Now that most airlines are charging you extra for a lot of things it might be a good idea to ship your bags. Also read the contracts of any travel disclosures about protecting yourself and your belongings. Also be sure to check your airlines refund policy (contract of carriage) and and know your rights on flight changes, bumps, delays and cancellations.
(If you are bumped from your original scheduled flight Airlines must first ask for volunteers and then pay passengers who are bumped against their will, usually up to $400 cash on domestic flights if you are forced to reschedule and reach your destination between one and two hours of the original arrival time, price could double to $800 if it takes longer then 2 hours. it's better to take cash instead of a voucher because of the limitations with vouchers. Always be polite with Airlines personal when bargaining).
Sign up for airline "alerts" for quick notification of delays or cancellations. Know before your flight what other airlines are flying to your destination so incase of cancellations you can call them or ask gate agents for availability then go directly to their terminal. Try to buy your plane tickets 2 to 4 months in advanced. Much sooner if you are flying during a holiday peak season. Sometimes buying your ticket less then 21 days before you fly may save money but not that often. Early morning departures & arrivals are less likely to have delays. For best prices search for tickets on a Tuesday, Wednesday, Saturday Morning or a Monday (after midnight or 5pm) and try to fly on a Saturday, Tuesday or Wednesday. If not flying directly non-stop, always check pricing on connecting flights from other cities and alternate airports near your desired airport for better deals. Being flexible can save. Don't forget to look at first-class seating for specials. Always check directly with an airline or hotel too for special prices and extras. Airlines & hotels usually have weekly deals so signing up for e-mail alerts on their website for price breaks is a good idea too. Traveling off season can save money too: (Europe Nov. 1st - March 15th) (Caribbean Sept. 1st - Dec. 15th) (South America, Australia, New Zealand May 1st - October) Faster Security Screening Tips:
All liquids, gels & aerosols are under 3 ounces or pack your liquids in your checked bags. Choose pants that don’t require a belt so before you reach the check point empty your pockets and place your watch, keys, cell phone, belt and loose change in your carry-on. Wear easily removable footwear such as flip-flops or slip-ons or loosely lace your shoes for easy removal. Travel with just a carry-on or ship your luggage to your destination. Before heading to your airport, check the TSA’s Website for each checkpoint’s average wait time. Security Measures & Banned items Low Impact Travel Tips Atmosfair Green Travel Travel Advice |
and then the only bag you need to check in for flying is a