Traveling is a beloved experience that broadens our horizons and creates lasting memories. However, it can also be fraught with unsuspecting pitfalls if not done right, resulting in unnecessary stress and headaches. To ensure your journey is smooth, memorable, and hassle-free, we have tapped into the expertise of travel professionals Alexis Doerfler, owner and lead travel advisor for The Destination Designer, and Elizabeth Doerfler, a managing consultant and travel specialist, to provide their top tips for the savvy traveler. Here are five of the most common mistakes people encounter when traveling, and below are ways you can avoid them.
- Missing Out on Travel Reward Credit Cards
Alexis advises: One of the most significant travel mishaps is not taking full advantage of travel reward credit cards. These cards offer an array of benefits beyond the obvious financial perks. Most notably, they allow you to accumulate useful points that can be used for future travels, often covering the cost of flights and hotel stays. “This has been an increasingly valuable perk of travel reward credit cards, particularly this year, where we have seen the cost of airline tickets increase astronomically,” says Alexis. “We love helping our travel clients utilize their travel reward points and miles balances, especially for business/first class airline tickets or an upgraded hotel suite, allowing them to spend their funds on other fun activities and memorable excursions.”
Beyond the points offered, in many cases, travel reward cards provide exclusive benefits such as premier lounge access, complimentary TSA PreCheck, Global Entry, monetary yearly airline credits, and CLEAR access, among other travel statement credits and perks. These privileges can significantly enhance your travel experience, making it more comfortable and efficient, saving you money.
Alexis points out that “not all travel reward credit cards are created equal. When choosing which travel reward credit card is right for you, it is important to carefully consider each option available to ensure it meets your specific travel needs.”
- Booking Through Third-Party Online Sites
Elizabeth warns: While third-party online travel agencies and discounters may seem convenient and cost-effective, they often do not provide the best rates, and their services can become a nightmare when issues arise like flight delays, schedule changes, or if you want to make changes to hotel reservations. “Many travelers do not realize that when problems occur or if they want to make changes, they cannot work directly with the airline or hotel. They have to deal with the third-party site, which has their own set of terms and conditions, often there are longer resolution times, costly change fees, and poor customer service resulting in massive frustration for the traveler,” says Elizabeth.
Moreover, hotels and airlines provide better service and benefits to those who book directly. Requests such as a room located on a high floor or with a better view or an upgrade request are given priority to those who book directly. Employing an expert travel advisor who has relationships with travel industry providers and books directly with airlines and hotels on your behalf ensures not only that you get the most competitive prices but also guarantees a higher level of service and travel benefits and avoids the “hidden costs” in both time and money of using a third-party travel site.
“Travel specialists like us offer personalized assistance and expertise that online platforms cannot match. We can tailor your travel experience to your unique needs and handle any complications that may arise during your journey.”
- Failing to Plan Ahead
Alexis suggests: Travelers often underestimate the importance of planning ahead. With increasing demand for travel services, particularly in peak seasons, procrastination can lead to limited availability and skyrocketing prices. “If you want the best rates and a wider selection of options, booking well in advance is essential.”
Proper planning allows you to secure accommodations at your dream destinations and ensures that your travel itinerary aligns with your preferences and expectations. Do not leave your travel arrangements to the last minute; plan wisely and reap the benefits.
- Skipping Travel Insurance
Elizabeth emphasizes: Many travelers overlook the importance of travel insurance, considering it an unnecessary expense. However, unforeseen circumstances such as trip cancellations or delays, medical emergencies, or lost luggage can turn a dream vacation into a nightmare. Travelers have a good amount of choice when it comes to travel insurance. Many leaders in the industry allow you to customize your coverage for your specific needs and budget, and often, a small expenditure is all it takes to supply you with the perfect plan.
“Travel insurance provides a safety net, covering these unexpected events and gives you the peace of mind to explore the world worry-free. Do not gamble with your travel investment; invest in travel insurance to protect yourself and your loved ones.”
- Neglecting the Use of AirTags or Tracking Devices
Alexis advises: Keeping track of checked luggage can be a nerve-racking experience. AirTags, or the like, are small tracking devices that can be attached to your luggage, enabling you to monitor your bags’ whereabouts in real time using your smartphone.
AirTags provide a simple and effective solution to one of the most common travel worries: lost luggage. Not only do they allow you to see exactly where your bags are, but they can also provide airlines or hotels with much-needed information if your luggage is misplaced. “A friend could see through her phone that her bag never made it onto her connecting flight and was stuck at the transit point when the airline’s system showed the bag arriving at her destination. The AirTag tracking information allowed the airline to quickly sort out the discrepancy and return the bag to the correct place.” When choosing where to put the AirTag, it is a good idea to pack it inside the bag where it is protected and not easily seen by others. Doing this prevents accidental damage, loss, or intentional removal of the tracker.
Investing in these devices can save you time and stress, ensuring your belongings are always within reach.
Follow these tips from travel professionals Alexis and Elizabeth Doerfler to ensure your travels are a rewarding, memorable, and hassle-free experience.
For assistance curating your upcoming travels, contact The Destination Designer to get started.
