SKYLINK offers the following tips for air travel this season
Anyone planning to travel over the holidays this year is well-advised to make their reservations now for the best prices and availability. Working with a professional travel agent, can provide the greatest return on your holiday travel experience.
Planning a trip these days can be pretty stressful, especially for complicated holiday vacation travel, working with a professional travel advisor is one of the smartest decisions you can make. Thanks to our expertise, experience and industry connections, we can save you money, save you time and ensure you get a vacation experience that is just right for your needs.
SKYLINK offers the following tips for air travel this season:
- Book your ticket ASAP Booking early is sound advice, especially around the holiday season, as you will
find better rates and greater availability. If you must book last minute, remember, you have options. The
key to securing the best deal is flexibility in travel dates–ask us to check into holiday fares; the slow week
between Christmas and New Year’s; or consider flying into an alternate airport and renting a car. If your
holiday vacation includes international travel, make sure you have a valid passport. Some countries
require your passport to be valid for at least 6 months beyond the date of your trip. We can advise you on
the rules and how to apply.
- Arrive early. Difficult airport parking, long lines at security checkpoints and the possibility of the airline
overselling the flight and bumping passengers, should all be considered when deciding what time to
arrive at the airport. Give yourself plenty of extra time.
- Avoid getting bumped.
1) Get an advance seat assignment. Passengers with seat assignments are typically only bumped if they
arrive late and their seat assignment is released.
2) Check-in online. Most airlines allow you to do so within 24 hours of departure. Seat assignments that were
not available at the time of ticketing may be available when checking in online.
3) Don’t be late. If all else fails, get to the airport early. Some airlines reserve a portion of their seat
assignment inventory for airport check-in. If you are denied a seat assignment at check-in, put your name
on the “standby” seat assignment list.
- Remember 3-1-1. Transportation Security Administration regulations limit the amount of gels and liquids
passengers can take through security in their carry-on luggage to travel-size toiletries of 100ml or less
that fit comfortably in one (1) quart-size, clear plastic zip-top bag and the one (1) bag per passenger must
be placed in the screening bin.
- Know your limits. Pack light and know baggage limits. Most airlines now allow only one carry-on and
charge for first and second checked bags. Ship your gifts to your destination ahead of time. If you choose
to travel with your gifts, leave them unwrapped. With safety a priority for all airlines, security personnel will
need access to all items. Pack collapsible gift bags to be used as wrapping upon arrival.
Tips for travel by car include:
- Plan itineraries and arrange accommodations well in advance. Reservations for hotels, restaurants and
rental cars get booked quickly during peak travel times. We can help you get the lowest rate and make
sure your rental car has room for your family, luggage and whatever souvenirs you bring home.
- Get a tune up. Before any long-distance drive, make sure to have your oil changed and your brakes, fluids
and tire pressure checked. The slightest deficiency in air pressure significantly reduces your car’s gas
mileage. On the flip side, too much air can result in a flat.
- Get an early start to avoid holiday gridlock. Traveling during late night/early morning hours helps. The
worst times to travel are after meals since most travelers postpone leaving until they’ve eaten with their
families. Make sure that all drivers are thoroughly rested.