounted seats for your family and friends, which can be a great way to save money on airfare.

Some airlines offer group rates for non-rev travel, which can be a great way to save money when traveling with a big group.

Check with your airline to find out if they have group rates and what you need to do to book them.

You should consider upgrading to a paid ticket if you can’t find any non-rev seats for your family or group.

Even though it may not be as cheap as non-rev travel, it can still be a good way for a large group to save on airfare.

How to Handle Flight Cancellations and Delays When  Traveling

Non-Rev Flight cancellations and delays can happen to anyone, but a non-rev traveler needs to be ready. Here are some ways to deal with flight delays and cancellations:

If your flight is canceled or delayed, keep in touch with the airline to find out what’s happening and what you can do.

A non-rev traveler must have a plan B if a flight is canceled or delayed. Look into other flights and places to stay ahead of time.

Cancellations and delays of flights can be annoying, but staying calm and adaptable is essential. The airline staff is trying their best to help everyone, so please be polite and patient.

Non-Rev Travel Hacks for a More Comfortable Experience

Here are some non-rev travel hacks that make your trip more enjoyable and comfortable.

Check to see if there are seats on the flight you want to take before you leave. Many airlines have websites or apps that let you see how many seats are left on a particular flight.

This can help you plan your trip better. If all seats are gone, consider booking a backup flight or looking into other travel methods.

Non-rev travel can be hard to plan, and you may have to wait for several hours in the airport for a flight. Dress in soft and airy clothes to make the experience more pleasant.

Wear clothes in layers that are easy to add or take off based on how hot or cold it is in the airport or on the plane.

Non-rev travel can also mean you have to wait for a long time without being able to eat or drink. So bring snacks and a water bottle to avoid getting hungry or thirsty.

Many airports have places where you can refill your water bottle so you don’t have to buy a new one.

When traveling non-rev, it’s essential to be kind to airline staff and passengers and wait your turn. Remember that you don’t have a right to a seat and that airline workers are doing their best to help as many people as possible.

Having a good attitude and a smile can go a long way toward making your trip more fun.

Be ready to change your plans if you need to. You should book a backup flight or take a different route to get where you need to go.

Also, you might have to wait for a few flights to get a seat. Bring a book or something else to keep yourself busy while you wait.

If your airline or credit card gives you access to a lounge, you should use it. Lounges usually have comfortable seating, free food and drinks, charging stations, and Wi-Fi.

This is a great way to make the waiting time more pleasant and valuable.

If nothing else works, think about getting a paid ticket. Many airlines give their employees discounted tickets, which can be a good choice if you can’t get a non-rev seat.

Even though it might not be as cheap as non-rev travel, it can save you money on airfare.

In conclusion, non-rev travel is a unique way to see the world that is also cheap. Whether you work for an airline or are a family member, using space-available travel can save you a lot of money on flights.

But it’s essential to know the rules and etiquette of non-rev travel to ensure everything goes smoothly and you have a good time.

By following the regulations and tips in this article, you can get the most out of your non-rev travel and make memories with your family that will last a lifetime. So, when you plan your next trip, consider the benefits of non-rev travel and take advantage of this fantastic chance to see the world at a fraction of the cost.

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Non-rev travel truly is a privilege, but it does come with a price. Last-minute changes ( sometimes in your favor, often not ), tight connections, and the otherwise sheer uncertainty of the game can make it seem daunting. There are plenty of employees and their family members who rarely or never use their benefits, because it just seems too stressful. But, we can certainly attest that with a little preparation and a handful of tips and tricks, you can take some of the stress out of flying standby. Here are our top 10 tips for making non-rev travel as enjoyable as possible. non-rev travel

1. Become a Member of Global Entry/TSA Pre ✓ & Clear

People with flight benefits tend to spend quite a lot of time in airports, so finding ways to cut down on some of that waiting time is invaluable. Secure entry programs like Global Entry , TSA Pre ✓ , and Clear have truly been a godsend. Not only can we afford to get to the airport a little later than most passengers thanks to our TSA Pre ✓  and Clear memberships, but Global Entry also helps us make tight connections when traveling back home from abroad.

Clear…get it?

If you are like us and really maximize your flight benefits by traveling abroad often, our recommendation is to sign up for Global Entry, as you are able to apply for and take advantage of TSA Pre ✓  for no additional cost. Details on how to apply to Global Entry can be found here .

2. Join Non-Rev Social Networks

I know at least a few of the major U.S. airlines have employee-run Facebook groups where fellow non-rev travelers ask for and give advice and updates. If you are an employee, retiree, or spouse, you are likely eligible to join. This can be an invaluable resource for researching how to get to and from your dream destination on standby. It can also be helpful in the moment, if you find your flight plan unexpectedly unraveling at the airport. Fellow non-revs are often more than happy to help you in real time, while you scramble to find a plan B, C, and D. 

There are also a number of online forums where airline employees and self-identified “aviation nerds” share news, travel stories, and advice. FlyerTalk is one example of a long-time forum where airline employees have offered a wealth of information and tips about destinations, routes, and airline and aviation news. There are also blogs like Cleared List   and apps like Staff Traveler  (see Tip #6) to help non-rev travelers find their way around the globe. 

3. Be Familiar with Airport Standby Policies

International airports have varying policies and procedures for standby travelers. In some instances, passengers will not be permitted to clear security or customs until one hour before departure, or less. Fighting your way through the lines to try to make the flight you just cleared can be a harrowing experience. To avoid unnecessary stress before a long flight, it is best to research the airports you’ll be flying through so that you can be mentally prepared and know what to expect. You can also use this knowledge to prepare by making sure your carry-on bags are packed efficiently to make the security screening as fast and painless as possible.

Tips for Breezing Through Security Screening

• Pack your 3-1-1 compliant toiletry bag on top so it can be easily removed.
• Travel light with electronics – use a bag with a designated, easy-access laptop compartment.
• Keep snacks in one small pouch, and pack on top for airports that require food removal.
• Wear shoes that easily slip on and off.
• Keep your pockets empty.
• Cell phones are made of metal…put them in the bin!

A great resource for finding airport standby policies is on the Facebook pages you joined from Tip #2. Also, check your airline’s website for current airport advisories, like this one from Delta , to keep up with airport policy changes, delays due to construction, and other airport news.  

4. Purchase an Airport Lounge Membership

For the frequent standby traveler, there is perhaps no better advice I can give than to purchase a membership to your airline’s lounge. Not only does it provide a calmer and more comfortable place to wait out flight after flight, but the agents in the club can often provide valuable assistance – like changing your priority, or moving you on to a different standby list when the option is no longer accessible to you.

Enjoying Prosecco on the JFK Sky Deck

Perhaps a better option than simply purchasing a membership directly is opening a credit card associated with your airline, as there are often added perks. I opened an  American Express Platinum card, and added Rufio as an additional card member. The annual card member fee costs less than a general membership to the Sky Club, plus gives us access to lounges in international airports where there are no Sky Clubs, among a number of other benefits. With the card, we enjoy access to Centurion lounges and Priority Pass lounges around the world. We’ve estimated how many times per year we would need to eat or have a drink at the lounge in order to make the fee cost-effective for us, and by our rough estimates we by far get our money’s worth given the number of flights we take each year.

This year I am actually tracking my visits to the lounge, in an effort to more precisely estimate cost per visit.

5. Dress to Impress…and to Run

When flights don’t work out, we often find ourselves almost running from terminal to terminal to make an attempt at an alternate route. It is imperative that we’re wearing clothing and carrying luggage that can help us move quickly. But, we are also representing the airline, so we still want to look sharp when we finally get that lucky seat.  

The challenge every flight is to put together an ensemble that is chic, comfortable, allows running, and is adaptable to changing temperatures from the point of departure, in-flight, and at the arrival location. My outfits change, but these are the standards I look for in travel pieces.

Your shoes are probably the single most important piece of attire for standby travel. I love seeing posh women, dressed to the nines and rocking stilettos, so glamorously awaiting to jet set at the gatehouse. So long as I non-rev travel, I will unfortunately never be one of those women. Flats are absolutely crucial, given all the aforementioned running through terminals when flight plans suddenly change. Ability to slip on and off easily is also key for rushing through security during international connections. Depending on the season, I have go-to ballet flats, sandals, or boots that all hit the mark for comfort, style, and functionality. 

Clothes & Accessories

Most of the time off the plane you’ll find me in dresses ( which are also easy to pack ), but I tend to freeze, so I always wear pants in flight. When I find a pair of pants or jeans that I deem travel-worthy, I get very excited. In my book, they need to look sleek, be comfortable, and allow flexible movement. That last piece is key, especially on long-haul days. 

I am never without a blanket scarf or pashmina in flight, and I always wear cute and quirky compression socks for flights lasting longer than 4 hours. I also love to accessorize with travel-themed jewelry and luggage tags. My ATL necklace and leather Georgia luggage tag are a little piece of home I take with me all over the globe.

Check out all of the clothing, accessories, and travel gear we use and love on our Essential Travel Gear page.  

6. Be Travel Tech Savvy 

The uncertainty of non-rev travel means some of your travel planning needs to happen on the fly. The best way to prepare is to have a couple of key apps on your phone or tablet, ready to go when you finally get cleared. Last-minute deal apps, like Hotel Tonight, can be a lifesaver when you suddenly find yourself in need of a reservation. While it is controversial in the travel community, AirBnB* is a great resource for non-rev travelers, especially when Instant Book properties are available. Here’s a list of top travel apps, recommended by us and other experienced non-rev travelers.

Top Non-Rev Travel Websites & Apps

• Rome2Rio – Enter a departure and arrival city, and it will return all the transportation options between the two.
• CityMapper – Similar to Rome2Rio for travel within a city. Provides trip time and approximate costs, to help you make transportation decisions. 
• FlightBoard – A great tool to search for zed options, this app lists all departures and arrivals from any given airport.
• TrainLine – Provides prices for trains, mainly in Europe. 
• StaffTraveler – Find flight loads for various airlines. 
• Google Flights – Research flight options between cities. 
• Google Maps – Download offline maps for where you’re visiting by typing “ok maps” in the search bar. 
• Google Translate – Speak to anyone in any language. 
• XE Currency Exchange – Figure out what that souvenir is going to cost you. 
• What’s App – Free calls and messaging around the world. 
• Booking.com – Find last minute hotel deals. 
• Hotel Tonight – Find last minute hotel deals. 
• AirBnB – Instant book properties can be a life saver when you get that last minute seat to your destination…or when you get stuck another night. 

There are also just a few gadgets to always have on hand to make non-rev life easier. Perhaps most important is the external battery charger , to keep all the electronics alive when you’re stuck for hours. Noise cancelling headphones can help you keep your sanity on a long travel day. If you have wireless headphones, pick up an AirFly wireless transmitter to enjoy the plane’s in-flight entertainment. 

*Do some research on AirBnB to determine whether the service is a good, sustainable fit in your destination before you book. 

7. Have a Seating System 

The standby list is sometimes not cleared until 10 minutes prior to departure, and sometimes you’ll get that lucky last seat even later. You’ll find yourself running down the jet bridge moments before departure, stumbling down the crowded aisle, clamoring for the one empty bin to awkwardly cram your carry-on in before you struggle back upstream to your row, where you’ll probably climb over someone’s legs to get to your precious empty middle seat – all while the eyes of every paying passenger are laser-focused on the person they assume is trying to make them miss their connection. It can be nerve-racking when it comes down to the wire, so your best bet is to have a system in place.

Enjoy the photo, you’ll almost never get to board like this.

Make sure your hands are free as you are boarding, so you can swiftly put your carry-on into any available overhead bin without delay. My backpack always goes under the seat in front of me, so I keep my phone, headphones, wallet, and anything else I plan to use in-flight in the top pocket so that I can easily access them as soon as I sit down without having to pull the whole backpack out, further annoying the person whose legs I just scrambled over.  

8. Maximize Your Entertainment & Comfort 

Let’s be honest, at some point you are going to get stuck. For hours…maybe days. Make sure you have a book to read, a podcast to listen to, movies to watch, something to work on, anything to pass the waiting periods (hopefully you’ve taken Tip #4 and at least can spend your waiting periods in a lounge with free food and drinks). I always travel with a blanket scarf, and for long-haul flights I carry a pack blanket and my Cabeau travel pillow . Long layovers may be necessary, and you never know when you may end up sleeping in the airport, so it helps to have these easy to pack items to keep you as warm and comfortable as possible. Make sure you keep at least the basic toiletries like a toothbrush, toothpaste, contact solution and case (if applicable), baby wipes, and deodorant in your carry-on, for the inevitable airport bathroom “shower”. A (small) snack stash and reusable water bottle are also must haves. 

9. Earn Miles for Emergencies

It’s rare, but there may come a time when you simply can’t get home or somewhere you really need to be by flying non-rev. For times like these, it doesn’t hurt to open up a credit card that earns miles for everyday purchases, in order to save up for a rainy non-rev day. To give me some flexibility, I opened both the American Express Gold Delta SkyMiles  card and the Capital One Venture . I use these two cards for almost all my daily expenses, and simply save up the miles for the day I’m really stuck.

Sidebar: I had to use emergency miles to get out of Florida just this week. 

10. Enjoy the Ride

Perhaps not surprisingly, I do occasionally encounter other non-rev passengers ( usually buddy passes, but not always ) taking out their standby frustrations on unsuspecting gate agents. They say you catch more flies with honey, and in the non-rev world it is no different. On multiple occasions, we have had gate agents, flight attendants, and other employees go out of their way to help us navigate difficult non-rev situations because we have always been kind, patient, and understanding with them.

I’ve talked about this before , but this incredible opportunity I have to be a non-rev traveler has taught me how to be patient, spontaneous, and above all appreciative and humble. There’s this ongoing debate among airline employees about the semantics of their travel perks – whether they are a “benefit” that comes as a recruitment incentive, or a “privilege” that should be revered. For the employees, it truly is a little of both, as they certainly earn it. For those of us so lucky to be part of their lives, it is unequivocally a privilege. I will never forget that, no matter where in the world or how many hours I am stuck waiting on the next empty seat. 

When standby travel gets harrowing, thanks to storms or poor airport management or any number of factors, I know it can be incredibly frustrating. The most important piece of advice I have to make your non-rev travels as stress-free as possible is to be kind, remain calm, and remind yourself that no matter what happens, you have been given an amazing opportunity – so enjoy the wild ride. 

This mindset is a skill that has to be honed over time, but if you have followed some of the tips and tricks I have shared in this post, the ability to do this may come a little easier. non-rev travel

Do you have any tips for making non-rev travel less stressful? Leave a comment!

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Disclaimer: Some of the links on this page are affiliates. That means if you make a purchase using the link, I’ll earn a small commission to help me run this blog, at no cost to you! As always, the opinions and recommendations presented in this post are mine, and always an honest reflection on our experiences. Thank you for reading!

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Thanks for such a descriptive and informative topic. Travelling really removes our monotony and freshens our minds. Enjoyed reading the article above, really explains everything in detail, the article is very interesting and effective. Thank you and good luck with the upcoming articles.

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NonRev Tips | 5 Tips for How to Travel Standby Internationally

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How to Travel Standby Internationally

Getting hired by an airline company can be a dream come true, but now you are wondering how to travel standby internationally.

You want to get to your bucket list of travel destinations as soon as possible to make all your travel dreams come true!  Just a word of warning, the more you travel, the longer your bucket list becomes!  As you interact with airline employees who went to Iceland last weekend, you’ll be dreaming up new travel dreams before you know it. Our philosophy is “The less we spend on this trip, the sooner we get to take another”. This article will help you find the most economical way to see everything your heart desires.

Before boarding international flights flying standby, this information will be essential to save you money, time and stress.

Standby Travel

In order to fly standby, you must be an employee of an airline, a dependent of be purchasing a buddy pass from an employee.

Our family flies with American Airlines.  If you are flying with another company, the answers may be slightly different than what I am teaching here.  But usually, they follow a similar protocol.

Flying standby inside the USA, the flight is completely free !  It’s truly amazing.

Essential Information: When you fly outside of the country you don’t pay for the flight leaving America.  You only pay the taxes of the airport as you fly back into America.

Every airport has their own taxes and fees for traveling from their airport.  Doing some research to see how much it will cost to fly out of a certain airport will help you estimate your travel expenses.

1. Find travel costs

Since you only pay for flights coming back into America, it is helpful to know what those cost are.  On the American Airlines Non Revenue travel site, there is a section called travel tools.  Click on Travel Charges to check the charges for international travel. If you put in DFW-FCO (Rome) it will show that it is free.  If you put FCO-DFW it will show the charges for first class, business, and main.

2. Consider one-way trips

Looking at the cost of flying home from certain locations, may change where you fly.

For example, we recently took our son to Italy.  Read about our itinerary here and driving one way here .  When we did this trip, Venice cost over $150 for one person. We flew into  Venice (free), and then toured Italy by car and ended in Rome.  We flew home from Rome (for only $85).

The prices have recently changed for American Airlines, so now flying home from Venice costs $48 in taxes and fees and flying home from Rome costs $68.   So if we were trying to save money, I would likely try to fly into Rome and home from Venice.  $20 a person might not seem like much, but for our family, that is over $120, which can be another night of a hotel or a couple days of a car rental.

Even though both prices are a steal when you consider you are flying round trip to Italy, the cost still adds up and it might be worth adjusting your trip for budget travel.

Of course, the flight loads will ultimately determine where you end up. We had a backup plan of flying into Rome and out of Venice if need be.

3. Check costs for First Class and Business Class

Typically, the charges for all 3 classes of travel is the same, and as a standby traveler you always hope and pray for that first class experience.  However, some airports charge more for first-class travel.  For example, Paris cost $131  for first class and business and only $81 for the main cabin.

In many cases, you can get a first-class or business-class ticket for the same cost as a coach ticket (If there are any first-class available). In a few places, you will pay more to fly first class. Decide if that is a cost you are willing to spend.  I think first-class is really only worth it internationally, so if we had the funds, I would definitely take it! Unless I was paying for all 6 of us, then I may reconsider.

Flights to London England cost $285 for first and business class and $181 for the main cabin.  For our family of 6, the cost of the flights alone would be over $1000.  The rest of the world is laughing at our tiny expense to fly internationally, but we are used to flying free!  So, that cost seems astronomical.  When we go to London, we plan on flying into London (for free) and then take a car or train or even a ZED fare on another airline to some other airport to fly home.

4. Help your Buddy Pass Users

Does it matter how long the flight is?

The miles flown to the destination does not determine the cost of the flight for an employee or dependent.  For example, Mexico City is really close to us, but the taxes are $71. Quito, Equador is $131. But to fly all the way home from Japan is only $41.

However, flying on a buddy pass (d3 for American) the cost IS related to the distance traveled and you do have to pay for each leg of the flight.  Doing research so your buddy pass user knows how much he/she will be paying for their flights.  Helping your buddy pass user navigation how to travel standby internationally is helpful for them to know their expenses when the stress of flying standby is already great.

5. Don’t be afraid to get listed!

If I book a trip but don’t make it on the flight, will I be charged?

No!  You can list and pay for as many flights as you’d like.  You will not be charged until you receive tickets and board the plane.

Now You Know How to Fly Standby Internationally

I am so excited for you to take trips around the world for a nominal cost!  The less you pay now, the more trips you can go on!  Ultimately, the flight loads will determine which airports you get to fly into and out of, but doing your research will help you be prepared for the costs.

We have only ventured outside of America on 6 trips.  This summer we are planning on a few more.  We are saving up to take our four kids outside of the country more and show them the world.  I hope you get to do the same!

Our entire trip to Hong Kong for 5 of us for 5 days cost less than $500 (including flights)!

See other Standby tips here .

Fly by the Seat of our Pants contains affiliate links. When you buy through the links it helps keep this website running, at no extra cost to you.

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14 comments.

Hi Jamie, I usually fly on companion pass but bought ID20 to go international, I’m flying with a paying relative who can also fly D3. Can we ask to standby for a business class seat (with our non rev status)? I was wondering if I could call and speak to someone as right now outbound is pretty open. Kills me that I purchased tickets but had to secure travel..

Unfortunately you can’t! If you fly on a revenue ticket you have to use your regular status. You can only standby to upgrade if you are flying standby.

Hello, what if your trying to fly between countries in Europe, do you still use your airlines partner carriers or do you pay out of pocket for those flights?

We can fly standby on the airline partners. However, we fly at a lower priority and pay taxes on the flights we take on other airlines. Its also more difficult to see how many seats are available and how many standbys are listed, so for me,it is a bigger risk of getting stuck, but I know many people make it happen!

I just got my passes set up with AA and a friend who is also a retiree. With AA told me there are no longer buddy passes and I see so many questions about how to use them here. I am retired and want to go on trips but dont want to go alone.

as an employee ourselves we still do have buddy passes to give to friends/family. Im not sure if retirees have buddy passes. Sometimes the cost and uncertainty (along with the low priority) make it pretty difficult to travel using a buddy pass. might be best to buy tickets for a travel companion

love your website !!

I have been traveling NON REV under a dear friend of mine with UA but this year I “became” a party of two and unfortunately my friend can not longer help. We are seasoned travelers and i know the ins and outs of traveling NON REV.

I was wondering if you could direct me to someone you might know that could help us get two RC D2 with AA

I look forward to hearing back from you

sent an email to you!

I am a companion on a friends AA benefits. I am trying to plan flying to Paris for christmas time and skeptical I will be able to get a flight. Right now I see christmas is on a wed so I was planning on trying to fly out the 18th a week early but still worried I will not make it. Any ideas how to see when might be the best time? I also considered leaving Christmas day to avoid crowds but again no idea. I know its a bad time. The flights home look easier to get than going..

In my experience flying on christmas day is good, but getting home after Christmas is difficult. I haven’t ever gone internationally over Christmas. WE are hoping to get to the Christmas markets this year, but it will depend on flights. My best advice is have several days you could go/come home and several different locations you don’t mind ending up if Paris fills up (london, Germany). Also look at options with layovers, just in case. Good luck! Christmas is always a super tricky time, but with weather delays and issues, you can often make it! A christmas miracle!

Do you ever get stranded internationally when flights are full? What are your suggestions for getting a family of four on a flight nonrev?

Yes! We usually go home a day or two early if it’s looking bad. We have also flown on other airlines ( ZED) to get to another city that has open flights. For example, fly from London to dubLin on Ryan air and go home from Dublin. We flew in United home from japan when American was full. Look are airlines close to you and see what other options there are. Or we fly into any city in America and then figure out how to get home another way. When we came home from Italy, we wanted the direct to Dallas flight but it was full so we flew to Charlotte and then had a few layovers in random cities to get home ( the direct was full)

Hi Mrs Harper

I am new to the nonrev travel through my brother i want to go on my first trip but wants to know

the average cost. Is there anyway online i can get this information

Are you with American Airlines? Are you flying on a buddy pass or do you have dependent status? American has a travel cost tool under the tool tab. You enter your departure and you arrival city ( and any in between) and it will tell you how much it costs for an employee, a dependent, a parent or a buddy pass. Email me if you have any specific destinations I can look up for you!

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10 Mistakes Every Non-Rev Traveler Makes (And How You Can Avoid Them)

Curious about what problems plague your fellow non-rev travelers? I have compiled a list of the ten most common mistakes that I have either committed myself or witnessed other non-revs suffer from during my travels.

Read on below to see if you are making the same mistakes and how you can avoid them on future non-rev flights.

1. Booking Your Hotel & Rental Car In Advance

I have a rule that I don’t book my lodging or rental cars until I know I am getting on a flight. That flies in the face of everything that you have learned about travel planning, but I have been listed on too many “wide open” flights that fill up at the last minute and leave non-revs stranded. However, you don’t need to wait until you land to figure out where you are staying for the night. Planning ahead is still important. 

I keep my finger hovering over the Book Now button waiting for my seat assignment to be confirmed by the gate agent. As soon as I have my boarding pass in hand, I follow through with confirming all of my accommodations on my favorite apps .

2. Not Researching Potential Connections

Trying to fly between two hubs on a Friday? You better know which connecting airports you can fly to in case the flights fill up. Most non-revs are content with sitting in the boarding area rolling over from flight to flight. This is often a recipe for disaster.

Take your destiny into your own hands by looking for creative connections to get you to your final destination. You may not be able to fly standby on busy days between IAH-ORD on United or MSP-ATL on Delta, but you can find dozens of potential connecting cities with a little bit of networking routing knowledge.

3. Leaving The Gate Area Before The Door Closes

Raise your hand if you have ever given up on an overbooked flight only to find that half the standby list gets cleared? I would wager that most non-revs have seen this exact situation play out many times over. You never know what could change before the boarding door is closed: a delayed flight with connecting passengers doesn’t make it to the gate in time, a family of six decides to drop their seats, or a commuter could get a flat tire on the way to the airport. 

Whatever the case may be, do yourself a favor and stick around at the gate because you have a chance at getting a seat assignment as long as the door is still open.

4. Not Signing Up For Global Entry

Frequent flyers & non-rev experts can all agree that signing up for Global Entry (and the included TSA PreCheck benefits) is a must. TSA PreCheck gives me the confidence to avoid long security lines and arrive at the airport as late as possible to still catch my flight. Anyone who has flown into MIA or SFO and been subjected to a 30+ minute wait time to get through Customs & Immigration knows the pain of not having Global Entry. 

Save yourself the headache and opt for the full Global Entry application. Trust me; it is worth it. Check out Standby With Me’s Best Credit Cards For Non-Rev Travelers guide to find a travel credit card that covers the $100 application fee for you.

5. Neglecting To Check The Weather Forecasts

That flight to MIA may be wide open, but did you check to make sure you aren’t flying into the middle of a tropical storm? It is easy to forget to check the weather for your destination if the weather at home has been perfect for days on end. It only takes 30 seconds to check the forecast for your destination city (and any connection cities you might be using). 

There is nothing more frustrating than getting stuck at an airport with a closed ramp or being diverted to an alternate airport due to inclement weather. Route yourself far away from any weather-related challenges before you leave your home airport.

6. Traveling Without Your Airline Badge

Every traveler believes they should receive special treatment, but airline employees actually should be asking for more. Your airline employee badge qualifies you as a travel industry professional and opens up a world of perks. Check to see if your airline has an online resource dedicated to deals & discounts. Resources like ID90 Travel, Perx, and Staff Travel Voyage cater specifically to airline employees, but the discounts don’t stop there. Many airport restaurants & stores provide discounts to airline employees at their home airports, so flashing your badge is required. This is also true of many restaurants & other establishments outside of the airport that offer airline employee discounts.

Having your airline ID badge on you whenever you travel ensures you never miss out on any opportunities. It should be noted that traveling with your airline badge visible is generally a big no-no (unless your airline’s non-rev travel policy specifically requires it). Keeping your airline ID packed away has the added benefit of avoiding passengers who might think you are working the flight.

7. Forgetting The Dress Code

Gone are the days of having to dress up in your Sunday’s best to get a seat assignment as a standby passrider. However, you still need to make sure your attire is aligned with your airline’s non-rev travel guidelines. That is especially true if you want to be upgraded to a premium cabin. Every non-rev knows the story of #LeggingsGate, and the way that should have been handled has been debated endlessly.

Skip the trouble and err on the side of caution; there is no such thing as being overdressed!

8. Leaving Your Jacket At Home

I grew up on the coast, so my mom made it rule that we should never leave the house without a jacket. Being that I recently had to spend a night freezing my butt off without a jacket in the MIA airport en route to a summer holiday in the Caribbean, I wish I had my mom around to remind me about that rule. No matter what your destination is, you never know what you might expect on the way there. 

Non-revs should always hope for the best and pack for the worst. Airplane cabin temperatures are notoriously finicky, and I have yet to spend the night in an airport that didn’t remind me of winter in Banff. If you ever find yourself somewhere with the A/C turned up to 11, you will be glad that you had a lightweight jacket stashed away in your carry-on just in case. 

9. Not Behaving Like A Model Passenger

I want you to look around the cabin on your next flight and count how many passengers are actually paying attention to the safety briefing. Odds are the numbers are slim. Flight attendants are all too aware of this fact, and the least you can do is help make their job a little easier. It doesn’t stop with just the safety briefing: from baggage etiquette to inflight service interactions, flight attendants have to put up a lot when dealing with the flying public. 

Do your part to model how you think all passengers should behave on an aircraft, and hopefully your fellow passengers follow suit. We are all airline employees, and being on our best behavior should be an expectation on our planes. 

10. Listing On The Last Flight Of The Day

I don’t care how smart you think you are. Listing on the standby list of the last flight is almost always a terrible idea. So many things can go wrong throughout a normal day, and checking into the last flight of the day robs you of your options & flexibility. Not only are you at the mercy of the standby list changes from the previous flights, but you have exponentially less connection options when you depart your origin city late in the day.

I always recommend starting your return journey as early as (reasonably) possible at the conclusion of your trip. Unless you are a brand new employee, trying to explain to your manager that you got stranded while on vacation is the most embarrassing phone call you will ever make.

Final Thoughts

These ten mistakes seem to happen to everyone at one point or another, but I know this doesn’t cover everything. 

Have something that you think should have been on the list? Engage with @StandbyWithMe on Twitter or let me know in the comments below!

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