Security. The Department of State's Consular Information Sheets are available for every country of the world. They describe entry requirements, currency regulations, unusual health conditions, the crime and security situation, political disturbances, areas of instability, and special information about driving and road conditions. They also provide addresses and emergency telephone numbers for U.S. embassies and [...]
Prior to going to the airport.
Double check that you have everything packed especially your ticket and other travel documents. Call your airline to reconfirm your flight the day before you go. Check the weather at departing and arriving airports to see if there are any problems.
Arrange your transportation to the airport to get [...]
This can be compounded if you are in a foreign country and the language barrier becomes insurmountable. Airline offices may not be located in the city you are spending your holiday in, funds may not be readily available to re-purchase a ticket, and time may be of the essence.
Many passengers believe that air tickets [...]
Although it is recognized that hard-and-fast rules cannot be applied in incidents of kidnapping, the following points are worthy of special consideration:
Under all circumstances attempt to stay calm and be alert to situations that you can exploit to your advantage. Remember that the primary objective of your family and law enforcement officials will be to [...]
Perhaps jet lag is the culprit. Crossing time zones while you travel is just one of the causes. Some advance knowledge and preparation can result in a more enjoyable trip.
PRIMARY CAUSES OF JET LAG
* Crossing two or more time zones: This is worse on eastbound flights because you have to adjust to an earlier schedule.
* [...]
* Be reasonable about the amount of carry-on luggage that you bring. FAA rules require airlines to limit the amount of carry-on baggage, and if you try to carry too much with you, the crew may insist that you check in some items. (There is no universal limit; it depends on the aircraft type and [...]
Your Itinerary. As much as possible, plan to stay in larger hotels that have more elaborate security. Safety experts recommend booking a room from the second to seventh floors above ground level to deter easy entrance from outside, but low enough for fire equipment to reach.
Because take-off and landing are the most dangerous times of [...]
Tips before you reach the airport
* Please allow yourself and your family extra time to get through security - especially when traveling with younger children. Allow even additional time if you are traveling overseas.
* Call your airline or travel agent for their recommended check-in times for [...]
Relatively few bags are damaged or lost. However, your chances of encountering this experience can be reduced even further if you follow the advice set out below.
Packing
Avoid putting the following in checked baggage:
- Valuables (cash, jewelry). Don't rely on suitcase locks; they are easily defeated.
- Critical items (medicine, keys, passport, tour vouchers, business [...]
Voluntary bumping
Almost any group of airline passengers includes some people with urgent travel needs and others who may be more concerned about the cost of their tickets than about getting to their destination on time. Our rules require airlines to seek out people who are willing to give up their seats for some compensation before [...]