Have you ever considered using a buddy pass?
Buddy pass travel is one of the perks airline employees can share with friends and family. Most airline employees receive several buddy passes each year as part of their benefits.
But there are a lot of misconceptions about buddy pass travel.
I worked for an airline for 15 years, and I’ve seen people show up at the airport with completely unrealistic expectations about how flying on a buddy pass works.
Before you try to travel using one, there are a few things you should know.
If you’re new to airline travel perks like buddy passes, it also helps to understand how luggage works on connecting flights, especially if standby travel causes you to change routes at the last minute.
Buddy Pass Quick Facts
If someone offers you a buddy pass, here are the most important things to understand before you head to the airport.
- You will be flying standby, not on a confirmed ticket
- A buddy pass does not guarantee a seat
- You usually only pay taxes and government fees
- Flexibility is essential when traveling standby
- Airlines may require pass riders to follow dress codes
Buddy pass travel can be an incredible perk but it works very differently from buying a regular airline ticket.
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Compare Travel Insurance PlansWhat Is a Buddy Pass?
First, let’s start with the basics.
A buddy pass is a standby airline ticket that airline employees can give to friends or extended family.
Buddy pass travelers (often called pass riders) only get a seat if one is available after all paying passengers and higher-priority standby travelers have boarded.
That means:
- A buddy pass does not guarantee a seat
- You are usually last on the standby list
- You must be flexible with your travel plans
You cannot buy a buddy pass directly from an airline. The only way to get one is from an airline employee.
Most of the time, the traveler simply pays the taxes and government fees for the flight.
For example:
- Domestic buddy pass taxes may be under $100
- International buddy pass taxes to Europe may be around $400–$600
Airline policy generally states that buddy passes should not be sold for profit. The traveler should normally only pay the taxes on the ticket.
How Buddy Pass Travel Actually Works
Before we talk about the misconceptions, it helps to understand how standby travel works.
When you fly on a buddy pass:
- Paying passengers board first
- Airline employees and their immediate family board next
- Buddy pass riders are typically last on the priority list
If there are empty seats after everyone else boards, you get on the flight.
If not, you wait for the next one.
This is why flexibility is the most important part of buddy pass travel.
7 Things People Get Wrong About Buddy Pass Travel
1. A Buddy Pass Does NOT Guarantee a Seat
This is the biggest misunderstanding about buddy passes.
A buddy pass simply allows you to fly standby.
That means you only get on the plane if there are open seats after paying passengers and higher priority standby travelers have boarded.
I have seen many people shocked when they didn’t get on the flight they expected.
That’s why flexibility is essential when traveling on a buddy pass.
2. You Cannot Wear Whatever You Want
Most airlines have dress code rules for buddy pass riders.
When you fly on a buddy pass, you are technically representing the airline employee who gave you the pass.
Depending on the airline, restrictions may include things like:
- flip flops
- extremely casual clothing
- clothing with offensive language
- overly revealing outfits
I have personally seen people denied boarding because of their clothing.
I haven’t been denied but a couple of times, I had to change.
First time: I was told to change my shoes because the airline didn’t allow employees to wear open-toed shoes.
Second time: I had a seat in business class but was told I couldn’t wear jeans. so I had to change into a skirt. Thankfully, I had another outfit in my carry-on (packed in packing cubes), so it wasn’t a big problem.
But it’s always better to know the dress code before arriving at the airport.
When you’re traveling on a buddy pass, flexibility is everything. Flights can change quickly, and having a well-organized carry-on makes it much easier to adjust your plans if needed.
I always recommend keeping an extra outfit and your essentials in your carry-on so you’re prepared if you have to take a different flight or wait longer at the airport.
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3. Buddy Passes Are Not Ideal for Trips Planned Months in Advance
Buddy passes work best for last-minute travel.
The reason is simple: the taxes do not change based on when you request the pass.
For example:
- A last-minute paid ticket to Europe could cost $3,000–$5,000
- The taxes on a buddy pass might only be around $500
But if you need to travel on specific dates, a buddy pass can be risky.
Since you are flying standby, there is always a chance you won’t get on the flight you want.
4. You Still Have to Follow All Luggage Rules
Another misconception is that buddy pass travelers get to ignore baggage rules.
Not true.
Even though airline employees sometimes receive luggage perks, buddy pass riders still follow all TSA and airline baggage rules.
That means you cannot:
- bring oversized carry-ons
- ignore liquid restrictions
- treat checked luggage like a carry-on
Security rules apply to everyone.
If you’re not sure how luggage transfers between flights, this guide explains what happens to your bags on connecting flights and when you might need to recheck them.
5. Flying Standby Is Not as Difficult as People Think
The biggest mistake people make with buddy passes is assuming they are guaranteed a seat. They aren’t. You are flying standby.
Many people assume flying standby is complicated.
In reality, it becomes pretty easy once you understand how the system works.
I have flown standby for almost 20 years, and I can count on one hand the number of times I didn’t get on the flight I wanted.
One of the biggest secrets?
Take the earliest flight of the day.
Early flights usually have more open seats and fewer disruptions.
If you’re new to standby travel, I also share more tips in my guide to surviving red-eye flights and long travel days.
6. You Don’t Always Get to Choose Your Flight Time
When you travel on a buddy pass, flexibility is everything.
Many people say they would rather wait for a later flight instead of taking the early one.
That’s usually a mistake.
Later flights tend to fill up quickly as delays and missed connections pile up throughout the day.
Early flights almost always give you the best chance of getting on the plane.
7. Your Behavior Matters
This is something many people forget.
When you fly on a buddy pass, your behavior reflects on the airline employee who gave it to you.
If you behave poorly, the employee could get in trouble — and you probably won’t be offered another buddy pass again.
Always remember to:
- be respectful to gate agents
- follow airline rules
- stay patient if flights are full
Flying standby requires flexibility and patience.
But the payoff can be incredible travel opportunities at a fraction of the normal ticket price.
Is Flying on a Buddy Pass Worth It?
| Feature | Buddy Pass | Regular Ticket |
|---|---|---|
| Seat guarantee | No | Yes |
| Price | Taxes only | Full ticket price |
| Boarding priority | Last on standby list | Confirmed seat |
| Flexibility required | High | Low |
| Ability to plan ahead | Limited | Easy |
For flexible travelers, buddy passes can be an amazing opportunity.
They allow you to travel internationally for a small fraction of the cost of a regular ticket.
But they work best if you:
- have flexible travel dates
- don’t mind waiting for flights
- understand how standby travel works
If you approach buddy pass travel the right way, it can open the door to travel experiences you might not otherwise afford.
About the Author
I worked for an airline for 15 years as a ramp agent and baggage handler, so I’ve seen firsthand how standby travel and buddy passes actually work behind the scenes.
During that time, I also flew standby all over the world and learned how to navigate the system successfully. My goal is to help travelers understand how airline perks like buddy passes really work so they can travel smarter and avoid common mistakes.
Buddy Pass Pros and Cons
Many travelers wonder if using a buddy pass is actually worth it.
Pros of Using a Buddy Pass
Here are the biggest advantages and disadvantages.
- Extremely low cost compared to full airline tickets
- Opportunity to travel internationally for hundreds instead of thousands
- Great for spontaneous trips
- Access to destinations you might not otherwise visit
Cons of Using a Buddy Pass
- No guaranteed seat
- You may need to wait for multiple flights
- Travel dates must be flexible
- Priority is usually at the bottom of the standby list
For travelers with flexible schedules, the savings can make buddy pass travel very worthwhile.
Tips for Successfully Flying on a Buddy Pass
If you want the best chance of getting on your flight, follow these tips.
Take the earliest flight of the day
Early flights usually have the most open seats and the fewest delays.
Avoid peak travel days
Fridays, Sundays, and holidays are often the hardest days to fly standby.
Check flight loads before heading to the airport
Airline employees can often see how full flights are before departure.
Have backup flights ready
Always plan for multiple flights in case your first choice is full.
Pack light
Traveling with carry-on luggage makes standby travel much easier.
Why Buddy Pass Travel Is Often Misunderstood
Buddy passes are frequently misunderstood because many travelers assume they work like discounted airline tickets.
In reality, buddy pass travel operates under standby rules, which means flexibility and patience are essential.
Airline employees understand the system well, but travelers using a buddy pass for the first time often learn quickly that standby travel requires a different mindset.
Once you understand how it works, flying on a buddy pass can become one of the most affordable ways to travel.
Frequently Asked Questions About Buddy Passes
Can you buy a buddy pass?
No. Buddy passes cannot be purchased directly from airlines. They can only be given to you by an airline employee.
How much does a buddy pass cost?
Most buddy pass travelers only pay the taxes and government fees, which vary depending on the route. Domestic flights may cost under $100 in taxes, while international flights can cost several hundred dollars.
Do buddy passes guarantee a seat?
No. Buddy pass travelers fly standby, which means you only get a seat if there are empty seats available after paying passengers board.
Are buddy passes worth it?
Buddy passes can be extremely valuable for travelers who have flexible schedules and don’t mind waiting for flights.
What happens if you don’t get on the flight?
If the flight is full, you simply wait for the next available flight and try again.
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I wanted to add to #4. There may also be additional rules to flying on a buddy pass. For example, there may be a dress code.
There’s a discrimination case unfolding against a major airline because two men were told they could not fly first class in sweat pants. When they boarded there were 2 others dressed similarly to how they had been. They claim they were told to change because off their race and are now looking for money and an apology. The fact looked over it’s that they were on a buddy pass while the other two men payed full price.
Which leads me to another point. On a buddy pass you are a guest of the company, a NON REVENUE traveler. The company is treating you special. So don’t cause a huge fuss over inconveniences. You may cause major problems for the person who gave you the pass. Chances are these two men will cause the travel privileges to be revoked from the person who helped them out.
Excellent point, I should have had that as one of the misconceptions. Thanks for this!
Employee travel priviledges might be revoke, but most likely the employee who sold or gave a buddy pass would be FIRED. I have seen it happen.
That’s not true I was dressed very nice but I had sneakers on and they told me to change my shoes and I wasn’t using a buddy pass. But I was on first class and African American . So once I got on I notice a caucasian man looking homeless in first class and no one told him to change .
These are great tips! Do you have any advice about flying with a child? I’m using a buddy pass with my 4 year old and I’m a little nervous about waiting in an airport all day with her.
Thanks! Yes, I do. Because of your question I’m writing a blog post about this. It will be up next week. Thanks!
How to get buddy pass? What if an employee resigns or get fired?
The pass will cancle /void when the employee is terminated or resigns, may also be void if employee remains employeed but has his/her flight benefits suspended or revoked for violations. ie; listing false dependants / spouse or domestic partner for free travel, selling
their companion positions et.
Be prepared to stay overnight if you do not get on a flight.
Can you cancel your buddy pass. My cousin doesnt let me use mine ever, and If he does let me he charges me 400 to travel to florida. So its pointless, I found out hes using my name so he can make money off of it. Can I call and remove my name?
It’s great to know this information especially for me who loves to travel. Thanks so much!
Thanks for all the great info and advice. One of my daughters (in NC) and her hubby are expecting their first child (due 4/9/15), and want me to fly from AZ to be there for the actual birthing. Because I have no way of knowing when my granddaughter will actually make her debut into the world, or if my daughter might wind up having an unexpected C-section needing me to stay longer while she recuperates, I opted for a buddy pass instead of buying a ticket which should afford me more traveling flexibility. A fellow church member works at a major airline and is giving me a buddy pass for the trip. I’ve never used one and pray everything goes smoothly. Thanks again!
I’m sure all will go well, the morning flights are usually the best and easiest to get on.
Hi, I am ex-Kf employee, thanks for reminding me my good old days. During those days we used to get 20 buddy tickets per year. I used to enjoy by seeing my friends & relatives flying at such lower fares. Though I was under misconception 2 or 3 airlines has this privilege. Anyway please connect me to someone who can give me buddy pass now for Indian domestic airlines, since I left airline Industry 4 years back. Unfortunately, most of my colleagues have either moved to International airlines or corporate sectors. Please help
Don’t know anyone for you but thanks for reading!
Hi there! Great post! Wanted to add that the taxes-only cost applies only to some airlines. My airline also charges a nominal flat fee based on segment length for buddy passes only (not for those traveling directly under my benefits). Love the iteration in flying out early mornings, my husband just made a 6:30 am flight out of Vegas because of a no show; so important to stick with the super early flights, especially in party towns!
With all the limits needing to take a trip non-revenue is by all accounts a test. I was traveling before and the standby rundown has a couple of names with no weather problems. That said, I would even utilize a buddy pass on the off chance that I had one.
I’m engaged and am listed as a companion to a UA employee. Is my child qualified under UA employee family if they’re not adopted by the UA employee?
Afraid not! Your child is free if 2 and under and unless your fiance adds your child on his benefits after 2 your child can’t fly without a buddy pass or confirmed seat. Congrats on your engagemen!
Thanks for the tips, very helpful. Do you have any advice on using a buddy pass for flights where a connection is required (ie no direct flight is available)? Do I improve my chances by not having checked luggage? Do I only get added to the wait list of the second flight when I arrive at the connecting destination? Thank you!
I would add to the “you can fly whenever you want” that not only is showing up early in the morning better, but you can save major headaches by being aware of busy travel days and avoiding them altogether. Wednesdays tend to be popular weekdays for flying because prices are often lower, but it could mean that if you’re flying standby on a Wednesday from Tokyo to San Francisco and then on to Houston, you might be stuck in SF for 24 hours because the only flight going between the two cities all day is totally full and none of the connecting routes are any friendlier. And I would imagine the same applies to certain weekend times and most every holiday.
How much are the fees and taxes for a flight from ft lauderdale to nyc on a buddy pass
Depends on who you are flying on. You’d have to check with the person who gave you the pass.
Hi,
Can you tell me if buddies are allowed to travel in Business class when there is only a Business First cabin available in the flight? Thank you.
Hi! You have to check with the employee that is giving you the pass as rules vary from carrier to carrier.
My boyfriend works for US/American. I’ve flown standby as the registered companion plenty of times and it’s great! This week I’m flying to Michigan for my grandpas funeral, my sister is using a buddy pass and going with, she will be bringing her 3 month old baby as a lap child- any advice on what to do? I can’t find anywhere online if she needs anything ahead of time or if we just bring her and don’t need any paperwork. Leaving Thursday!
Sorry just seeing this! All she needs is her baby and all the things she is bringing with her to make the baby comfortable.
Amazing blog! Do you have any suggestions for aspiring writers?
I’m hoping to start my own blog soon but I’m
a little lost on everything. Would you advise starting with a free platform
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Any tips? Kudos!
WordPress is the best!
Hey! I really loved this post! Does anyone know where I could get a buddy pass? I need to get to Hawaii from Michigan July 7th-12th
That would have to come from someone you know, people rarely give strangers a buddy pass 🙂
Hi. I have a buddy pass from Atlanta to Madrid and all of the flights have stops. I would like to know how that works as far as me waiting and my luggage.
Hi! Not sure I know what you mean but you wait for your luggage along with everyone else in baggage claim.
For example If my flight stops in Chicago and then goes to Madrid am I guaranteed a spot on both flights or will I have to wait
If you are flying buddy pass you do not have a guaranteed seat, which is why I always recommend people to only take a carryon bag. You only get on the flight if there is an empty seat. Your bags will be checked to your final destination.
Just an FYI, on international routes, your bags only fly if you do.
These is great information Roni, I was not completely sure about how the whole system worked 😀 Thanks!
Thank you!!!
Thanks for re-sharing this post as there was a lot I didn’t know about the buddy pass. I tried it once many years ago and couldn’t get on the plane at JFK in NY so I went home (didn’t live too far) and came back the next day: I was able to fly out at that time. I didn’t enjoy the experience but once I retire, I will do it again ✈️✈️
Good post. I recently attempted to fly with a buddy pass (first time ever). It was horrible!
I got their early. I am able to board a plane, however due to a full flight I’m asked to check my carryon. I did not worry, because I am on the flight and the gate has closed.
Well a flight attendant, decided to get out of her jump seat and take the seat I was in. I get rushed off the plane 2 minutes before and my bag with my keys and passport are taken to the destination. In the rush (flight attendants rushing me) my shoe bag was left in the overhead and I had to file a lost and found claim for a $300 pair of shoes (fingers crossed, after the stories I’ve read about missing items in airports).
The gate staff were shocked and confused I did not get my seat, however by the time they realize what’s going on it was too late and subsequently I was bumped to the bottom of every list (6) at LAX.
I also used my first buddy pass. The taxes were $300 / $350 for the return.
$650 round trip to São Paulo-
I went to the airport and wasn’t able to board all day. I decided to go home. I also decided that good apps like Hopper/Skyscanner/ Groupon can beat the price of some taxes. So- you live and learn. I would rather pay and get treated like a paying customer.
You definitely can’t use a buddy pass the same way as a paying customer. But once you learn the system, it’s super easy and I can’t imagine traveling any other way.
This is a great article roni, well done!