Holiday travel requires planning

Nov. 19, 2008 05:23 PM

This News by You about holiday travel tips comes from AAA Arizona.

As the holiday season begins, many Arizonans will soon be headed out of town to celebrate with family and friends. However, much has changed in the way of travel over the last year, which could lead to travelers facing unexpected fees, standing in long lines or paying more than they need to for gifts and services.

As a result, AAA would like to encourage holiday travelers to plan ahead in order to ensure the focus this season is on celebration and not on a holiday headache.

"The key to a relaxing and stress-free holiday trip is to be in charge of your trip and to plan ahead," said Don Nunnari, vice president of membership products and services for AAA Arizona. "Changes in fees and airport security measures can hold up a line if vacationers are ill-prepared."

Travelers who are not prepared can find themselves owing more than they expected as they arrive for their flights with too-heavy or too many bags, or find themselves dealing with car trouble - a situation that can ruin a vacation budget. In addition, cash-strapped travelers may be missing out on thousands of deals and discounts they may not even know about.

"Taking the time to do a little research before your trip can help you plan ahead and stay on your travel budget," Nunnari added.

AAA can be visited on the Internet at www.aaa.com.

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Travel tips

As Thanksgiving signifies the official start of the holiday season, AAA Arizona offers the following smart holiday travel tips:

• Check for the most current list of fees and charges for your airline. AAA Arizona has compiled a list of airline baggage, reservation and seating fees as of early November, which are subject to change at any time, at www.aaa.com/aaa/002/aaa

2002/news/articles/airlinecharges.htm.

• Avoid long lines at airports by arriving on time and using kiosks when available to check in.

• Be prepared for airport screeners who can slow down a line and your trip. Put any necessary liquids in checked bags, or keep all in the same carry-on. Liquids of 3 ounces or less, sealed in a one single 1-quart plastic bag, are allowed. Only bring medication you need and avoid extra jewelry or metal items you may need to remove. For more information on prohibited items visit www.tsa.gov/travelers/index.shtm.

• Pack light. Most airlines charge for checked baggage, so verify size and weight restrictions and your total costs in advance. Most airlines allow checked bags to be up to 50 pounds. Luggage that is too heavy can lead to surprise charges up to $150 or more, or even refusals. Don't wrap gifts, as they may be unwrapped and inspected.

• Take advantage of discounts to save big on your trip. If you're a AAA member, for example, you can show your card and save at over 160,000 locations around the world. Log onto www.aaaaz.com/discounts for a list of partners.

• When traveling by motor vehicle, it is vital to have your vehicle inspected for safety and to plan ahead for any unusual weather you may experience on the way to or at your destination. Taking this step can mean the difference between a safe trip and one that leaves you stranded on the side of the road. AAA has over 155 approved auto repair and two club-owned facilities. Visit www.aaaaz.com/auto to find a repair shop close to you.

Holiday travel requires planning

Travel tips

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