Certain phrases and requests have become notorious pain points for flight attendants who fly hundreds of times a year. They’re guaranteed to make any flight attendant mentally roll their eyes, even as they maintain their professional smile. Before you join the ranks of passengers who unknowingly commit this mile-high faux pas, consider the impact of your words on these hardworking crew members. Flight attendants aren’t just service providers; they’re trained safety professionals whose primary responsibility is ensuring your well-being during the flight. The following ten phrases represent a compilation of their most cringe-worthy passenger interactions—those special moments that make them wish they could temporarily disable the call button or, at the very least, serve your drink with an extra helping of disdain.

Can You Watch My Kids?

You’ve paid plenty for your coach ticket, so now it’s time to relax, take a nap, and maybe let your kids run wild. After all, the flight attendants are just sitting at the back of the plane—they will be happy to watch your little darlings, right? Wrong.

“I’ve had passengers get mad at me because we didn’t have a play area on the plane. Another passenger came to the back of the plane and asked me where she could put her baby. She didn’t want to hold it,” flight attendant Heather Poole told Parade Magazine. Flight attendants already have enough to do and can’t take on babysitting duties.

This Drink Is Too Expensive!

Yes, that in-flight drink is too expensive. But whining to the flight attendant isn’t going to change anything. Do you really think the CEO of a major airline consults with the flight attendants before raising prices on drinks? Trust us, the flight attendant to whom you’re complaining is not making a commission off overpriced gin and tonics. (Starting salaries for flight attendants can be as low as $27,000 per year, and there’s definitely no kickback from expensive drinks factored into that.)

Fetch Me …

We all wish we had a personal butler we could summon with the ring of a bell. However, despite the presence of a call button above every airplane seat, the flight attendant is not that butler. Demanding that the flight attendant “fetch” you something is a sure way to get on a flight attendant’s bad side. 

Use the call button only when it’s really necessary, such as times when you can’t get out of your seat and genuinely need something. If you want a glass of water or a blanket, walk back to the galley and ask for it in person.

Hey, stewardess!

The word “stewardess” is about as contemporary as the glamorous coach-class experience of yesteryear. Both are gone forever. “Stewardess” was in vogue when women were the only people hired as flight attendants. 

Nowadays, both men and women work as cabin crew, and the term “flight attendant” reflects not only this but the expanded duties that they are responsible for onboard. 

Wait, What Kind of Drinks Do You Have?

The beverage service doesn’t just magically appear in front of you. The start of the service is usually announced on the PA system, along with a list of the beverages available on board that day. Couldn’t hear the announcement? You can usually find a card in your seatback pocket that lists what you can order. The snacks and drinks on offer are also usually listed in the airline’s app, if you have it downloaded. 

So if you’re craving something out of the ordinary (“Do you have any Diet Mountain Dew on this flight?”) or exotic (“Man, I could go for a can of cran-pineapple-berry-tang juice!”), consult your in-flight card to see if it’s being served. Flight attendants hate having to run down the list of available drinks for every passenger who asks—and they’ll be even more annoyed if you ask what’s on offer after they’ve just told the person sitting next to you what’s available. 

Can You Help Me Lift My Bag?

Congratulations. You’ve managed to cram everything you own into your carry-on bag. There’s no way you’re gate-checking it now, even if it does weigh 100 pounds. Who cares if you can’t lift it—you’ll just ask one of the flight attendants to heft it into the overhead bin for you. They’re basically baggage handlers that come along for the ride, right? Wrong. 

During flight attendant training, crew members are advised never to lift baggage for passengers because it’s a common cause of injury. Repeatedly hefting heavy suitcases into the overhead bins can cause health issues, and if a flight attendant is hurt loading bags, it could cause a flight delay or cancellation. 

It’s not a flight attendant’s job to help you lift your bag, so make sure you can actually lift and stow whatever you pack. 

I Will Blow Up This Plane If I Don’t Get Bumped to First Class!

Your terrorism jokes aren’t funny. Ever. Instead of laughs, the joke’s on you: That idle threat will get you kicked off the plane and possibly arrested.

I’ll Turn Off My Phone in One More Minute!

Different airlines have different policies about using electronic devices during takeoff and landing. Once you’re on the plane, though, the flight attendant’s word is law. So when you’re asked to turn off your phone or laptop, it means now, people. Holding up your finger to signal one more minute is rude. Stop it.

Can You Throw Away This Bag Of Vomit For Me?

Flight attendants see enough gross stuff already. They don’t need to be tasked with throwing away your used air-sickness bag or your baby’s dirty diaper. Walk to the lavatory and throw it away yourself. (And if you’re throwing away a dirty diaper, that raises another question: Where are you changing that kid? Please don’t do it on the tray table.)

Nothing (In an Exit Row)

While most passengers appreciate a quiet flight, there’s one crucial moment when your voice needs to be heard: the emergency exit row safety briefing. That seemingly simple “yes” you’re asked to provide in response to the question about being willing and able to perform safety duties in an emergency isn’t just a formality—it’s a legal requirement. Flight attendants must verify that every passenger seated in an exit row can both understand and respond to verbal and visual instructions, as these individuals could play a vital role in an emergency evacuation.

If you remain silent during this safety check, the flight attendant will have no choice but to relocate you to a different seat. This policy isn’t about being difficult; it’s about ensuring the safety of everyone on board. Remember, those extra legroom seats come with extra responsibility, and your verbal confirmation is the first step in accepting that duty.

The post 10 Things You Should Never Say to a Flight Attendant appeared first on SmarterTravel.

The following 10 suggestions for what not to do at airport security will make you a savvier flyer, capable of breezing through the checkpoint like a pro.

Don’t Bring More Than 3.4 Ounces (or 100 Milliliters) of Any Liquid

This may be obvious to frequent flyers, but even though the so-called 3-1-1 rule went into effect back in 2006, inexperienced travelers still show up with full-sized bottles of shampoo, water, and other liquids in their carry-on bags. Each time this happens, a TSA agent has to pull the bag off the security belt, call the passenger over, search the bag, scold the passenger, and throw the bottle out, thus slowing the security line down—and earning the offender annoyed head shakes from those stuck waiting.

There are a few exceptions to this rule, including medications, breast milk, and baby formula. If you’re flying to the United States via a connecting flight from overseas, you may carry full-size duty-free liquids as long as they’re sealed in a secure, tamper-evident bag by the original retailer, they were purchased within the past 24 hours, and you have the receipt.

For more information on what you can and can’t bring through airport security, check out this comprehensive Airport Security Q&A.

Don’t Leave Liquids and Gels Deep in Your Carry-On

One surefire method to slow a security line down is to waste time digging through your carry-on for items that need to be placed in the bin individually. Putting travel-sized liquids into a clear, see-through quart-sized bag is not enough. Keep the bag stored in a handy place—such as an external compartment on your carry-on—so all you have to do is reach in and grab it. Note that although electronics and liquids are increasingly allowed to remain inside carry-on luggage thanks to new technology, it may not be the case at every checkpoint.

Even TSA PreCheck members, who may be used to not having to take out their electronics and liquids, may be selected for a secondary screening and should be sure to keep these items easily accessible.

Don’t Forget to Have Your Boarding Pass and ID Handy

Similar to the above, you don’t want to be pulling out your wallet to grab your ID while you’re standing in front of the security agent. Do that while waiting in line or, better yet, before you even get in line. You’ll not only make things faster for yourself and those behind you, but you also won’t annoy the security agent.

Don’t Wait to Take off Your Belt, Watch, Jacket, and Shoes

If you haven’t caught on to the “be prepared” mantra yet, here it is again. The best way to move through security as fast as possible is to have everything you need out and ready to be placed on the conveyor belt as soon as you get there. If you’re wearing a belt or watch, take it off while you’re in line. Same thing with your jacket and even your shoes if possible, especially if they’ve got shoelaces—at the very least, have your laces untied so all you have to do is slip your shoes off. Caveat: Seniors over the age of 75, kids under 13, and those who have TSA PreCheck may leave their shoes and light jackets on.

Don’t Remove Items You Don’t Need to Remove

One of the most common airport security mistakes is to take out all your electronic devices to be scanned separately. You don’t need to do this. According to the TSA, only electronics larger than a cell phone must be removed from their carrying cases and X-rayed separately. This does include laptops and tablets, but it doesn’t include phones or electric toothbrushes. TSA PreCheck members don’t have to remove electronics for separate screening.

Also, in most cases you do not need to remove your jewelry before going through security. If you’re wearing numerous or particularly bulky items, you might want to take them off, but smaller pieces such as wedding rings and earrings can usually stay on. If you set off any alarms, the screening agent will work with you to determine the problem, which might or might not require jewelry removal.

Don’t Wear Sandals

Do you really want to expose your bare feet to whatever’s on a filthy airport floor? Yes, sandals are easy to slip on and off, but they’re not worth a potential case of athlete’s foot if you have to take your shoes off for screening.

Don’t Overlook Less Busy Checkpoints

Most large airports have multiple checkpoint entries for any given terminal, and some may be busier than others at certain times of day. The TSA offers travelers an app called MyTSA that you can use to check security wait times based on historical data. Just be sure you actually can reach your gate via the checkpoint you’ve selected.

Don’t Give the Security Folks a Hard Time

You may think your trial shampoo bottle is smaller than 3.4 ounces, or maybe the last time you went through security, no one cared that your mascara wasn’t in a clear bag. All that matters is what they’re telling you this time. While the particular TSA agent demanding you give up your “contraband” very well may be in the wrong, at that moment he or she has all the power, and arguing isn’t going to get you anywhere but possibly detained.

Don’t Joke About National Security or Bombs

Technically, cracking jokes about national security at an airport is not illegal, but that doesn’t mean you can’t get in trouble for doing it. There are numerous cases of passengers being arrested after joking about explosives or bombs while being examined at security. You may think your joke is funny or harmless, but remember, the TSA has no sense of humor when it comes to doing its job. Always err on the side of caution.

Don’t Forget About the PreCheck Program

The TSA’s PreCheck program is a risk-based prescreening system that allows frequent flyers to apply for access to a restricted—and faster—airport security lane. The application process is essentially an in-depth background check, but once cleared, PreCheck flyers no longer have to remove their belts, shoes, or lightweight jackets, nor must they place their 3-1-1 compliant plastic bag and laptop in separate bins.

PreCheck lanes are currently available at more than 200 airports across the United States. Do you often travel internationally? Consider Global Entry, which includes PreCheck membership as well as expedited re-entry into the United States. Read SmarterTravel’s summary of Global Entry vs. TSA PreCheck to learn more.

Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2017. It has been updated to reflect the most current information. Dori Saltzman contributed to this story.

The post 10 Things Not to Do at Airport Security appeared first on SmarterTravel.

The experts at Google Flights examined historical data for holiday flights over the last four years to determine the optimal time to buy tickets. 

When Should You Buy Flights for Thanksgiving?

According to Google Flights, you should buy Thanksgiving flights in early October. For domestic trips around Thanksgiving, prices have historically been the lowest 45 days before departure, with the cheapest deals around 26-59 days before the holiday. 

When Should You Buy Flights for Christmas?

You’ll want to buy your Christmas flights a bit earlier, as Google Flights found that domestic flights around the holiday have been the cheapest 58 days before departure. The low price range for Christmas travel is 36-72 days out, so you’ll want to lock in your flights before the end of October. 

What is the Best Day of the Week to Book Flights?

If you see a good flight deal, grab it—don’t wait until Tuesday to book it because you’ve heard that’s the best day of the week to purchase flights. Whether you’re buying tickets for the holidays or just for vacation, there’s “not much benefit to buying your tickets on a certain day of the week,” say Google Flights experts. 

Although Tuesday has historically been the cheapest day to book flights, it’s only 1.3 percent cheaper on average than Sunday, the most expensive day to buy travel.

However, the day of the week that you travel on does impact the price of your ticket—during non-holiday periods, you’ll save money by flying on Monday, Tuesday, or Wednesday, which have been 13 percent cheaper than flying on a Friday, Saturday, or Sunday. With Thanksgiving always on a Thursday and Christmas falling on a Wednesday this year, this trend doesn’t apply to holiday travel.

The Best and Worst Days of the Week to Fly During the Holidays 

If you can be flexible with your holiday travel, try to avoid flying over these dates when travel booking site Hopper predicts that flights will be more expensive and airports are at their most crowded. 

“Departing the week before Thanksgiving or on the Monday ahead of the holiday will save travelers the most,” says Hayley Berg, lead economist at Hopper. “Savvy travelers will save 23 percent or about $60 per ticket by departing on the Thursday before Thanksgiving (11/21) or the Monday of Thanksgiving week (11/25) instead of taking a weekend flight.”

The Best Days to Fly for Thanksgiving

1. Thursday, November 21
2. Monday, November 25
3. Thursday, November 28

The Worst Days to Fly for Thanksgiving

1. Sunday, December 1
2. Saturday, November 30
3. Monday, December 2
4. Wednesday, November 27
5. Saturday, November 23

Berg advises holding off until October to book Christmas flights. According to Hopper, ticket prices for domestic trips are currently averaging $406 per ticket, up four percent from this time last year. However, fares are expected to fall by about $80 until they reach their lowest point in October.

“Departing the week before Christmas or on Christmas Eve or Day will save travelers the most,” says Berg. “Savvy travelers will save 26% or about $100 per ticket by departing on Christmas Eve instead of taking a flight the weekend before the holiday.”

The Best Days to Fly for Christmas

1. Tuesday, December 31
2. Tuesday, December 17
3. Tuesday, December 24

The Worst Days to Fly for Christmas

1. Saturday, December 21
2. Friday, December 20
3. Sunday, December 22
4. Saturday, December 28
5. Friday, December 27
6. Sunday, December 29

The post When Should You Book Your Holiday Flights for 2024? appeared first on SmarterTravel.

But these days, when everything flight-related has a price tag, you’ll pay $99 for an “upgrade” to the front section of coach, just for the right to get off the plane more quickly (although in some cases, it does also buy you an inch or two of extra legroom). Many factors have created the present “zero upgrade” environment—like the airlines’ love of fees and surcharges, computerized seat assignments (which make it much easier to know where everyone is well before flight time), very full flights, and increased competition for upgrades due to the degraded state of flying coach.

But you don’t necessarily have to give up just because your chances of getting an upgrade have gone down. Check out the tactics below to learn how to get upgraded to first class for free. But first, let’s realize that, for many domestic flights…

First Class Isn’t What It Used to Be

Don’t get me wrong—when I am filing past the first few rows of seats on my way to the back of the plane, those big leather seats with folks already drinking wine in them have a strong allure. But those seats come with a cost, whether in cash or in miles, and on shorter domestic flights you don’t get all that much more than the folks in coach—wider seats, a little more legroom, free drinks, and the chance to board a little earlier.

That said, some airlines have upped the ante in their first-class cabins on longer domestic routes. American Airlines offers lie-flat seats in first class on some transcontinental routes, while Hawaiian Airlines has lie-flat options on its first-class service to Hawaii. On these types of domestic flights, an upgrade is definitely worth trying for.

The same goes for longer international flights. Much more critically than better food and drinks, first- and business-class seats in most international aircraft convert into beds that are pretty darn comfortable. On a flight back from Tokyo in first class a few years ago, I was actually disappointed when we began our final descent; when is the last time that happened in coach?

Why It’s So Hard to Get a Free Upgrade

David Rowell, who writes The Travel Insider, notes that “it is enormously harder to get upgrades these days than it used to be. Well, correction, it is harder to get undeserved upgrades these days. The procedure for getting upgrades that one is entitled to has become almost 100 percent automatic and hands-off, and with all flights being full in both cabins, there isn’t much ‘wiggle room’ for people to exploit.”

And it is not just a combination of luck and automation that will shut you out of upgrades—at some airlines, it may be a matter of policy. “Most airlines state, in no uncertain terms, that their policies prohibit arbitrary upgrading, both at check-in and onboard,” says Randy Petersen of InsideFlyer. “It’s a firm rule, with no room for negotiation or interpretation.” Petersen agrees about the root cause: “This becomes understandable when you consider that upgrading is now often done electronically, rather than by queuing up at the check-in counter.”

These electronically issued upgrades are doled out by a number of metrics, whether to the highest-ranking elite flyer, or the person who purchased an upgrade-eligible coach fare, or the person who cashed in her miles.

We commonly think of just two to five main classes on airplanes, including first, business, and economy, plus the recent emergence of premium and basic economy. But the fact is that economy class can have numerous sub-classes, as outlined in this Points Guy article—and each of these class levels carries eligibility (or lack thereof) for various amenities, including upgrades. The very lowest levels of economy class will rarely be prompted to upgrade, or even eligible to upgrade.

That said, since stories and rumors of free upgrades persist, here are some tactics to get you into that privileged group that seems to snag upgrades—or at least says they do.

How to Get Upgraded to First Class: 14 Tactics to Try

These tricks and ground rules are worth keeping in mind as you try to land that elusive free upgrade.

Be a seriously loyal customer.

If you fly a lot on the same airline, your upgrade options soar. High-mile/point travelers are the first eligible and first chosen for most upgrades, so even though airline experts have been bemoaning the devaluing of airline miles for years, if you are a high-mileage and high-dollar flyer, you will see significantly increased upgrade offers, often at no cost. 

Elite status is the best way to get a seat upgrade, but that means flying (and spending) more. So, if you fly a lot, this is the best option for upgrades. 

Elite Statuses for Major US Airlines

Here’s a breakdown of the elite statuses offered by major US airlines with free upgrades:

American Airlines

• AAdvantage Platinum: Group 1 boarding, lounge access, and complimentary upgrades.
• AAdvantage Platinum Pro: Enhanced lounge access, free upgrades, and priority baggage handling.  
• AAdvantage Executive Platinum: Highest tier with even more perks, including international upgrades and Admirals Club membership.

Delta Air Lines

• Gold Medallion: Group 1 boarding, lounge access, and complimentary upgrades.
• Platinum Medallion: Enhanced lounge access, free upgrades, and priority baggage handling.
• Diamond Medallion: Highest tier with even more perks, including international upgrades and Delta Sky Club membership.  

United Airlines

• Premier Gold: Group 1 boarding, lounge access, and complimentary upgrades.
• Premier Platinum: Enhanced lounge access, free upgrades, and priority baggage handling.
• Premier 1K: Highest tier with even more perks, including international upgrades and United Club membership.  

Southwest Airlines

• A-List Preferred: Group 1 boarding, lounge access, and complimentary upgrades.

Alaska Airlines

• MVP Gold: Group 1 boarding, lounge access, and complimentary upgrades.
• MVP Gold 75K: Enhanced lounge access, free upgrades, and priority baggage handling.

International flights are a bit trickier regarding upgrades, but some international airlines do offer them, especially if they are part of an alliance with a domestic airline. 

For instance, British Airways is part of OneWorld (same as American), but many perks may be unavailable on the BA flight if you book through American. While there may not be a British Airways flight upgrade trick that will magically get you an upgrade, there are things you can do, similar to the major US airlines we mentioned. Avios, their points program, may get you an upgrade, as will their executive club. 

Other international airlines that have rewards programs that can snag you an upgrade are: 
Emirates Skywards– Known for its luxurious cabins and excellent service, Skywards offers upgrade options.
Etihad Guest: Offers upgrade options, including using Etihad Guest Miles.
ANA Mileage Club: Offers upgrade options, including using Mileage Club miles.

Get an airline credit card.

Using an airline credit card allows you to rack up miles, including sign-up bonuses, to apply toward upgrades.
Credit cards with upgrades include:

United MileagePlus Explorer Card– Offers bonus miles earning rate on United purchases and can be used to earn MileagePlus miles for upgrades.

British Airways Visa Signature Credit Card– Offers a bonus miles earning rate on British Airways purchases and can be used to earn Avios points for upgrades.

American Airlines AAdvantage Aviator Red Card- Offers a bonus miles earning rate on American Airlines purchases and can be used to earn AAdvantage miles for upgrades.

Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card– Offers a bonus miles earning rate on Delta purchases and can be used to earn SkyMiles for upgrades.

Emirates Skywards Credit Card– Offers bonus miles earning rate on Emirates purchases and can be used to earn Skywards miles for upgrades.

Dress neatly.

Dressing well is not the ticket to ride some hope it is, but even so, you are not getting an escort to the front of the plane if you are wearing cargo shorts, a tank top, and flip-flops. Most people don’t even want to sit next to you in this case, let alone upgrade you.

Check in online at the earliest possible time.

Online check-in is available beginning 24 hours before your flight, and the early bird has the best chance of nabbing an upgrade—though you’ll usually have to pay for it. As the minutes pass and more travelers check in, some of those folks will be looking and paying for upgrades, and once those seats are gone, they’re gone.

Be on time, and have good timing.

Showing up late to request an upgrade when an agent is just trying to get everyone in the air isn’t going to work. Do agents the courtesy of making your request with plenty of time to spare before the flight, and when no one else is competing for their attention.

Ask politely and directly.

Randy Petersen recommends something as simple as “If you are upgrading passengers on this flight, I would like to be considered.” Inserting the word “please” won’t hurt you either.

Be reasonable.

Being overly demanding or demeaning just inspires agents to pick someone else to upgrade if the opportunity arises. And don’t waste everyone’s time and goodwill if you know you are a poor candidate. If you are traveling with your whole family, have a pet lobster in a cage as your carry-on, or purchased an extremely low-fare ticket, you probably don’t want to spend your energy demanding upgrades.

If the flight is relatively empty, your chances are slim.

Even though seats in business class may also be empty, the airlines don’t usually upgrade people for no reason. If the flight is full, your chances are better. Airlines carefully plan how much they oversell flights, and their inventory departments are not upset if people need to be upgraded to accommodate everybody on the flight. Therefore, airlines are sometimes forced to upgrade people on a full flight. In this scenario, if you have a good story, you may be lucky—solo travelers who are willing to be reseated to accommodate families have the best odds. Remember, of course, that business or first class may already be full from pre-booked elite-level upgrades.  

Granted, the rule always has exceptions, and this is no different. It may also be that if you are on a flight with few people, you can easily get an upgrade. One lucky passenger was alone on a transatlantic flight and could sit anywhere but first class. 

Volunteer to give up your seat if the flight is oversold.

Whenever airlines overbook flights and need folks to give up a seat, you have the most leverage for getting concessions and upgrades from the airline. Most of us have been in airports listening to increasingly urgent announcements looking for volunteers to give up their seats; in that situation, you can go up to the gate, set your conditions and then let the airline decide if it can meet those conditions.

You might say, “I can volunteer to give up my seat for X hundred dollars in flight credit or an upgrade on my replacement flight, as long as I still get there by Y o’clock.” This may not work on the first round of volunteer requests, but when the gate agents come up on departure time and still need empty seats, they can often deliver quite a bit.

If you have been inconvenienced by the airline, don’t hesitate to ask for an upgrade.

Again, airlines don’t generally upgrade people for no reason, but if they have caused you a problem, that may be reason enough.

If your itinerary is botched or implodes for some reason, particularly if it affects only you and no one else (such that the airline is not trying to accommodate lots of folks in the same situation), your case for an upgrade on a subsequent flight becomes more compelling. The airline is not obligated to upgrade you, but if this happens, pleasantly but firmly let the gate agents know that if an upgraded seat is available on your rebooked flight, you would greatly appreciate getting that seat.

If you have been extremely inconvenienced—maybe you were sent back to your hotel a couple of times, or you slept on the airport floor all night—let the gate folks know, as they may have some sympathy for you.

Ask your travel agent.

My travel agent has a relationship with certain airlines that lets her book her customers into preferred seats that are not released to everyone (usually toward the front of the plane, in exit rows, and the like). She can also see upgrade availability fairly quickly, and many agents can add comments to your reservation that increase your chances of being chosen for an upgrade. Ask about these the next time you talk to your travel agent.

Watch for business-class sales.

Most leisure travelers ignore advertised business-class fare sales entirely. I have occasionally seen transatlantic business-class sale fares for around $1,100 at a time when it costs that much to fly coach. This will take some persistence and sleuthing, but you can sometimes fly in the front of the plane for less than the folks crammed into the back of the plane.

Look for two-for-one sales.

If you are traveling with family or a companion, a two-for-one sale on first- or business-class fares could cut the cost of upgrading in two. At current coach prices, these could result in a wash concerning price, if certainly not concerning pleasure.

Buy an extra seat.

One interesting tactic to find yourself some breathing room offered by Petersen might appeal to folks traveling on very cheap sale fares: buy two coach tickets. Say you find one of these $100 round-trip fares to Florida or the like; the airlines that offer these usually make up the difference in fees for checked bags, movies, food, and other extras. However, if you don’t need headphones or to check a second bag, you can skip all those charges and get yourself a heap of legroom for $50—less than the cost of most premium seats.

If you use this tactic, it will be vital for you to check in your second seat, as well as present the boarding pass at the gate—otherwise, your seat could be given to a standby passenger.

In all honesty, your chance of falling into one of these free upgrades is slimmer all the time—even Rowell has stopped trying entirely. That doesn’t mean you have to; if you have had a recent experience with surprise or unpaid upgrades, let us know in the comments below.

Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2017. It has been updated to reflect the most current information.

The post First Class for Free: How to Get an Airline Upgrade appeared first on SmarterTravel.

National Cheap Flight Day highlights a recurring pattern in the travel industry where bargains emerge as seasonal demand fluctuates. As summer leisure trips wind down and holiday travel planning has yet to begin, airlines strategically reduce fares to maintain passenger numbers during this transitional period. This brief window of opportunity precedes a gradual price increase, culminating in peak rates around Thanksgiving.

“Our data shows that airfares are trending downward, and we expect that to continue for the immediate future,” said Glenn Cusano, President of Fareportal, the corporation behind OTA brands CheapOair and OneTravel.

Is National Cheap Flight Day the Best Day to Book?

According to online travel agency CheapOair, August 23rd coincides with a noticeable downward airfare trend. The agency analyzed bookings over the past two months and found a significant decrease in average ticket prices. For U.S. domestic flights, fares have dropped by a third since the beginning of June, while international flight costs have seen a 10 percent reduction. 

However, this dip is more of a general downward trend for fall travel than an indication that August 23rd will be the cheapest day to buy your ticket. Flights are generally less expensive in the fall than in the summer, but to find the best deal, you’ll have better luck setting up airfare alerts (we recommend using our sister site, Airfarewatchdog) and watching prices rather than waiting until one magical date in August to book.

“There is no one day of the year which is the best to book travel, or any ‘golden rule’ about when to book to ensure you get the absolute best deal on airfare,” says Hayley Berg, lead economist at Hopper. “The reality is that prices for a flight can change multiple times a day, and depend heavily on where you’re traveling to, when you’re traveling and how far in advance you’re searching.”

Berg notes that the end of summer is a great time of the year to snag deals on early fall trips. According to Hopper’s data, plenty of fall deals are available, no matter what date you book. Domestic airfare every weekend of the month after Labor Day is currently averaging around $270 round-trip. 

Looking to take advantage of fewer crowds in Europe while the weather is still nice? Book your trip for the first two weekends of November, when Hopper says you’ll save about 27 percent off your ticket. 

The post The Ultimate Guide to National Cheap Flight Day appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Purposely missing a flight is more complicated than it may seem at first glance—here’s what happens if you don’t get on your connecting flight. 

Why Would You Skip a Connecting Flight?

Skiplagging, also known as “hidden city ticketing,” is a travel strategy where:

• You book a flight with a layover in your actual destination.
• The ticket includes a connection to a further city, but you don’t intend to take that last leg.
• When you reach your desired city during the layover, you exit the airport instead of continuing to the final destination on your ticket.

Popularized by the airfare site Skiplagged, this hack can save you a lot of money compared to booking a ticket directly to your destination. But is it legal to do?

What Happens if You Don’t Get on Your Connecting Flight?

Hidden city ticketing isn’t illegal, but most major U.S. airlines explicitly prohibit it in their contract of carriage statements. 

If the airline realizes that you are not planning on completing your entire itinerary, it can prevent you from boarding or even ban you from the airline for future flights. For example, a teenage passenger tried this trick using a ticket he bought on Skiplagged, was detained by American Airlines, and was denied boarding.

In general, if you miss or cancel any portion of a plane ticket, the airline can cancel all flights remaining on that ticket’s itinerary. When you miss that first flight, whether or not you cancel or no-show, the entire ticket becomes void.

This rule also applies to connecting flights. If you’re ticketed from City A to City C through a connection in City B, but skip the connecting flight from City B to City C, you can’t use your connecting flight ticket later, even with a change fee. And if it’s a round-trip ticket, the return trips are also toast.

This is why it’s essential to notify the airline if you accidentally miss any portion of your flight—as long as you let the airline know (and rebook the missed leg), you should still be able to fly the rest of your planned itinerary. 

Why is Skipping a Flight Cheaper?

Why would a longer flight be cheaper than a shorter, direct one? For some destinations, there is not a lot of competition for a direct flight between two cities, making tickets expensive. However, there might be more competition on a different route with a layover in the city you want to fly to—so a longer flight going somewhere else (but connecting through your destination) could be cheaper.

Why You Shouldn’t Skip Your Connecting Flight

There are a lot of risks associated with buying a hidden city ticket. 

1. You can’t check a bag, as your bag will be tagged to the final destination on your itinerary.
2. Even if you fly carry-on only, there is the risk that there won’t be space on the plane for your bag, and it will get checked through to the destination you’re not planning on flying to.
3. You can’t buy a round-trip ticket, as the return fare will automatically be canceled as soon as you don’t make your connecting flight.
4. The airline can deny you boarding and refuse to refund you if they figure out what you’re doing.
5. There could be a schedule change that reroutes your flight through a different connecting airport. 
6. The airline could ban you from flying with it in the future.

When Is It Okay to Skip a Flight?

There are only two cases where you could potentially get away with skipping an onward flight. However, keep in mind that you could still get in trouble with the airline, and the airline could pursue legal action against you or ban you from future flights. 

1. If you skip a flight that’s the final leg on a multi-flight ticket, there’s no other ticket left for the airline to cancel.
2. If your round-trip itinerary is on two separately booked, one-way tickets, the return trip should still be valid if you skip the first trip.

The post Why You Should Never Skip an Onward Flight appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Here’s what you need to know:

Frontier Airlines G.O.A.T Sale

Frontier Airlines’ G.O.A.T Sale is offering tickets for as low as $19 one-way. Some fares are cheaper for members of Frontier’s Discount Den, a fee-based rewards program, so it’s worth price-checking both options. Just be aware that Frontier’s Discount Den costs a hefty $99.99 to join ($59.99 yearly fee plus a $40 enrollment fee), and the discounted fares are usually only cheaper by around $10.

Book By: 11:59 pm Eastern time on August 1, 2024.

Travel Dates: Fares are valid for nonstop travel on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Saturday through November 13, 2024 (exceptions apply).

Blackout Dates: Aug. 29, 2024; Sep. 2-3, 2024; Oct. 11-14, 2024; Nov. 11-12, 2024. 

Best Deals

JetBlue ‘See-ya Summer’ Sale

JetBlue’s end-of-summer sale offers fares as low as $39 one-way. Flight/hotel and hotel/flight/cruise vacation packages are also discounted by as much as $500 during the sale. 

Book By: 11:59 pm Eastern time on August 1, 2024.

Travel Dates: Fares are valid for travel on Tuesdays and Wednesdays from August 13 through September 25.

Blackout Dates: Blackout dates apply and vary by route. 

Best Deals

The post Two Major Air Sales Happening Now With Fares From $19 appeared first on SmarterTravel.

As long as airlines have been checking baggage, they’ve been sending a few somewhere other than where they were supposed to go. Fortunately, airlines are doing better recently than they did 20 years ago, so your chances for a happy ending have improved for two reasons:

• They’re losing fewer bags. The government has been collecting statistics on mishandled bag reports for decades, and the number of mishandled bag reports per 100,000 passengers has dropped from a high of seven in the early 1990s to about three since 2009.
• They’re getting better at tracking the bags they do lose. With barcoded tags and even a few RFID-enabled tags, the airlines’ systems keep excellent track of bags. The last two times I’ve had a bag problem, an agent at the lost-baggage desk was able to tell me immediately where my bag was and the flight on which it would arrive.

Although airline performance has improved, what you do when an airline mishandles a bag remains about as it was in the 1990s. Below is guidance about what to do if your luggage is delayed, lost, or damaged, as well as tips for preventing these scenarios.

What to Do If Your Luggage Is Delayed

If your bags don’t arrive on the carousel, try not to panic. Most so-called “lost” baggage really isn’t lost; rather, it’s delayed. And in most cases an airline can reunite you with your baggage within 24 hours.

When you realize that your bag isn’t going to show up on the carousel, go immediately to your airline’s lost-baggage counter, which you’ll find in most big-airport baggage areas. In smaller airports, ask any airline employee where to go. Even if you have someplace you need to be, report missing baggage before you leave the airport. (Some airline contracts specify that you must file no later than four hours after arrival; others say 24 hours.) When filing your claim, give the attendant a hotel or home address, as well as a phone number where you can be reached.

Hand over your baggage check (but write down the numbers) and fill out the form, making sure to get a copy of any relevant tracking numbers, websites, and phone numbers (some airlines have an online system while others will provide you with a phone number to call for updates). Note the name of the agent that handles your claim as well as the estimated time your bag will arrive.

If your bags are on the next flight, you could have them within a few hours. If they’ve been sent to the wrong airport, it could take a couple of days. If your baggage is delayed on a connecting itinerary involving more than one airline, you deal with the airline that flew you to your final destination, even if you think the first airline was responsible.

The airlines typically bring you your luggage when it is found; you will rarely need to return to the airport to pick it up. If you’re staying at a hotel or resort, alert the front desk about an incoming bag. Airlines usually deliver delayed bags at no cost to you, but some may ask you to pay.

Additionally, many airlines will reimburse any unexpected expenses caused by the loss or delay (keep your receipts!). No law requires any specific assistance, only that airlines must have a policy and make it available to you.

At a minimum, airlines typically cover overnight needs such as toothpaste and such; some lines stock and hand out regular overnight kits at the lost-baggage desk. If your bag is lost on a flight arriving at an airport other than your home, many airlines offer to cover all or part of the cost of items you may need to continue your vacation or business trip. Some airlines offer a set daily allowance; others offer to reimburse you for items you buy on the basis of receipts. And some airlines say almost nothing beyond “We’ll get your bag back.” Very little is set; prepare to negotiate.

Only one major U.S. airline, Alaska, provides any monetary compensation for delayed baggage: If the line doesn’t deliver your checked baggage within 20 minutes of arrival at the gate, it issues a voucher for $25 toward a future flight or 2,500 frequent-flyer miles. Other airlines do not issue refunds of baggage fees until your suitcase is declared lost.

The ReNew Transit Weekender

Anticipate the delay by packing all of your entertainment essentials in the versatile and stylish carry-on bag from Everlane.

What to Do If Your Luggage Is Lost

If an airline doesn’t get your bag back to you within five days, the bag may be truly lost. An airline defines “lost” at anywhere from five to 30 days, at which point both you and the airline proceed on the assumption that you’ll never see your bag again.

If the airline loses your bags, make sure you get a written claim for damages. This may require a different form than the original “missing luggage” form. This can be done at the airport or online.

The maximum an airline pays on lost bags and their contents is generally limited to $3,500 per passenger on U.S. domestic flights, and a varying rate per passenger for checked baggage on international flights based on the Warsaw Convention or the Montreal Convention. In the United States, if you paid a checked baggage fee for your lost bag, the airline must refund your fee. Check your carrier’s website for specifics.

You can purchase “excess valuation” protection from your airline if your checked baggage is worth more than these limits, but before doing so, make sure the items aren’t already covered by your homeowner’s or travel insurance policy. Some credit card companies and travel agencies also offer optional or automatic supplemental baggage coverage.

The airlines typically have a long list of items for which they will not be held responsible; these include jewelry, money, heirlooms, and other valuables. These items should always be left at home or packed in your carry-on bag.

Any lost baggage claim process is obviously a negotiation. Airlines will typically cover only the depreciated value of whatever you say you lost, not the original purchase price. They will ask for receipts, even for a suit you bought 10 years ago. You may go back and forth several times before reaching a deal. The airline may offer you a voucher for future travel in lieu of cash, which is generally a good deal only if the voucher value is double to triple a satisfactory cash value and, even then, only if the voucher conditions actually allow you to travel.

What to Do If Your Luggage Is Damaged

Once you’ve gotten your bags off the carousel, immediately check them for damage or other signs of tampering or mishandling. Report any damage before leaving the airport; airline customer service agents will often want to inspect the bag.

Keep in mind that most airlines won’t cover minor damage such as bumps, scratches, dents, and scuffs, nor will they cover damage to straps, pulls, locks, or wheels that are the result of normal wear and tear. Airlines will generally cover broken fragile items packed in your luggage only if they are packed in a container designed for shipping. And they exclude damage or loss claims for a long list of high-value items such as jewelry, computers, and cameras that are both fragile and tempting targets for theft.

Airlines won’t take responsibility for damage that occurred during a TSA inspection. If you think your baggage was damaged during a TSA inspection (all inspected bags will have a written notification inside), call 866-289-9673 to report it. When that happens, expect a protracted “he said, she said” tussle between the TSA and the airline.

You will most likely need to produce a receipt for any repairs or be required to use airline-sanctioned luggage repair vendors. Ask the baggage claim attendant for specific information. You don’t want to find out that you have paid for a repair that isn’t covered.

Medium Suitcase from Away

Mitigate any risk of damaged luggage with the lightweight polycarbonate shell of an Away bag. What’s more, this luggage is cheap yet guaranteed to last a lifetime.

What to Do If Your Luggage Is Stolen

Head directly to the baggage carousel when you get off your flight to minimize the potential time for your bag to be stolen. Many airlines scan bags when they’re loaded into the baggage claim area and keep records, especially at larger airports. If your bag goes missing after you’ve left the baggage claim area, your claim is no longer with the airline, but with the police. Your homeowner’s insurance may cover a stolen suitcase; if it doesn’t, consider purchasing travel insurance.

How to Appeal Your Lost Luggage Complaint

If you can’t reach a satisfactory resolution with your airline and you feel the need for further assistance, file a complaint with the Department of Transportation’s Aviation Consumer Protection Division.

How to Prevent Lost Luggage

Of course, all of this information assumes the worst has already happened and damage control is needed. Nothing undermines a well-planned vacation quite like no-show luggage. So how can travelers safeguard their stuff? The obvious solutions are to book a nonstop flight or pack everything in a carry-on, but clearly this won’t work for everyone. Fortunately, there are other ways to ensure you can avoid these worst-case scenarios altogether.

1. Put your name and cell phone number on the outside and inside of your bags, and include a travel itinerary. Luggage tags can easily be torn off in the rough-and-tumble handling process, but a name and contact info—along with a copy of your itinerary—placed on top of your belongings inside your bag will almost certainly stay put.
2. Take a picture of your luggage. If your bag has gone AWOL and you’re attempting to get it back, photo evidence will help. Take a picture of the outside of your bag to show the airline staff member who is helping you locate it. Snap a picture of the inside of your bag as well; this will come in handy in case you need to file an insurance claim for your lost belongings. It’s also wise to take a quick photo of your baggage-claim ticket, in case you lose it.
3. Customize your luggage. Suitcases, unfortunately, sometimes suffer from a case of mistaken identity at the baggage carousel. This is especially likely to happen when half of your plane is traveling with the same black Samsonite. Give your bag a makeover with a colorful luggage strap or some neon duct tape. For more ideas, see 9 Ways to Make Your Luggage Stand Out.
4. Arrive at your departure airport early. Travelers who check in late—whether they arrived at the airport with only minutes to spare or got held up in a meandering check-in line—are more likely to get separated from their bags. Baggage handlers need time to process luggage and load it onto planes. Aim to arrive at the airport a couple of hours before your flight (or more for international flights or busy holiday periods).
5. Avoid tight connections, as these increase the likelihood that your bags will go missing. If your flight is late, the window of time for airport staff to transfer your bag from one plane to the next narrows. Some booking sites sell domestic multi-leg itineraries with layovers of less than an hour, which doesn’t leave any wiggle room in an industry in which flights are frequently delayed. International connections can take even more time if you have to reclaim your bags, go through security, and check them again. For this reason, it’s important to allow plenty of time—two or more hours, ideally—on international layovers, and at least 90 minutes for domestic connections.
6. Don’t put valuables or “can’t be without it” items in your checked baggage (medicine, important papers, jewelry, laptops). Pack all such items in your carry-on. See 10 Things Not to Do When Checking a Bag for more information.
7. Make a list of packed items and their estimated value before you leave. It sounds tedious, but when an airline asks what was in your bag, you don’t want to forget anything of value. If you make a packing list before you travel, hang on to it—this is an easy way to remember everything you put into your bags. Keep receipts for any expensive items you pack, as you may be required to send copies of them to the airline in the case of a lost bag. If you absolutely have to check some of those items, insure them separately: An airline won’t cover them even if you buy excess-value coverage.
8. Make sure the person who checks your baggage attaches the correct destination ticket to every bag, and get a claim ticket for each. Always remove old claim tags to prevent confusion about your destination. Better yet, opt for a smarter luggage tag like Dynotags, SuperSmartTag, or ReboundTAG.
9. Pack a change of clothes in your carry-on bag so you’ll have something to wear if your checked bag is lost or delayed. If you’re traveling with a partner, consider dividing each person’s clothes between your checked bags; this way if one of the bags is lost, you’ll each still have some of your belongings.

Travel insurance is the best guarantee that you’ll recoup any losses. See Travel Insurance: What You Need to Know for more information.

Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2017. It has been updated with the latest information. Ed Perkins, Caroline Costello, and Margaret Leahy contributed to this story. All of the products featured in this story were hand-selected by our travel editors. Some of the links featured in this story are affiliate links, and SmarterTravel may collect a commission (at no cost to you) if you shop through them. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

The post How to Cope with Lost Luggage on Vacation appeared first on SmarterTravel.

From overpacking to forgetting crucial essentials, these packing pitfalls can set your trip up for failure before it even begins. 

Assuming Your Accommodations Will Have What You Need

It’s not unreasonable to expect that your hotel room will be stocked with everything you need—from toiletries to hair dryers. While this may be true of high-end hotels, we’ve definitely turned up at budget hotels to find a lone bar of soap in the shower, or even to a vacation rental that turned out to be a “bring your own linen” situation. 

When you’re making your packing list, check to see what amenities your hotel or vacation rental supplies, to see what toiletries and other comforts you’ll need to bring (and what you can leave behind.)

Overpacking

Keep throwing in extras like high heels or dress pants “just in case,” and you’re going to wind up with an overstuffed bag. You’ll end up regretting overpacking every time you have to sit on the bag to close it, dig through a mountain of clothes to find what you need, or struggle to lift it into the overhead compartment.

After you’ve packed everything, carefully cross-reference your packing list against what you’ve brought and challenge yourself to eliminate two or three items to lighten your load. 

Counting on Carrying On 

If you’ve managed to streamline your packing to fit into a carry-on bag, you should get to enjoy the privileges of traveling lightly—namely, being in control of your own luggage rather than ceeding it to the airline.

Unfortunately, as airlines continue to raise checked baggage fees, more and more flyers are fighting for overhead space, and you may be forced to check your bag at the gate, especially if you’re in a later boarding group.

If you have to unexpectedly check your suitcase and it gets lost, you could be stuck without essentials like medication or clean clothing. Plan ahead and keep your necessities (and anything you’ll need in-flight, like headphones) in a separate personal item that will fit underneath your seat. 

Plan ahead and keep your valuables and essentials together in a personal item (that will fit under your seat), so that you’re not stuck on a flight without your headphones or medication. 

Not Separating Your Liquids

I’m used to flying with TSA PreCheck, which means I don’t have to take my liquids out of my bag when going through security—so I’ve gotten lazy about keeping my travel-sized liquids in a dedicated bag. Unfortunately, this backfired on me when passing through airport security in Canada, where they are very strict about liquids—and I had to go through my bag to dig out every tiny container of liquids that I had strewn about in multiple spots within my suitcase.

In addition to being good practice for security screenings, keeping your liquids separated in a waterproof bag is smart because it keeps any potential spills contained, making clean up easy and sparing everything else in your luggage. 

Forgetting to Check the Entire Forecast

When packing for past trips, I’ve been guilty of only glancing at the forecast for the high temperatures for each day—and then seriously regretting not packing a jacket because I didn’t realize how quickly the temperatures plummeted once the sun started to go down. 

When you’re packing, make sure to review the high and low temperatures for the hours that you plan to be out and about on your trip—so you know what you’ll want to wear for cold mornings and hot afternoons.

Focusing on Space and Not Weight

When packing a carry-on, we tend to focus on what bags will fit within the allowed dimensions. However, don’t forget to check weight requirements for carry-on luggage before packing, as most airlines have weight limits for carry-on luggage in addition to size requirements.

I’ve found that these limits are generally enforced on international flights, especially if you have to check in at the airport and can’t check in online. Many airlines will weigh carry-on bags at check-in, and if you’re over the allowance, you’ll have to check your bag.

Consider investing in a small luggage scale (or just use your home scale by weighing yourself, then yourself plus the suitcase and subtracting your weight) and weighing your bag to avoid any surprises at the airport.  

Using the Wrong Bag

Both backpacks and rolling suitcases have their place in the travel world—and it’s crucial to determine which option will best suit your specific trip before packing. Spinner suitcases with wheels are an excellent choice if you anticipate having to navigate multiple airports or walk for extended distances as they can help prevent strain on your back and be much easier to cart around for long periods.

Backpacks are a better choice if your journey involves walking over cobblestoned sidewalks or climbing numerous flights of stairs, as they allow for greater mobility.

Forgetting to Leave a Bit of Extra Space

While it might be tempting to pack your suitcase to the brim and utilize every inch of available space—after all, you’re carrying the entire bag anyway—it’s essential to resist this urge. Overstuffing your suitcase will eliminate any flexibility you might need for the return trip home. For instance, you may want to wear a different, less bulky outfit on your last travel day, and will need extra space in your suitcase to pack what you wore on the journey over.

Alternatively, you might wish to purchase souvenirs or other items during your trip. In either case, having extra room in your suitcase will prove invaluable, making it easier to accommodate these additional items while keeping everything organized.

Not Packing Extra Essentials

While the idea of packing light and bringing only the bare essentials can be appealing, it’s important to factor in potential flight delays or cancellations that could leave you stranded without access to essential items.

Always pack a few days’ worth of necessities, like medications or contact lenses, in case of emergency. 

Not Using a Luggage Tracker

Airlines don’t have the best reputation when it comes to losing luggage. As an insurance policy, we recommend putting a luggage tracker, like an Apple Air Tag, inside your suitcase every time you travel. In the event your bag ends up at a different airport (or even the wrong luggage carousel in the same airport), a luggage tracker allows you to locate your bag yourself without relying solely on the airline. 

The post The Worst 10 Packing Mistakes You’re Probably Making appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Travel Pillows

Starting off on a controversial note: skip the travel pillow next time you’re packing a carry-on. Many fancy new models that claim to solve airplane neck pain are over-engineered and ineffective. Even the classic u-shaped options fall short of expectations and are a pain to keep attached to the handle of your luggage  while hurrying through the airport. Skip the hassle in favor of a travel shawl or blanket scarf that can be bundled up for neck support or used as a blanket in the chilly cabin.

Travel Iron

These mini devices are undeniably cute, but also undeniably unnecessary. Most hotels provide an iron or steamer in-room. If not, odds are you can find one by calling down to the front desk. In a pinch, hanging a wrinkly garment in a steamy bathroom while you shower will do the trick. Either way, leave this gadget behind. 

Travel Hair Dryer

Like irons, hair dryers are frequently provided in-room or by request from the front desk. However, if traveling with your own hair care devices is a must for your routine, minimize the number of items you need to pack by opting for a multitool that can dry, style, and diffuse. 

Luggage Scale

Sure, it can feel high tech to hang your suitcase from a fancy scale, but you know what works just as well? Any household scale. If your bag is small enough, just set it down on the scale to get the weight. For heavy-duty luggage, simply weigh yourself alone, then weigh yourself holding the suitcase, and find the difference. Violà—instant luggage scale.

Mini Toiletries

We all know those cute little bottles of shampoo end up right in the garbage as soon as you unpack. Even tossing them in the recycling is no guarantee that they’ll be disposed of properly.  Not only is this bad for the environment, but also bad for your wallet. Skip the pre-filled drugstore minis and go for reusable containers like these from Cadence. They’re TSA-friendly, designed to be used with haircare and skincare products, and look nice enough to live on your bathroom counter at home until the leftover product is used up.

Smart Luggage with Chargers

Lithium batteries, often used to power portable chargers, are allowed in the plane cabin. However, passengers asked to gate check their luggage will have to remove the battery, leaving them with a normal—and expensive—suitcase. You’ll get more mileage out of your investment by springing for a separate portable charger that is TSA-approved and can travel between your luggage, your purse, your daypack, or even your pocket.

Passport Covers

Most TSA checkpoints will ask you to remove passport covers before going through security. Don’t be the person holding up the line while wrestling your passport free from its case. If you still want to keep your passport protected, opt for a wallet like this one from Royce, which lets you store your passport in an easily accessible sleeve alongside your ID and credit cards.

Packing Cubes

If you’re moving apartments or organizing a suitcase for an extended trip, packing cubes are for you. For everyone else, these organizational tools only add bulk to your bag, take up valuable space, and create a frustrating mess as you unzip every pouch searching for your toothbrush. Most travelers can skip the cubes and go with old fashioned rolling and folding to maximize luggage space.

Items with Hidden Pockets

The boot with the secret pocket or the scrunchie that lets you zip up your extra cash may make you feel like a secret agent, but the novelty will wear off quickly. Who wants to take down their hair or unzip their shoes every time they need their credit card? Instead, invest in a pick-pocket proof bag. 

Cameras

Unless you’re a professional or passionate hobbyist, you don’t need to drop a thousand dollars on high-tech photography equipment. With a bit of practice, your smartphone can capture stunning shots worthy of your Instagram grid.

All of the products featured in this story were hand-selected by our travel editors. Some of the links featured in this story are affiliate links, and SmarterTravel may collect a commission (at no cost to you) if you shop through them. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

The post 10 Popular Travel Gadgets You Don’t Need appeared first on SmarterTravel.