AIRLINE TRAVEL BASICS
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First, get on the internet and examine the flight schedules of popular airlines. Find the closests airport to your destination. Sometimes this means you will fly into a major airport and take a smaller plane to your final destination. To reduce your stress [even though it may cost a little more] look for direct flights. Some airlines specialize in non-stop flights to certain locations, such as Air Jamaica. Big airlines like Delta or American fly to many destinations, both locally and overseas.
Second, consider what time of day or night do you get in [their time] and the length of time it will take you to get from the airport to your destination once you land. Is the airport really close to your hotel, or is it an hour away? If needed, shop for a rental car agency while you are looking at your airlines or find out if your destination has a shuttle to pick you up. Third, there are many "speciality" airlines, such as Vacation Express, that offer round trip charter flights at a reduced cost. Often, packages can be booked through a travel agent that will include your airfare, hotel stay, and even food and drinks for one price. Fourth, remember that most charter flights are "no frills". So if you are looking for something beyond the basics, you will need to avoid a charter flight. The airlines, cruises and countries require: 2 forms of ID [such as driver's license and passport], and also a copy of your marriage license [if your name has changed.] Determine three to four months ahead if you will need a passport, or simply a birth certificate if you are traveling outside the USA. BEING IN THE AIRPORT Check your ticket package, it will often state what time you should be in the airport ahead of the flight time. It is a hurry-up and wait attitude. I like to get to the airport and then have a relaxed meal or window-shop for awhile, and many people bring a good book. PACKING There are so many items we cannot include in our luggage and carry-ons. Check with your airlines to find out what is on the list. Plan to purchase these missing items upon arrival. Yes, it is difficult to give up your favorites, but they will just throw them away in front of you. Ugh! It is not wise to bring your social security card -- leave it locked up at home. Credit cards that insure your purchases are a good choice. Most airports have money exchanges in the airports upon arrival Customs rules entering a country vary from one to another - but you can be held up for a long time if you decide to break these rules - find out ahead of time what they are and abide by them. Their jails and treatment are not as nice as ours. Customs rules returning to the U.S. and duty free items should be packed in a separate tote bag for quick accessibility upon return. When your bags are lost - this is usually temporary and will arrive in 24 hours. We always pack a fresh set of underwear and one outfit + a swim suite in our totes - just in case. |