Air travel is becoming increasingly more challenging and expensive. The average traveler often struggles to deal with unexpected flight delays and cancellations, lost luggage, and skyrocketing ticket prices. Planning your next trip doesn’t have to be difficult if you follow the advice a travel journalist and frequent flyer shared with Today.com.
Here are five things he always recommends travelers do when going on vacation:
Buy trip insurance. It’s typically a low cost compared to the value of your total trip and will protect you if things go awry, like if your flight was canceled and you missed your cruise. Be sure to check with your credit card company as many provide trip insurance when you charge your vacation.
Consider alternate airports. If you live in a major metropolitan area, sometimes you can get a better deal if you check nearby airports. The savings could be worth a longer drive.
Look at regional carriers. Don’t assume you have to fly one of the big airlines. Regional airlines, which often fly in and out of regional airports rather than large, international airports, offer highly competitive pricing.
Use tracking devices. The worst way to start a vacation is to realize your luggage has been lost. Invest in a tracking device, such as the popular Apple AirTag, so that you can help track down your suitcase if it doesn’t make it to your destination.
Don’t dawdle. Experts say, “There is no magic day date time to score a deal.” It’s best to book as soon as you know your travel dates, as flights fill up fast these days. If you have an ideal price in mind, search engines offer tracking that will alert you if the price of your flight drops.
The bottom line is that passengers need to be proactive these days to ensure they are getting the best travel experience possible at the best price.
Message The Seniors Trust on Facebook or Twitter and share your suggestions on what else travelers can do to reduce stress and save money on their next trip.
