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2,600+ US flights canceled: United, American Airlines resume service after global outage

• A global IT outage caused delays and cancellations for air passengers around the world.
• Several U.S. carriers, including American Airlines, United Airlines, and Delta Air Lines, issued ground stops for all their flights early on Friday due to communication problems.
• The aviation sector is hit particularly hard due to its sensitivity to timings.

Get more news like this delivered to your inbox by signing up for our Travel newsletter here .

William Sikora III was supposed to fly from Philadelphia to Detroit on Friday morning.

“We are stuck at this airport,” he posted in a video on X at 6 a.m., zooming in on blue airport screens showing system errors. “United, Delta, America, all this stuff is down. People are just sitting here. The apps still say our flight’s on time because they can’t update information in the apps.”

Air passengers around the world faced delays, cancellations and problems checking in as airports and airlines were caught up in a  massive IT outage  that also affected industries ranging from banks to media companies.

Several U.S. carriers, including American Airlines, United Airlines, and Delta Air Lines, issued ground stops for all their flights early on Friday due to communication problems, according to the Federal Aviation Administration.

There were over 2,600 flights canceled and nearly 9,200 delays as of 5 p.m. ET, according to flight-tracking website FlightAware . Most airlines were able to resume operations as the morning progressed, but many said they expected disruptions to continue throughout the day.

More on the outage: Global tech outage grounds flights, hits banks and media businesses

Megan Brown said Washington Dulles Airport was surprisingly calm, even as the airline industry was in turmoil. She said the airport was less crowded than usual, making for a quicker-than-expected security screening, and passengers seemed understanding about the disruptions.

"We just took the gamble and came here, and hopefully we’ll leave today,” Brown told USA TODAY by phone from Dulles. “There’s nothing you can do.”

Her family's 8:25 a.m. ET flight to San Francisco was delayed, but they were able to take off within a couple of hours. "A cheer just erupted as the gate agent said we are going to start boarding," she said.

Around the world, airports and airlines advised customers to arrive earlier than normal for flights.

Around 9 a.m. Sikora posted another video showing fellow travelers sitting on the floor and standing in the middle of a crowded Philadelphia International Airport terminal. 

“Everyone is in the same boat. Just wandering and sitting,” he told USA TODAY.

Issues online: Instagram may be the best social app to get your flight issues fixed. Here's why.

The cybersecurity firm Crowdstrike blamed the global tech outage on a defect in an update for Microsoft Windows hosts.

“Today was not a security or cyber incident. Our customers remain fully protected," Crowdstrike CEO George Kurtz posted on X . "We understand the gravity of the situation and are deeply sorry for the inconvenience and disruption. We are working with all impacted customers to ensure that systems are back up and they can deliver the services their customers are counting on. As noted earlier , the issue has been identified and a fix has been deployed. There was an issue with a Falcon content update for Windows Hosts."

The aviation sector was hit particularly hard due to its sensitivity to timings. Airlines rely on a closely coordinated schedule often run by air traffic control. Just one delay of a few minutes can throw off a flight schedule for take-offs and landings for an airport and airline for the rest of the day.

"The issue affected many separate systems, such as those used for calculating aircraft weight, checking in customers, and phone systems in our call centers," United Airlines said in a statement. "After pausing all departures overnight, flights resumed on Friday morning and we are working diligently to get our customers to their destinations."

Story continues below.

Are flights still grounded? How long will flight delays last?

"Ground stops and delays will be intermittent at various airports as the airlines work through residual technology issues," the FAA said, adding that it's working closely with airlines to resume normal operations.

Travelers are advised to contact their airlines and monitor the FAA's website for the latest information.

How to find the reason for flight delay

Customers can ask airlines why their flight is canceled or delayed, but the Department of Transportation confirmed that it considers the delays and cancellations caused by Friday's IT outage to be "controllable" by the airlines. While airlines may say they didn't cause the computer error, it means that the DOT will hold them responsible for upholding the commitments they've made to customers when it comes to policies like rebooking or hotel and meal vouchers as the mess gets sorted out. Every airline's policy is outlined on the DOT customer service dashboard.  

The Bureau of Transportation Statistics also tracks causes of delays and cancellations.

Airline waivers

Airlines are doing what they can to provide extra flexibility to those affected by the outage.

• American issued a waiver for affected travelers covering all of its U.S. hubs.
• Delta issued a waiver allowing all passengers traveling Friday to rebook their flights.
• Frontier issued a waiver offering rebooking for travelers whose flights were delayed by more than 3 hours. Customers whose flights were canceled may opt for a refund or credit toward future travel.
• United issued a waiver for select airports so passengers can make changes if their flights are affected, though a United spokesperson told USA TODAY that nearly all of the airline's flights depart or arrive in one of the airports covered by the waiver.
• Spirit issued a waiver allowing customers who are booked to fly Friday or Saturday through any airport in its network to change their flights at no additional charge.

What happens if my flight is canceled?

Department of Transportation rules  require all airlines to offer customers a refund if their flights are canceled for any reason, but customers may be entitled to additional compensation if a cancellation is within the airline's control.

What should I do if my flight is delayed?

If your flight is experiencing a long delay, the Transportation Department suggests asking airline staff if they will pay for meals or a hotel room.

The DOT dashboard reflects airlines' official policies, but many carriers handle compensation for delays on a case-by-case basis and may provide vouchers or other benefits in some situations that are not formally covered.

What is considered a significant flight delay?

Each airline defines significant delays differently, but the DOT's dashboard identifies which airlines provide compensation for controllable delays of 3 or more hours.

For instance, all major U.S. carriers are supposed to provide a meal voucher for flights delayed by at least 3 hours for reasons within their control. Additionally, Alaska, JetBlue and Southwest offer credit or a travel voucher when a controllable delay "results in passenger waiting for 3 hours or more from the scheduled departure time," according to the dashboard.

How to file compensation for a delayed flight

Travelers seeking monetary compensation for delayed flights should file a claim with their respective airlines. Passengers seeking other types of compensation, like frequent flyer miles, may be able to request those through the airline's customer service.

Contributing: Andrew Mills, Joanna Plucinska and Lisa Barrington ; Reuters

The Key Points at the top of this article were created with the assistance of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and reviewed by a journalist before publication. No other parts of the article were generated using AI. Learn more .

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How to Avoid Paying Vacation Rental Fees

It takes some work to find a rental you can book directly, but the payoff can be significant.

By Elaine Glusac

Elaine Glusac is the Frugal Traveler columnist, focusing on budget-friendly tips and journeys.

When a $104-a-night vacation rental more than doubles with an $89 cleaning fee and a $42 service fee, it’s time to ask: Is there a better way?

The answer is: partially.

You’re unlikely to get around that pesky cleaning fee — so ubiquitous as to make rental periods of a night or two discouragingly inflationary — but you can save the service fee, which is paid to the booking platform, by making a reservation directly with a host.

Along with the rewards, direct bookings come with some risk. Here’s how to find and vet short-term rental listings that avoid service fees.

The appeal of direct bookings

Booking platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo make money by charging users service fees. Terms can be complex and vary, but experts say they generally run 12 to 16 percent of the total.

“By booking direct, you’re avoiding opaque service fees that platforms overlay on the price,” wrote Tommy Ciaccio, the head of business development for North America at Avantio , which makes software for vacation rental managers, in an email.

Hosts also pay smaller fees to the platforms — Airbnb charges hosts 3 percent — which they can avoid with direct bookings. Many hosts that take direct bookings also mimic the same cancellation policies they maintain with third-party bookings.

In the Marches region of northeastern Italy, Bob Garner rents six apartments on his property named Casal Dei Fichi , where weekly rates start at 950 euros (roughly $1,029), with no cleaning fees. Nearly 90 percent of his bookings are direct, saving thousands of euros annually on third-party fees.

Hosts who do it themselves often worry about destructive guests and verifying their identities, though Mr. Garner said most of his guests are repeat travelers or referrals.

“As we live on site and the guests know that we do, it means that we only get bona fide guests,” Mr. Garner said.

Vetting the host

There are plenty of stories of hosting scams perpetrated on platforms like Airbnb, Vrbo and Booking.com. While those online travel agencies actively try to root out false listings, sending money to a one-off website deserves a degree of skepticism, which requires carefully vetting the host.

Mark Simpson, the founder of England-based Boostly , which designs websites and trains vacation rental owners to drive direct bookings, said that one way to ensure a direct booking website is legit is to look for sites certified by I-Prac , an international certification agency that verifies the legitimacy of rental properties.

Renters must register their reservation with I-Prac and the organization will reimburse the traveler in the event that the property listing is fraudulent.

Renters should also look for transparency when it comes to the host or management company.

“I counsel clients to be more personal,” Mr. Simpson said. “People buy from people and we’re in the hospitality business, so showcase you and your team and show that you’re real and have reviews.”

If a property seems suspicious, take a few screen shots of its photos and conduct a reverse image search on Google, which will turn up the same image wherever it is on the internet.

“Use your communication with the host as your radar,” said Andrew Schorr, the director of product at Hospitable , a global property management software company. “If they’re unresponsive, they might just be unprofessional and not a scam, but that’s not a good sign.”

Renters should also be wary of any host that has a fully nonrefundable booking policy. Even restrictive policies on major platforms usually offer a refund within 48 hours of booking. ( In California , a new law mandates a minimum 24-hour grace period for penalty-free cancellations on hotel and short-term rental bookings as long as they were made 72 hours or more before check-in.) When possible, always pay with a credit card, which provides greater protection in the event of fraud, versus a debit card or money order.

Finding direct bookings

Apart from avoiding scammers, one of the main problems in renting directly from an owner is finding the rental in the first place. Major platforms like Airbnb win on search convenience.

But hosts and property managers, many of whom felt burned during the pandemic when they were forced to issue refunds by booking platforms, are increasingly investing in direct booking tools that allow them to maintain greater control.

Property managers often use search engine optimization to get their website to show up as high as possible in the search results, “so that when guests are searching for rentals in a certain place, their website will be in the top options,” said Mr. Ciaccio of Avantio.

Google encourages vacation rental managers to list properties and prices on its site. Searching for accommodations on Google Travel or Google Maps increasingly turns up vacation rentals as well as hotels and other lodgings. The listings usually link to booking sites, some of which may be direct.

Users can also search for rentals on a traditional platform, find a listing they like and conduct a search for that property to see if it has a dedicated website.

Hosts and managers often drop clues in their listings that users can search for the property directly, said Mr. Simpson of Boostly, including giving the house a name in the description.

He counsels clients to have things like pillowcases personalized with a logo that can appear in listing photos and not break the rules for direct solicitation that third-party platforms enforce. Photos of a kitchen might include a plaque that says, “Best rates for direct bookings.”

“We’re trying to train guests to Google-search the brand,” Mr. Simpson said.

Alternatively, if you’ve stayed at a short-term rental once and would like to return, reach out to the owner, host or manager to see if they will deal with you directly on that or other properties they have, saving everyone third-party fees.

Hosts are happy to pay an online travel agency once, “but not again with the same customer,” said Mr. Schorr of Hospitable.

The same could be said for guests.

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram and sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to get expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2024 .

Open Up Your World

Considering a trip, or just some armchair traveling here are some ideas..

52 Places:  Why do we travel? For food, culture, adventure, natural beauty? Our 2024 list has all those elements, and more .

San Diego:  Dripping with flowers, adorned in murals and fronted by gorgeous beaches, the city is almost too pretty to be taken seriously. It excels at being underrated and overlooked .

Switzerland:  Nostalgic for a time before ubiquitous connectivity, a writer ditched his phone and relied instead on serendipity — and hand-drawn maps made by people he met along the way .

Paris:  These six Parisian boulangeries will satisfy your cravings  for the crustiest baguettes, the airiest brioches and the flakiest viennoiseries.

Athens and Crete:  On a family tour of Greece, a writer followed the small footsteps  of some of ancient mythology’s biggest fans.

Izmir, Turkey:  The vibrant, 8,500-year-old “Pearl of the Aegean” has again redefined itself as a hub for international explorers , with a 2,400-year-old bazaar and the ancient Agora as chief attractions.

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We offer a wide range of foreign currencies in our Bureaux, with more available to order online. It is easy to compare travel money with M&S Bank. See footnote * *

As well as the euro and US dollar , our range includes currencies such as the UAE dirham, Bulgarian lev , Turkish lira , Thai baht and Mexican peso .

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Find out more about M&S Travel Money Buy Back service

If you would like to donate your unused foreign currency to charity we have Change4Change collection boxes in our Bureau stores, with all the money we collect going to Breast Cancer Now. Since 2007, we have raised over £630,000 for the charity via your Change4Change donations.

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When your holiday is over, we'll buy back your leftover holiday money at the buy-back rate on the day you return it to the bureau de change. That's all unused notes in any denomination we sell. Proof of purchase may be required so please retain your receipt, just in case.

Up to 55 days' interest-free credit when purchasing with an M&S Credit Card See footnote ** **

Representative example: based on an assumed credit limit of £1,200, our 24.9% rate per annum (variable) for purchases gives a representative rate of 24.9% APR (variable). Credit is subject to status.

No cash advance fee when M&S Travel Money is purchased using an M&S Credit Card.

What you'll need to bring

To collect foreign currency you've purchased online, you will need:

• A valid UK photographic driving licence, passport or EU national identity card (Romanian & Greek National ID Cards are not accepted)
• Your card you used to place your order - both ID and payment card must have the same name
• Your order number (this can be found on your confirmation email)

To purchase foreign currency in one of our Bureaux, you will need:

• A valid UK photographic driving licence, passport or EU national identity card - both ID and payment card must have the same name

Find my nearest M&S Bureau de Change

Use the M&S Bank Bureau Finder to find your nearest M&S Bureau de Change and opening hours.

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Planning a winter sunshine break? Use our handy guide to help with your planning.

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Thinking about a skiing holiday in Europe, North America or Asia? Use our guide to help you with your trip.

Planning to travel with cash?

Our guide explains how much money you can take abroad.

Learn more about the euro

How many countries use the euro? When was the euro first introduced? Find out more.

Using your credit card abroad

Going on holiday? Get to grips with how you can use a credit card outside of the UK.

What is RFID blocking technology?

If you are concerned about having your passport or credit card skimmed whilst abroad learn more about RFID technology.

What influences exchange rates?

Discover what factors contribute to the exchange rates that you see today.

How to budget for long term travel

Going on a long-term trip? Read our guide on how to budget successfully to ensure you have the most memorable time possible.

Visiting a Christmas market?

Learn more about the many Christmas markets across Europe.

Frequently asked questions

Can i use a credit card to purchase travel money.

Yes, you can use a credit card to purchase travel money. However, please check with your card provider as they may apply fees or charges e.g. cash advance fees or other fees.

Our Bureaux accept the majority of UK issued major credit cards.

How much cash can I travel with?

You can learn more about taking cash in and out of Great Britain and declaring cash by visiting gov.uk .

Should I get foreign currency before I travel?

Buying your travel money before you travel can be an important part of pre-holiday preparation. You can use our Currency Converter to get the latest exchange rates across worldwide holiday destinations.

Where can I collect M&S Travel Money from?

You can collect M&S Travel Money from over 100 bureaux de change or from over 350 stores nationwide. You can find your nearest M&S Bureau de Change using our Bureau Finder .

Where can I get the best exchange rate?

Exchange rates change on a regular basis and vary depending on the currency you order. At M&S Bank, we offer our best rates for euro and US dollar via the Click & Collect service, where you can order your currency and collect from the next day in an M&S location local to you. If you order online before 4pm, you can collect the same day. For all other currencies, check our website for more information.

How much travel money can I order?

For orders placed via Click & Collect, there is a minimum £150 order and maximum of £2,500. For Bureau de Change walk-ups, there is no minimum order.

How do I confirm my Travel Money purchase using my M&S Credit Card?

There are three ways to verify your payments - you can use our M&S Banking App, a one-time passcode via text message or by using a card reader to verify your payment. Use our how-to videos or step-by-step guides to find out more.

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Air Travel Delays and Flight Cancellations: How to Avoid Them and Get Money Back When They Happen

There's not much worse than missing a plane trip. Learn how to minimize the risk and how to get compensated when canceled.

Some airports and airlines have higher rates of delays and cancellations.

Despite "record-breaking levels of air travel" in 2024, the US flight cancellation rate -- 1.4% -- is the lowest in decades, according to the Department of Transportation . That's the good news. The bad news is that extreme weather or technical problems like today's Microsoft/CrowdStrike outage can lead to major airline shutdowns that could happen at any time.

If your flight ends up getting canceled, you should be able to get a full refund. The Biden administration announced in April that airlines now have to "promptly" provide automatic cash refunds when flights are canceled. 

Aside from natural and technical disasters, there are some practical tips that you can use to avoid air travel delays and cancellations. With some careful planning, you can avoid the headaches and get to your destination on time, or at the least, give yourself the best chance for doing so.

For more tips on air travel, check out the best way to pack your carry-on luggage  and the benefits of eSIMs for travelers .

1. Don't fly too early or too late

You can expect airports to be busier at certain times of the day. Flights start to back up around 3 p.m., and flights departing after that time have a 50% higher chance of being canceled.

However, you also don't want to fly too early if you can avoid it. Airports tend to be busiest in the early morning, from 5 to 8 a.m., so you'll probably spend more time waiting in TSA lines during those hours. If you want to avoid crowds and you have a flexible schedule, try to book a midday flight, a little before or after noon. 

2. Book a nonstop flight or leave extra time for layovers

A layover will make a long trip even longer. Layovers can last up to four hours for domestic flights, and up to 24 hours for international flights. 

While you may save some cash by booking a flight that includes an extra stop, you might end up regretting it when your connecting flight gets delayed. By booking a nonstop flight, you'll spend less time in airports and get to your destination earlier. You might end up paying less than you expect if you book your flight early .

3. Install your airline's app on your phone

Most airlines offer a mobile app that allows you to check in to your flight ahead of time. Usually this feature is offered 24 hours before the plane takes off, which means you can save time by completing this step at home. Plus, you'll be able to track the status of your flight and reschedule in case the flight is delayed or canceled.

4. Check the weather early, at both airports

Bad weather is the cause of 75% of flight delays . The number can vary depending on the city and the time of year, but it's always a good idea to check the weather a few days before your flight. Make sure you check both the city you're flying from and the city you're flying to. 

For instance, maybe a friend is picking you up at your destination, and you're expecting a storm when you arrive. You can plan accordingly, and save some of your friend's time by telling them to come to the airport later.

5. Don't check bags

Not only are checked bags becoming more expensive , but they're another potential source of delays. You have to spend a few extra minutes getting your extra luggage checked in before your flight, and you might spend a lot longer waiting for it to come off the baggage carousel. 

You can avoid those extra steps if you manage to pack everything into your carry-on bag and personal item . This way, you'll have one less thing to worry about when you reach your destination. Plus, it's always nice to travel lighter.

6. Choose an airline with a lower rate of delays and cancellations

Some airlines have a better track record when it comes to getting passengers to their destination on time. In February 2024, Delta had the highest percentage of on-time arrivals -- 88.4% -- according to the Department of Transportation's Air Travel Consumer Report . American, United and Southwest Airlines all score 83% or higher. Meanwhile, JetBlue, Spirit, and Frontier Airlines all scored below 70%.

The same report noted that Allegiant Air had the lowest number of canceled flights, though they had significantly fewer total flights compared to American, United and Southwest Airlines. JetBlue had the highest number of cancellations, 1.4%.

Here are the percentages of on-time arrivals for the major US airlines, according to the DOT.

Percentages of on-time arrivals

7. prepare to spend extra time at these airports.

The US has some of the world's largest airports, with Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International topping the list. In 2023, an estimated 104.6 million people passed through Hartsfield-Jackson. Dallas/Fort Worth International had almost 82 million passengers, and Los Angeles International had 75 million.

If you're flying out of Newark Liberty International, LaGuardia Airport, or JFK International, your flight is more likely to be delayed because of weather. Data from the Federal Aviation Administration shows that airports in the New York City area collectively experience twice as many delays compared to the second city on the list (Chicago). Delays are worst in April, May, and June. 

And if you're flying anywhere in Florida, take care to prepare for delays. Six of the top 10 worst US airports for delays can be found in the Sunshine State.

Here are the US airports with the lowest and highest percentage of flight delays in 2023, according to InsureMyTrip .

Airports with the lowest percentages of delayed flights

Airports with the highest percentages of delayed flights, 8. know your rights when it comes to flight refunds.

If it comes to the worst and your flight is canceled, keep in mind that you can get a cash refund. According to the US Department of Transportation , you're entitled to a full refund if your flight is canceled -- "regardless of the reason" -- or significantly delayed. The new policy was announced in April 2024 to help protect consumers from surprise airline fees.

In some cases, you can also get a partial refund on the cost of your ticket. If your seat is downgraded or you don't get the services you paid for in advance, such as in-flight Wi-Fi, you should be refunded the difference.

For more travel tips, learn about  how to use AI to plan your summer travel  and  five great gadgets to help you stay connected when you're on the go.

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• Portugal - Euro (EUR)
• Puerto Rico - U.S. Dollar (USD)
• Qatar - Qatari Riyal (QAR)
• Romania - Romanian Leu (RON)
• Saint Barthélemy - Euro (EUR)
• Saint Kitts and Nevis - East Caribbean Dollar (XCD)
• Saint Lucia - East Caribbean Dollar (XCD)
• Saint Martin (French part) - Euro (EUR)
• Saint Vincent and the Grenadines - East Caribbean Dollar (XCD)
• San Marino - Euro (EUR)
• Saudi Arabia - Saudi Riyal (SAR)
• Singapore - Singapore Dollar (SGD)
• Slovakia - Euro (EUR)
• Slovenia - Euro (EUR)
• South Africa - South African Rand (ZAR)
• Spain - Euro (EUR)
• Sweden - Swedish Krona (SEK)
• Taiwan - New Taiwan Dollar (TWD)
• Timor-Leste - U.S. Dollar (USD)
• Tokelau - New Zealand Dollar (NZD)
• Türkiye - Turkish New Lira (TRY)
• Turks and Caicos Islands - U.S. Dollar (USD)
• Tuvalu - Australian Dollar (AUD)
• Vietnam - Vietnamese Dong (VND)
• Virgin Islands, British - U.S. Dollar (USD)
• Virgin Islands, U.S. - U.S. Dollar (USD)
• No matches found

Exchange rates may vary depending on whether you buy instore, online or by phone.

^ Travel money cards are available on selected currencies only.

Buy travel money

Buy, exchange money and order foreign currency online, by phone, or at our bureaux.  

How to get travel money with Sainsbury’s Bank

Need holiday money? Order currency online, by phone or visit a Sainsbury’s store with a bureau today. Or get a Sainsbury’s Bank Travel Money Card for easy and secure spending overseas.  

There are various ways to buy travel money with Sainsbury’s Bank. Choose the method that’s easiest for you. 

1.    Buy currency online for home delivery.  2.    Order currency online and collect instore. 4-hour click and collect available. T&Cs apply.  3.    Buy currency via telephone. 4.    Visit one of our bureaux to buy currency in a Sainsbury’s store.  

Buy a prepaid travel money card

Our travel money card makes it safe and easy to manage and spend your holiday money.  1.     Order for collection – Collect your travel money card from your nearest Sainsbury’s Bank bureau. 2.     Order for delivery – We’ll send your travel money card straight to you. 3.     Download the app or log in online  – Check your balance, exchange between currencies, top up and manage your account.  

Where can you get foreign currency with Sainsbury’s?

Get travel money delivered to you.

Order online or by phone and we’ll mail your holiday money to you securely via special delivery. Order more than £400 of foreign currency and get free delivery.  

Collect travel money instore

Visit a store with an instore travel bureau to collect your travel money on your next weekly shop.

In a hurry? You can now order and collect Euros, US Dollars, and Travel Money Card pre-paid orders in as little as 4 hours with our click and collect travel money service^.

Click and collect currency the same day at a Sainsbury’s Bank travel money bureau when you:

• Order Euros, US Dollars, or a Travel Money Card
• Place your order on a Monday to Friday (excluding Bank Holidays), and
• Order at least 4hr before the bureau’s scheduled closure time

For orders made outside of this period, or for any other currency, you will be able to select your preferred collection date when placing your online order.   

Get your travel money card delivered to you

We’ll send your travel money card straight to you, with your PIN arriving separately for security.  

Visit one of our bureaux 

We have stores with instore travel bureaux across the UK where you can pick up holiday money on the day.  

Why use Sainsbury’s Bank for foreign currency

• Wide range of currencies, including USD and EUR We offer over 50 different foreign currencies, so it’s easy to get the holiday money you need.
• Nectar Prices Nectar members get better exchange rates both online, on the phone and at our bureaux. See our Nectar member benefits .*
• Currency buy-back  Got holiday money left over when you get home? We’ll buy back most foreign currency, so you’re not out of pocket. 
• Pick up your travel money in one of our stores Within travel bureaux  across the UK, it’s convenient to pick up holiday money as you shop with Sainsbury’s Bank.
• Multiple ways to order and receive travel money Order online or by telephone, collect instore or receive holiday money by post – the choice is yours.
• 24/7 telephone assistance and online portal   Our team are on hand to help with your travel money card any time of the day or night, no matter where you are in the world. 
• Access to Western Union You can send an international money transfer instore with  Western Union Money Transfer® services .

Choose your foreign currency

From Euro and US Dollar to Swedish Krona and Japanese Yen, we have more than 50 foreign currencies from all over the world. 

Take a look at our most popular currencies.

Add to your travel money card to withdraw and spend on holiday.

US Dollar (USD)

Order by telephone and receive your travel money in the post.

Dirham (AED)

Order online for bureau collection or buy directly instore.

Turkish Lira (TRK)

Buy travel money at one of our bureaux de change.

Thai Baht (THB)

Order currency online and get free delivery over £400.

Canadian Dollar (CAD)

Get a travel money card instore to use on holiday in Canada.

Frequently asked questions

Are there any administration fees.

No, we don't charge any administration fees when you order currency from us.

Will I be charged for using my credit/debit card?

No, we don’t charge any extra when you buy foreign currency by card.

Some card providers may charge a cash advance fee and interest for buying currencies. Cash advance fees will not show on your travel money order, but you’ll be able to see them on your card statement. If you’re not sure, you should check with your card issuer.

There is no cash advance fee when you use a Sainsbury’s Bank Credit Card. No interest will be charged, as long as the full outstanding balance on the credit card is cleared during the current billing cycle. If a balance remains on the account at the end of the billing cycle, interest will be charged and may apply to the currency purchased.

Do I get any benefits for being a Nectar member?

Yes, you do. If you tell us your Nectar card number when you place your order, we’ll give you a better exchange rate*. Not a Nectar member? Sign up today .

When will I receive my home delivery order?

You can select a specific working day delivery date up to seven days in advance. Please note Saturday deliveries are not guaranteed. Also, if you’ve chosen a Monday delivery, Royal Mail may try to deliver on Saturday.

The earliest day you’ll be able to select for delivery is:

What are the home delivery fees?

How much money can i order online.

Orders for collection at any Sainsbury's Bank Travel Money Bureau or for home delivery are subject to a maximum value of £4,500 per person per day.

All home delivery orders are subject to a minimum value of £100** and a maximum of £2,500. There is no minimum order value for orders for collection at a Sainsbury's Bank Travel Money Bureau.

How long will my travel money card take to arrive?

We’ll send out your travel money card as soon as you order it, so it should be with you in three to five working days. You can also get a travel money card immediately at our bureaux if you need yours at short notice. 

Can I exchange unused travel money?

Yes, we can buy back your foreign currency. Just bring your unused currency back to a Sainsbury’s Bank travel money bureau and we’ll exchange it back to sterling. Please note that we can buy back notes but not coins. 

Can I pay using Apple Pay?

Yes, as long as the card issuer you are using is Maestro, Mastercard or VISA.

Terms and conditions

*Nectar members receive better exchange rates on single purchase transactions of all available foreign currencies. Excludes travel money card home delivery orders and online reloads. Exchange rates may vary depending on whether you buy instore, online or by phone.© You need to tell us your Nectar card number at the time of your transaction. No cash alternative is available. We reserve the right to change or cancel this offer without notice.

**You can order currency for a secure home delivery by 1pm on the day of your choice by Royal Mail (Mon- Sat). For next day delivery your order needs to be confirmed before 2pm (Mon- Fri). Please note that whilst Royal Mail make every effort to delivery on schedule, we cannot guarantee this as it is beyond our control. Highlands and Islands (including Channel Islands) are not guaranteed next day delivery. Delivery is free on all cash orders £400 or more (£4.99 for orders between £100 and £399.99). The minimum order for home delivery is £100. The delivery day quoted is dependent on the order day being a working day; if one of those days is a public holiday then additional day(s) will be added accordingly. All home delivery orders are sent via Royal Mail Special Delivery, unless we advise you otherwise, to your billing address, and a signature will be required upon delivery. A valid telephone number is required for home delivery. ^ For Euro, US Dollar and Travel Money Card only:

If you selected same-day collection your order will be available 4 hours from the initial order confirmation email received or if your order was placed before 6 am then the earliest your order will be available to collect is from 10 am. Please allow at least 4 hours for your order to be processed. Remember to check the bureau opening hours before collecting your order.

If you selected tomorrow or a future date your order will be ready from 10 am on your chosen collection date. For all other currencies

Your order will be available from 2.00 pm on your chosen collection date.

Your order should be collected within 72 hours or will be subject to cancellation. Sainsbury's Bank Travel Money Card is issued by PrePay Technologies Limited pursuant to license by Mastercard International. PrePay Technologies Limited is authorised by the Financial Conduct Authority under the Electronic Money Regulations 2011 (FRN: 900010) for the issuing of electronic money and payment instruments. Mastercard is a registered trademark, and the circles design is a trademark of Mastercard International Incorporated.  

Find more Terms & Conditions here

Nectar prices for Nectar members*

• Money Transfer

Where To Exchange Currency Without Paying Huge Fees

Fact Checked

Updated: Mar 22, 2024, 11:11am

If you’re ready to hit the road after being grounded for more than two years, you definitely want to get the most bang for your travel buck. A smart way to save while traveling internationally is to understand how currency exchange works so you can exchange currency without paying more fees than necessary.

It all comes down to a little “know before you go.” The tips below will help you get the gist of currency exchange, so you can score the best rates when your travels take you abroad.

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How Does Currency Exchange Work?

Think about the currency exchange rate the same way you think about buying produce at the grocery store. For instance, you might get three pounds of oranges for $4.00 one day, but a week later, you can get those same three pounds for $2.79. The value of your dollar is stronger (gets you more) when the oranges are $2.79 and weaker when you have to pay $4.00.

A currency exchange rate is simply the value of one country’s currency against another country’s currency. Like produce prices, the U.S. dollar’s value against the currencies of foreign countries like France, Canada and Mexico tends to fluctuate. Currency exchange rates can change minute to minute, though most banks only update their rates once each business day.

Since exchange rates fluctuate, you’ll want to make sure you get the most foreign currency for your U.S. dollar, which means getting the best possible exchange rates and limiting the fees you have to pay.

Where to Exchange Currency

To help you save the most on currency exchange rates and avoid potential fees for international transactions, use the tips below to plan for your next trip abroad. More money in your pocket and less spent on unnecessary fees means more to spend on your globetrotting adventures.

1. Get Cash at Your Bank Before Leaving the US

One of the best ways to minimize currency exchange fees is to visit your bank or credit union before you leave the U.S. to exchange dollars for the currency of your destination. Depending on which country (or countries) you plan on visiting, most major U.S. banks will have foreign currency available to sell to you without charging an additional fee beyond the exchange rate. For example, Wells Fargo offers 70 currencies for use in more than 100 countries, and Bank of America exchanges currencies for more than 100 countries.

You may be able to get foreign currency in cash at your local bank branch, or you can order currency online or by phone to be delivered to your home. Depending on your bank, where you live and which country’s currency you need, some currencies may be available for same-day exchange. Other, less frequently requested currencies could require a few days—or more—of advance notice.

“Customers who order currency through their own bank can ensure the money they receive is authentic and that they have received the best, legal rate,” says John Sellers, rewards executive at Bank of America. “As these rates are constantly changing, Bank of America uses a variety of factors to determine its exchange rate—including market conditions and rates charged by other financial institutions,” he says.

2. Avoid Currency Exchange Kiosks at Airports

If you don’t have time to get cash at the bank before your trip, it can be tempting to get foreign currency at an airport kiosk or currency exchange counter. These merchants offer convenience, but their exchange rates are typically much less favorable than your bank at home.

For example, if you’re traveling to the United Kingdom and your bank offered you an exchange rate of £72 per $100, the airport kiosk may give you only £67 per $100, costing you extra money in the form of fewer pounds for your dollars. If you had made that exchange at your home bank, you’d have an additional £5 in your pocket.

A good currency conversion calculator will help you do the math and make the comparisons.

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Airport kiosks may also charge higher fees, which are sometimes hidden within the poorer exchange rates they offer for converting your dollars to another currency. If you’re traveling on short notice and need foreign currency in cash at the airport, it could be worth paying the extra cost for the sake of convenience. If you can plan ahead, however, try to avoid airport kiosks and other exchange counters.

3. Pay by Card, but Watch Out for Foreign Transaction Fees

Once you arrive at your destination, you may choose to conserve your foreign cash and pay with your credit or debit card as much as possible. But this can pose another problem: foreign transaction fees .

Depending on your bank and what card you have in your wallet, your credit card or debit card might carry a foreign transaction fee of up to 3% on every purchase in other countries. For example, if you spend a total of $5,000 on a trip using your debit or credit card and get charged a foreign transaction fee of 3% on every purchase, you’d rack up $150 in extra charges. Probably not what you wanted to spend your money on, right?

To avoid these sneaky foreign transaction fees, read the fine print on your bank’s or credit card’s website before you travel. You can also call your bank and ask if it charges foreign transaction fees with the type of card or account you have.

If you have time before your trip, you may want to apply for a credit card that doesn’t charge foreign transaction fees, especially if it’s a good travel rewards credit card .

4. Pay in the Local Currency to Avoid Currency Conversion Fees

Some international merchants let you choose whether you want to pay for your purchase in the local currency or U.S. dollars. While it may not happen with every purchase, be on the lookout because it’s a place to save on fees.

If you ever find yourself in this situation, you should choose to pay in local currency. If you choose to pay in dollars, you’ll be charged an extra currency conversion fee and likely get a poor exchange rate. The merchant’s point of sale system may make it seem like it’s a convenient choice to pay in dollars instead of the local currency, but it will ultimately cost you more.

5. Know Your ATM Fees and Limits

Even if you can get a favorable exchange rate using a foreign ATM, you may want to hold off on using the machine until you know what kind of fees your bank charges and what limits it imposes on daily withdrawals. Contact your bank to ask about the daily ATM withdrawal limits on your account. If your daily withdrawal limit is low, consider asking your bank to raise that limit so you can withdraw what you need while traveling. You’ll also want to know about any fees your bank might charge if you use an out-of-network ATM abroad.

Keep in mind that some international ATMs limit you to a lower amount of cash withdrawals than your bank allows. Even if your bank’s daily withdrawal limit is $500, the foreign ATM network or bank may only let you withdraw $300. Plan ahead to make sure you have enough cash during your trip.

6. Use International Banking Apps

If you’re a frequent international traveler, consider using an international banking app —such as Wise (formerly TransferWise), Revolut or others—to manage your money. These apps make it easier to hold multiple currencies and transfer money to accounts in different countries.

With a multiple currency account, you can keep some money in various currencies. It’s helpful if, for instance, you frequently travel to Canada or Mexico, or if you love to go on vacation in Spain every summer. This helps you avoid the volatility of currency exchange rates since you’ll always have some money ready for your next trip.

Banks That Exchange Foreign Currency for Free

Many U.S. banks will exchange USD for foreign currencies without charging a fee, but there are often stipulations. For instance, Bank of America customers can exchange foreign currencies for free, but only on orders of $1,000 or more. Otherwise, the bank charges a $7.50 delivery fee for foreign currency orders.

Likewise, customers of TD Bank can exchange U.S. dollars for foreign currencies without paying a fee, but only if they have a qualifying type of account. TD Premier Checking customers won’t pay foreign exchange fees, but other TD Bank checking account customers may. Check with your bank to find out if it exchanges foreign currency for free and if there are any conditions you must meet to avoid fees.

Where to Get Foreign Currency Internationally

If you need foreign currency while traveling outside of the U.S., ATMs are your best bet for bills you can spend locally. ATMs tend to offer competitive exchange rates, and you can save on ATM fees by withdrawing more cash than you need instead of withdrawing smaller sums several times during your trip. And if you’re outside of the U.S. and need currency to spend in a different country than the one you’re in, try visiting the biggest bank you can find to exchange your cash.

Bottom Line

Before you plan your next international trip, give some thought to how you want to pay for everyday purchases. Understanding currency exchange fees, foreign transaction fees, ATM withdrawal limits and other aspects of paying in foreign currencies can help you save money and time and enjoy your travels to the fullest.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the best place to exchange foreign currency.

The best place to exchange foreign currency in the U.S. is at your local bank or credit union before you leave for your trip.

What is the currency exchange rate?

The currency exchange rate is the value of one country’s currency relative to another country’s currency. Exchange rates fluctuate 24/7.

Do banks accept foreign currency in the US?

Some banks may let you exchange unspent foreign currency you bring back to the U.S., but you generally won’t be able to deposit foreign money into your checking or savings account. Instead, you’ll have to exchange foreign currency for dollars before making a deposit.

Do foreign banks accept US dollars?

Many major international banks will accept U.S. dollars and give you the local currency in exchange. Some smaller banks you encounter during your travels may not be equipped to accept USD, so stick with bank names you recognize.

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Delivery options, available branches and fees may vary by value and currency. Branch rates will differ from online rates. T&Cs apply .

Why get your holiday cash from Post Office?

• Order online, buy in branch, or choose delivery to your home or local branch 
• 100% refund guarantee* if your holiday’s cancelled, at the same exchange rate, excluding bank and delivery charges. Just send your receipts and evidence of cancellation to us within 28 days of purchase. *T&Cs apply
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Travel Money Card (TMC) rates may differ. Branch rates may vary. Delivery methods may vary. Terms and conditions apply

Safe and secure holiday spending

Manage your holiday funds on a Travel Money Card with our free travel app. Top it up, freeze it, swap currencies, view your PIN and more.

New-look travel app out now

Our revamped travel app’s out now. It makes buying, topping up and managing Travel Money Cards with up to 22 currencies a breeze. Buying and accessing Travel Insurance on the move effortless. And it puts holiday extras like airport hotels, lounge access and more at your fingertips. All with an improved user experience. Find out what’s changed .

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Don’t Fall for CrowdStrike Outage Scams

The security firm CrowdStrike inadvertently caused mayhem around the world on Friday after deploying a faulty software update to the company's Falcon monitoring platform that bricked Windows computers running the product. Fallout from the incident will take days to resolve, and the company is warning that, as system administrators and IT staff work on remediation, another threat is looming: predatory digital scams attempting to capitalize on the crisis.

Researchers on Friday afternoon began warning that attackers are reserving domain names and starting to spin up websites and other infrastructure to run “CrowdStrike Support” scams targeting the company's customers and anyone who might be impacted by the chaos. CrowdStrike's own researchers also warned about the activity on Friday and published a list of domains seemingly registered to impersonate the company.

“We know that adversaries and bad actors will try to exploit events like this,” CrowdStrike founder and CEO George Kurtz wrote in a statement. “I encourage everyone to remain vigilant and ensure that you’re engaging with official CrowdStrike representatives. Our blog and technical support will continue to be the official channels for the latest updates."

Attackers inevitably take advantage of prominent global events as well as topical issues in specific geographic areas to try to trick people into sending them money, steal target account credentials, or compromise victims with malware.

“Threat actors invariably attempt to capitalize on any major event,” says Brett Callow, managing director of cybersecurity and data privacy communications at FTI Consulting. “Whenever an organization experiences an incident, it's something customers and business partners should be prepared for.”

While most individuals are not personally responsible for addressing CloudStrike-related computer outages, the incident is ripe for exploitation because some of the IT professionals working on remediation could be desperate for solutions. In most cases, the fix for impacted computers involves individually booting and correcting each one—a potentially time-consuming and logistically difficult process. And for small-business owners who don't have access to extensive IT expertise, the challenge may be particularly daunting.

Researchers, including those from CrowdStrike intelligence, have thus far seen attackers sending phishing emails or making phone calls where they pretend to be CrowdStrike support staff and selling software tools that claim to automate the process of recovering from the faulty software update. Some attackers are also pretending to be researchers and claiming to have special information vital to recovery—that the situation is actually the result of a cyberattack, which it's not.

CrowdStrike emphasizes that customers should confirm that they are communicating with legitimate company staff members and only trust the company's official corporate communications.

“Speedy alerts to employees outlining potential risks will help,” Callow says of how CloudStrike customers should work to defend themselves. "Forewarned is forearmed."

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I want to see the world with my spouse. How do we do that on a budget?

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• For Love & Money is a column from Business Insider answering your relationship and money questions.
• This week, a reader wants to travel abroad and doesn't know where to start with budgeting.
• Our columnist spoke to travel agent April Cowan about how to save for travel and get the best deals.
• Got a question for our columnist? Write to For Love & Money using this Google form .

Dear For Love & Money,

My spouse and I want to travel abroad more, but we're not sure where to start when planning a vacation budget for anything other than an all-inclusive resort. How should we prioritize our travel spending, and what budget-friendly destinations should we consider?

Almost Adventurers

Dear Almost,

The days of pioneers and seafaring explorers may be over, but many of us still have the wanderlust beating within our chests. The struggle is finding the time, the money, and the courage to bring the adventures of our daydreams to life.

This is why I applaud the intentionality in your letter. You and your spouse have agreed you want to travel abroad more, and I can see from your questions about budgeting and destinations that you are taking it further than just talking. You're making plans.

To help you in this endeavor, I sat down with April Cowan, the owner and senior agent at Travel Passion , an award-winning Kansas City travel agency. Cowan specializes in international travel and was thrilled to hear your interest in her life's passion — exploring our planet.

Cowan's first suggestion is to work with a travel agent. Vacation planning can be labor intensive. It requires hours of research, coordinating schedules, budgets, booking, and if you're not an expert, a lot of hoping your best guesses pay off. Experts like Cowan specialize in certain types of travel and know exactly how to tailor your trip to your dreams.

Whether or not you hire a travel agent, Cowan says there are four key considerations for your travel plans: budget, airfare, destination and experience, and timing.

Budgeting, Cowan says, is not a universal concept. One person might have $2,500, while another has $10,000. Both of these people can enjoy wonderful, if different, Jamaican vacations. The key isn't to make a budget fit your destination but to make your destination fit your budget.

According to Cowan, the best way to do this is to allocate a percentage of your annual income to a dedicated travel account. Set aside monthly payments in a high-yield savings account for your next travel adventure. Cowan recommends splitting your annual allocation into 10 payments so you can spend that money elsewhere for the holidays.

Airfare is often the most expensive part of travel, and much of your planning will revolve around its fluctuating rates. Most destinations will be more expensive in some seasons than others. Flying into large airports will be less expensive than smaller airports. Cowan suggests flying into a large airport and then traveling around your destination country by train.

This is where your dedicated travel account comes in handy. Cowan says to turn on flight alerts for your top 10 dream locations — she uses Google Flights. This way, when a great deal pops up, you can pull the money out of your travel account and book your flights.

Cowan's favorite airfare hack is to get a travel rewards credit card that gives you travel points on purchases. She discourages using these credit cards for expenses you cannot pay off at the end of the month. Instead, she suggests using your travel cards for everyday expenses like utility bills, insurance, and gas.

When selecting a travel credit card, Cowan encourages researching each card's offerings and basing your choice on your travel goals. Some cards may offer better rewards for your preferred destinations.

As for destinations, the ones you choose should depend on the duration of your stay and the experience you'd like to have. This is why Cowan suggests turning on flight alerts for your top 10 travel spots rather than just one.

Knowing what type of experience you prefer is important because a relaxing vacation lounging around a tourism hotspot differs greatly from a cultural immersion experience spent in markets trying local cuisine.

Cowan says most countries have tourist zones with many English speakers and food designed to be palatable for diners unfamiliar with cultural foods. Some people will find these zones relaxing, while others may feel insulated from the country they hoped to explore. Figuring out what type of traveler you are is crucial to planning your dream vacation.

When thinking about timing, the essential factors to consider are how often you want to travel, how much time off you have to use, and how frequently you can afford to travel. The type of travel experience you are looking for matters here as well.

If you want to take a luxurious, high-dollar vacation, saving up for it over two years may be more realistic than trying to go on this kind of trip annually.

You should also think about the duration — a three-day bachelorette trip may not be worth an 8-hour flight to Hawaii when a similar experience is only a few hours away in Cancún.

Finally, I asked Cowan her thoughts on the importance of travel. Her response was as responsible as it was inspiring. Travel should always be a priority but never a burden. If you go into debt over a vacation, you won't return home feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. You'll be even more stressed.

This is why Cowan encourages building travel savings into your monthly budget; this way, you won't be in debt, but you'll still get to go! And going, for Cowan, is an artifact of faith. She contends that living our lives to the fullest requires travel. After all, we have an entire planet to explore.

Rooting for you,

For Love & Money

Looking for advice on how your savings, debt, or another financial challenge is affecting your relationships? Write to For Love & Money using this Google form .

This article was originally published in November 2023.

Watch: While Delta's business is 'extremely robust,' the airline's marketing chief stays focused on the data

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Stuck at the airport after Microsoft outage? What to know about airline refunds, policies

Travelers at airports across the country were shocked to discover Friday that they would be going nowhere after their flight was delayed or canceled, thanks to a widespread computer outage that disrupted operations for several major airlines. It was far from pretty.

Shortly before 4 p.m. Friday, 13% of the flights out of Detroit Metro Airport were canceled, according to data from FlightAware. And 35% of flights out of Detroit Metro were delayed.

The data before 4 p.m. showed that 36,627 flights were delayed worldwide, including 8,376 flights in the United States, according to data from FlightAware.

On top of that, some 2,539 cancellations within, or in or out of, the U.S. upset travel Friday before 4 p.m.

More: Global Microsoft outage causes delays at Detroit Metro Airport, businesses, banks

One key consumer tip to keep in mind: "Know that if your flight is canceled for any reason — meaning the flight doesn't take off — you are entitled to a full refund for the ticket and all fees and taxes if you want it. Don't feel compelled to accept a voucher unless that's best for you," said Teresa Murray, who directs the Consumer Watchdog office for U.S. PIRG, a nonprofit advocacy group that has advocated for more passenger protections.

But think carefully about getting a refund. Will it work for you? Does it make sense to get a $300 refund for a canceled flight when it would cost you $550 to get on another flight to get home? Don't make a rash decision.

Delta Air Lines said Friday via X that the worldwide technology issue "necessitated a pause in Delta's global flight schedule this morning while it was addressed." According to FlightAware, 23% of Delta flights were canceled by around 4 p.m. Friday and 37% were delayed.

More: These are the best US airports for shopping, study shows

The numbers of delays and canceled flights appear to be increasing by the minute, which leads many to expect problems with air travel to escalate, Murray said early Friday morning. PIRG has a guide called "Airline Travel Tips You Shouldn't Fly Without."

What do you do if you're stuck?

What's Delta telling customers?

Delta said Friday morning that it has issued a travel waiver for all customers who had booked flights departing Friday. The waiver would allow customers to manage travel changes via delta.com and the Fly Delta app.

"The fare difference for customers will be waived when rebooked travel occurs on or before July 24, in the same cabin of service as originally booked," Delta stated. "If travel is rebooked after July 24, any difference in fare between the original ticket and the new ticket will be collected at the time of booking."

Murray said she wouldn't necessarily advise a consumer to cancel a delayed flight just yet. "I would keep pushing to rebook through Delta, especially because the airline is waiving fare differences and change fees," Murray said.

Typically, she said, she’d try to reach an airline representative through the app or the online account. Otherwise, your options are by phone or at the customer service desk at the airport. But trying to fix things by phone or service desk could prove difficult during a chaotic time.

Get your airline's app

Make sure to have the app for your airline if you don't already have it. Updates could be sent this way.

Go on social media

Check for social media posts, including those on X, formerly known as Twitter. The Delta News Hub noted on X at roughly 8 a.m. that Delta had "resumed some departures after a vendor technology issue impacted several airlines and businesses around the world."

More: Flight delayed for hours? How to figure out when you get can a refund or rebooked.

Look for emails and texts from your airline

You want to keep up with your flight's status throughout the process, before you leave home and when you're at the airport.

Search other flights

It could be tough on Friday, but you can research options for rebooking with another airline if your flight is canceled or delayed enough that it's going to mess up your plans. "Some airlines have gotten back online more quickly than others," Murray noted.

Pick up the phone

Some travel warriors call the airline directly or head to a bank of phones at the airport provided by the airline. If you wait in line to try to get help at the gate, some say, you could miss out on a seat on another flight.

Ask for food

Consider asking for meal vouchers, especially if you’re going to be stuck at the airport for several hours because of flight delays. Asking kindly has worked in other situations and might work in light of the latest flurry of delays. "My family ended up delayed in San Francisco for five hours because of a missed connection en route from South Korea," said LendingTree’s chief credit analyst, Matt Schulz. "We asked for a meal voucher and were given some, totaling $135. It’s a big deal and we wouldn’t have gotten them if we hadn’t asked."

Check what protection you might have on your credit card

LendingTree's Schulz suggested double checking with your credit card issuer about any possible travel insurance coverage. "Travel insurance coverage can be found on many travel credit cards, but it can vary widely by issuer and even by card," he said.

It might not hurt to give your credit card company a call, he said. "Describe your situation and see what you find out. It certainly can’t hurt."

Automatic refunds are on the way but not here yet

Significant flight delays of three hours or more might qualify for a refund, again if you want one. But some of this isn't automatic now. In April, the U.S. Department of Transportation announced broader, straightforward consumer protections that address key complaints. Many consumer rights will go into place effective Oct. 28 relating to automatic, no-hassle cash refunds for significantly changed or canceled flights; fees for services not provided, like seat selection or Wi-Fi; and fees for checked bags that hit significant snags. It does not hurt to ask right now for such benefits.

When the refund rule goes into place on Oct. 28, airlines must automatically issue refunds without passengers having to explicitly request them or jump through hoops. Airlines and ticket agents must issue refunds within seven business days for credit card purchases. The airlines would have up to 20 calendar days to issue refunds if you used a debit card, paid cash or paid another way.

Research airline policies on the DOT's customer service dashboard

Get to know the Department of Transportation Airline Customer Service Dashboard, which helps you research up-to-date voluntary policies for the 10 largest airlines, including Delta Air Lines. All of the 10 airlines, for example, will rebook on the same airline at no additional cost for significant delays and controllable cancellations. Many but not all will rebook on another airline if an agreement exists with that airline and do so at no additional charge. See FlightRights.gov.

Be patient when your flight is delayed

One thing that seems to work best in a crisis can be to try to be respectful and kind when you're dealing with customer service. Remember, to take a deep breath. "The person you're dealing with didn't cause your problem, but they may be able to help you fix it," Murray said.

Contact personal finance columnist Susan Tompor:  [email protected] . Follow her on X (Twitter)  @ tompor .

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When considering a luxury holiday it’s imperative that you place your travel arrangements in the hands of someone you trust.  Millington Travel,  with 45 years of trading behind us and some of the most experienced and attentive consultants in the industry, will ensure we go the extra mile to make your holiday a holiday of a lifetime,  every  time.

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