Originally Posted by
jphripjah
Does it have to be a roundtrip flight? Can I book a cheap refundable one way flight and "change" it to a roundtrip flight later?
Also, I just checked some sample fares for LAS-LAX next year and it appears that whether booking round trip or one way, that not all main cabin fares are refundable. The booking screen actually has tab options for searching refundable v. lowest fare, with the refundable main cabin fares being a bit higher than nonrefundable main cabin fares.
It looks to me that while all saver fares are non-refundable, not all main cabin fares are refundable, is that correct?
Saver fares are non changeable, and offer zero credit for future flights. Non-refundable main cabin fares allow changes, or cancellations with credits received. Refundable fares offer the ability to be refunded to your original payment method if you decide to cancel. However, I believe the best way to maintain the discount code (companion fare) would be to change the flight vs cancelling for a refund, so the higher price you paid may not have much value.
Bottom line: if you're wanting to use the companion fare beyond its "use by" (not "fly by") expiration date, avoid saver fares, but non-refundable main cabin fares should still be fine as there are no longer any fees for itinerary changes, and you'll be able to use the value toward a new itinerary. You can add/remove segments - it does not have to be same origin or destination.