Editing Travel (section)

= Travel =

== General Flight Planning ==

=== Before You Book ===

* '''Transit to Airport''': Check if public transit is available at your departure and arrival times. Factor in cost and time for non-transit options.
* '''Airport Selection''': Some cities have multiple airports - compare total travel costs including ground transportation.
* '''Flight Flexibility''': United Basic Economy (no carry-on) and Spirit don't offer flight flexibility. You can purchase flexibility from Spirit separately.
* '''Route Changes''': On most airlines (except Spirit and Frontier), you can often modify flights to extend stays - usually cheaper than booking return trips later.

=== Search Tools ===

* '''[https://matrix.itasoftware.com/search ITA Matrix]''': Advanced flight search engine with more sophisticated querying than Google Flights and often more current results since it doesn't rely on caching.

== Discounts and Special Programs ==

=== Youth Discounts ===

* '''[https://www.united.com/en/us/fly/mileageplus/young-adult-discount.html United Airlines]''': 5% off flights for ages 18-23 (valid through December 31st, 2025)
* '''[https://www.amtrak.com/student-discounts Amtrak]''': 15% off train tickets for students ages 17-24
* '''[https://www.studentuniverse.com/flights Student Universe]''': Discounted flights for college students

=== Credit Card Points / Airline Miles ===

* '''Search Engines''': [https://www.pointhound.com/ Pointhound] and [https://roame.travel/ Roame] specialize in point redemption searches
* '''Best Value''': High-end flights (like direct transcontinental/transoceanic routes) typically offer the most value per point
* You can buy frequent flyer points at a rate of 1.6-1.9c and then purchase business and first class flights with them using 50-60K points

== After Booking ==

=== Pre-Flight Preparation ===

* '''Timing''': Set alarm for airport departure time + 30 minutes for last-minute packing
* '''Hydration''': Bring a large water bottle (24oz+) to fill after security - cabin humidity is very low (10-20%)
* '''Electrolytes''': Consume sodium and potassium-rich foods before and during flight
* '''Medication''': Pack extra doses in multiple compartments, keep in carry-on for easy access

=== Long-Haul Flight Tips ===

* '''Timezone Adjustment''': Set devices to destination timezone when boarding and sync eating/drinking accordingly
* '''Comfort''': Wear clothes you're comfortable being in for extended periods

=== Destination-Specific Tips ===

==== Japan ====

* Bring multiple debit cards for cash access and transportation card payments

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== Alternative Travel Options ==

=== Frontier GoWild! All-You-Can-Fly Pass ===
''For travelers with flexible schedules who prioritize cost savings over convenience''

The GoWild! Pass offers unlimited flights for a fixed subscription price, with flights available for $0.01 plus taxes/fees (typically ~$14.60 domestic).

'''Key Features:'''

* Access to all Frontier domestic and international destinations
* Domestic flights: book 1 day before departure
* International flights: book 10 days before departure
* Various subscription options: annual, seasonal, monthly

'''Limitations:'''

* Last-minute booking requirements
* Additional costs for baggage and seat selection
* Blackout dates during peak periods
* Subject to availability

'''Route Planning Strategy:'''

* Use the interactive Frontier route map for planning
* Prioritize direct flights when possible
* Transform long layovers into stopovers to visit additional cities
* Check multiple airports in metro areas (e.g., Chicago: ORD/MDW, DC area: BWI/DCA)
* Compare different days - schedules vary significantly by day of week
* Check historical delay data using FlightStats or FlightAware

'''Booking Tips:'''

* Check prices frequently - discounted rates often available 24-48 hours before departure
* Treat like public transit: focus on functionality over luxury
* Build buffer time for delays
* Pack light to avoid baggage fees