TRAVEL TIPS
Get your passport now. It is good for 10 years. It can take up to 3 months to get. Have it on hand
so you are ready to go. For applications go to
Check passport expiration date. Many destinations require it to be valid 6 months after the scheduled
return date or it is considered expired. If it is getting close, renew.
Carry on essentials like prescription drugs and I.D. Be certain your carry on bag meets the size
restrictions of the airline. Only 1 carry on bag and a purse, laptop or briefcase is allowed.
No sharp objects or liquid of any kind will be allowed in the cabin of the plane. Place into your checked bag.
Carry on the least amount necessary to simplify the airport process.
New weight limit restrictions are in effect on most airlines. You are allowed 2 bags each, with each bag
not to excede 50#. For bags between 50-70#, there will be a $25 charge.
Ask what meals are being served. There are many to choose from. Call the airlines for special requests.
Headsets for movies are now bought to keep. Bring your own and save.
The best exchange rate is always gotten in the destination country. Charge what you can to your credit
cards for the best exchange. Exchange cash in the destination country. Nobody changes coin.
Credit card companies sometimes put a stop on your purchases when they see "unusual" charges.
Take an extra card in case you find yourself with a card that won't work.
Notify your CC company of your travel plans
Always carry a pocketful of small bills and change when entering or leaving a country - for tips, taxis, porters.
Photocopy your passport and other essential I.D. (c-card, drivers license, airline tickets). Leave one
copy at home, put one in your luggage, carry the originals. Not an official copy, but makes getting
it replaced or verifying your I.D. much easier in the event the original is lost or stolen.
If you get bumped on an airline - don't take the "free anywhere we fly" voucher. You are confined to
the available space the frequent flyers and all others fly free. Take a voucher for a dollar amount.
This is the same as cash toward the purchase of any ticket.
Standby on the same day as you're ticketed for travel now has a fee. In most cases it is $50.
Non-refundable tickets are now worthless if the flight is missed. Be sure to change your tickets prior
to the departure of the ticketed flight. This will incure a change fee, but you will not lose it all.
On overnight flights take a mild sleepaid and drink plenty of water. Avoid coffee, soda and alcohol.
If you are tall, arrive at the airport early for check in so you can request an exit row or a bulkhead seat.
These are only assigned at the airport counter.
Always be aware of local health problems before you arrive at a destination. Incidents are much
easier to avoid than to deal with.