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If you are planning to take a vacation this summer you may be looking forward to beaches, sight-seeing, and shopping but you're probably dreading the travel involved in getting to your destination. Airfares are rising, flights are crowded and often late, and skyrocketing fuel prices mean that road travel is no longer the most affordable option. But by planning ahead and using these travel tips, your journey can be almost as pleasant as the vacations itself.
By air:
• Buy your tickets as soon as you can; the longer you wait, the higher prices will climb. Plus you'll have a better choice of seating.
• Book an early morning flight to lessen the chances of delays and cancellations.
• Avoid layovers whenever possible; though it may be more expensive to book a direct flight, your chances of getting stranded at the airport increase dramatically when you have to make a connection.
• If you have to make a connection, try to book a seat close to the front of the plane in case you have to rush to catch your next flight.
• Call to check the status of your flight before you leave home.
• Check in online before heading to the airport and use the skycap to check your bags curbside. You can avoid the lines and head directly to security.
• You've heard it before but it's worth repeating: arrive early at the airport. This is one of the few parts of air travel that you can control so take advantage of it.
• Consider using a travel agent; you'll pay more but if your flight gets cancelled or delayed you can simply call your agent to get you on the next flight while everyone else stands in the rebooking line for hours.
• If you didn't book through a travel agent and you experience a cancellation or delay, call the airline's reservation center instead of going to the counter to be rebooked; you won't have to wait and you'll have a better pick of available flights.
On the road:
• Make sure your tires meet the manufacturer's recommended pressure. Over or under-inflated tires can reduce your gas mileage and lead to poor handling and blowouts.
• Make a packing list ahead of time and include only what you need. A filled-to-the-brim car reduces visibility and gas mileage.
• Pack a cooler with bottled water and healthy, filling snacks to avoid fast food stops that make you feel sluggish and slow down your trip.
• As you pack the car, keep items at easy access that you may need at rest stops, gas stations, and hotels.
• Buy a car emergency kit and pack water, a flashlight, a blanket, and first-aid supplies if your emergency kit doesn't include them.
• Take the scenic route whenever possible to make the drive more pleasant. |
