With the world open again and people more comfortable than ever with post-pandemic exploration, the current demand for global travel is unprecedented. Whether it is those eager to jet-set or people with a backlog of postponed trips, as we approach summer, gear up for what will be the busiest travel season we have seen quite possibly in our lifetime.
For those planning domestic and international trips during this busy season, expect a surge of fellow travelers at popular destinations, airports, and airlines. With that knowledge, preparation is vital for a smooth and stress-free experience. From navigating security checkpoints to ensuring your documents are in order, here are several steps you should take now to make your travel experience as hassle-free as possible.
First, use expedited security and screening programs such as CLEAR, TSA PreCheck, and Global Entry. These programs prioritize members throughout the security and immigration process, saving you hours waiting in line and avoiding unnecessary anxiety. This year, we strongly recommend that our custom travel planning clients enroll in all three programs. Be sure to check if your airport offers CLEAR, particularly if it is smaller, as some do not offer CLEAR services yet. In larger, international airports, many provide an additional fast-lane option for flyers with a combination of CLEAR and TSA PreCheck, making the security line a breeze. Consider our recent April scouting trip to Italy where, at departures, there was an over one-hour security line in the CLEAR-only lane. Upon our return home, travelers without Global Entry found themselves in a three-plus hour queue at United States Customs. Given the number of people we saw missing their flights and connections during both legs, expedited screening programs are quickly becoming necessary for the savvy traveler.
Before signing up, check if one of your travel or airline credit cards covers the cost of Global Entry, TSA PreCheck, or CLEAR. Many do, but you must use that card to pay the initial application fee to take advantage of the savings. Once approved, do not forget to link your “known traveler identification number” to any existing or upcoming travel reservations to access these expedited services.
Second, in addition to priority screening programs, download your airline’s mobile app for easy check-in. With many airlines now offering baggage drop counters for those checking luggage, obtaining your boarding pass via your mobile device will allow you to avoid long check-in lines, saving considerable time. For international travel, ensure your passport information is uploaded and correct in the airline’s system, or you will be unable to obtain a mobile boarding pass.
It is also essential to ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond the last travel date in a foreign country. Many countries require this as a condition of entry, and you may be denied boarding if your passport is set to expire too soon. Additionally, checking any necessary visa or vaccination requirements for your destination is important. Some countries require visitors to obtain a visa before entering, while others may require certain vaccinations or proof of a negative COVID-19 test.
Third, we highly encourage a carry-on-only baggage policy to speed up the boarding process and avoid waiting at baggage claim upon arrival. Travel this year already shows glimpses of the lost luggage debacle that occurred last summer, with overwhelmed and understaffed airports and airlines leading to thousands of checked baggage being stranded or lost, especially if you have connecting flights.
Finally, arriving at the airport no less than three hours before departure is an excellent idea. Give yourself more time if you do not use the mobile check-in option, plan to check your bags, or travel on a busy day, such as before a long holiday weekend. This strategy will give you ample time to check in, clear security, and find your gate without feeling rushed or worried.
We expect these upcoming months of travel to be hectic, and this is the season to think ahead, arrive early, and pack your patience. Doing so can make your travel experience as smooth and easy as possible. Are you still planning for that next trip? The Destination Designer is ready to help you with all of your travel needs.
