Travel Hints

Air Travel Tips

• If your flight gets cancelled, instead of running with the crowd to the airport counter, try calling your travel agent or the airline to get a new reservation.
• If you have carry-on bags, think about getting a seat assignment toward the back of the plane. You board first and have easier time stowing your bags.
• To avoid being delayed at the airport, call the airline before leaving to be sure the flight is scheduled to leave on time.
• If your flight is delayed you may be entitled to a refund, even on a nonrefundable ticket!
• If you'd like a better seat on your flight be sure to ask at check-in. Bulk-head and exit-row seats are usually last to be assigned and may be available.
• Extra time in-between flights? Often you can use the executive lounge of an airline for a one time use fee, usually around $25.
• Need to alleviate ear pressure when flying? Place a hot cloth in cup and hold it over your ear. Try it, it works!
• Using your laptop in-flight? Since different airlines need different adapters, you'll need to bring a PowerXtender, a PowerCharger, and an Auto/Air Adapter to be "plugged in" no matter who you fly.

International Tips

• When traveling to a foreign country, familiarize yourself with local laws and customs of the countries to which you are traveling. Remember while in a foreign country, you are subject to its laws.
• Need a passport? There is usually an additional fee involved if you need it within 14 days. So request it as early as possible to avoid those additional charges.
• If you lose your passport while traveling, immediately contact the Embassy or Consulate for assistance.

Miscellaneous Tips

• Make photocopies of your prescriptions for medicines and eye-glasses, as well as credit cards. This will speed the process of obtaining new ones while on the road.
• Traveling out of the country alone with your child? Be sure to have a letter of consent from the other parent, you may need it prior to crossing the border.
• Always be sure to keep a copy of your ID / passport in your luggage and at home. This is an huge asset in case of theft or loss.

Money Saving Tips

• Flying close to a holiday and want the cheapest fare? Try flying on the holiday itself!
• Using your laptop on the road. Connections fees may be higher then you normally pay. Be sure to check before you connect!
• Did you know…making a local or international call through hotels' in-room telephone service is really expensive. For cheaper rates, use a long distance calling card!
• Are you continually traveling to the same destination? For cheaper rates, check out corporate housing on extended stays of more then a week. You can go home for the weekends and still keep the lower rates!
• How to avoid those expensive refueling charges when renting a car…before you drive away from the airport, note the location of a gas station. When returning the car you will know where to refuel!
• Save money…before purchasing the insurance when renting a car check out if your company, credit card, or personal insurance covers you.

Packing Tips

• Oh no, not wrinkles! Keep clothing wrinkle free by "rolling" articles in dry-cleaning bags when packing.
• Get your tape measures…carry-on bags should be no more then approximately 22x9x14in.
• Place any breakable items, like perfume or cologne, in plastic baggies prior to packing. This way, if they break your clothes are spared the mess!

 Safety Tips

• When using a pay phone, avoid isolated phones or ones with limited lighting. Face outward while calling to stay alert to possible intruders and hang onto your belongings.
• Being prepared could save your life! When boarding your fight or checking into your hotel room, always note the emergency exits in relation to your seat or room.
• When staying in a hotel, try to stay between the second and seventh floor. This can help to avoid break-ins while remaining in reach of emergency ladders.
• Always be sure to request automatic locks when renting a car. This is a valuable safety measure when driving and parking in unfamiliar areas.