Avoid The Headache with These Summer Travel Tips

The urge to travel is always stronger in the summer months. From Memorial Day through Labor Day, AAA estimates that about 35 percent of Americans will pack up on for a summer trip. Whether you’re planning a road trip or traveling abroad, we have some summer travel tips that will help with everything from planning your vacation to returning home safely.

Anticipate Flight Delays

Summer thunderstorms can delay flights as much as snow. Bring lots of good, healthy snacks, so if you’re delayed in the terminal — or worse, on the tarmac — you and your family will be fine.

Download Travel Apps

Travel apps can make traveling a thousand times easier. FlightAware allows you to track an inbound flight. AroundMe tells you what’s nearby any location you’re visiting, including ATMs, restaurants and emergency rooms. For road trips, iExit will help you choose which exit is best for gas and food.

Add Travel Dates to Bank Accounts

Call your credit or debit card companies before traveling so that you’re authorized for vacation purchases. It would be a shame if your cards were blocked while you’re out of town and have no way to get a new one.

Airport Hacks

Bring a lunch and an empty water bottle to the airport and refill it after you pass security. You won’t have to spend money on pricey airport food and you’ll have more money to spend on your trip.

Luggage Hacks

Stick a dryer sheet in your suitcase with your clothes to keep them smelling fresh. Roll your clothes instead of folding them to avoid wrinkles and make more room in your suitcase.

Parking Hacks

When you’re driving in a new city and need to remember where you parked, drop a pin on Google Maps or take a picture of the parking space with your phone.

Travel Documents

Scan your passport, ID, and itinerary and email it to yourself so you have a digital copy in the event of loss or theft.

There’s a lot to keep in mind this summer when you travel, so we hope you use these tips to stay alert and have fun during your trip.