Paul's & Janita's Travel Site

Getting there can be half the fun, or a stressful, tedious and expensive experience. 

1. Travel via a cheap hub.

As long as you have some time up your sleeve, travelling with discount airlines to 'hubs' that may be a little out of your way can save you hundreds on fares. As well, you may get a chance to visit some interesting locations on the way.

2. Don't be afraid to book and pay early.

It can be a risky business, but buying flights early can have significant benefits. Airlines often offer early bird specials up to 12 months ahead of departure time. Saving on currency fluctuations can also be a benefit of advance payments. On the other hand last minute fares can also be attractive. It's really a bit of a lottery!

3. Use both the Internet and travel agents to purchase tickets.

The Internet gives travellers access to flight schedules and comparative fares as well as the opportunity to purchase seats directly online. Some travel agents and flight retailers will match any Internet fare. There are some advantages in dealing through an agent, particularly if things go wrong with flights. Agents are far more experienced at dealing with airlines than we are.

4. Don't be trapped by frequent flyer loyalty  programs.

Discount fares are time, location and airline linked. Sticking with one airline will undoubtedly cost you money by missing out on specials. Instead, consider using your loyalty points for hotel or car hire purchases.

5. Always arrive at the airport early. At least 30 minutes before required.

The last thing you need is to be stressed when boarding a long haul flight. Use online check-in if available. Beat the lines at the security checks. Have time for a coffee or a beer and most importantly, have time for a good long walk before taking to your seat for 8-10 hours.

6. Dress for comfort, but don't present as untidy or scruffy.

Travellers generally dress informally for flights, but don't take it too far! Scruffy dress and personal presentation will more than likely draw unwanted attention from customs officials, particularly if you are young. Loose clothing and slip-off shoes will improve cabin comfort.

7. Memorise or write down your passport number, expiry dates and flight number.

Have a biro handy to fill in landing and immigration forms during your flight. Digging a passport out of an overhead locker or even a pocket can be a real pain. Your passport is probably safest in your carry-on bag. Many a passenger has spent tense minutes groping around under seats searching for a passport.

8. Drink and eat what you normally would.

Despite advice to drink no alcohol and eat light, most regular travellers find that as long as they eat and drink what they would normally consume over the same time period as their flight, all is well. Hydration always need to be balanced with 'dehydration' or bathroom visits. What goes in has to come out at some stage, so just take it easy!

9. Don't sleep to manage Jetlag

Not sleeping may seem a strange preventative for Jetlag but much of what is popularly called Jetlag, is mostly sleep disorientation. Sleep patterns are disturbed and we feel 'off' as a result. Our answer? No matter how much sleep you have, or don't have on a flight, try to go to bed as close as possible to your normal time. If you arrive at 7:00 am, the worst thing you can do is go to sleep. Tough it out! If you have an evening arrival time. Don't sleep during the flight.

10. Plan your trip from the terminal before you leave.

Even in a familiar airport, getting away can be a challenge. Public transport options are always cheaper than taking a cab, but sometimes the inconvenience and waiting times can out weigh the savings. What is guaranteed is that without a plan, your trip from the airport is likely to be a less than perfect start to your holiday.