American Airlines Economy Super Saver

American Airlines typically quotes one extremely low ticket price for a flight called the “Economy Super Saver.” Tickets regularly costing over $400 can be had for as low as $190. But what’s the catch?

Non Refundable Ticket

The main catch for this ticket is it is absolutely non refundable. The tickets are made far in advance, at least a few weeks out, and they cannot be changed, altered or canceled without a substantial fee. This does not just mean that YOU cannot change the ticket; the airline cannot easily change the ticket either. For example, if the flight is canceled, delayed or experiences other problems, they will only attempt to get you on another flight. There is no guaranty. If you have to stay overnight as a result of the problem, the airline will attempt to locate you lodging as it may be available. All in all, this ticket basically means “you are on your own from this point forward.” With change fees up to $200 and a difference in fair, you can be looking at an additional $700 if the ticket doesn’t work for you. American Airlines will not generally provide you with flight credit in the case of the cancellation, either.

Benefits of the Super Saver

The key benefit to the Super Saver ticket is - hello - the price! You can get tickets at a 50% discount by agreeing to the nonrefundable policy. As long as you know your travel plans will not change, you do not have as much to worry about. It helps to have a flexible flight itinerary. American Airlines will guaranty to get you to your destination eventually. If you can wait a few hours or until the next day, then you do not have to fear the airline’s cancellation of your ticket.

Travel Insurance

Non of this “non refundability” may matter if you have a good travel insurance plan. For example, a couple traveling for their honeymoon will likely have a hefty travel insurance policy. They can save 50% on cross-country tickets booking early and locking in the price. If they do have to cancel for any reason, they will both receive a full reimbursement from their travel insurance company given the premiums have been paid. So, for an extra $30, you can generally assure you will not lose the money. Of course, a good travel insurance plan will be a few hundred dollars, but $30 is an estimate regarding the percentage that you can estimate up front goes to cover cancellation issues.

Use Priceline

Savvy shoppers know a way to get a refundable Super Saver for just $16 more. If you book your ticket through Priceline, you will find the same prices on the cheap tickets. Then, elect to add the $16 total trip protection plan. In this case, Priceline will fully refund you for the cost of your purchase if you have to cancel your trip for any reason. There are a limited number of tickets allocated to Priceline customers, so shop early and snag a good deal the moment you find it.

Tags: american airlines, economy super saver, non refundable ticket, priceline, Travel insurance, trip cancellation insurance