Where traveling by air used to be a big deal, to the point where people would actually get dressed up, these days you’re treated more like cattle.  There are several things you can do to prepare for air travel and possibly make the experience less tramatic.

Finding good deals on airline tickets has a lot to do with when you decide to purchase, if you’re willing to have connecting flights and if you’re OK with having tickets with restrictions. The links below allow you to price tickets out taking all of these factors into account. Also use our search feature to find posts on how to save even more on flights.

If traveling out of the country, make sure to check for travel advisories, weather reports and to gather some back ground information on your destination. Our Travel Information section contains links to help you quickly and easily check all these areas.

U.S. Department of State Follow this link to quickly and easily find information on obtaining a passport, visas for international visitors and much more.

Most airlines are charging if you check any bags, so the big incentive is to “carry on”.  But before you “carry on” check the TSA website below for current restrictions (on things like how big your bottle of shampoo can be, since it is a liquid) and your airline’s website for size requirements for “carry on” and charges to check bags.

When searching for flights be aware that airlines are charging for all types of cancellation, rebooking, cargo, etc. fees.  Remember to keep those fees in mind when comparing.  If there’s a chance you might have to cancel or change your reservation, then investigate what those fees are; or if you know you’ll have to check a bag, then add that cost to the fares of the airlines who charge for that.

If you do have to check a bag, then it’s a good idea to carry anything you can’t do without.  Toothbrush, book, clean underwear or whatever, just make sure it is within the guidelines of the TSA, or you will have to make a tough decision in line (throw it away or possibly miss your plane).

TSA Guidelines regarding what can be taken on a plane continue to change, so it is a great idea to check the  TSA (Transportation Safety Admin.) website before you leave.