Study these air travel tips because travel by plane, car, train or boat has never been as challenging for families. Plan for under-staffing and over-waiting at every part of your journey.
We understand travel hassles; we’ve been there, done that. Road rage has taken to the skies, coupled with sky-high prices, confusion about carry-ons and traveler mistrust. Expect misinformation on service animals, exorbitant fees for seat reservations, glitches in airport software and less than stellar customer service at most airlines.
With expectations like that about getting there, you won’t be disappointed if everything goes awry!
Flyer Rights Now Protected In U.S…. Sort of!
The good news? Several consumer groups pushed the Biden-Harris Administration to improve the airfare refund process and make airlines responsible to consumers. Now, both the U.S. and E.U. provide some compensation for extreme flight delays and flight cancellations if something goes wrong. (Note that weather delays, out of the airlines’ control, are often exempt from these rules.)
The U.S. Department of Transportation offers information on what’s available if domestic air travel schedules are not met. They’ve also made progress in guaranteeing that families sit together on flights. (Check out their chart on which airlines comply with Family Seating regulations.) The European Union compensation may cover customer care, rebooking of flights and even full reimbursement of flights gone wrong.
It’s pretty confusing! We’ve found the free app AirHelp, which tracks flights, delays and alerts you to possible compensation, really helpful. They also have a subscription product ideal for frequent travelers.
And for all the other grief? Take to social media, as those customer service reps are in a hurry to make you happy.
Air Travel Tips + Preparing for International Travel
Preparation is the best antidote to dreading travel. Before you go, evaluate the current safety situation at your destination. The State Department alerts U.S. citizens to possible risks of travel on their website, and it’s worth a look.
Do due diligence about who you’ve booked that wonderful bargain trip with. Make sure you book with a professional, whether online or in person. Ask if they have an emergency contact to call 24/7 should you need assistance rebooking flights, finding host keys or changing hotel or condo units.
Make sure your paperwork is in order and, if you’ve paid a deposit or non-refundable fee, that you understand the terms. Travel insurance is essential in our book; every family should look into purchasing a policy. Safeguarding your home is another essential; there are many security systems that you can monitor from a distance with a cellphone. Ask neighbors to keep their eyes open in your absence.
The official site, Travel.State.Gov, is a great clearing house for resources at your new destination. The British agency U.K. Government Travel Abroad Tips is another helpful resource packed with common sense safety tips.
Customs And Border Crossing Air & Land Travel Tips
Additionally, here’s expertise shared by the US Dept. of Homeland Security, TSA, U.S. Customs and Border Protection and a lot of experienced travelers to make your next vacation smooth, safe and as free of hassles as possible.
1. Avoid Fines Caused by Ignorance
Avoid fines and penalties associated with coming back to the U.S. with prohibited items. Familiarize yourself with the “Know Before You Visit” section of the CBP website.
2. Use Border Wait Times Productively if you can
Monitor border wait times through the CPB app for various ports of entry. Be prepared to declare all items acquired abroad and have your approved travel documents available for inspection.
3. Be Ready for your Customs Inspection
International border crossers should expect a thorough inspection when entering the U.S. from Canada or Mexico. As we read daily, CBP officers (including ICE) have the authority to conduct enforcement examinations without a warrant.
4. Make Sure Your Papers and the Kids’ Papers Are In Order
Adults traveling with minors under age 18 who are not in their sole legal custody (such as children of divorced parents, grandkids, friends of your kids, sports team, etc.) must have a written, notarized Permission to Travel Letter signed by each minor’s legal guardians to cross borders.
5. Get to the Airport Early So You’re Not So Frazzled
Arrive early to cope with lengthier security checkpoints and holiday crowds. It’s true whether you’re flying domestically or internationally. You may get through Security quickly, but hey — airport cuisine has improved dramatically!
6. What’s Up with Liquids, Gels Etc in Carry-Ons
The hand luggage inspection process seems, in our frustrated experience, to be dependent on the officer in charge. Existing procedures like storing liquids and gels in 3-ounce bottles in a zip-loc bag, and removing jackets, shoes and laptops for screening remain in place at soome airports. We had a 6 oz. container of cream cheese confiscated because “spreadables” are no longer allowed. (Although cream cheese on your bagel is no problem.)
7. Get Precheck But Be Smart About Using It. Choose Your Security Line Carefully!
TSA Precheck may not save you any time. At security-savvy airports like LGA and SFO, many more people are in the Precheck Line than in the general security line. Take advantage of that irony to speed through the General Security Line. You must pull out electronics, but your Precheck Status means you can still keep shoes and jackets on. Note that children under 12 and seniors age 75+ are exempt from having to remove their shoes anway!
8. Don’t Be Shy About Using Family Lanes at Airport Security
TSA has Family Lanes at every security checkpoint which are designed for passengers who need more time. That means anyone with young children, those with special needs, or those who may process through the security checkpoints very slowly. Take advantage.
9. Prepare Your Unaccompanied Minors for Travel
For boarding documents, only children over age 18 need to have a government-issued Photo ID. Use our air travel tips page about kids traveling alone as Unaccompanied Minors and make sure they have some ID that matches the name on their boarding pass.
10. Check Baggage. If You Hate The Fees, Get An Airline’s Credit Card
Check as much baggage as you can. Checked baggage is screened separately. Avoid the hassle of screening small containers of baby sunblock and infant formula. E-scooters and other products with Lithium-Ion batteries are a no-no. Remember, other items your kids might carry — and children themselves – may be subject to further screening.
Best Air Travel Tip: Don’t Rush. Be Calm About The Wait
Air travelers have to arrive earlier than in the past for their flight. Two hours for domestic flights and three hours before international flights is the latest standard. (Our kids never do this, they breeze in 30 minutes before the “Gate Closes” time and have never missed a flight. Go figure.)
The inevitable longer waits makes an airport lounge irresistable. Buy passes through credit card companies or sites such as LoungePass. Free snacks, WiFi and maybe a Chardonnay definitely make the wait more pleasant.
After all, getting there should be as much fun as being there.
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