1) Don't schedule a "crack of dawn" flight - It can be very tempting to think that you'll be arriving at your destination with a large part of the day left to enjoy yourself, but remember that you'll need to arrive at the airport at least 2 hours in advance of your flight. So, if you're going to have to get up at 2:00 am after only a couple hours of sleep to be at the airport at 4:00 am for your 6:00 am flight, think about how exhausted you'll be when you arrive at your resort after a long day of traveling. A flight that leaves at mid-morning can allow you to arrive well-rested and in a much better frame of mind.
2) Don't gamble with a tight connection - If you don't have a direct flight, be sure to leave yourself adequate time to change gates and planes. A slight delay in your departure time can wreak havoc on your ability to make your next flight. Do yourself a huge favor and allow at least an hour for domestic layover, more for international ones. Missing your connecting flight is a great way to get your vacation off to a bad start. Don't take that chance.
3) Check your passports before you book a trip - Make sure that you will have at least 6 months after your return date before your passport expires. Apply for or renew your passport before you book. Many people wait until after they've booked their trip to apply for a passport, but delays can and do happen. There are few things more stressful than looking at the calendar and wondering if your passport will arrive on time.
4) Turn off your data roaming before you board your international flight - As soon as you land and turn on your phone, data roaming charges kick in, and they can be exorbitant. Call your cell-phone provider before you leave to find out if you'll have coverage and arrange for an international data plan if you'll need it. Otherwise, keep your data roaming off and use the hotel's wi-fi to keep in touch with family and friends back home.
5) Pack a quick change of clothes in your carry-on - That way, if your bags are lost or delayed, you'll at least have the clothes you brought with you. In addition, if you arrive at your resort or hotel prior to check-in, you can change clothes quickly and head out to relax by the pool or have a bite to eat while your room is being readied.
6) If you're traveling for a cruise, plan on arriving at least 1 day in advance of your sailing date - This will greatly reduce your chances of missing your ship and give you a chance to rest up and do a bit of sightseeing in your departure port. Trust me, catching up with your long-departed ship is not an enjoyable experience nor is it a good way to start your well-earned vacation.
7) Call your credit card company before you depart - Many credit card companies will flag your international activity as possibly fraudulent and may deny to authorize your payment. If you call in advance and tell them you'll be traveling, you'll avoid your card being declined for that special purchase.
8) Schedule special activities in advance- If you're planning for a romantic dinner on the beach or a special excursion that you want to make sure you take while at your destination, be sure to finalize your arrangements in advance. Popular excursions can and do sell out well in advance. Avoid disappointment by making reservations and arrangements at least 2 weeks prior to departure.
Do you have any other tips to share for how to make sure your trip gets off to a good start?
Fun 'n Sun Travel & Cruise provides friendly, personal, professional service in order to plan each and every client's dream vacation, destination wedding, honeymoon, or cruise at one of the best prices available. Call us at 1-855-557-5588, visit us on the web at fnstravel.com, or email us at info@fnstravel.com.
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