Over the last few years, booking holidays and flights online has become the ‘norm’ almost. It is an easy and quick way to make your reservations.
First Time Traveler?
However, if it is your first trip overseas, then it may pay to book with a respected travel agency so that you can feel secure that everything is correct. Just remember in peak times and seasons, many airlines overbook! So get to the airport early.
What the internet does provide is a way for you to research all the best times, prices, airlines and routes you may like to take to your holiday destination – then take that with you to a travel agent.
Likewise, with reservations for your holiday accommodation. There are sites that specialize in discount airlines and tickets, discount or cheap hotels and other accommodation – just be sure that they are reliable. This is true for domestic and international airline flying.
Just be sure you understand the restrictions – such as cost of changes in flying times, baggage, meals etc. Many discounted tickets have very few options regarding change of plans. Lat minute plane tickets are good if you are sure of your dates and times.
With domestic flights in Europe or the States, there is no need for a travel agent usually. The online booking systems are flexible and efficient. Also, it is the only way to get the cheapest prices for both planes and accommodation.
When booking online, you can also choose your preferred seating, if you book well ahead in time! Added to this, you can indicate your preferred dietary requirements (e.g. vegetarian) and find out about baggage limits.
Basic tips for Flying
Weigh your baggage / luggage to ensure it will not exceed the maximum allowable limits set by the airline, otherwise you may have to pay a substantial extra fee per lb / Kg, and there is no guarantee then that it will be on the same flight as you.
Always confirm your flight prior to departure, get to the airport with plenty of time for security checks and ticket check in.
Customs and Duty Free
Make sure you know what the customs regulations are for all ports of entry – they vary – e.g. for amounts of tobacco and alcohol. Some countries prohibit bringing in alcohol as well. There are also varied restrictions regarding plants, animals and fruit.
Be Secure
Always securely lock your baggage to prevent anyone sneaking something into it (e.g. drugs) – it does happen!
If you intend to become a regular air traveler – consider joining a frequent flyer program – there can be real benefits such as upgrades, access to lounges, priority boarding and seating, extra luggage allowance.
Health tips for long flights
Especially for long flights, it is recommended that you periodically get up and move around to reduce the likelihood of DVTs, and cramps. Wear comfortable clothing.
If you can restrict your alcohol and caffeine intake as these speed up dehydration.
Entertainment on flights
All long distance flights have entertainment options – audio and video. In mant cases you can also use your own laptop or iPad to watch movies and play games.
What Class to fly?
Everyone would of course prefer First Class – but the prohibitive cost usually precludes the vast majority of travelers. It rarely is value for money.
However, there are often ‘sales’ where you can get Business Class at very affordable rates – that is, much better than usual. The benefit of course is better seating, priority, food and so on.
It is almost as good a First Class, and much better value for the buck. This is especially true for airlines that have newer planes on their long distance hauls.
Premium – an option
Another option is the recent addition of premium economy seats – business class seats and legroom, but none of the other business class frills. Also, the seats won’t fold as flat for sleeping – but for a bit extra in cost it is worth considering if you are on a long distance route
Economy class – well, in most planes ‘cattle’ class is an apt description. However, the new Airbus 380 and some airlines are slowly improving the leg room.
For more practical ideas and safe travel
