How Long Can You Hold a Flight Reservation

Are travel reservations highly important to you? Do you like to plan and make them well in advance? If so, you may wonder how long you can hold a flight reservation before committing to it. 

Whether you’re waiting for a better deal or need more time to finalize your plans, understanding the rules around holding flight reservations can help you make the most of your travel budget and schedule. 

Let’s explore how long you can hold a flight reservation and what you need to know to make the most of your options.

How Long Can You Hold a Flight Reservation Without Paying

Most airlines will allow you to hold a reservation for 24-48 hours, although this may vary based on the airline and the specific fare rules associated with your booking.

The purpose of a hold is to allow travelers to reserve a flight while they finalize their travel plans and make sure they have the necessary funds to complete the booking. 

During this hold period, the fare and the itinerary are usually held steady, so the traveler has time to confirm details and make arrangements. However, if the traveler fails to confirm the reservation within the allotted time frame, the hold is automatically released, and the itinerary and fare may change.

It’s important to note that not all airlines offer the ability to hold a reservation, and those that do may charge a fee for the service. Additionally, some airlines may only offer a hold period for certain fares or tickets, so it’s important to carefully read the fare rules and restrictions before booking.

Suppose you are considering holding a flight reservation. In that case, it’s a good idea to check with the airline directly to find out the specific hold policies and fees associated with your booking. As a result, you will be aware of any restrictions or limitations and be able to make an informed decision on how to proceed.

What’s the Difference Between Holding a Reservation and a Flight Reservation

Holding a reservation and a flight reservation are related concepts, but they have some key differences.

A flight reservation is a commitment to purchase a ticket. It is a booking you make for a specific flight on a specific date and time. You pay for the reservation at the time of booking, and your seat on the flight is guaranteed.

On the other hand, holding a reservation means that the airline is holding a seat for you for a limited time, usually a few hours to a few days. This is particularly useful if you need more time to finalize your travel plans or are waiting for a better deal. 

How Does Holding a Flight Reservation Differ from Making a Confirmed Booking

Making a confirmed booking means you have purchased a ticket for a specific flight. You pay for the ticket at the time of booking, and your seat on the flight is guaranteed. While holding a reservation, the airline is reserving a seat for you for a limited period without requiring immediate payment. Holding a reservation gives you more time to decide if you want to purchase the ticket, but it does not guarantee your seat on the flight. 

Is There a Fee to Hold a Flight Reservation

Holding a flight reservation may or may not require a fee, depending on the airline and the fare. Some airlines allow you to hold a reservation for free for a certain time, usually for a few hours or days, while others charge a fee for this service. 

The fee can vary greatly, ranging from a few dollars to a substantial percentage of the ticket price. Generally, the more expensive the ticket, the more likely the airline will allow you to hold the reservation for free. 

Many airlines also offer this service for free to members of their loyalty programs or to customers who have purchased a more flexible or premium fare. If you do end up paying a fee to hold a reservation, it is usually non-refundable and will not be applied to the cost of your ticket if you decide to purchase it later.

Is It Possible to Hold a Flight Reservation for International Travel

Yes, It is possible to hold a flight reservation for international travel, just like domestic travel. Most airlines offer the option to hold a reservation, allowing you to reserve a flight seat without paying. It is particularly helpful for international travel, as it gives you more time to finalize your travel plans and ensure that you have all the necessary travel documents in order.

However, it’s important to note that the rules and fees for holding an international flight reservation may differ from those for domestic travel. The holding period may be shorter for international flights, and the fees for holding a reservation may be higher. 

Additionally, some airlines may not offer the option to hold a reservation for certain international routes or during peak travel periods when demand is high.

What Happens If You Don’t Confirm Your Held Flight Reservation

If you have held a flight reservation and do not confirm it before the hold period expires, the airline will automatically cancel the reservation. It means that the seat you were holding will be released and made available for purchase by other passengers.

When you hold a reservation, the airline is essentially reserving a seat for you for a limited time without requiring immediate payment. The hold period is typically specified by the airline at the time the reservation is made. The reservation will be canceled if you do not confirm the reservation by purchasing the ticket before the hold period ends.

If you miss the hold period and your reservation is canceled, you must start the booking process again if you still wish to travel on the flight. 

Depending on availability, you may be able to book a new reservation, but the fare may have changed, or the seat you previously held may no longer be available. Therefore, you should confirm your held flight reservation before the hold period expires to avoid losing the opportunity to travel on the desired flight.