Traveling for many years, I have learned how to become a travel professional. There are multiple factors to take into consideration when you are booking a trip. You could be booking it for yourself or someone else. A lot of factors go into consideration when booking a trip. Are you booking airfare, car rental, hotel, or are you booking all of it?
People may also have specific travel requests when they are traveling. Maybe you need to book a certain hotel? Maybe you are booking for someone who does not like to be near an elevator at a hotel or near an ice machine.
1. Flying
When booking airfare, it’s important to research the airline you are flying. What are the carry-on bag restrictions? Do you have a known traveler number? Is that something you are interested in to avoid having to wait in the long line of security? You also need to make sure that if you are carrying on, anything in your carry-on bag is approved and not over the limit of ounces, and that your items are approved for carry-on. Are you traveling with pets?
That’s huge, it can be very stressful, and there are many restrictions when flying with a pet. The size of the pet carrier matters, and the size of the dog. More and more people are flying with their pets. It’s important to make sure to do your research beforehand to avoid any complications when you get to the airport
2. Car Rentals
When renting a car, you should do your research ahead of time as well. You want your travel to be as easy and convenient as possible. Check to see if the airport has car rental availability on site, or do you have to take a shuttle to get to the car rental location?
Also, consider adding your flight information to your car rental (that is an option) with your airline and flight info. This will ensure you have a car ready and waiting for you, no matter what time you land (flights do get delayed). If you are going to use an outside source of transportation, such as Uber, Lyft, or other outside ride share services, book them in advance for a pickup time, so you are not waiting. Also, make sure you know where the pickup location is, so you know exactly where to go to be picked up once you land.
3. Hotels
Hotels can definitely be a challenge at times, but again, doing your research ahead of time will help to make your travel less stressful. Take into consideration what time of the year you are traveling? Is it during a slow time of the year, or when kids are out of school and everyone is on vacation, or Spring break? I have had great experiences with Expedia. You can even book all of your travel with them directly if you choose; you might get a better deal if you bundle everything. If you have points from a credit card, use those toward your hotel stay. It can definitely save you some money. Every little bit helps.
4. Eating/Drinking While Traveling
Eating can be extremely expensive when you are traveling, especially at the airport. My recommendation, before you leave for the airport, get something in your tummy before you get there so you are not hungry. If you like the occasional Bloody Mary, just know that most of them will only make a double (because it costs more). Grab snacks when you get through security to bring on the plane, or just get those free peanuts/drinks or whatever the airline offers that’s included on your flight.
Before you get to your destination, research restaurants around the area you will be staying in. You can probably make reservations in advance, so you are not stressing last minute on where to eat. If you can’t make reservations, just research their menu, hours, and pricing so you have an idea of what to expect. Be sure to look at the restaurant reviews, too! If you do need a quick breakfast, fast food is an option, of course, but do your research, look for coupons, and maybe try to make healthier choices.
5. Be Prepared
Last but not least, be prepared. Get a travel checklist. Make sure you have your driver’s license, passport, if needed. Are you taking any type of medication? Do you have enough of it? Be sure to have any medical cards with you, credit cards, and of course, cash. Check to make sure you have your cell phones, other devices, and chargers for those devices.
Please, please also make sure you have a travel bag for all of your toiletries, such as shampoo, conditioner, toothpaste, floss, deodorant, and travel perfume if you want. You can find all of these items in travel sizes, usually at Target, Walmart, or even Amazon. Make sure you start preparing for your trip well in advance. If you don’t, you will most likely forget something!
Those are my top 5 tips! Good luck, all, and happy and safe travels.
