How to Book a Flight: Smart Tips for Stress-Free Travel

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How to Book a Flight: Smart Tips for Stress-Free Travel

Booking a flight isn’t just about grabbing the cheapest fare, it’s about making smart choices that maximize your travel experience and minimize stress. Here’s how we handle our flight bookings, with real-life tips you can use for your next trip.

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To begin, many people ask if there's a best time to book a flight. Sadly, there isn't a perfect day, time or "sweet spot" for booking flights.

• The day of your flight is more important like a Tuesday or Wednesday vs Friday, Saturday, or Sunday.
• Book when ready, comfortable, and can afford it.
• Book domestic flights 4-5 months in advance and international flights at least 6-8 months in advance NOT due to price but due to availability. 

Step 1: Compare Flights on Expedia and Southwest

We start our search on Expedia and Southwest Airlines. (Southwest doesn’t appear on third-party sites, so be sure to check them directly.) Your available options will vary based on your departure city and destination.

Look for:

• Nonstop flights whenever possible
• If a layover is necessary, aim for just one connection with at least 2 hours between flights

Why? More time means less stress and a lower chance of missing your connection.

We also look at departure and arrival times.

• Flying overnight and arriving in the morning gives you a full day to enjoy, especially at an all-inclusive or resort.
• Pro Tip: Pack your swimsuit and essentials (like any medications and suncreen 3 oz or less) in your carry-on or personal item bag so you can head straight to the pool or beach even if your room isn’t ready. Your luggage can be held by the bell desk.
• Also aim to to arrive at the airport 2 hours before departure time for a domestic flight and 3 hours before for an international flight! 

Why? More time means less stress and a lower chance of missing yout flight.

On the way home, we prefer afternoon or evening flights so we can enjoy our last morning in paradise. Again, leave your bags with the bell desk and soak up a little more sun before heading to the airport.

Lastly, I’m late to everything and having kids definitely made it worse and I’m not sure if it’s just me being Hispanic… but when it comes to vacation and flights, I don’t play! I’m on time, early even. You have to protect your investment and start the fun stress-free!

Pro Tip: we choose flights we know we can realistically make. We skip those super early 6am flights and go for red-eyes or evening flights instead. I would much rather be at the airport at 9pm for an 11pm or midnight flight than dragging everyone there at 3am. It makes the whole travel day smoother and way less stressful!

Step 2: Book Directly with the Airline

Once you find the flight that works best, head to the airline’s official website to book. This gives you better flexibility and easier access to customer support if something goes wrong.

When comparing flights, don’t just look at the price. Look at what’s included:

• Budget airlines like Frontier and Spirit may offer lower base fares, but they charge for seats, carry-ons, and checked bags.
• Full-service airlines may offer a better value when you factor in luggage, seat selection, and perks like refundable fares or included insurance.

Sometimes, spending a little more upfront saves you time, money, and frustration later.

We highly recommend to avoid booking basic economy flights or ultra low cost airlines.

Instead, book a refundable flight, at least in the main cabin.

Step 3: Always Purchase Travel Protection

Flights get delayed, bags get lost, and emergencies happen. That’s why travel protection is essential.

Travel insurance can help cover:

• Flight delays and cancellations
• Lost or delayed baggage
• Trip interruptions or cancellations
• Medical emergencies abroad

Protect your investment and your peace of mind.

Bonus Tips for Cruise Travelers

If you’re flying to meet a cruise:

• Arrive at least one day early. Same-day flights are too risky. If there are delays or cancellations, you could miss the ship and cruise lines don’t offer refunds.

Flying home after your cruise?

• Book an afternoon flight. Disembarkation times aren’t always predictable. Booking an early morning flight can be unnecessarily stressful.

Bonus Tips for Families Flying with Babies and Toddlers 

Traveling with little ones can feel like an Olympic event, but with the right prep, it doesn’t have to be! Here are a few essential tips to help your journey go as smoothly as possible:

Before You Fly:

• Lap Infants: If you didn’t have the option to add your lap child when booking, be sure to call the airline to have them added to your reservation. This is important for safety and documentation purposes.

• Stroller Gate Check: Plan to gate check your stroller (it'scomplimentary). Invest in a bright red gate check bag (bonus points for writing your name on it!). Keep in mind, these bags mostly protect against dirt, not damage, so handle with care and say a little prayer!

• Car Seats: Bringing a car seat onboard? Make sure it’s FAA-approved. Look for the label on the seat itself to ensure it meets airline requirements. If not using it on the plane, get a gate check bag for it too! It's complimentary! 

• Security Screening: Give yourself extra time at the airport. Traveling with formula, breast milk, or baby food in containers over 3 oz? You may be pulled aside for additional screening.

• Breast Pumping Gear: Pack pump parts in a clear zippered bag. This helps protect your gear from unnecessary handling...I’ve learned this the hard way!

Planning ahead makes all the difference. Whether you’re jetting off to an all-inclusive resort, hopping on a cruise, or heading to a new city, smart flight booking ensures you arrive relaxed and ready to enjoy every moment.

Need help finding the perfect flight or choosing the right travel insurance? We're here to help you every step of the way.

With gratitude, 

Cruise Planners - Ana & Travis 

702-482-7774 

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