Summer 2024 Travel Survival Tips & Promotions
During this 4th of July week in Summer 2024, more than 71 million Americans are projected to travel, which is expected to shatter previous travel records for the busiest travel days EVER. While you may not want to skip traveling entirely to avoid the crowds, there are some steps you can follow to take the edge off the crowds. See some of my tips below for these hectic summer travel days.
Still looking for some travel ideas for a last minute trip during this busy summer travel season? I’ve put some great promotions and ideas at the end for inspiration!
1) Stick to carry on only - It’s too hot to wear elaborate outfits anyway. If there’s any time the airport staff will mess up and lose your bags, it’s this week when they are completely overwhelmed. Save yourself the trouble and stick to a carryon baggage. If you cannot survive with a carry on bag, have your travel advisor arrange for your luggage to be shipped to your destination ahead of time.
2) Track your flight on independent flight tracking sites - I cannot tell you how many times I have found out about delays or cancellations on independent flight tracking sites that the airline hasn’t posted on their own app/websites. I like using FlightAware.com. Pro Tip: Use the “Track Incoming Aircraft” feature to make sure your incoming flight will arrive on time (as that is a common source of delays). If your flight is canceled or the delay will cause you to miss your connecting flight, don’t just line up at the flight desk with everyone else. Visit the lounge agents (if you have access), call the airline, DM the airlines on social media, text with the airlines via their app, or try to rebook yourself directly via the airline app. Expert tip: Book your premium economy, business, and first class air tickets via your travel advisor’s flight desk to get access to a 24/7 hotline that can help you immediately get rebooked when things go awry.
3) Use services that help you skip or minimize the lines! TSA PreCheck, Global Entry, and CLEAR are key to helping you minimize waiting in lines. These days, many credit cards cover the application fees for these services. Many airlines are coming out with their own versions of expedited services as well, such as Delta Digital ID. Don’t have time to sign up for any of those services before your trip? Make sure to use the US Mobile Passport Control app to gain access to an expedited lane. Your travel advisor can also book services that can expedite you through security or customs OR bypass them entirely (depending on the airport).
4) Pre-book everything - There is nothing worse than stepping out of the airport and seeing an hour-long wait for a taxi or Uber. Save yourself the pain and have your travel advisor pre-book your arrival and departure transfers, restaurant reservations, spa treatments, etc. The only way to beat the crowds is to get ahead of them!
5) Get to attractions at opening - I know, I know, It’s vacation, you want to sleep in. But crowds tend to build throughout the day. My new favorite thing to do is visit an attraction right at opening to miss most of the crowds and then head back to my hotel for a leisurely breakfast afterwards.
Looking for some last minute trip ideas? Here’s some promotions to get you inspired!
Last Minute Summer Promotions:
Rosewood Las Ventanas, Mexico: Experience amazing service and enjoy perks like room upgrades, a $125 resort credit, and a Margarita & Taco Sampler. Perfect for a luxurious escape to Los Cabos.
Costa Rica Luxury Villa: Stay 4 nights in this exclusive villa and receive complimentary jet ski time, catamaran experiences, and full-board luxury for up to 16 guests.
The Alexander, Mexico City: Celebrate the grand opening with breakfast at the Caviar Bar, a caviar tasting, and more in the heart of Mexico City's cultural landscape.
Kokomo Private Island, Fiji: Save 20% on beachfront luxury, with gourmet meals, a personal butler, and nanny service included. A true paradise for families and leisure seekers.
Turtle Bay Resort, Hawaii: Connect with nature on Oahu’s North Shore. Enjoy up to 28% off, complimentary breakfast daily, a $100 resort credit, waived resort fees in the bungalows, and upgrades at check-in in their fully renovated spaces.
Four Seasons Anguilla: Indulge in a Caribbean retreat with huge resort credits up to $3,000, and breakfast included in your oceanfront villa or residence.
Acqualina Resort Miami: Stay in an Oceanfront Suite and get up to 35% off, $300 resort credit, and breakfast credits.
Where will your summer adventures take you? Fill out my Trip Design Form to get started on the trip planning process!