work and travel bg

Work and Travel

Some of our best employers.

You’re steps away from the USA

Apply with orange, choose where to go, download wat a guide, download wat an adventure.

• Get the most recent Work and Travel pricing and all the discounts and promos you can score
• See some of the greatest job offers in one place so you can sort and find the best one for you
• All the advice you need to prepare for a job interview, for your visa interview or any stage of the program

All you need for a great Work and Travel experience awaits you in the WAT an Adventure app

Other Services

Small Guard – Hudson Rentals Inc

North myrtle beach, sc.

J1 and Worker accommodation in North Myrtle Beach South Carolina USA. Provides accommodation and housing transportation to students from all over the world. Small Guard Units # 1 - 3 1 Bedroom, 1 Bath - Sleeps 5 1 Bedroom, 1 Bath - Sleeps 4 4 Bedrooms, 2 Baths - Sleeps 12

Milos’s WAT House

Wildwood, nj.

Work & Travel students welcome aboard :)

Large Guard – Hudson Rentals Inc

J1 and Worker accommodation in North Myrtle Beach South Carolina USA. Provides accommodation and housing transportation to students from all over the world. Large Guard Apartments Units # 1 - 4 5 Bedrooms, 2 Baths - Sleeps 10 2 Bedrooms, 1 Bath- Sleeps 5 3 Bedrooms, 2 Bath - Sleeps 8 1 Bedroom, 1 Bath - Sleeps 4 1 Bedroom, 1 Bath - Sleeps 4

Vance – Hudson Rentals Inc

J1 and Worker accommodation in North Myrtle Beach South Carolina USA. Provides accommodation and housing transportation to students from all over the world. Vance Apartments -Unit# 1 - 5 1 Bedroom, 1 Baths - Sleeps 4 1 Bedroom, 1 Bath - Sleeps 4 1 Bedroom, 1 Bath - Sleeps 2 1 Bedroom, 1 Bath - Sleeps 4 2 Bedroom, 2 Baths - Sleeps 8

Calypso – Hudson Rentals Inc

J1 and Worker accommodation in North Myrtle Beach South Carolina USA. Provides accommodation and housing transportation to students from all over the world. 4 Units - 2 Bedrooms, 2 Baths - Sleeps 6 in each 2 Units - 2 Bedrooms, 1 Baths - Sleeps 4 in each 2 Units - 1 Bedroom, 1 Bath - Sleeps 2 in each

The Great Bay Motel – Cape Cod,MA

Teaticket, ma.

Great Bay Motel are very convenient to many of the Cape’s best activities, shopping and restaurants, along with being near area beaches and ferries to Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket. Our value-priced, comfortable rooms, offer many amenities and conveniences not found in many higher priced lodgings. During summer we are glad to have Work and Travel students in our motel. About accommodation, price is $300 for one week for 3 students or $350 for 4 students. Each room has own bathroom. During the summer a lot students live here from all over the world. Motel has its own washing machines and dryers. All Rooms have Air Conditioned & Heated, Cable TV with 7 HBO Channels and Wi-fi hot spot. If you are interesting the best way is to send e-mail.

Mountaineer – Hudson Rentals Inc

J1 and Worker accommodation in North Myrtle Beach South Carolina USA. Provides accommodation and housing transportation to students from all over the world. Mountaineer Apartments Upstairs: 4 Bedrooms, 2 Baths- Sleeps 11 Downstairs: 3 Bedrooms, 2 1/2 Baths - Sleeps 9

Cindy – Hudson Rentals Inc

J1 and Worker accommodation in North Myrtle Beach South Carolina USA. Provides accommodation and housing transportation to students from all over the world. Cindy Apartments - Units # 2 - 6 5 Units - 2 Bedrooms, 2 Baths Sleeps: 6 - 7 in each

Ocean City apartment

Ocean city, md.

The house is on two floors - ground level and first floor. This apartment is on first floorl. It is fully furnished apartment with 3 bedrooms, washer and dryer, fully kitchen and living room, WIFI connection and Air Conditioner (A/C) . The house is located in 104 Philadelphia avenue - apartment 2. Smoking is prohibited inside of house. Two badrooms are for 4 people each and one badroom is for 2 people. Price for badrooms for 4 people is $110 and price for badroom for 2 people is $110 per week. Security deposit is $200 per person.

It is fully furnished apartment with 2 bedrooms, one kitchen, one bathroom, fully kitchen and living room, washer and dryer, WIFI connection and window unit Air Conditioners (A/C). The house is located in 14 43rd street - apartment 2. Smoking is prohibited inside of house. One bedroom for 4 people and other for 3 people. Price for both rooms $105 per week per person. Security deposit is $200 per person.

The house is on two floors - ground level and first floor. This apartment is on ground level. It is fully furnished apartment with 3 bedrooms, washer and dryer, fully kitchen and living room, WIFI connection and Air Conditioner (A/C). House is located in 104 Philadelphia avenue. Smoking is prohibited inside of house. Two badrooms are for 4 people each and one badroom is for 2 people. Price for badrooms for 4 people is $95 and price for badroom for 2 people is $105 per week. Security deposit is $200 per person.

The house is on three floors - first, second and ground level. It is fully furnished apartment with 2 bedrooms, one kitchen, one bathroom, fully kitchen and living room, washer and dryer, WIFI connection and window unit Air Conditioners (A/C). Smoking is prohibited inside of house. The house is located in 14 43rd street - apartment 1. One bedroom is for 4 people and other is for 3 people. Price for both rooms $105 per week per person. Security deposit is $200 per person.

The house is on two floors - first and ground level. It is fully furnished apartment with 3 bedrooms, one kitchen, one bathroom and one toilet, washer and dryer, fully kitchen and living room, WIFI connection and window unit Air Conditioners (A/C). Smoking is prohibited inside of house. Two bedrooms are for 4 people each and one bedroom is for 2 people. Price for rooms is $95 per week per person. Security deposit is $175 per person. The house is located in 204 Talbot street - apartment 1.

The house is on two floors - first and ground level. It is fully furnished apartment with 4 bedrooms, one kitchen, one bathroom , fully kitchen and living room, WIFI connection and window unit Air Conditioners (A/C). The house is locate in 204 Talbot street - apartment 2. Smoking is prohibited inside of house. Three bedrooms are for 2 people each and one bedroom is for 4 people. Price for rooms for 2 people is $95 and price for room for 4 people is $90 per week per person. Security deposit is $175 per person.

The house is on two floors - first and second floor. This apartment is on the second floor. It is fully furnished apartment with 2 bedrooms, one kitchen and one bathroom, washer and dryer, fully kitchen and living room, WIFI connection and main Air Conditioner (A/C). The house is located in 7 Caroline street - apartment 3. Smoking is prohibited inside of house. One bedroom is for 4 people and other badroom is for 2 people. Price for badroom for 4 people is $115, and price for badroom for 2 people is $125 per week per person. Security deposit is $200 per person.

Login In to Your Account

Forgot password?

Don't have an account? Sign Up

Already have an account? Login

• my.gotousa.bg

HELLO AUBGers

We, the Usit Colours Team , would like to greet you with the beginning of your first year in AUBG and the start of your thrilling university experience! You’ve already made the first step of becoming a citizen of the world – you entered the AUBG community. It is exciting, isn’t it?

You are about to discover the wonders of the student life and to find out that being a student is not only about studying. It’s also about exploring new opportunities, one of which is knocking at your door – the cultural exchange program Work and Travel USA .

You may have already heard about it, if not, soon you will learn every detail and we are sure you will love it the way we’ve been loving working at it for over two decades already.

Greetings Students,

My name is  Tsveti  and I am one of yours Work &Travel  consultants in  Usit Colours Blagoevgrad . I am here for all your program related questions and anything else I could be able to help you with. I have been to the US for two amazing summers, so it will be a pleasure to share with you my personal experience.

I spent four fabulous months in Old Orchard Beach, Maine and another sunny summer in Ocean City, Maryland. I guess my eternal love to the ocean lead me two times to East Coast. In these two summers I worked on five differend positions as housekeeper, front desk, sales assistant, hostess and barista. This experience gave me the oportunity to become more independent, communicative and responsible person. Also I met a lot of amazing people from all around the world and made a lifetime frinedships.

Travelpro Maxlite 5 Carry On Rolling Underseat Bag Rda Luggage Ef 022124 3776 Scale Weight V1

Colors: Slate green, black, ensign blue, orchid, champagne | Material: Polyester fabric with DuraGuard coating | Weight: 5.7 lbs. | Dimensions: 17 x 13 x 10 in. (height, width, depth) | Telescopic handle height: 42 in.

Frequent fliers consistently choose Travelpro as a dependable luggage brand. This soft-sided compact carry-on meets all the criteria for the best underseat luggage. For starters, inline skate wheels and a telescopic handle make it easy to maneuver around the airport. We love all the convenient interior and exterior storage options, including a padded laptop sleeve and removable wet pocket.

We tested the Travelpro Maxlite and found that it fits conveniently under the seat of most major airlines including American, Spirit, Frontier, Southwest and JetBlue. With some effort, our testers packed a weekend's worth of accessories and clothing into the suitcase. The underseat luggage is equipped with specially-designed compartments and quick-access pockets with dividers and Velcro closures. One value-added feature is the snap-in toiletry bag that is beneficial for a weekend trip. Additionally, the front inside pocket has a keychain hook and the back has a slot for the included luggage tag.

As far as maneuverability, the telescopic handle is sturdy once locked in place and features a curved handle that rests at a nice height. The two ball-bearing wheels are high-quality and roll well when tested over different floor types, cords and sharp turns. Although we weren't particularly impressed with the clunky Velcro straps, we felt the zippers and wheels were durable and the two legs that hold the luggage upright were a nice touch.

Available in five colors, this underseat bag also coordinates with other luggage in the Maxlite line and includes a 100-day trial and a lifetime warranty for a lifetime of travel. Did you know that pilots only travel with soft-sided luggage , too?

Travelers Club Smart Under Seat Carry On Luggage Rda Luggage Ef 022124 3809

Colors: Purple, navy blue, black | Material: Polyester fabric | Weight: 5 lbs. | Dimensions: 14.5 x 14.38 x 10.25 in. (height, width, depth) | Telescopic handle height: 40.125 in.

If you're flying a budget airline, including Frontier or Spirit, and want to get away without paying for a carry-on or checked bag, invest in this incredibly frugal smart suitcase instead. This budget-friendly underseater is a favorite with Amazon reviewers, boasting a built-in USB charging port for keeping gadgets powered on the go. It also has a telescopic handle, smooth inline skate wheels, multiple exterior pockets for easy access to accessories and ample interior storage space.

A weekend's worth of clothing easily fits inside this bag. We found even more space for our separate toiletry bag with room in the external pockets. The best part of this bag is the elastic-topped open pouch below the USB port that holds the power bank. However, we also liked how well this luggage rolled around with only two wheels. It felt so lightweight that we had to double-check that it was packed. And even without adjustable height options, the push-button telescopic handle made it pleasant to lug this bag around.

Coming in as the least expensive option on our best underseat luggage list, this smart carry-on fits comfortably under the seat of American, Spirit, Frontier and JetBlue. It might be a stretch to fit it under the seat of a Southwest flight, so we recommend checking the airline's website for specific size requirements. Beware before flying, though, not all carry-ons are free . It's available in different colors and only weighs 5 pounds, so it won't weigh you down as you rush to your terminal.

The 7 Best Underseat Luggage Of 2024, According To Travel Experts Rda Luggage Ef 022124 3806

Colors: Black herringbone, terracotta herringbone | Material: Polyester | Weight: 7.05 lbs. | Dimensions: 18.5 x 14.5 x 9.25 in. (height, width, depth) | Telescopic handle height: 41.5 in.

Business travelers or other frequent fliers should invest in durable, multifunctional pieces of underseat luggage with all the bells and whistles. That's why the Herringbone Deluxe Underseater by Hartmann is our pick for the best underseat luggage for business travel or international travel .

Constructed of durable polyester fabric, this underseat bag withstands dirt and sits on ball-bearing dual-spinner wheels for convenient and comfortable rolling. Alongside the Calpak, this was our favorite set of wheels. It performed swimmingly during our makeshift obstacle course and maneuvered well around tight corners.

Sleek pull handles made of lightweight yet strong virgin aluminum allow for a comfortable grip and two variable heights on the telescopic handle. The exterior features a USB port, TSA padlock and a SmartSleeve for sliding over an upright suitcase. As for interior features, it includes a padded laptop sleeve that fits a 15-inch laptop, multiple pockets for organization and a monogrammed lining. Don't forget to pack a travel pillow while you're at it!

In our testing, we concluded that you could certainly stuff this suitcase to the brim but wouldn't be able to utilize the front pocket. However, the overall design was high quality with a signature herringbone pattern for a timeless look. This underseat luggage is on the pricier side, but it includes a 10-year warranty, two color options, a list of noteworthy features and fits under the seat of American, Spirit and Frontier Airlines.

Vera Bradley Underseat Rolling Work Bag Rda Luggage Ef 022124 3802

Colors: Black, botanical paisley, enchanted mandala blue | Material: Polyester | Weight: 6.15 lbs. | Dimensions: 16 x 13.25 x 11 in. (height, width, depth) | Telescopic handle height: 41.5 in.

Looking for luggage with smart features that's sure to stand out? This Vera Bradley work bag is a top pick because it fits underneath the seat in front of you on most flights, features a handy USB port and is available in two stylish prints. Quick-stash exterior pockets and compartments offer easy access and room for all your travel essentials , so you won't misplace your passport at the last second. The main compartment also features a laptop sleeve and two elastic mesh pockets.

During our testing, we found the biggest benefit of this underseater was its storage ability. It was one of the roomiest suitcases we tested, making packing a breeze. We could readily fit clothing and then some in this highly expandable underseat luggage. Avoid packing mistakes by opening it from the side and unfolding it completely for easy packing. The included lock and USB port are a plus and the trolley sleeve adds convenience.

Furthermore, it performed well on U-turns with its purse-like top straps and low-profile handle. Unfortunately, the rolling work bag only comes with two non-spinning wheels and only one locking height on the telescopic handle.

If you're in the market for a fun bag with a signature look and room to fit enough clothing and accessories for personal travel like a weekend getaway, then this is the pick for you. It fits under the seat of American, Spirit, Frontier, Southwest and JetBlue Airlines and includes a five-year warranty.

Kenneth Cole Chelsea Carry On Chevron Quilted Underseater Rda Luggage Ef 022124 3825

Colors: Black | Material: Polyester twill | Weight: 5.05 lbs. | Dimensions: 16.5 x 12.75 x 10 in. (height, width, depth) | Telescopic handle height: 42 in.

If you're ready to travel in style , look no further than the Chelsea underseater from Kenneth Cole. This attractive carry-on has a chevron quilted exterior made of durable polyester twill with gold-plated zippers. Smart compartments include inside slip pockets, a laptop sleeve and dual exterior side pockets for shoes, water bottles and quick-access toiletries. Everything we packed readily fit inside this suitcase. The front zipper opens all the way for easy access, and the trolley sleeve in the back allows for convenient hands-free carrying. We also love the high-quality gold zippers, trim and beautiful tear-resistant lining.

Additionally, the telescopic handle has two adjustable height options with a fully extended height that we think the tallest travelers will love. Plus, the four 360-degree spinner wheels add to the bag's mobility but aren't as maneuverable as other four-wheel options on this list. We have concerns about the longevity of the pleather material of the purse-like straps and feel they might be susceptible to rips over time. However, the straps were still comfortable to hoist during our testing.

Pair this best underseat luggage with other bags in the Chelsea collection like a tote, backpack, 20-inch carry-on or larger suitcase set. According to its specs, the Chelsea underseater will comfortably fit under the seat of American, Spirit, Frontier, JetBlue and Southwest Airlines.

Calpak Ambeur Mini Carry On Luggage Rda Luggage Ef 022124 0250 Carpet V1

Colors: Rose gold, black, silver, gold and limited-edition copper | Material: Polycarbonate exterior and polyester interior | Weight: 5.95 lbs. | Dimensions: 16.5 x 14.25 x 8.5 in. (height, width, depth) | Telescopic handle height: 40.375 in.

Powers' pick for the best underseat luggage is Calpak's Ambeur Mini Carry-On . "It has a durable hard shell exterior to protect items," she explains. "It has 360-degree spinner wheels, making it super easy to roll, has cushioned top and side handles and has an interior divider with multiple pockets for easier packing. Its sophisticated design and smaller size for shorter trips is a winning combination." A carry-on like this will help you pack lighter and smarter for the next trip!

The Calpak ranked well in our testing, from packing to price. First, it arrived with a branded, protective drawstring bag. Secondly, the high-quality zippers click into adjacent locks and pop out when the locks are released. Additionally, a TSA-approved padlock and interior straps that keep the suitcase at an upright 90-degree angle make packing and traveling a whole lot easier.

Since this is a hardshell suitcase, it does not offer any exterior pockets. However, the durable exterior has a luxurious sheen and an incredibly attractive low-profile design. Our testers also loved the sturdy telescopic handles with two locking positions to adjust the height and the corner protectors around the four double wheels that roll like a dream.

Packing the top portion of this suitcase is a little tricky as it doesn't lay perfectly flat nor is it big enough for a MacBook Pro. We think the hardshell nature might not make this the best option for underseat storage as it would be difficult to access contents mid-flight and technically measures too big to stow under a seat on most major airlines. Nonetheless, it is well-designed with a two-year warranty and solid construction. Part of Calpak's Ambeur collection, you can still coordinate this piece with other luggage options like a vanity case.

What to look for when buying underseat luggage

Colors: Black, navy, olive | Material: Ballistic nylon | Weight: 7.05 lbs. | Dimensions: 14.5 x 15.5 x 8.75 in. (height, width, depth) | Telescopic handle height: 40.5 in.

A suitcase is considered an investment piece that should stand the test of time. That's exactly what you'll get when you splurge on this Briggs & Riley Baseline Cabin Spinner . Constructed of durable ballistic nylon fabric, this best underseat luggage withstands wear and tear, moisture, dirt and abrasions and sits on 360-degree shock-absorbing spinner wheels. It features a lifetime warranty where the brand will repair a broken or damaged bag free of charge, no questions asked.

This bag arrived in excellent condition with an attached hideaway luggage tag. Its ultra-compact design made it a bit difficult for us to pack everything inside without rolling the clothing or rearranging some items to create more space. Nonetheless, the bag does offer a front padded slip pocket, easily accessible side pockets and multiple roomy pockets on the inside. Although this bag doesn't technically fit within airline specifications for underseat luggage, we recommend using Briggs & Riley's airline carry-on guide for confirmation.

But our favorite feature was the smartly designed and incredibly strong interlocking handle system. Outfitted with a trolley strap on the back, this luggage stacks on top of other Briggs & Riley Baseline suitcases effortlessly. Elastic bands counterbalance the load to keep everything upright meaning your luggage is less likely to topple over while you run to your gate. It even worked when we stacked it on top of the Calpak mini carry-on.

The telescopic handle adjusts to a variety of heights and the four swivel wheels provide optimal turn radius. Another feature we loved during testing was the leather magnetic handle. This premium addition feels good to the touch and adds a luxurious feel that snaps and Velcro can't achieve. The self-repairing YKK zippers are on a thick, durable track that complements the bag's utilitarian design. However, you can add a free leather monogrammed nameplate to the cabin spinner for personalization.

When searching for the best underseat luggage, consider how often and how far you fly. If you stack up frequent flyer miles easily, then look for luggage that's durable enough to accompany you on your constant travel adventures. You might also want a hardshell suitcase or one with a stain-resistant exterior fabric to withstand wear and tear. A business traveler might prefer underseat luggage with many compartments and easy laptop access.

On the other hand, if you tend to only travel a couple of times a year for weekend getaways, then you can probably buy luggage that's more form than function. No matter the type of travel, we recommend underseat luggage that will, first and foremost, fit under the seat of the airline you fly. Otherwise, you'll have to utilize it as an overhead carry-on.

Furthermore, it's good to get luggage with ample storage to accommodate your length of stay, easy maneuverability to get from the security line to the boarding gate and telescopic handles for added comfort. TSA-approved padlocks and charging ports aren't necessary but are bonus features that we love.

Why you should trust us

Our editors aren't just product testers—they're flyers, cruisers and road trippers, too! And when we hear about the latest trends and innovations in luggage, we want to make sure the best travel products live up to the hype. We’ve put the top luggage brands to the test, including Monos, Beis, Away , Roam and Briggs and Riley, and regularly consult with industry experts for their expert opinions.

We’ve ranked the best carry-ons, weekenders, luggage sets and affordable suitcases , and also regularly try out travel accessories like neck pillows, toiletry bags, packing cubes and luggage racks. Whenever we find something we love, we make sure to tell you about it! Our Product Testing Team ordered, unboxed and experienced these luggage options for themselves. Of the 10 brands the team tested, only seven made the list. 

How we found the best underseat luggage to fuel your wanderlust

Before you cash in those miles and jet set to that tropical vacation hideaway, we want to make sure you have the top pick when it comes to the best underseat luggage. Our Product Testing Team tested 10 luggage brands in our studio from high-end retailers to everyday brands. With in-depth research and a rubric that tested size, durability, maneuverability, capacity and functionality, we narrowed that list from 10 to seven.

Our testers considered how well each underseat luggage best fit the designated size specifications on the top airlines. Additionally, our team rated the luggage on packaging and delivery, functionality and features, the comfort and ergonomic design of the handles, appearance and style and overall value. Each piece of luggage was rated and ranked out of a total score of 25. With thorough testing and recognition of notable differences, we’re confident in these seven best underseat luggage picks.

What is the best size for underseat luggage?

Here are the guidelines for underseat luggage on major airlines. Just keep in mind that size requirements may vary by the type of aircraft and some airlines have different size limits for carry-on bags versus underseat luggage.

• Alaska Airlines : Alaska's carry-on size is 22 by 14 by 9 inches, including the wheels and handles. It also defines a personal item as, "a purse, briefcase or laptop bag ."
• American Airlines: Bags stored underneath the seat in front of you should not exceed 18 by 14 by 8 inches.
• Delta: Delta defines a personal item as, "a purse, laptop bag or item of similar size that will fit underneath the seat in front of you," and their maximum carry-on size is 22 by 14 by 9 inches, with no bag exceeding 45 linear inches combined. (Did you know Delta is one of the most pet-friendly airlines ?)
• Hawaiian Airlines: Carry-on bags should not exceed 9 by 14 by 22 inches or 45 linear inches, or weigh over 25 pounds. "The allotted personal item must be small enough to fit safely under the seat in front of you. Personal items are generally such things as a purse, briefcase, laptop computer, small backpack or similar piece. In each case, it must fit safely under the seat in front of you," they explain.
• JetBlue: Carry-on bags should not exceed 22 by 14 by 9 inches, but underseat personal items can't be bigger than 17 by 13 by 8 inches.
• United Airlines: United limits underseat luggage to 9 by 10 by 17 inches.
• Southwest Airlines: Personal items must fit in the 16.25- by 13.5- by 8-inch space underneath the seat in front of you.
• Spirit Airlines: Spirit allows personal items up to 18 by 14 by 8 inches, including handles and wheels.

Can you have overhead and underseat luggage?

"Typically, you can have overhead and underseat luggage," says Bodge. However, it depends on the size of the bag, the restrictions of the specific airline you are flying and whether you can have both overhead and underseat luggage. In many cases, a carry-on bag is overhead luggage and an underseat bag is a personal item that fits under the seat in front of you.

How heavy can underseat luggage or bag be?

Weight restrictions for carry-on luggage vary. Some airlines, including American and Delta, don't even have any for domestic and even most international travel. However, some budget airlines, including Frontier, require carry-ons to weigh 35 pounds or less.

Does underseat luggage count as a personal item?

"An underseat bag is considered to be a personal item," says Bodge. However, it will ultimately depend on the carrier and size of the bags.

• Amber Rose Powers , a travel advisor at Fora , a travel agency
• Trae Bodge, smart shopping expert at TrueTrae

Additional reporting contributed by  Leah Groth , Reader's Digest writer.

More for You

Caitlin Clark's strong WNBA debut dismisses concerns about transition to pros

I Asked 4 Chefs What Their Favorite Fast Food Cheeseburger Was and Their Pick Was Unanimous

Rock Queens: Recognizing 25 Women Who Shaped the Music Industry

Timeless Beauty: 50 Iconic Women From Old Hollywood

14 fascinating things most Americans don’t even know about the USA

45 Desserts from Around the World

Darius Morris Dies: Former Los Angeles Lakers Playoffs Starter Was 33

The Choco Taco Is Coming Back For A Limited Time

11 Facts You Should Know About Hard-Boiled Eggs

Travis Kelce spotted in Louisville ahead of the Kentucky Derby

Zendaya's Baby Pink Tennis Polo Dress Includes Cutouts That Hit Her Hip Bone

An AI-controlled fighter jet took the Air Force leader for a historic ride. What that means for war

NBA Playoffs: 10 winners and losers from Friday, including Luka Doncic

The 10 happiest places to live in the US

NATO Ally Issues Stark Warning of New World War With Russia

Cave of Crystals: The deadly cavern in Mexico dubbed 'the Sistine Chapel of crystals'

17 People Shared Their Favorite "Poor Man's Meal," And I'm Definitely Gonna Try Some Of These

Benjamin Bulldog .457 Airgun, Tested and Reviewed

The top country music star from every year since 1970

America's New 6th-Gen Fighter Jet Will Most Likely Be Equipped With This Cutting-Edge Engine

What fliers need to know about new refund rules for airlines

Starting in about six months, U.S. airlines will have to offer customers cash refunds before vouchers

New federal rules for airlines will go into effect later this year, giving travelers a better picture of the full cost of flights before they book — and getting them an easier refund if things go awry.

After a process that lasted more than a year, the Biden administration announced the rules on passenger protections Wednesday.

“This is a big day for America’s flying public,” Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg said in a news conference at Reagan National Airport.

While the trade group Airlines for America said its members “abide by — and frequently exceed — DOT regulations regarding consumer protections,” consumer advocates praised the administration’s move.

“These rules are not only critical but also common sense,” said William McGee, senior fellow for aviation and travel at the American Economic Liberties Project, who spoke at Wednesday’s event.

Most new rules go into effect in the fall

At the event Wednesday, Buttigieg said that “the bulk of these protections” will go into effect in about six months. Others will start in a year.

That means refund rules that get customers automatic cash refunds when airlines cancel or significantly change flights won’t be in place during the busy summer travel season. But they should be set in time for the Thanksgiving and winter holiday season rush.

Buttigieg said that the department expects airlines to take some time to develop the processes to return cash to travelers, but added that he doesn’t want them to drag their feet.

“They don’t have to wait the number of months that it’ll technically take for this to go into effect,” Buttigieg said Wednesday. “They could and should be doing this right now.”

You should get refunds without having to ask

Instead of first offering a voucher or credit, airlines “must automatically issue refunds without passengers having to explicitly request them or jump through hoops,” the Transportation Department says. The refunds need to be issued within seven business days for credit card purchases and 20 calendar days when bought through other methods.

However a traveler originally paid is the way the refund needs to be issued, the rule says, whether that’s by credit card or airline miles . Other types of compensation are allowed only if a passenger chooses one of those alternatives.

“No more defaulting to vouchers or credits when consumers may not even realize that they were entitled to cash,” Buttigieg said.

You can still choose to be rebooked

If travelers’ flights have been canceled or significantly changed, they can still continue with their trip. Passengers are only eligible for a refund if they have declined to accept alternative transportation.

Airlines will have to pay for delayed bags and broken WiFi

There are many ways for a trip to go awry, and the new rules cover more than just a late or canceled flight.

If a checked bag isn’t delivered within 12 hours of a domestic flight arriving at the gate, or within 15 to 30 hours of an international flight arriving, depending on how long that flight is, passengers will be entitled to a refund of their checked-bag fee. They will need to file a mishandled baggage report.

Refunds will also be given if passengers pay for a service such as WiFi, seat selection or in-flight entertainment and the airline fails to provide.

‘Significant’ changes will be the same for all airlines

Automatic cash refunds are due to passengers if their flight experiences a “significant change.” But what does that mean? Previously, the definition could vary from airline to airline.

The new rules provide some consistency. A change is considered significant if a departure or arrival is different by more than three hours for domestic flights or six hours for international trips.

Other changes considered significant: the departure or arrival is from a different airport; there are more connections; passengers are downgraded to a lower class; or service or flights are on planes that are less accessible for a person with a disability.

No more hidden fees for bags and seat selection

The rule on extra fees — what the Biden administration refers to as “surprise junk fees in air travel” — will require airlines and online travel booking sites to disclose up front the fees for a checked bag, carry-on bag, reservation change and reservation cancellation. Those fees must be clearly noted and not shown through a hyperlink, the rule says.

Consumers must also be informed that they don’t have to pay for a seat assignment to travel and that a seat will be provided without an additional price.

“Healthy competition requires that, as a consumer, you comparison shop, which means knowing the real price of a trip before and not after you buy,” Buttigieg said. “Airlines will now be required to show you these costs up front, so you have all the information you need to decide what travel option is best for you.”

Travelers can either search without providing their personal information to see standard fees or, after entering their information, see more tailored fees that might apply given their military status, frequent-flier membership or credit card use.

“The final rule puts an end to the bait-and-switch tactics some airlines use to disguise the true cost of discounted flights,” the Transportation Department said in a news release. “Prior to the rule, some airlines were offering deceptive discounts that consumers may have believed applied to the full fare that was being advertised but only applied to a small portion of the ticket price.”

You will still have to report complaints

Buttigieg said the main way for the department to find out about a violation of the rules is when people submit complaints through the site flightrights.gov . But he said he hopes that by making refunds automatic, there will be less need for complaints — and more flexibility for employees to perform audits or spot-checks of airline compliance.

Europe-style compensation is still not in the rules

Some travelers heading to or from Europe who experience delays under certain circumstances are entitled to compensation worth more than $600. That kind of system does not exist for domestic flights in the United States, but Buttigieg said it is on the agenda.

“On compensation, we continue to develop that — and to be clear, with this rule on the books, that does not stop or slow the progress that we’re driving in terms of a compensation rule,” he said.

More on air travel

Leave flying to the pros: Think you could land a plane in an emergency? Experts say you’re wrong . Here’s what you should actually do if something goes awry during a flight .

Pet peeves: Why do “gate lice” line up early for a flight ? Psychologists explained for us. Another move that annoys airline workers: abusing the flight attendant call button . For more on how to behave on a flight, check out our 52 definitive rules of flying .

Plane mess: Stories about extremely disgusting airplanes have been grossing out travelers. The question of plane cleanups became the subject of a recent debate after a flight attendant allegedly told a pregnant passenger to pick up the popcorn spilled by her toddler.

Frequent flying: Airline status isn’t what it used to be, but at least there are some good movies and TV shows to watch in the air. And somewhere out there, experts are trying to make airline food taste good.

Work and Travel USA

Feel the beat of New York, take a tour to the East Coast, conquer Alaska, feel the spirit of the Wild Wild West, find your fortune in Las Vegas or simply #tasteAmerica

What is Work and Travel USA?

Work and Travel USA is a summer program for cultural exchange in the USA. It gives full-time students the chance to spend their summer holiday in America and work legally in the tourism industry. This is also the easiest way to work and travel in the USA while you're a student.

You can enroll in the program and work for 4 months in the USA even during your first summer holiday at the university and then after the program you can travel for 1 month as a tourist and visit all the amazing places we only see in the movies. 

You will get enough wages in order to cover your travel and living expenses, save enough money for your tuition fees or for other plans and ideas you might have.

Are you ready to #tasteAmerica ?

Why taking part in the adventure of Work and Travel?

• You will gain new experience and become more independent. 
• You will meet new friends from all over the world.
• You will travel to new places you have always wanted to visit.
• Who does not love shopping?! You will get the chance to visit the busiest shopping centers. 
• Last but not least - you will get familiar with the American culture and lifestyle.
• Because you have this opportunity NOW

Who can participate in the program?

• Full-time students in BA/BSc or MSc/MA programs, studying in Bulgaria or abroad;
• Students between the age of 18 and 28;
• Students with at least an Intermediate level of English;
• Students who are willing to discover the American culture and lifestyle;

How long is the duration of WAT program?

• 4 months work period
• 1 month tourist stay

You are still hesitating?

Additional questions, when does the program start, what kind of job offers are available, what type of us visa do i need.

• We will help you to fill in the necessary forms and inform you about the additional documents.
• We will bring the whole package of documents in the US Embassy in Bulgaria, as well as make a visa interview appointment for you.
• In order to feel more confident, we will interview you in our office prior to your real interview and we will keep our fingers crossed!
• We will look forward to hearing from you after the interview!

Can I travel with friends?

Can i travel with my girl/boyfriend, can i participate in the program if i am a first or last year student, can i travel if i’m enrolled in a master’s degree course, am i able to participate in the work and travel usa program if i am a student studying abroad.

• Online enrollment; 
• Virtual job interviews;
• Visa application assistance;
• Travel arrangements; *Important note: If you do not have any connection to Bulgaria – for example: you are an international student who is not currently enrolled in university in Bulgaria or you do not have a double citizenship - one of which is Bulgarian or you do not have a permanent residence permit, unfortunately you won't be able to enroll for the Work And Travel Program in Bulgaria.

What should you know about the J-1 visa process?

"Emotions before the visa interview are big even for all of us from Integral and you have to be sure that we are standing next to you during the whole process and we are here to guide you and encourage you."

When you enroll

We will honestly tell you whether you have the chance to get the visa.

When preparing your visa documents

We will fill in all necessary documents instead of you and inform you about the additional ones.

When your full package is ready

We will bring it to the US Embassy in Bulgaria

When your visa appointment is scheduled

We will text you a message and call you immediately after the Embassy confirms the date and time of your visa interview

Before your interview

We will arrange a sample one at our office, we will give you some instructions on “How to get to the Embassy” and we will wish you luck :)

During the interview

We will keep our fingers crossed!

After the interview

We will take care of your travel and make sure you get the lowest fight ticket fares

Advantages of Integral

We have 26 years of experience in consulting students who wish to travel abroad on different programs such as Work&Travel USA, Language courses worldwide, university and internship programs. Our team will provide you with professional service throughout the program and will also be your new friend who will give you a advice on where to spend your Friday night if you are new in the town :) Each and every one in our offices has been in your shoes  and knows both sides of the coin and they are able to give you the best Work and Travel advice based on a personal experience so you could make your first step in conquering USA! Integral will offer you:

• Friendly and professional atmosphere where you can talk to experienced Work and Travel consultants;
• Free English language course for students who wish to improve their language level;
• NB: The course is based on specific Work and Travel vocabulary and it covers specific steps of the program;
• Preliminary job and visa interview;
• Variety of trustworthy job positions in the most popular Work&Travel destinations;
• A full program and ticket refund in case of visa refusal;
• $0 deposit when enrolling;
• Payment in installments- no additional fees or surcharges;
• Pay when you come back Option - Payment using a Work and Travel bank loan;
• Easy and fast DS-2019 process;
• Assistance throughout the whole application process and filling out all the necessary documents needed for the program;
• An easy reservation system for the most suitable and cheap Work&Travel tickets;
• Personal travel instructions;
• Insurance Plan in accordance with your program dates;
• 24/7 emergency phone line with Integral - You are there- we still care!
• Our sponsor CIEE is a nonprofit, nongovernmental organization, and it is the country’s oldest and largest nonprofit study abroad and intercultural exchange organization. Since 1947, CIEE has helped thousands of people gain the knowledge and skills necessary to live and work in a globally interdependent and culturally diverse world by offering the most comprehensive, relevant, and valuable exchange programs available.Beside the variety of trustworthy job offers they provide a special insurance plan based on the participant’s program dates which includes:
• An access to providers throughout the country with the Preferred Provider Network through Aetna. Under this plan, you may seek treatment with any doctor or hospital of your choice;
• Access to more than 672 000 healthcare facilities, with easy location of the nearest center – tool, found on a their website;
• 100% payment of all covered medical expenses;
• No filling medical claims;
• Cover up to $ 100,000;
• This is one of a kind insurance, which includes even more:
• Refund between $ 500 and $1500 for loss or theft of personal luggage or documents;
• Third Party Civil Liability Insurance;
• Legal services of up to $20 500 in case of an accident or theft, except in a case of a committed crime by the participant;

What you should know about the insurance?

WAT US is special program and because of that we offer you special Work and Travel insurance. It has been developed by US insurance experts and a CIEE advisory team.

• Access to more than 672 000 healthcare facilities, with locating the nearest center – tool, found on a detailed website
• 100% payment of all covered medical expenses
• No filling medical claims
• Cover up to $ 100,000
• Payment of doctor prescriptions

This is one of a kind insurance, which includes more

• Refund between $ 500 and $ 1500 for loss or theft of personal luggage or documents
• Third Party Civil Liability Insurance
• Legal services of up to $ 20 500 in case of an accident or theft, except in a case of a committed crime by the participant

Send a question

Call our consultants.

+359 2 80 50 600

Visit the nearest INTEGRAL office

News and offers via email