Memorial Day holiday is about four weeks away and soon-to-be travelers are already gearing up for their next exodus. However, with so many tourists booking for their next destination, prices and availability may start to go up. To help with your travels, News Center 7 collected tips to keep your vacation stress-free and easy on your wallet.
>> TRENDING: Miami Valley sees record-breaking low temperatures today
More travelers are booking international flights and accommodations this year, which AAA said is up 200 percent compared to 2022. The TSA is now warning tourists that summer airline passenger levels are expected to be “comfortably above” pre-pandemic numbers.
Despite airline ticket prices running 20 to 30 percent higher than 2022, Delta Airlines reported a record number of advance bookings for summer travel, a spokesperson for AAA stated.
As a result, the auto club warned travelers to prepare for busy roads, rails, and skies this summer.
“No surprise, for travelers who want the best choice of options for their vacation, now is the best time to book a summer trip,” AAA Public and Government Affairs Manager Kara Hitchens said. “Waiting too long could mean sold-out cruises or tours and limited availability for hotel rooms.”
However, there are opportunities for people who have flexible schedules and are not set on a destination to save money. Travelers can also find last-minute deals this summer if they do not mind flying during off-peak days and hours.
AAA offered the following tips for this summer’s vacation:
- When booking, aim for the first morning flight. It’s more likely to depart on time because mornings have less air traffic congestion and fewer weather delays, especially in the summer. Early flights also give you more flexibility if there is a delay or cancelation and you need to reschedule.
- Reserve airport parking ahead of time to save time on your departure day.
- With the TSA projecting pre-pandemic numbers this summer, it’s key to arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before domestic flights, 3 hours before international flights. Remember, international hubs will be extra packed with passengers this season.
- Sign up for TSA PreCheck® or Clear to speed up the security process. AAA Mid-Atlantic locations regularly host pop-up TSA Pre-Check® Sign up events. You can check here for an upcoming event near you.
- Avoid checking a bag. Carry-on luggage allows you to be more flexible if there’s a delay or cancelation.
- Make sure your phone is fully charged. Download the airline’s app to receive notifications and use FlightAware to track your aircraft the day of departure.
- Know your passenger rights. Read the airline’s “Condition of Carriage” online to understand how you are protected in case of delays, cancelations, and misconnections.
- Have your confirmation number or record locator handy, in case there’s a delay or cancelation and you need to rebook quickly. If you’re trying to reach the airline by phone, try their international numbers or rewards numbers, which can sometimes answer faster.
- Weather is an “Act of God” – not the fault of the airline - and travelers may be on their own to rebook flights. An advantage of working with a trusted travel advisor is that they can help you with rebooking options. AAA offers complimentary emergency travel assistance for travelers who worked with an advisor.
- If a flight is canceled due to what is in the control of the airline, like a mechanical issue, the airline is responsible for rebooking passengers and providing some amenities, like food or lodging. For info, see the DOT website: https://www.transportation.gov/airconsumer/fly-rights.
© 2023 Cox Media Group
