Frequently Asked Questions

What exactly does a Budmum Buddy do?

We meet your loved ones at the curbside drop-off, handle their luggage, and assist with check-in at the kiosks or counters. If the traveler has requested wheelchair assistance from the airline, we ensure a smooth, safe handoff to the airline's official wheelchair staff. If no wheelchair service is requested, we guide them to the TSA entrance where they will proceed with their carry-on luggage on their own.

Do you go through security to the gate with the traveler?

No. Our services are strictly "landside" (pre-security). We stay with the traveler until they are safely handed off at the TSA entrance or to official airline staff (such as wheelchair attendants).

Which airports do you serve?

We currently operate exclusively at San Francisco International Airport (SFO). We plan to expand to other airports across the USA soon!

How far in advance do I need to book?

We require at least 24 hours' notice for all bookings to ensure we can properly schedule a Buddy for your traveler.

What are your operating hours?

Our operating hours vary based on our Buddies' availability. When you fill out the booking form, you will be able to see and select from the available time slots for your specific date.

Do you provide transportation to the airport?

No, we do not provide ground transportation. You are responsible for booking your own ride (e.g., Uber, Lyft, taxi, or family drop-off) to the airport.

How do we find our Buddy at the airport?

You will stay in touch with your assigned Budmum Buddy via phone or SMS to coordinate the exact curbside meeting point and ETA. Please share the make, model, color, and license plate number of the vehicle dropping off the traveler so we can easily spot them. If the traveler is using a rideshare service like Uber or Lyft, we highly recommend sharing the live ride tracking link with your Buddy. We also suggest having the Google Meet app downloaded in case a video call is needed to help locate each other at the busy curbside.

How much does it cost?

Trip pricing is dynamic and varies based on the airport, time, and date. The exact price for your specific flight will be shown during the form submission process.

What is your cancellation policy?

For individual trip bookings:

• If the airline cancels the flight in advance, we are happy to issue a refund for the booking.
• If the customer cancels the Budmum booking within 6 hours of the flight, no refund is provided. This policy is in place to respect our Buddies, who organize their daily schedules around these commitments.

Can I change my booking date, time, or traveler info?

Yes, changes can be made by emailing customer support, subject to the following conditions:

• Date/Time Changes: Must be requested at least 24 hours in advance of the flight and are subject to availability. In some cases, we will refund the original booking and ask you to create a new one. Last-minute changes are not permitted.
• Traveler Info: Correcting a mistake in the traveler's information is fine. However, increasing the number of travelers will incur an extra cost based on our system's pricing.

Are your Buddies medically trained?

No. Budmum Buddies provide logistical travel companionship and physical assistance with luggage. We are not doctors, nurses, or licensed caregivers, and cannot administer medication or perform medical transfers.

Do you provide wheelchairs?

No. You must request wheelchair assistance directly from your airline prior to the flight. We will help navigate to the check-in counter and wait until the airline-provided wheelchair staff arrives.

Email us at contact@budmum.com.