Following a summer of record-breaking travel, industry officials are encouraging those planning Thanksgiving or year-end holidays to book flights, rental cars and accommodations as soon as possible to ensure best availability, flexibility and savings.
“Almost every aspect of travel is in high demand. Cruises are selling out, air travel is unrelenting and hotel rooms are at a premium, especially over the holidays,” says Kara Hitchens, spokesperson for AAA. “All travel trends point to a holiday season that will be busier than ever so now is the time to book.”
Booking as soon as travel decisions are made will increase the opportunity for a positive, stress-free experience.
“Since May, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has recorded its 10 busiest days in the agency’s history,” saie Hitchens. “AAA anticipates the same enthusiasm for travel through the year-end holiday period and encouraging everyone to plan accordingly.”
Here are Ten tips to ensure the best flying experience and minimize risk of disruptions:
1. Work with a travel advisor who will not only assist in exploring your options, but will be able to advocate on your behalf should your flights or travel plans be disrupted in any way.
2. Look for flights that leave in the morning, allowing extra time throughout the day. Flights later in the day are more susceptible to an increase in cancellations, rescheduling or delays due to weather, short staffing or other unforeseen circumstances.
3. Try to fly a day or two ahead of when your cruise or tour departs or when you need to be at your destination so if your flight is delayed or disrupted, you don’t lose the whole trip.
4. Schedule long layovers, with a two-hour minimum to allow plenty of time for unexpected delays.
5. Buy travel insurance to protect your investment and choose one that provides coverage for travel interruption and additional expenses.
6.Check in at least 24 hours in advance, print a copy of your boarding pass if possible and take a copy of your e-ticket with you.
7. Review the US DOT Aviation Consumer Protection site to understand your rights as a passenger, particularly regarding delays, cancellations and rebooking requirements.
8. Plan to arrive two hours before domestic flights and up to three hours for international flights. Parking garages, TSA security checkpoints and other airport services may have long lines.
9. Download and familiarize yourself with the app of the airline you’ll be flying. Most airlines allow you to check in for your flight, access boarding passes, track your bags, and change/cancel a flight. Plus, some airlines promote in-flight entertainment through their app.
10. Enroll in pre-screening programs for shorter, quicker lines, such as TSA PreCheck, Clear or Global Entry.
AAA