Travel

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

• 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

• United Airlines: 5% off flights for ages 18-23 (valid through December 31st, 2025)
• Amtrak: 15% off train tickets for students ages 17-24
• Student Universe: Discounted flights for college students

Credit Card Points / Airline Miles

• Search Engines: Pointhound and 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