Frequently Asked Questions (F.A.Q.)
Q). What kind of documentation do I need to travel? 

A). Before you may board a flight, all passengers 18 years of age and older are required to present photo ID issued by a government authority (example: drivers license or passport). If you don’t have either of those, please consult directly with the airline for alternatives. If you are traveling outside of the United States, all passengers are required to have a passport.

Q). Do I need to reconfirm my flights before I leave?

A). It isn’t mandatory, but we highly encourage you to do so. Airlines regularly alter their schedules or change their flight numbers. We make every attempt to contact you when there is a change; however there are rare occasions when we are not correctly notified by the airlines that a change has occurred. Reconfirmation helps to detect a problem before you arrive at the airport. We recommend that you contact us or check with the airline directly 24-72 hours prior to departure.

Q). How much luggage am I allowed to take on my trip?

A). It varies on the airline and the destination. It is always best to check directly with the airline on their website. Standard requirements are usually two pieces of checked baggage, one carry-on bag and one personal item such as a purse, briefcase or laptop computer.
Standard measurements for checked baggage is 62 linear inches (L + W + H) with weight not to exceed 50 lbs. per piece. Carry-on bags should not exceed 45 linear inches (L+W+H) with weight not exceeding 40 lbs. Foreign airlines may have stricter regulations for both checked baggage and carry-on baggage.
Please note that the airlines have been strictly enforcing the 50 lb. weight limit. If your bag exceeds 50 lbs, the airlines reserve the right to charge a fee for overweight luggage. The fees vary by airline but usually begin with a charge of $25.00 or more each direction. Please pack and plan accordingly.
If your vacation entails traveling on a tour via motor coach, certain luggage limitations may also apply. Please consult the brochure or ask our travel counselor that assisted you with the arrangements.

Q). When do I need to be at the airport to check in for my flight?

A). It varies on airline and destination. It is always best to check directly with the airline. You can help avoid vacation stress by arriving at most airports at least 90 minutes prior to scheduled departure time for domestic flights and 120 minutes prior for International flights. Some large airports like Chicago O’Hare, New York JFK, Los Angeles, etc require even more time so plan accordingly.

Q). What should I pack in my carry on bag?

A). You should always keep ticket receipts, tour documents, and identification with you at all times. Never pack necessary daily medication in checked baggage; pack it in your carry-on. We also recommend that you carry a change of clothing and toiletries. Most airlines have greatly reduced meal service so we encourage you to pack healthy snacks. When traveling internationally you are not allowed to take fresh fruit, vegetables, flowers to other countries or return back to the USA with them as they may harbor insects. Follow the TSA guidelines of the 3-1-1 rule: all liquid, gel or aerosol items in your carry-on bag must be 3 oz or less, placed together in a clear one quart ziplock bag, 1 bag per person.

Q). What do I need to avoid packing in my carry-on bag?

A). You are not allowed weapons or sharp weapon like objects. It is recommended that sharp cuticle scissors be placed in your checked luggage. Butane type cigarette lighters, matches, flammable liquids, fireworks, household items such as bleach, drain cleaners and other toxic chemicals are not allowed and will be confiscated.

Q). Is film safe from the X-Ray machines?

A). We highly recommend that you DO NOT pack 35mm film in your checked luggage. The machines used to scan checked luggage both in the USA and abroad can damage film. The machines used to scan carry-on bags are usually not harmful to normal film. We recommend that all film be placed in your carry-on luggage.

Q). Can I obtain my boarding pass before I get to the airport?

A). Yes. As technology continues to improve, airlines encourage you to check in advance. Please visit the web-site of the airline involved. In most cases you will need your reservation number (also called record locator #) OR e-ticket number.
Most boarding passes can only be issued within 24 hours of flight time.

Q). Is travel insurance really necessary?

A). In a sense, your vacation is an investment and we highly recommend travel insurance. In most cases, airline tickets are totally non refundable. Cruises, tours, and resorts all have penalties if you must cancel your vacation. The amount of penalty varies with each cruise line or tour company and also varies by the date of cancellation. Travel insurance will protect you before and during your trip. Please ask our trained travel professionals for details.

Q). Do I need a passport to travel outside the United States and how do I get one if I do?