Posts Tagged ‘planning a trip’

Planning for a trip can sometimes be stressful regardless of the amount of time you have in preparation for the trip.  There are just so many things to consider and so many things to plan for.  On top of that, you are always wondering what to bring and what to leave behind.  And the airport security restrictions do not help ease the stress.

Here are some tips to help you have a smooth and worry-free trip:

Packing Your Things

Packing your things is probably the most important part of your trip.  This is because you do not want to leave something behind that you might desperately need during your trip.

When flying, it is important to remember that when you get to the airport, you will have to follow certain procedures that the airlines implement.

1.  No liquids on board.

One of the rules that is strictly implemented is the no-liquids rule.  In fact, flight security will not even let you take liquids past the security checkpoint.  This includes:

• beverages
• toothpaste
• liquid deodorant
• lotion
• lip gloss
• aerosols

If you are used to packing these items in your carry-on bag, it is time that you consider transferring these items into your checked-in luggage.  After all, you do not want the security officers to confiscate these items from you.

If you really must bring a liquid item with you on the flight, what you can do is to pack a small 3-ounce sized item into a clear zipper-top bag and pack the larger bottles of liquids into your checked in luggage.

2.  Wear shoes that are easy to remove.

Another thing to remember is that you will be required to take off your shoes at the security checkpoint.  In this regard, it is advisable that you choose a pair of shoes that will be easy to remove and equally easy to wear.  Slip ons and sneakers are good options.

Wearing shoes which are difficult to remove will slow the flow of traffic moving through the check point and may cause the security officers and fellow travelers to feel impatient and/or irritated.  If you really must change your shoes after the checkpoint, pack the pair you intend to wear in your carry-on bag; it will make the process much easier.

Arriving at the Airport

In general, it is best to arrive at the airport at least two hours before your departure time.  Keep in mind that the boarding process starts between 30 to 40 minutes prior to departure.   This means, that you only have a little over an hour to go through the whole airline process from checking in to passing through the security measures.

You may be required to print your ticket at the check-in station depending upon how you reserved your ticket.  Always keep the following information and documents handy:

• ticket record locator (normally a 13-digit number)
• confirmation number
• driver’s license (or other state-issued ID)

After printing your ticket, you will now check your bag(s) at the counter.  Once they have taken your luggage, you are now ready to go through the security checkpoint.

The Security Checkpoint

Make sure that you have your ID and boarding pass ready before you proceed at the security checkpoint.  This is the first thing you will need when you arrive at the checkpoint.

Once you get past this, you will need to remove your shoes, your zip-lock bag with liquids, any electronic device and metal objects including your belt, etc.  Place this on the belt that moves through an x-ray machine together with all your carry-on bags.  You then be required to walk through a metal detector.

Once you successfully pass through the security checkpoint and gather your items, the only thing left to do is to board the plane.

Happy traveling!

My husband and I are planning a trip to Europe (London and Paris minimum) for 1-2 weeks at the end of August. What are the best tour companies to consider?

I am a regular American planning a trip to Europe with my brother. It will probably be a two week affair. I am looking for any tips that people might have onwhat to bring and how to “backpack” across Europe as well as places to stay and monetary advice. I am a college student with limited cash flow and any advice on how to scrimp and save would be great, as well as locations that would be good to travel to.

Traveling during the holiday season is always stressful regardless of whether you are traveling with friends or with family.  To ease out the stress, it is always best to plan well.  Below are some holiday travel tips to help keep your vacation as stress-free as possible:

1.  Avoid Peak Dates

Before choosing a date for your trip, always research when the peak travel dates are and try to avoid these dates as much as possible because:

• • plane tickets, hotel rooms, car rentals, and more tend to be more expensive
  • everyone else will be traveling on those dates

To avoid the rush of travelers, plan your vacation time a few days before or after the peak period as much as possible.  This will almost always guarantee reductions in prices, holiday traffic and headaches.

2. Shop Around for the Best Deal

Always try to find the best deals.  Look for special discounts, package deals, flight discounts as well as hotel room and transportation specials.

Do a search on Google and look for websites that promote holiday travel discounts.  Some good sites are: Expedia, Travelocity and Cheaptickets.com among others.  Many airlines also offer great deals on their websites if you purchase directly from them.  You can also use SideStep.com if you want to use a side-by-side comparison of every flight special, sorted by price.

Many sites also promote vacation packages from three to five nights which includes meals and activities.  Some will even allow you to package in the use of a car if you need one.  Ultimately, the more specific you are when planning and the earlier you book, the better your results will be.

3.  Give Ample Time in Between Flights

It is always best to choose connecting flights that allow for at least an hour and a half of layover time.  While most people would choose a connecting flight that leaves as close as possible to the arrival of their first flight, doing so will cause you undue stress in the event that your first flight is delayed even by just a few minutes.

It is best to remember that one and a half to two hours isn’t that long when you consider the time that it takes to exit the plane, find the connecting flight’s departing gate and get settled before it is time to board the second plane.  Allowing yourself the extra time will also lessen the risk of you missing your next flight.

4.  Plan Your Packing In Accordance with Current Airport Security Measures

While some of the airport security measures seem to be unfair, always remember that it is something that you cannot change.  It is best to accept these measures and pack your belongings accordingly to avoid the hassle.

Pack all the liquids and gels that are larger than 3 ml in your checked in luggage.  This includes lotion, toothpaste, baby oil, aerosols (hairspray), perfume bottles, bottled water, etc.  If you choose to carry them through the checkpoint, be warned that they will find it and take it away from you. If you want to bring these liquids and gels with you on the plane, keep them below 3ml or smaller in a zip-top, clear bag.

By sticking to the rules, you and everyone in line behind you will be much happier.