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Travel Tips for the 21st Century

by Ken Knezick - Island Dreams Travel

Since 9/11, air travel has become an increasingly complex and potentially frustrating affair. Over time, additional regulations and restrictions are being added to the mix. Still, it is possible to travel safely, and enjoyably. With more than three decades of international travel under my weight belt, I find that I am still learning from my experiences...and my mistakes. The following suggestions are offered to make your travel as hassle free as possible.

• HURRY UP and WAIT -- Early arrival at the airport for check-in is now more important than ever. You will avoid many problems and much distress simply by arriving at the airport check-in counter a generous two hours or more in advance of your flight departure. In fact, on my most recent Singapore Airlines flight, they asked that we check in 3-1/2 hours prior to flight time.

  

• CONNECTING FLIGHTS -- When planning connecting flights, allow at least three hours for you and your luggage to change planes, especially when making an inter-airline connection and/or clearing Immigration and Customs. Cutting this too close can ruin a great trip before it even begins.

• FALL-BACK OPTION -- Avoid scheduling the last flight that will connect from your home airport to the major gateway. If your flight is late or cancelled due to weather or mechanical issues, your entire vacation may be placed be in jeopardy. If at all possible, book an earlier flight for a safety cushion.

• TRAVEL INSURANCE -- The best laid plans are still sometimes derailed by circumstances beyond our control. Disruptions due to unforeseen family health issues, hurricanes, current events, or simple mechanical failures will be much easier to tolerate if you know that your substantial vacation investment is protected. Now more than ever, travel insurance should be part of your plans for success. Follow this link to learn more: Travel Insurance Primer.

• PACKING FOR SUCCESS -- Baggage weight maximums are decreasing at the same time carry-on capacity and contents are being restricted. So no more kitchen sink, plus a backup -- we all must learn to pack ever more lightly and efficiently. Our checked luggage is also subject to greater scrutiny than ever before. My dive bag and camera case ice chest are often opened by the TSA inspectors. In a proactive response, I have begun to put a carefully worded note to them inside each bag, packed right on top. It explains the contents, assures that any dive lights have been securely locked in the off position, stresses that the components are delicate, and respectfully requests careful repacking. This straight-forward approach seems to have cut down on sloppy "rummaging around," as well as more extensive inspections.

  

• BAGGAGE WEIGHT LIMITS -- This is an aspect of air travel that is currently experiencing immense change. Be advised that most domestic flights are now limiting passengers to a single checked bag, with a maximum weight of 50 pounds. A second bag may be checked, but at an additional charge of $25 to $100 or more per bag. Some, but not all, international flights may still allow two bags at 50 pounds each. Overweight bags will be charged a penalty, or with increasing frequency simply denied loading aboard the aircraft. Carry-on bags are also being limited in both quantity and weight. Don't be surprised at the gate. Phone your airline in advance, and/or check with their web site, and ascertain current baggage allowances. Then pack accordingly, or be prepared to pay extra.

• WEIGH YOUR BAGS -- The bathroom scale is now an important part of packing for success. Don't try to pack the night before your trip. Start one week in advance, pack all you think you need, and then carefully weight each bag. Next remove some of that (now unnecessary) stuff, and repeat as needed. Scales differ so strive to bring it in a few pounds below the maximum.

• FREQUENT FLIERS -- In some cases elite members of frequent flier programs may receive more generous baggage allowances. This may become one of the most valuable benefits of gaining priority elite status on the airline you use most often. Check with your airline for current policies.

• EXTRA LUGGAGE -- It may be possible to purchase the right to check a third bag, at a cost of something like $125. In high capacity travel times however, it may no longer be possible to elect this option, at any price. Again, don't be stymied at the gate. Check with your airline in advance.

• TAG YOUR BAGS...INSIDE AND OUT -- It is surprising to note how many people arrive at the airport with no identification on their luggage. Wiser travelers will have at least two external tags securely affixed to each piece of luggage, and one taped inside the cover of each bag for good measure.

• WHAT TO WEAR FOR SMOOTHER CHECK-IN -- Almost all clothing accessories, including shoes, belts, hats, sweaters, jackets, etc. must be removed and sent through the x-ray machine. Simplify matters for yourself by wearing such items that are relatively easy for you to remove and re-don. On another note, wear at least one garment that has secure button-down or velcro pockets suitable to keeping your passport, wallet, pen, glasses and other critical items safely on your person. A travel shirt such as Ex Officio, "safari pants" with good button pockets, and/or a photo journalist style vest or jacket can be very helpful in securing important items.

• CARRY-ON LUGGAGE -- As of now travelers in the USA are limited to one carry-on bag, plus the equivalent of a purse, laptop bag, or small backpack. You are advised not to test the capacity limits, as your carry-on may be denied boarding, or forced to be checked. Plan and pack accordingly.

• WHAT SHOULD BE IN YOUR CARRY-ON BAG -- Carry-on only the most important items, such as your identification, airline tickets, vouchers and travel documents, any required medications in their original prescription container, cell phone, eye glasses, and reading materials.

• WHAT NOT TO CARRY-ON -- An extensive, and ever-growing, list concerns what may not be contained in your carry-on luggage. Newest restrictions forbid carrying on any liquid, gel, or lotion products. This includes water, toothpaste, many make-up products, and even things as seemingly innocuous as lip gloss. As anything battery-powered invites extra scrutiny, when possible, limit the amount of electronics you are carrying. As these policies are in a state of flux, you are strongly advised to access this TSA link for current data: Transportation Security Administration - Permitted and Prohibited Items

  

• HOT-BUTTON TOPICS -- In the airport and on the aircraft, never use hot-button words like bomb, terrorist, etc. This is simply not the time for humor. An offhand remark or attempt at a joke can quickly put you off the flight, and into big trouble. When clearing security, be patient, helpful, and relaxed. But don't try to be funny.

• VALUE OF A PASSPORT -- A U.S. Passport is one of the most valuable items you may ever own. Immigration restrictions are tightening worldwide. Destinations that once could be visited with only a driver's license and/or birth certificate are changing their requirements. If you intend to engage in international travel, make your passport application now. There is a backlog, and basic processing can take three or more months. As of this writing, new application fees total $97, and the passport is then valid for ten years. For details please visit: http://travel.state.gov/

• RENEW YOUR PASSPORT -- Many destinations now require that your passport remain valid for at least six months after conclusion of your visit. If your passport will expire within the next year, make immediate plans to process your renewal. As of this writing, renewal fees total $67. Again, details are here: http://travel.state.gov/

• TRAVEL WITH A SMILE -- Traveling to your exotic holiday destination can still be part of the fun. The most important things to have with you are all times are patience, a ready smile, and a sense of adventure. These simple attributes, obtained and offered free of charge, will help to make your airport and flight experiences more bearable for you and those around you, and your holiday more successful and satisfying.

MORE TRAVEL TIPS -- For additional ideas, please visit Island Dreams': International Travel Tips.

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