If you are going to be doing any traveling in 2025, you should know a few thing before booking that next trip. First off, if you still don't have a passport or a REAL ID you should get one of those, as that requirement is coming this year. But the tip I wanted to share with you could save you some money and is something that everyone should know about. It's called the 24-hour flight cancellation rule.

The rule has been around for 11 years already, and to be honest, I've never heard of it until a friend bought tickets to Philly thinking the Vikings were going to get it done against LA last night. Well, he won't be going to Philly, but he isn't out any money thanks to this rule.

Here's what the rule states:

This notice provides guidance to U.S. and foreign air carriers regarding compliance with the customer service rule that requires carriers to hold a reservation at the quoted fare for 24 hours without payment or allow a reservation to be canceled within 24 hours without penalty (the “24- hour reservation requirement”).

So, let's say you get the itch to head off to Vegas or Florida, you book your flight, but then when you get done booking, something happens that prevents you from going, or you don't get that time off approved at work. You aren't out yet, as you've got 24 hours to cancel without penalty.

Does it work for every airline?

The rule must be followed by any airline that flies in, into, or out of the US. But you should note the rule only applies if you book directly with the airline. You can't use the rule if you book with a travel agent or through one of those fancy travel websites, so in those instances, buyer beware.

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With the temps as cold as they are right now, I could use some 70s and sunshine.

Get other details about the rule here. H/T Thrifty Traveler