It's possible to purchase a refundable plane ticket by paying a little more (refundable before the flight, not after). I do this whenever I travel from Colombia to the US. I reserve hotel rooms only if they can be refunded, as well. In fact, I'll be traveling to the US the week of October 19th (I'll be in Illinois for part of the week, but I'm not going to Lena lol) and I've purchased a refundable ticket. I've had to request a refund in the past. A refundable ticket is the only type of ticket I'll purchase even though it costs a little more. Brugg should be made aware of this option. He can change dates of his travel with such a fare, too.