Expert: Matthew Smith - 1/29/2009

Question
Hello, Matthew,

I bought a non-refundable ticket with return date about one and a half months after departure. However, I feel that I may need to come back much sooner. I could not afford open end ticket so I bought a travel insurance.

Please explain how do I use this insurance if I need to change return date.

Also, what is the optimal time before departure I should arrive to airport for international flight?

Thank you very much!  

Answer
Hello, Vlad.

I'm afraid that I cannot answer the question about travel insurance.  Travel insurance is outside of my expertise.  To answer that question, I recommend contacting the company from whom you bought the travel insurance.

I can answer your second question.  For international travel you should always arrive --at least-- 2 hours before your departure.  I would recommend giving yourself even more time.  Depending on the airport from which you leave, you may even want to give yourself at least 3 hours.  The TSA is getting more efficient about screening passengers, but I always recommend giving yourself as much time as possible because you never know how big the crowd will be or how quickly the security line moves.

Best,
Matt