white airliner wing on top of sea clouds
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Beware of the Basic Economy Airline Tickets

We’re all looking for a good deal on airfare and today’s easy access to travel sites allows us to compare and contrast fares across airlines. Travelers may expect to tack on additional costs to the ultra low cost carriers’ tickets but beware that the basic economy tickets on major carriers may also lack some of the standard options. These lower ticket prices may include restrictions like no seat choice, no carry on baggage, no upgrades and no qualifying frequent flyer miles. Read the fine print and be sure that the airline ticket you purchase does in fact include the options that are important to you. We love a good deal at LTP, but not at the expense of our upgrade eligibility!

woman walking on pathway while strolling luggage
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Don’t Lose Your TSA PreCheck Privileges

Do you enjoy the (usually) shorter lines and less hassle of the TSA PreCheck line? If so, you’d probably be disappointed to be declined the opportunity to enter that line because your membership expired. These memberships are only good for 5 years.

The TSA began selling PreCheck memberships in December 2013. More than 420,000 travelers signed up in the first six months, with a total of 750,000 travelers signed up in the first year. This means that thousands of memberships are expiring each month this year. Most users can renew their membership for $85 through an easy online process and memberships can be renewed up to 6 months in advance of the expiration date. To learn more, check out the TSA website .

Cuba
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Tip 99: Favorite Tips (part 1)

We appreciate anyone who read all #100days100traveltips that might have just taken a bit over 100 days.  But anything good is worth waiting for, right? 😉  Here’s a quick summary of our favorites:
Top Airport tip?
  • Rebecca – don’t expect USB charging ports to work – the hardly ever do – so you’ll want to carry a wall plug and find an outlet near a seat or in a restaurant
  • Michelle – buy a snack – you never know how long you’ll be on the flight
  • Sandy – bring a refillable water bottle

Top Hotel tip?

  • Rebecca – join the rewards programs and take advantage of dual reward credit earning with other travel partners like the rental car
  • Michelle – ask for a better room or upgrade, the worst they can say is no
  • Sandy –  be aware of resort fees!

Top Road trip tip?

  • Rebecca – look at the gas gauge to know which side to fuel up your rental car
  • Michelle – take lots of snacks, especially for driving at night
  • Sandy –  Look for fun opportunities to make fun pit stops along the way at unique places
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Tip 82: Strategic Packing for Plane Travel

The airlines work very hard to ensure that your checked luggage arrives with you. However, mistakes happen. If you’re planning for a significant trip with your loved one, consider packing half of your belongings in your bag and the other half in your partner’s bag. Your loved one can do the same. Should one bag be “lost”, you will both have clothes at your destination. Using color coded Packing Cubes can make this process very easy!

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Tip 79: Use the Designated Cell Phone Lots at Airports

We love picking up our friends and loved ones from the airport. However, it can be tricky perfectly timing our arrival at the airport with their stepping out onto the curb with their bags. To ensure a timely pickup without the need for our guests to wait, check out the designated cell phone lots.

Most airports now have spacious, designated parking spots in near proximity to the passenger pick up area. They’re safe,convenient and there is no need to keep circling the airport. If you’re lucky, you may even find a public restroom available while you wait!