Good To Know
Essential travel tips, insider tricks, and answers to your most common questions
Tips & Tricks
Insider knowledge to make your travels smoother, smarter, and more enjoyable
Best Time to Book
- • Book flights 6-8 weeks in advance for domestic travel
- • International flights: 3-6 months ahead for best prices
- • Tuesday afternoons often have the lowest fares
- • Avoid booking on weekends when prices spike
- • Set price alerts to track fare changes
Smart Packing
- • Roll clothes instead of folding to save space
- • Pack a change of clothes in your carry-on
- • Use packing cubes to organize by category
- • Wear your bulkiest shoes and jacket on the plane
- • Bring empty water bottle to fill after security
Money Matters
- • Notify your bank before international travel
- • Use credit cards with no foreign transaction fees
- • Withdraw cash from ATMs instead of currency exchanges
- • Keep emergency cash in multiple locations
- • Take photos of credit cards (front & back) as backup
Airport Hacks
- • Arrive 2 hours early for domestic, 3 for international
- • Download airline app for mobile boarding passes
- • TSA PreCheck/Global Entry saves hours of waiting
- • Pack 3-1-1 liquids in clear bag for easy screening
- • Wear slip-on shoes to breeze through security
Insurance Insights
- • Purchase within 14 days of booking for full coverage
- • "Cancel for any reason" costs more but offers flexibility
- • Check if credit card includes travel insurance
- • Medical coverage is essential for international trips
- • Keep policy documents accessible on your phone
Time Zone Tips
- • Adjust sleep schedule 2-3 days before departure
- • Stay hydrated on flights to reduce jet lag
- • Get sunlight exposure upon arrival at destination
- • Avoid napping longer than 20 minutes first day
- • Set watch to destination time when boarding
💡 Pro Tip from Our Travel Experts
The single best investment for stress-free travel? A good travel agent! We handle the research, booking, and problem-solving so you can focus on making memories. Our services are complimentary—we're paid by our travel partners, not by you. Plus, we often secure better rates and perks than booking directly online.
Your Questions Answered
Everything you need to know about travel planning, insurance, and industry standards
When should I book my vacation?
For the best rates and availability, we recommend booking 6-12 months in advance for peak season travel (summer, holidays). For off-season trips, 3-6 months ahead is usually sufficient. Last-minute deals exist but offer limited choices.
Do I need travel insurance?
We strongly recommend travel insurance for all trips. It protects your investment against unexpected cancellations, medical emergencies, lost luggage, and travel delays. Comprehensive policies typically cost 4-10% of your total trip cost and provide peace of mind.
What's included in your planning services?
Our complimentary services include personalized itinerary planning, hotel and flight booking, dining reservations, activity scheduling, travel insurance quotes, and 24/7 support during your trip. We handle all the details so you can focus on enjoying your vacation.
How far in advance can I cancel?
Cancellation policies vary by supplier. Most hotels allow free cancellation 24-72 hours before arrival. Airlines typically charge fees unless you purchase refundable tickets. Travel insurance with "cancel for any reason" coverage provides maximum flexibility.
Do I need a passport for cruises?
For closed-loop cruises (departing and returning to same U.S. port), U.S. citizens can use a birth certificate and government ID. However, we strongly recommend passports for all international travel, including cruises, as they're required for emergencies and port stops.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept all major credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover), debit cards, and bank transfers. Many suppliers also offer payment plans for larger bookings. We'll work with you to find the most convenient payment option.
Can you help with group travel?
Absolutely! We specialize in group travel for families, weddings, corporate retreats, and special celebrations. Groups of 10+ often qualify for discounts, private experiences, and dedicated coordinators. Contact us to discuss your group's needs.
What if I need to change my plans?
Contact us immediately if your plans change. We'll work with suppliers to modify your reservation with minimal fees. Changes are easier and less expensive when made early. Travel insurance can cover change fees in many situations.