WASHINGTON — So, it's been awhile since you've flown, or maybe you just booked your very first flight. Either way, WUSA9 has you covered with all the tips and tricks before you go.
As Memorial Day weekend kicks off the summer travel season, the Transportation Safety Administration says it anticipates a record number of passengers. Officials say Friday, May 24 is forecasted to be the busiest travel day with an anticipated nearly three million passengers going through security checkpoints. So far, TSA says passenger travel is up 8% compared to the same time last year.
They expect to set a record this summer -- screening more than 3 million passengers in one day.
AAA projects that nearly 44 million people will hit the road -- or skies -- for this Memorial Day weekend, marking a 4% increase from last year and nearly matching 2005's record 44 million Memorial Day travelers.
Flight prices, however, are not seeing much of an increase. AAA says they are comparable to last year – with a 1% to 2% increase.
The flight booking app Hopper's data shows airfare for Memorial Day weekend is down 9.5% from the same time last year.
They say that trend will continue throughout the summer, with 2024 marking the first year since 2020 where prices have dropped compared to the previous year – down 6%.
Hopper says that’s partly because there are more seats available.
It is costing a bit more to check your bags, though.
Multiple airlines have raised prices by at least $5 -- including Alaska Airlines, American, United, Delta, and JetBlue.
Here are 9+ pieces of advice to make your travel smoother this weekend:
1.) Under new consumer protection rules, passengers are entitled to an automatic refund if their flight is canceled or significantly delayed. But, these rules do not take effect until the fall. A significant delay is defined as at least three hours past its scheduled time for a domestic flight and at least six hours past for an international flight. Airlines will have seven days to automatically refund passengers who purchased their tickets with a credit card, and 20 calendar days for other payment methods. Checked bags are also covered under these new rules. Until that time, you can check what your rights are on the Department of Transportation's dashboard.
2.) Any liquids brought through TSA checkpoints must be less than 3.4 ounces and placed in a clear, quart-sized bag. Exceptions to this rule include prescription drugs and baby formula.
3.) TSA suggests signing up for TSA PreCheck to expedite security screening. Some credit card companies will refund you the $70 PreCheck application fee. PreCheck means you can keep your shoes and belts on, leave liquids and laptops in your bag, and forgo full-body scans, so go ahead and sign up, saving yourself some hassle.
4.) Beware of connecting to airport WiFi as this is a way hackers can target you. Try using a VPN when you need to connect.
5.) Invest in a good travel pillow. As more and more airlines try to cut costs, they are making their seats smaller and therefore more uncomfortable for travelers.
6.) Bring your own water bottle. The average price of a bottle of water at the airport ranges from $2.50 to $5, save your money and refill your own bottle at water stations for free. Just make sure you empty it before hopping in the security line.
7.) Download your airline's app to check in online and get boarding passes ahead of time. By downloading their app you can get updates on the go and avoid long check-in lines when you arrive at the airport or any confusion about gate changes.
8.) Check your passport expiration date. Some countries won't allow you to visit within six months of your passport's expiration date.
9.) Boarding begins 30-45 minutes before your listed departure time. Don't miss your flight by getting the two confused.
10.) REAL ID's won't be required until 2025. So no need to rush, but this is your reminder you will need a REAL ID to board domestic flights this time next year.
11.) Dress comfortably. The temperature on the plane can fluctuate greatly so prepare with layers you can easily take on and off.
12.) If you want to bring your vape with you, pack it in your carry-on. You cannot put lithium batteries in your checked luggage.
13.) In most cases, there is no longer a need to alert your credit card company if you are traveling out of the country. On that note, pay for things with your credit card to get the best exchange rates.
14.) Several airlines are no longer offering free food and drinks in economy. Don't expect to be fed and prepare before boarding.
15.) Check restrictions on bag size. More and more airlines will either restrict baggage sizes/weights (both for carry-on and checked luggage), or make you pay extra.
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