Most travelers don’t know that airlines and hotels are legally required to compensate you in many situations — even if they never tell you. Here’s a quick and clear guide to your passenger rights, so you never lose your money or time again.
✅ Your Rights When Your Flight Is Delayed
| Delay Time | Your Rights |
| 2+ hours | Free meal or drink depending on the airline policy |
| 3+ hours | Right to rebook on another flight at no extra cost |
| 5+ hours or more | You can request a full refund, even if the flight is not cancelled |
❌ Your Rights When Your Flight Is Cancelled
You always have two options — you choose, not the airline:
- Full refund of the ticket price
Alternative flight on the same day or nearest available time — even with another airline
💰 Compensation for Delay or Cancellation (International Flights)
Depending on your flight distance and airline policy, you may be eligible for financial compensation between 200 and 600 USD, especially with EU airlines (like Lufthansa, Air France, KLM, Turkish Airlines, etc.)
🧳 If Your Luggage Is Lost or Damaged
- Report it immediately at the airport counter
- You are entitled to daily compensation until your bag is returned
- If not found, the airline must pay you based on bag size and contents value
🛏️ Hotel Rights — Special Note for Families
- Children under 6–12 years old (depending on hotel policy) often stay for free or at a reduced rate
If the hotel is overbooked, they must provide another hotel of equal or higher category — without extra charge