When planning a funeral, arranging affordable travel and accommodations for out-of-town attendees can alleviate financial stress during a challenging time. Many airlines, hotels, and travel platforms offer bereavement discounts or budget-friendly options specifically for funeral-related travel. Below are practical steps and tips to help you secure discounts for airfares and hotel rooms.
Bereavement Fares for Air Travel
Bereavement fares are discounted airfare options provided by some airlines to individuals traveling due to the death or critical illness of a loved one. While not all airlines offer these discounts, those that do can provide significant savings under specific conditions.
Steps to Secure Bereavement Fares:
- Check the Airline’s Policy: Contact the airline directly or visit their website to confirm if bereavement fares are available. Airlines like Delta and Air Canada are known to offer such discounts.
- Provide Documentation: Be prepared to provide proof, such as a death certificate, funeral home letter, or the deceased’s obituary.
- Book Over the Phone: Bereavement fares are often not available online. Call the airline’s customer service to inquire and book.
Notes About Bereavement Fares:
- Discounts typically apply only to immediate family members.
- Some airlines may offer flexibility in ticket changes instead of discounts.
Alternatives to Bereavement Fares
If bereavement fares are unavailable or don’t meet your needs, consider the following alternatives:
- Last-Minute Deals: Some airlines provide discounted rates for last-minute bookings. Use travel search engines like Google Flights or Kayak to compare fares.
- Budget Airlines: Check low-cost carriers like Southwest Airlines or Frontier, which may offer more affordable options even without bereavement-specific discounts.
- Points and Miles: Redeem frequent flyer miles or credit card travel rewards to cover part or all of the ticket costs.
Hotel Discounts for Funeral Attendees
Many hotels offer discounted rates for guests attending funerals, often referred to as “bereavement rates” or “funeral rates.” These are usually provided when you book a block of rooms for multiple attendees.
Steps to Secure Hotel Discounts:
- Contact the Hotel Directly: Call the hotel near the funeral venue and ask if they provide bereavement rates. Mention the name of the funeral home or church if necessary.
- Book Room Blocks: If multiple attendees need accommodation, ask about group rates for reserving a block of rooms.
- Search Online Deals: Use platforms like Booking.com or Expedia to find last-minute discounts. Some hotels also offer discounts for AAA or AARP members.
Tips for Reducing Hotel Costs:
- Compare rates at nearby hotels or motels to find the best deal.
- Check for loyalty program discounts if you or attendees are members of hotel rewards programs.
- Consider renting vacation homes or Airbnb properties, which may be more cost-effective for groups.
Combining Airfare and Hotel Packages
Using travel package services can simplify the booking process and save money. Websites like Expedia, Orbitz, or Priceline often provide discounts when you book flights and hotels together. Specify the destination and dates to explore package options.
Other Resources for Funeral Travel Discounts
If bereavement fares and hotel discounts are unavailable, additional resources can help reduce costs:
- Credit Card Benefits: Some credit cards offer travel insurance or emergency travel assistance, which may include reimbursement for unexpected expenses.
- Funeral Home Assistance: Ask the funeral home if they have partnerships with travel providers or local hotels.
- Nonprofit Support: Organizations like the Red Cross or local charities sometimes assist families in financial need.
Common Questions About Funeral Travel Discounts
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about securing travel discounts for funeral attendees:
Are bereavement fares cheaper than regular discounts?
Not always. Compare bereavement fares with promotional deals or last-minute offers to determine the most cost-effective option.
Do I need proof of the funeral to get bereavement discounts?
Yes, most airlines and hotels require documentation, such as a death certificate, obituary, or a letter from the funeral home.
Can I book bereavement fares for someone else?
Policies vary by airline, but many allow booking for immediate family members traveling to attend the funeral.
What if my travel plans change?
Bereavement fares often include flexible policies for changing travel dates without hefty fees.
