Don’t let airline travel trip you up

Planning a family trip soon, or maybe a fun weekend getaway with friends? The summer is almost over, but it’s not too late to get in some much-needed vacation time.

Whether you’re flying for business or pleasure, it’s important that you stay away from certain traps. Avoid these travel don’ts before you book your next airline excursion:

1. Believing that you’re getting the best deal. Do your research before settling on a fare. Especially for longer trips such as cruises, you should talk to a few different travel agents. It’s always possible that an agent uses preferred hotels and airlines. And if you’re booking flights through sites such as Expedia or Orbitz, always check back with the original airline to book because you might get a cheaper price.
   
   
2. Misusing mileage or rewards points. It’s important to have the right credit card rewards program. Some cards have points that expire quickly, or they make it difficult to redeem your points for worthwhile flights.
   
   
   Know your mileage options. Some airlines will let you purchase miles (aside from the other two ways to accrue miles: flying and spending on a credit card). Purchasing miles can be a very cheap option. And don’t forget about seasonal deals, as well as the rule of thumb to book your rewards tickets or upgrades as far in advance as possible.
   
   
3. Getting behind schedule. This one should be a no-brainer by now, but some of us still cut it too close when getting to the airport. Give yourself extra time because you never know when you’ll walk up and find a huge line at check-in or security. You’ll be a much happier camper if you avoid the stress of possibly missing your flight due to an unexpected delay.
   
   
4. Not booking enough time between connecting flights. It might sound great to have a quick 30-minute layover, but what if your first flight was delayed? Or what if your connecting flight is on the opposite side of the airport, and it takes you a good 20 minutes to find your gate? It’s wise to give yourself an hour to 90 minutes between flights, just to be safe.
   
   
5. Flying unprepared. As a cost-cutting measure, many airlines have reduced the amount of amenities available to passengers. Don’t rely on the airline for certain creature comforts. Bring your own snacks, comfortable clothing and entertainment – especially when flying with children. Everyone will be more comfortable if the kids are happy. It’s best to fend for yourself rather than expecting more than the airline is able to offer.
   
   
6. Understand the airport security checkpoint requirements.  There’s nothing worse than showing up with your mega-size tube of toothpaste or your quart of shampoo and experiencing the humiliation of having to trash everything.  Understand TSA’s requirements (no liquids in containers larger than 3 ounces and all liquids must fit in a single quart-sized zip-top clear plastic bag).
   

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