Airlines like Northwest, American, Delta and United have now doubled the cost of the ticket surcharges. During such peak travel times, fliers can expect to pay an extra $20 surcharge  just for flying. This surcharge is in addition to the costs of baggage and taxes. Some airlines are still offering discounted ticket prices depending on where you plan to fly so it becomes much more difficult to make travel arrangements.

Consumers who are looking to fly  really need to check out what  the options are for airfare. Many times the surcharges will be added in with the price of the ticket and the websites will only show you the total price in bold. It is up to the consumer to check out the itemized costs and decide if the travel surcharges are worth it. This will take some time so consumers will need to start planning early. Check out multiple airlines and travel sites in order to find where the discounts lie. Consumers can also check out websites like FareCompare to find the best deals on travel from every airport.

Peak travel days are still predicted to be busy, despite the extra fees but rearranging travel dates to bypass these peak days may save on travel costs. To date, the peak travel days where travelers are likely to be faced with the surcharge are November 29, and 30, December 19, 26, and 27, January 2 and 3, with additional days during spring break time and the Memorial Day weekend. On these days, travelers can also expect to find limited seating on flights.

Planning early for the holiday travel season can certainly pay off in savings because you have more time to research your options and capitalize on getting seats before they are snapped up. If airline travel  is too costly for your budget, consider traveling after the holiday rush is over or using alternative methods of travel if possible.

Travel During The Holidays and Pay Double for Your Stuff was created by and is property of American Consumer News.

Air travel in 2009 seems to be heralding in quite a different era.

Not to trivialize the changes that the airline industry has undergone in the past few years of course. The terrible events of September 11 have forever changed air traffic security procedures resulting in vast increases in costs to ensure the safety of the traveling public. Added to that gas prices have surged way past anything we ever thought possible further pushing up the cost of travel.

As if to add insult to injury, although gas prices fell, the resultant global economic slowdown has also put a spoke in the wheels of international leisure travel, causing a notable dip in ticket sales.

These circumstances have all conspired to bring us to the point we are at today.

Let’s look at a few of the most recent price increases or otherwise ridiculous cutbacks:

• Most airlines have cut out meals on domestic flights and as a matter of fact if you want a little snack come prepared to shell out $3 to $4 if you’re on an American Airlines flight.
• US Airways stopped offering pillows to economy class passengers in February 2009. Economy travelers can bring their own or buy a Power Nap Sak emblazoned with the US Airways logo for $7. The little kit includes a pillow, neck brace and fleece blanket. Jet Blue Airways has a similar package for the same price.
• British Airways instituted a charge for choosing your seat in advance. Economy class passengers can expect to pay £20 while business class travelers will pay £50 from  October 7th, 2009.
• US Airways and Continental Airways have both added a baggage fee as well. Continental Airways charges $20 for the first checked bag and $30 for the second. US Airways has the same fee but if you decide to pay it at the airport instead of online when you book your ticket, you get to hand over an additional $5 on each bag, just for the inconvenience.

This is all evidence that airlines have been adding seemingly spurious charges on to the end price just to plump up their bottom lines. Makes you wonder whatever happened to operational efficiency?

Most Recent Price Increase

The usual suspects Continental and United Airways, American Airlines, Delta and US Airways and Northwest have all banded together to implement a $10 charge, each way, simply for booking on peak days. The charge was originally only on the three days around Thanksgiving and New Year’s Day, but it was extended to include a period extending into the first quarter of 2010.

The new peak dates subject to the charge are as follows:

• November 29 – November 30, 2009:  Weekend after Thanksgiving
• December 19:  Saturday before Christmas
• December 26 – December 27:  Weekend after Christmas
• January 2 – January 3, 2010:  Weekend after New Year’s Day
• March 14, 2010:  Sunday before many student spring breaks
• March 20 – March 21, 2010:  Weekend after many student spring breaks
• March 28, 2010:  Palm Sunday, weekend before Easter
• April 11, 2010:  Monday of Easter, weekend after Easter
• May 28, 2010:  Friday before Memorial Day

While a $10 fee each way may seem harmless, looking at the trend, and adding up the toll from food to seat requests to baggage charges you have to wonder… what next?

If consumers aren’t responsive we may be looking at paying for flotation devices and air masks down the road.

Airlines Extend Surcharges was created by and is property of American Consumer News.

Photo Credit: Outer Banks Visitors Bureau

Today, many are packing up their cars or preparing to board aircraft for a last summer getaway. Already, the cooler temperatures across the Midwest and eastern shore are previewing the change of seasons. AAA predicts that 39.1 million are taking a Labor Day vacation, which represents a 13.3 percent decrease compared to last year’s record breaking weekend travelers. Two reasons for the decrease are cited to the lateness of the actual holiday and that school has already started for many families.

Despite the predicted decrease the amount of travelers should surpass July 4^th holiday vacations.

“AAA expects this Labor Day holiday weekend to be the third busiest of the decade, even though the number of travelers will be down from one year ago,” said AAA President & CEO, Robert L. Darbelnet. “However, with Labor day falling a week later this year when many children will have returned to school, the decline may more to do with the calendar than with the economy. Our forecast shows Labor Day travel will be up over this summer’s 4^th of July holiday and that’s a positive sign.”

The preferred travel mode this holiday weekend is via car with 84 percent compared to four percent of vacationers expected to travel by airline for Labor Day trips, according to AAA. With air trips to be taken by only 1.5 million travelers, this will be the lowest number of trips by flying this decade for the Labor Day holiday weekend.

TripAdvisor revealed its Labor Day survey results demonstrating a slight increase of fall travelers. Eighty-four percent of travelers plan to take leisure trips this fall, up from 82 percent one year ago, and 43 percent said they will be traveling more this autumn than last, as revealed in the survey.

Particularly for Labor Day, 30 percent of respondents said they are traveling this weekend, nearly equal to 31 percent one year ago. Other TripAdvisor survey findings include 70 percent of travelers expect to drive to their destinations this Labor Day and 49 percent plan to travel more than 300 miles for the holiday.

Christine Petersen, chief marketing officer for TripAdvisor says “Based on what travelers are researching on TripAdvisor recently, it appears the Carolinas and Florida may be travel hot spots this fall.”

Five of Florida’s cities look to be a fall hotspot as they are appearing in the top 10 most-searched U.S. cities with airfares currently under $199. The top three most browsed destinations over the past month on TripAdvisor include: Coastal South Carolina, Jersey Shore and Florida Keys.

It’s not too late to escape, even if it’s just for a day trip! Savor the last moments of the summer season. What are your Labor Day or Fall travel plans? Is the economy effecting your travel plans? What about the fear of swine flu?

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Photo Credit: U.S. State Department

A tightening of the belt for passport requirements went into effect on June 1^st, 2009 for U.S. travelers.   The Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI) now requires valid passports for land and sea travel with the continued exception for “closed-loop” cruises.  These are cruises that originate and terminate at the same U.S. port.  This leniency applies only to cruises and many of the cruise lines are strongly recommending to their passengers to travel with a valid passport, one that is valid for at least 6 months beyond completion of travel.

According to the U.S. State Department, travelers by air will be required to present a passport book to enter or re-enter the United States. Sea travelers may also use the passport booklet or the passport card and now the continued option of birth certificate and photo ID. 

Qualifying cruise passengers opting to take advantage of this leniency will be required to show proof of citizenship such as a original or certified copy of a birth certificate and a government issued photo ID i.e. driver’s license.  Children under the age of 16 will also be required to show a birth certificate as proof of citizenship.

All air travel and cruises that begin and end in different U.S. ports or foreign ports will still require a valid passport or other recognized WHTI compliant document.  Lynn Torrent, senior VP of sales and guest services with Carnival Cruise Lines says, “We’d like to take this opportunity to remind all our guests that proof of citizenship is required in order to travel and failure to present a valid document at check in will result in denied boarding and no refund will be issued.”

Future travelers struggling with the dilemma of “do I or don’t I need a passport?” will be better served by visiting the U.S. State Department WHTI requirements Web site.  This site offers explanations of terms and requirements as well as tips for living abroad and overseas Citizen’s services.  Applications for passport booklets and passport cards are available for printing as well as locations to apply in person and the frequently asked questions section offers a broad spectrum of answers to possible issues. 

There has been much confusion surrounding the WHTI and its requirements along with implementation dates and who is affected by the initiative. Cruise travelers have been fortunate to have the effective dates of the requirements pushed back a number of times.

However, when planning for the dreaded “what if” scenario, even travel insurance may not protect a traveler when trying to re-enter the U.S. from a foreign port if they need to return to the U.S. due to an emergency.

Bill Thomas, CEO of Tropical Latitudes Travel, explains “Since the passport card is not valid for air travel, the continued leniency policy for closed-loop cruises does present some concerns for travelers without a valid passport. Should an emergency arise and cruisers need to disembark in a foreign port and fly back to the U.S., they might face delays in admittance back to the U.S..”

The best protection? “Have a valid passport,” Thomas says.

In 2007, 18.4 million U.S. passports were issued, according to U.S. State Department spokesperson Adriana Gallegos. From 2008 through 2009, 7.1 million have been issued. “The demand has been lower than expected,” Gallegos says. “We attribute this to a delay in the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative and the current economic conditions.”

Got Passport? Will Travel was created by and is property of American Consumer News.

According to USAirways’ official baggage policy, carry-on baggage size requirements are as follows: Up to 45 in/115 cm (14 x 9 x 22 in or 36 x 23 x 56 cm); and up to 40 lbs/18 kg

Just because your bag fits in the above seat compartment, does not mean that it falls within size restrictions. On a round trip USAirways flight to Las Vegas last week, both mine and my husband’s bags were allowed as carry-on luggage; however, on the return flight both of our bags, along with about 50 other passengers’ bags were hijacked at the gate. Mine, exceeds the width dimension technically by 2 inches, so I can see why they asked me to check it at the gate through my final destination. But, my husband’s fell within the size requirements, along with many other passengers, and the gate attendant arbitrarily decided which bags to pull and which to not.

We were even told during boarding that since this USAirways flight was a full flight, there was no overhead room. Yet, upon boarding, nearly a quarter of the overhead bins were completely empty. At least we were not forced to pay the $15 fee.

It is no wonder that a recent TripAdvisor survey revealed that 54% of respondents consider checked bags the most annoying airline fee. Other poignant survey results reveal that 36% have been surprised by the cost of checked baggage fees at the airport and 19% said they always carry-on a bag to avoid additional fees, while 39% often do.

“It’s apparent that travelers are frustrated about checked bag charges and are looking for more clarity when it comes to domestic airline fees,” said Michele Perry, vice president of global communications for TripAdvisor.

Checked baggage fees range in price for first and second pieces, as well as for oversized luggage. Be sure to check your airline policy so no surprises happen at check in. Often, airlines will offer a discount if you pay in advance online for checking bags. This includes USAirways and Spirit Airlines. USAirways recently announced that it will charge $15 for the first checked bag if paid for online and $25 for the second; however, if a traveler waits to pay this fee at the airport upon check in, a $5 service fee will be imposed. “If you booked your flight before April 23, 2009, fees will stay the same for you,” according to USAirways Web site. “And remember, Dividend Miles Preferred members are exempt from checked bag fees.”

Those traveling transatlantic, military/active duty, unaccompanied minors, confirmed first class passengers often will have checked baggage fees waived as well.

During today’s air travel the best travel advice to avoid extra baggage fees and having your bags taken from you at the gate is to travel light and pack well. Ensure you have a piece of travel luggage that falls under the maximum size requirements to avoid any confusion. Be sure to check dimensions as many baggage pieces are sold as carry-on, but fail to meet size requirements.

USAirways Hijacks Bags: Increased Carry-On Luggage Crowding Planes was created by and is property of American Consumer News.

TripAdvisor® just announced the results of its airline safety awareness survey of more than 2,100 U.S. respondents, conducted from January 16 – January 20, 2009. Sixty-eight percent of U.S. respondents said they frequently pay attention to the in-flight safety presentation, with of this compilation nearly a third said they always do. Of the 32 percent who said they rarely or never pay attention to the in-flight safety presentation, 81 percent said it is because they already know it by heart, according to TripAdvisor’s survey results.

Half of travelers surveyed said they have read the seat-back instruction card in the past, but following last week’s “Miracle on the Hudson,” 62 percent are more likely to read it in the future, TripAdvisor’s survey reveals. Seventy-three percent of respondents said they always check the locations of the exits on the plane, while 20 percent often do.  

Related to the US Airways “Miracle on the Hudson,” 31 percent of travelers said they had concerns about bird strikes even before this incident.

According to TripAdvisor survey respondents, the two best ways to recognize the heroic efforts of the US Airways pilot and crew are with monetary compensation, and medals of honor.

“The events of last week gave us all–even frequent flyers– a renewed awareness of the importance of airline safety precautions and procedures. It’s clear that the majority of travelers are paying attention,” said Michele Perry, vice president of global communications for TripAdvisor.

As reported in an official US Airways statement, “US Airways is extremely proud of the professional Crew of Flight 1549. All five of these outstanding aviation professionals performed in an exceptional way under extraordinary circumstances.”

Other TripAdvisor survey findings include:

• Twelve percent of travelers avoid booking in the emergency exit row because they don’t want the responsibility of opening the doors and assisting the crew in an emergency.
• Sixty-seven percent of respondents said that during a flight, they feel prepared in the event of an emergency. In the event of a water landing, 75 percent of travelers believe they would know what to do.
• Fifteen percent of travelers said they have experienced an emergency landing. Five percent of travelers said they have been on a flight where the oxygen masks were deployed, and two percent have had to pull the life jacket out from under their seat.
• Ninety-one percent said they always keep their seat belt fastened for the journey.

When flying with children, other issues arise. Louie Delaware, the Home Safety Guru, provides a few helpful hints to keep kids safe when flying.

1. Bring Your Own Car Seats - It is tempting to have a child that is under 2 years of age sit on your lap during your flight.  But it is much easier and safer for everyone if the child has their own seat.  “It is very difficult, and most likely physically impossible, to hold a child during turbulence,” Delaware says.  All children less than 40 pounds should be a car seat and older children in a booster seat.  Make certain that yours has the designation “This restraint is certified for use in motor vehicles and aircraft” as many car seats do not have this.  For best fit in aircraft seats, use a car seat that is less than 16″ wide.  Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to make certain that the seat is properly installed with the airplane buckles.  It is a requirement on many international flights that every child have their own seat. 
2. Consider Using an Aviation Child Safety Device (ACSD) Strap - This is a restraint device that is allowed on airplanes for children between 22 and 44 pounds.  It attaches to the back of the seat works in addition to the lap belt.   These are much easier to carry as they are just straps.  And they install very easily.   You can order these at www.KidsFlySafe.com. 
3. Booster Seats – Also, be aware that booster seats are not allowed on many airlines.   
4. Oxygen Masks – If during your flight the oxygen masks drop from above, put yours on first as you will quickly loose your ability to deal with the emergency.  Once yours is properly on, put one on your child.  What is not communicated is that if there is a sudden loss of cabin pressure that your will possibly lose consciousness within 15-20 seconds without oxygen.  So it is very important that you can get yours on before dealing with your children’s mask.  You will not be of any assistance to them if you pass out after putting theirs on before yours. 

Take time to prepare for a dreaded “what if” scenario occurs when traveling to ensure you are ready if a crisis arises. Next time you board an aircraft, give proper attention to exit rows, safety information and demonstrations. You never know when you might need to employ these life-saving tips.

Air Travel Safety Awareness Heightened Resulting from US Airways Miracle Landing was created by and is property of American Consumer News.

Photo Credit: Jake McGuire

Traveling often for business in December and January, there is one distinct change I have noticed with airline travel and that is the abundance of great ticket prices, even on short notice. These flying deals are being offered amongst many airlines and even a few such as AirTran have announced New Year’s deals starting as low as $39 each way. Not to mention the weekly sales and opportunities to scoop up a flight on Spirit Airlines for as little as $1 at times (plus taxes and fees).

In my particular instance, the big airlines were offering the best availability in terms of flight times and pricing. I scored a round-trip non-stop flight to Washington, DC for under a $150 from southwest Florida. In addition, I secured a round-trip flight to Los Angeles (LA) for about $300 again from southwest Florida. I can remember flying to LA regularly for work and paying $600 on average.

Even with the reduced capacity, the seat availability was not bad on my selected airline routes. However, on two instances for my DC flights, I was unable to select a seat on my return flight. Instead the message stated “airline is assigning seats upon check in”.

A few road warrior tricks I have learned through navigating the friendly skies include:

1. Act Fast: Some online consumer booking sites will clearly state that there is only one ticket remaining at that price. I cannot tell you how many times that I have paused and did one more double-check of a competitor site just to click to purchase and find that the airline ticket price has changed.
2. Use a Travel Agent: Researching different flight options can be consuming to say the least and end up in frustration. A travel professional is an expert at quickly identifying availability, placing tickets on hold even through their technology systems, and securing a desired flight. Yes, some travel agents do charge a fee, but think about how much time you lose in terms of productivity and the travel agent just might save you additional monies on the actual airline ticket – more than making up for a fee levied.
3. Consider Alternatives: If you have some flexibility in your schedule, look at staying an extra day, which might result in a lower airfare or qualify you for some other supplier promotion offered by a car rental agency or a hotel. As an example, on one of my DC business trips, I opted to stay over on a Friday night my car rental price ended up being 50 percent less than if I had flew back the day earlier. Another example is my trip to LA where if I had taken the red eye home, my hotel would have cost me about $100 more as I would not have qualified for the 3-night sale and there were no differences in airline pricing.
4. Seasonal Travel: If your travels require you to select a flight with a connection, look at all of the different airlines and their connecting cities. If you are traveling to California in January and connections are offered through New York, Dallas or Charlotte, or St. Louis, as was the case with my flight, consider where winter weather might have the least effect on your travel plans. For me, I chose Dallas (even though an odd winter storm just crippled the Dallas area, I felt the odds were less that they would be hit twice compared to my other choices).

What are your road warrior tips when making airline travel arrangements?

Airline Travel: Scoring Flying Deals was created by and is property of American Consumer News.

Mattel is offering unique and timeless favorites for boys and girls that will entertain when traveling over the holidays. Travel Advocate has reviewed several gift ideas that are easy to pack along:

My Meebas^TM: An exciting new toy brand for girls, My Meebas combines electronic game play with a plush surprise.  Each My Meebas is encased in a colored tube – symbolizing one of the six virtues of love, luck, beauty, intelligence, friendship, and happiness. The tube is a portable electronic gaming device (20+ games) with a sliding LCD screen and control panel. Through lots of fun, nurturing game play, girls care for their My Meebas until they are fully grown and then – surprise! The tube unlocks one of 60 different cuddly plush toys.  Retail price: 19.99  Age: 6+

Barbie® Peekaboo Petites^TM Dolls: A great travel gift for under $20.00, these adorable dolls are big on fashion and beauty play, collectibility and on-the-go play. Each doll comes tucked inside a whimsical locket case in fun shapes matching its theme such as hearts, flowers, gems, ice cream cones, ballet shoes, snowflakes and more. Packing two gifts in one, each Barbie Peekaboo Petites doll comes with a whimsical wear-and-share themed accessory for the girl such as necklaces and back-pack clips. Helping the girl on your gift list start her own collection, she will enjoy collecting all of the dolls in different themes including wedding, ballet, ice cream, gems, flowers, tea party, holiday and world travel. Retail price: $4.99 Age: 3+  

DC Super Friends^TM Basic Figure: The perfect addition to any little superheroes stocking are the DC Super Friends basic figure assortment and are perfect for taking along during holiday travels. Featuring Superman^TM, Batman^TM, The Flash^TM, Aquaman^TM,  Green Lantern^TM and Lex Luthor^TM figures, DC Super Friends introduces kids to the ultimate Super Hero universe with easy-to-use features. Each basic figure comes with an air-powered accessory so youngsters can play, protect their hometown and capture the bad guys alongside the galaxy’s greatest heroes. Retail price: $7.99  Age: 2+ 

Batman^TM: The Dark Knight^TM Battle Stations® Playset: Relive all the action packed adventures from The Dark Knight this holiday season with this unique and action-packed playset. This Batmobile^TM transforms into four different environments for Batman to battle the villains of Gotham City^TM, allowing for complete, immersive play for boys to reenact all their favorite scenes from the film. Retail price: $39.99  Age: 4+  

Matchbox® Power Scouts^TM Vehicles & Playsets: This holiday season, Matchbox introduces a track system and line of vehicles perfect for smaller hands and for packing to grandma’s house. The Power Scouts vehicles are battery-powered, rough-riding and touch-climbing adventure 4x4s, complete with griping tires. They can go from neutral hand-powered mode to battery-powered all-wheel drive with a simple tap on the back of the truck to activate the motor. The Power Scouts assortment includes eight different 4x4s – ranging from the latest licensed trucks to the coolest original Matchbox designs. Retail price for Power Scouts Vehicles: $6.99  Age: 3+ 

CARS Mini Adventures^TM Two-Pack Assortment: The perfect travel companion and playset for your little one’s stockings are the “CARS” Mini Adventures Two-Pack Assortment inspired by the hit Disney/Pixar film featuring kids’ favorite characters in all new scales and proportions. These exclusive mini vehicles are available in a variety of themes kids love, including military, fire rescue and police vehicles. The playsets are available in three different themes, all inspired by scenes from the film. Retail price for the car 2-pack: $4.99  Age: 3+

CARS Walkin’ Talkin’ Lightning McQueen: Stemming from the kids’ favorite movie “CARS”, this new version of Lightening McQueen lets kids play out all their favorite scenes from the movie as he talks, walks, and fuels kids’ imaginations. This character is perfect to take along for holiday enjoyment. Retail price: $39.99  Age: 4+ 

Barbie® Party Cruise: If taking a family cruise, Barbie’s Party Cruise keeps the vacation alive and provides the most fun and travels for Barbie and friends, featuring three separate play areas, a water slide & poolcuzzi^TM with a dolphin; a rotating buffet with “live” aquarium; and a performance deck with lights and sounds. The five-star cabin is equipped with an “entertainment system,” mini fridge, two beds, lots of play pieces and a storage area. Retail price: $59.99   Age: 3+  

Polly Pocket^TM Pop ‘N Swap^TM Fashion Dolls: Perfect for travels, the Polly Pocket dolls offer an innovative yet low tech twist on fashion. The customizeable Pop ‘N Swap Fashion Dolls let girls mix-and-match different styling outfits for Polly and friends as they Pop ‘N Swap five heads, nine torsos and nine bottoms to create over thousands of different fashion combinations in each of two sets. This one toy provides a large variety guaranteeing countless hours of play time. Retail price: $19.99 Age: 4+

Polly Pocket^TM Mega Mall Playset: A different twist on a doll house is Polly Pocket’s Mega Mall Playset. For any young shopper, this new playset allows girls to discover an ultimate shopping destination complete with magical transformation and lots of totally stylin’ new fashions and accessories for Polly and friends. Girls can swipe the credit card which opens up the Mega Mall Playset to reveal three levels of stores (including a skating rink, ski shop, pet store and candy shop) for hours of play! The Mega Mall Playset also includes a Polly doll and two adorable pets. Retail price: $49.99 each  Age: 4+

Little Mommy^TM Real Loving Baby^TM Gotta Go^TM Doll: A classic gift idea for a girl is a baby doll and is one of the most seen products that accompany toddlers and young girls on their travels. Girls will love the realistic, nurturing play elements of the doll and its accessories, which include a complete bathroom area where girls can help their doll learn to go potty and clean up. Just like a real toddler, the Gotta Go Doll goes both “number 1″ (and “number 2!”) on her very own small potty, but, unlike real toddlers, there is no mess and no water – just realistic sights and sounds! The doll can flush, knows to wash her hands and loves to do all the things a big girl does when she gets up in the morning and goes to bed at night. When traveling, while the doll is perfect as a traveling companion, the accessories might want to stay home to conserve space unless going via car and room is available. Retail price: $39.99  Age: 3+  

Matchbox® Mega Rig® Shuttle Mission: For young astronauts in the making, this inspiring playset takes boys “out-of-this-world” this holiday season with the introduction of the new Mega Rig® Shuttle Mission. This building system starts as one gigantic space ship and breaks down to 30 different combinations of space vehicles for kids to create.  Equipped with cool accessories, including a space arm to grab things, an ATV and a UFO with a space alien inside, the Mega Rig Shuttle Mission provides kids with hours of fun and imaginative play. Retail price: $44.99 Age: 4+

These products are sure to provide hours of entertainment both during the journey itself and after arriving at the holiday destination!

What is your favorite toy to give or receive that can be taken along travel adventures?

Twas a Few Nights Before Traveling… was created by and is property of American Consumer News.

Rome, a top Holiday dream destination. Photo credit: Fototeca ENIT

As Black Friday and Cyber Monday sales surged, the travel industry is experiencing a predicted increase this holiday season with 42 percent traveling for the holidays, an increase compared to last year. Stemming from its holiday travel survey, TripAdvisor® reports of those traveling for the holidays, 66 percent plan to drive and 52 percent will fly. 

Off to grandma’s house we go with the TripAdvisor survey revealing 55 percent will travel to visit family compared to 38 percent who will host family this season. While 81 percent of U.S. respondents will see family and friends over the holidays, up from 77 percent last year, 13 percent plan to “escape” family by taking a trip this holiday season, according to survey results.

Top 10 Holiday Dream Escapes for 2008, according to TripAdvisor travelers:

  1.  Hawaii

  2.  London

  3.  Paris

  4.  Aruba

  5.  New York City

  6.  Las Vegas

  7.  Jamaica

  8.  Rome

  9.  Bahamas

  10. Tahiti

Cruising offers cost-effective travel. Photo Credit: Regent Seven Seas

While more Americans plan to travel for the holidays, 68 percent of TripAdvisor survey respondents said that they will be more budget conscious with their holiday travel compared to the previous year. Thirty-six percent of U.S. travelers are staying closer to home and 18 percent said they will fly on Christmas Day or New Year’s Day because it is cheaper.

One value-based vacation for travelers to consider is a cruise. Cruise Line Industry Association’s (CLIA) President and CEO Terry L. Dale, says “In the current economic environment, consumers want to make every penny count. A cruise vacation is always excellent value for money spent because of inclusive pricing.”

According to a recent CLIA and Cruise Critic survey, over 83 percent of families said cruise vacations are very good or extremely good value.

Another finding in the TripAdvisor survey states that 52 percent of Americans find traveling for the holiday season stressful. Despite this, 25 percent of travelers still believe taking a trip somewhere is the best way to alleviate holiday-related stress.

Cruising is often viewed as a stress-free vacation. Almost 70 percent of the CLIA and Cruise Critic survey respondents said that planning a cruise was easier than planning a resort vacation and over 20 percent cited the hassle-free “don’t need to plan anything” quality of a cruise as the most enjoyable feature of a vacation at sea.

Carolyn Spencer Brown, editor in chief of Cruise Critic, agrees, “The cruise vacation is an attractive way to travel because many elements of a stress-free family trip are wrapped up into one tidy package for passengers.”

Are you taking a holiday vacation? If so, where are you traveling?

A Holiday Travel Gift: More Americans Traveling this Season was created by and is property of American Consumer News.

Photo Credit: TripAdvisor.com

In less than one week, travelers will be packing up the cars, turkeys and suitcases on the way to “grandma’s house” for a Thanksgiving holiday. Or perhaps a travel destination this holiday might be to the beach or a shopping mall. TripAdvisor® and AAA have announced the results of its Thanksgiving travel survey and forecasts and each have a slightly different ending.

Despite a continued downturn in the U.S. economy, 37 percent of Americans plan to travel this Thanksgiving, equal to 37 percent one year ago, according to TripAdvisor survey results. Other findings include that 57 percent of respondents plan to drive to their destination this Thanksgiving, down slightly from 59 percent, last year, while 38 percent intend to fly, up marginally from 37 percent, one year ago.

“We continue to see that Thanksgiving is a dedicated travel holiday among our respondents, regardless of circumstance,” said Michele Perry, vice president of global communications for TripAdvisor.

According to a released report by AAA, approximately 41 million Americans will travel 50 miles or more from home this Thanksgiving holiday weekend, a decrease of 600,000 travelers (1.4 percent) from last year’s total of 41.6 million. This is the first decline in Thanksgiving holiday travel since 2002 and is the fourth consecutive travel holiday this year with a year-to-year decline in the number of travelers.

Travelers are weighing spending money on holiday trips or conserving cash on other life needs. Even with the Dow dropping below 8000 on November 20, 2008, the continuing decrease in petroleum is contributing toward predicted decreases this holiday season from being worse.

“The overall state of the economy continues to present real challenges for some Americans looking to travel this Thanksgiving,” said AAA President and CEO Robert L. Darbelnet. “However, the desire to spend time with family, combined with significantly lower gasoline prices than earlier this year, will provide a strong impetus for many Americans to travel this holiday season.”

AAA reports the national average for self-serve regular gasoline is $2.07 per gallon. Today’s price is 88 cents less than a month ago and $1.03 less than a year ago.

Thanksgiving travel TripAdvisor survey results include:

Family Matters

Seventy-seven percent will see family and friends for the holiday. Seven percent said they are traveling specifically to avoid family and friends. Thirty percent of respondents said they feel pressure to travel and spend Thanksgiving with family.

Fifty-five percent said seeing family and friends makes Thanksgiving travel worth all the hassle, while 25 percent said just getting away makes it worth it.

Cash Considerations

Seventy-six percent of travelers said economic and market concerns have not affected their Thanksgiving plans. If money was no object, 30 percent said their dream Thanksgiving would be exploring an exotic tropical destination, while the greatest amount, 31 percent said their idea of a dream Thanksgiving is right at home with family and friends.

Time and Distance

Twenty-eight percent will travel to their destination on Thanksgiving Day, and 28 percent will travel the day before on Wednesday, November 26. Twenty-seven percent will travel home on Sunday, November 30. Thirteen percent will travel home on Thanksgiving Day.

Fifteen percent will travel less than 100 miles from home for Thanksgiving, and 36 percent will travel less than 300 miles. Nine percent said they will be traveling overseas this Thanksgiving. Fifteen percent of respondents said they will be traveling outside the U.S. for the Thanksgiving holiday.

Thirty-six percent will visit a city this Thanksgiving, 33 percent will go to the suburbs for the holiday and 15 percent will be going to a beach.

Thanksgiving Love and Hate

Thirty-four percent said they love everything about Thanksgiving. Ten percent cited flight delays as the most annoying aspect of Thanksgiving, 10 percent said getting stuck in traffic and 10 percent said they always eat too much.

Are you traveling this Thanksgiving holiday? If so, where and how far?

Thanksgiving Travel: Americans Preparing for Busy Holiday Trips was created by and is property of American Consumer News.

Photo Credit: IgoUgo.com

Holiday traditions? Every Thanksgiving, a tradition for many travelers is making the trek to New York City to experience the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade (airs live on November 27^th, 2008 at 9am EST on NBC). For those who do not make the trip, they can still witness this amazing event from the comfort of their home. Meanwhile, others take to the air and roads for their own holiday celebrations.

Thanksgiving is often boasted as one of the most traveled holidays via air and car. From day trips to long weekends, travelers are preparing for what could be a busy few days on the roads and in the air.  For Thanksgiving alone, TripAdvisor® reports that 37 percent of Americans plan to travel this Thanksgiving, which is equal to those traveling last year.

Fifty-seven percent of respondents plan to drive to their destination this Thanksgiving, down slightly from 59 percent, last year, while 38 percent intend to fly, up marginally from 37 percent, one year ago, according to the TripAdvisor survey.

“The holiday season is always the year’s busiest time for travel, but it doesn’t have to be frustrating,” according to the American Society of Travel Agents (ASTA) President and CEO Chris Russo. “One sure way to make holiday trips smoother is by having a travel agent take care of all your travel details. Travel agents’ always have inside information and can make holiday travel a lot less stressful.”

ASTA has prepared some travel tips for both air and car trips to help ensure smooth travels. Tips for air travel include:

• Book your ticket ASAP. If you must book last minute, remember, you have options. The key to securing the best deal is flexibility in travel dates–ask your ASTA travel agent to check into holiday fares; the slow week between Christmas and New Year’s; or consider flying into an alternate airport and renting a car. If your holiday vacation includes international travel, make sure you have a valid passport.
• Arrive early. Difficult airport parking, long lines at security checkpoints and the possibility of the airline overselling the flight and bumping passengers, should all be considered when deciding what time to arrive at the airport. Give yourself plenty of extra time. Need some incentive? Keep in mind that those who arrive earliest for an overbooked flight stand the greatest chance of staying onboard.
• Avoid getting bumped. 1) Get an advance seat assignment. Passengers with seat assignments are typically only bumped if they arrive late and their seat assignment is released. 2) Check-in online. Most airlines allow you to do so within 24 hours of departure. Seat assignments that were not available at the time of ticketing may be available when checking in online. 3) Don’t be late. If all else fails, get to the airport early. Some airlines reserve a portion of their seat assignment inventory for airport check-in. If you are denied a seat assignment at check-in, put your name on the “standby” seat assignment list.
• Remember 3-1-1. New regulations limit the amount of gels and liquids passengers can take through security in their carry-on luggage to travel-size toiletries of three (3) ounces or less that fit comfortably in one (1) quart-size, clear plastic zip-top bag and the one (1) bag per passenger must be placed in the screening bin.
• Know your limits. Pack light and know baggage limits. Some airlines place special restrictions during the holidays and allow only one carry-on.

Tips for travel by car include:

• Plan itineraries and arrange accommodations well in advance. Reservations for hotels, restaurants and rental cars get booked quickly during peak travel times. Your travel agent can help you get the lowest rate and make sure your rental car has room for your family, luggage and whatever souvenirs you bring home.
• Get a tune up. Before any long-distance drive, make sure to have your oil changed and your brakes, fluids and tire pressure checked. The slightest deficiency in air pressure significantly reduces your car’s gas mileage. On the flip side, too much air can result in a flat.
• Get an early start to avoid holiday gridlock. Traveling during late night/early morning hours helps. The worst times to travel are after meals since most travelers postpone leaving until they’ve eaten with their families. Make sure that all drivers are thoroughly rested.

Taking some time for preparation and planning results in travels with less-stress and anxiety…allowing time to celebrate the season.

Do you plan to travel this holiday season? If so, where are you going and how are you traveling?

Holiday Travel Tips: Thanksgiving Kicks Off Travel Traditions was created by and is property of American Consumer News.

Photo Credit: www.spiritair.com

In 2008 the friendly skies have not been so friendly. Travelers have been hit with outrageous fees on top of fees for everything ranging from traveling with luggage to reserving a seat. Capacity has been reduced and routes eliminated. It is surprising the airlines have not started charging a reservation fee for oxygen in case of emergency. Seriously, getting through the ticket purchase process can be just as long and frustrating as going through an airport security line.

Last night, I had the honor of purchasing a ticket for my mother’s pending visit. Based on our locales there is only one airline and one daily flight for non-stop flights, so based on supply and demand theories a premium might be expected to be paid. Luckily, this single flight availability/route is on a discount airline, Spirit Airlines, so we have never had to pay an “outrageous” amount. When comparing other “nearby” airports, there are less expensive flights, but when considering gas prices and time to go an extra hour to this nearby airport, the savings are negated.

I have been purchasing Spirit Airline tickets for more than two years for this particular route and I have been lucky enough to score an insanely good sale price for certain visits. However, regardless of Spirit’s great sale offerings, I was disappointed in my purchasing experience.

The ticket price was acceptable and by waiting an extra day, an unexpected sale was announced which resulted in an additional $25 in savings, which was “lost” as I went through the reservation process and pre-paid the now $15 for first piece of checked luggage fee. But, hey, $25 is $25 and I am not complaining. My recollection of the luggage fee had been $10 for the first bag, so I was left wondering if prices had gone up for this “service”. Where I was shocked is when the seat reservation option came up. Spirit Airlines now charges $10 per seat, per flight, even for online reservations. This is unacceptable. If booking online, travelers should be able to reserve their seat as part of the process and ticket price.

While airlines reportedly are struggling, why tease a customer in with a sale fare only to bait and switch with fee on top of fee. As you approach the end of the buying experience, Spirit Airlines automatically tacks on its fee for its airline insurance, which provides zero protection if the airline goes bankrupt, and $9 for a trial membership in its $39.95 annual exclusive $9 fare club. Both of these items are optional and I did not opt for either, but I felt as though this “suggestive selling” was just more nickel and diming that was unnecessary.

Spirit overall I have had good flying experiences with and again, have scored amazing flight deals. I only wish the Burger King approach would be removed. I highly recommend visiting Spirit’s Web site, www.spiritair.com and sign up to receive its sale notices. A word of caution…be flexible and act quickly.

Purchasing Airline Tickets? It’s the a la carte line… was created by and is property of American Consumer News.

According to a JetBlue news release, effective on August 4, 2008, customers on JetBlue flights longer than two hours may purchase the $7 eco-friendly pillow and blanket, which includes a coupon for $5 off the future purchase of any item at Bed Bath & Beyond. “Replacing our old, recycled pillows and blankets with this state-of-the-art, high-quality take home kit is an eco-conscious, health-conscious and customer-conscious decision,” said Brett Muney, General Manager of Product Development for JetBlue Airways. “We are constantly seeking ways to enhance the in-flight experience for our customers, and providing them the option to purchase The World’s Cleanest travel pillow and a fleece blanket at an affordable price delivers on that promise.”

The airline is trying to spin this move to be one of pro-consumer and eco-conscious choice. JetBlue executives were hammered for nickel and diming customers with this new move on the major talk shows, including Larry King Live, yesterday. In one of the responses delivered, the JetBlue executive stated that by charging fees for items such as blankets, they are allowing travelers to only pay for what they actually want to use. This allows them to keep ticket prices low and not increase ticket prices by $10 to $20 to cover costs for items that its customers may not even use, according to interview statements.

Not to hammer JetBlue, as they are one of the few airlines still offering a few complimentary items including Dunkin’ Donuts coffee, certain beverages, snacks, onboard entertainment by DIRECTV® and even wireless service.

On the “friendly skies” fee front, Delta Airlines has announced its changes to award ticketing pricing and associated fuel surcharges. According to Delta.com, starting August 15th, 2008, for award tickets issued customers face a zero to $150 fee depending on how far out ticket is issued. For travelers who plan ahead, a fee can be avoided if they ensure ticket is issued a minimum of 21 days before departure date. However, the fee is waived for award tickets for Platinum Medallion® members.

Regardless of when Delta fliers book their award tickets, they will not escape fee free. Effective August 15th, 2008, according to Delta.com, “Due to the continued rise in fuel prices, Delta will temporarily add the following fuel surcharge to Award Tickets originating from the US or Canada.” A $25 surcharge will be applied for award travel within the 50 states and Canada compared to a $50 fee for award travel between the 50 states/Canada and all international destinations. “This fuel surcharge will not impact any existing ticketed award itineraries or any future Award Tickets issued prior to August 15, 2008, regardless of the date of travel,” stated on Delta.com.

Additionally, USAirways has impoased a $25 to $50 fee for its frequent fliers cashing in miles for trips and Northwest has announced a $25 to $100 fee for its World Persk ticket. Furthermore, American Airlines is charging a $5 online booking fee and increasing its mile requirements for travelers’ eligibility for “free” tickets.

With all of these new fees being levied this summer, airlines are reporting that millions are being made…but, at whose expense? If you’re looking for cheap tickets overseas, cheap airline tickets to Europe, or cheap tickets to asia, you’re probably out of luck. Even if you get a deal, you’ll get hit with huge fees.

No Free in Flying was created by and is property of American Consumer News.