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Six Simple Tricks for Winter Packing
by Kate Sitarz, SmarterTravel.com Staff
For many travelers, winter means finding a way to pack bulky clothes, puffy jackets, and all the necessary cold-weather accessories into a bag. Instead of stomping on your luggage, follow these basic tips for hassle-free packing.
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New From AmEx: Frequent Flyer Fees
by Tim Winship
Pay your credit card bill late and American Express will withhold your points in the programs of Delta, JetBlue, Hilton, and Starwood. Miles can be reinstated for a $29 fee.
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More Travelers Will Drive This Thanksgiving
by Carl Unger, SmarterTravel.com Staff
Overall travel will rise, but air travel will drop, as more and more travelers take to the road this Thanksgiving. Is Turkey Day still the big travel day it once was?
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Have You Ever Gotten Sick on a Plane?
by Carl Unger, SmarterTravel.com Staff
Ever boarded a plane feeling great, only to arrive at your destination sick as a dog? If you've ever gotten sick on a plane, we want to hear your story.
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Where in the World? - Photo Guessing Game
by Kate Hamman, SmarterTravel.com Staff
Can you guess where this destination is?
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Top Five Off-Peak Destinations for Winter 2009/2010
by Jaclyn Liechti, SmarterTravel.com Staff
While many winter travelers head to the beach or to popular ski resorts, savvy tourists can take advantage of fewer crowds and off-peak deals for fabulous vacations.
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Longest Layover Ever? The 10-Minute Cure
by Christine Sarkis, SmarterTravel.com Staff
You can prepare for a delay In less than 10 minutes, even before you leave the house. So if you get stuck at the airport, you can make your time on the ground fly by.
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Southwest Is Mostly Mum on New Rapid Rewards Program
by Tim Winship
The architect of Southwest's new program provides some perspective on the current and future Rapid Rewards. But details of the new program, to be launched next year, remain scarce.
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American Launches Wi-Fi Finder Widget
by Carl Unger, SmarterTravel.com Staff
American's handy new tool lets you know beforehand if you'll have wireless Internet on your flight. Better yet, it actually works pretty well!
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U.S. Versus European Credit Card Validation Systems
by Ed Perkins
Have you ever had your credit card rejected overseas? It's probably not due to bad credit, but the different validation systems used. Ed Perkins explains how to handle the situation.
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BREAKING: Computer Glitch Causes Widespread Delays
by Carl Unger, SmarterTravel.com Staff
A computer glitch in Atlanta has set off a wave of delays across the country, and numerous airlines have already canceled flights. Watch this space for updates.
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Two Great New Airline Initiatives and One Horrible Idea
by Ed Perkins
Lower taxi costs to and from the airport, as well as automated, lifetime check-in can make air travel easier. But who charges $60 to print your boarding pass at the airport?
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Travel Right After the Holidays for a Great Deal
by Sarah Pascarella, SmarterTravel.com Staff
If you have any flexibility in your schedule, you'll want to consider planning a trip immediately after the holidays to take advantage of low travel periods and great bargains. The weeks after Thanksgiving and New Year's are especially affordable.
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Holiday Surcharges Increase, Expand Deep Into 2010
by Carl Unger, SmarterTravel.com Staff
When a handful of airlines imposed their holiday surcharges last month, people reacted mostly with shock and horror. Now those airlines have taken the surcharges to a whole new level.
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Allegiant Will Refund Booted Passenger After All
by Carl Unger, SmarterTravel.com Staff
Something didn't seem right when Allegiant said the mother (and her noisy children) it kicked off a plane weren't due a refund. So we investigated, and guess what? They are.
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America's Worst Airports for Delays: How to Cope
by Christine Sarkis, SmarterTravel.com Staff
Knowing what your activity options are at the nation's most delay-prone airports can turn a frustrating wait into bona fide leisure time. Almost.
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Woman Forced Off Plane Over Flu Concerns
by Carl Unger, SmarterTravel.com Staff
A United Airlines crew removed a passenger they thought might have the flu. She says she didn't, and the incident begs the question: Should the airlines police the flu?
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Full Flights Will Cost Flyers (Not Just Money)
by Tim Winship
If the new airline reality is full flights throughout the year, flyers should expect more congestion and frustration. And higher ticket prices.
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Judge Says Selling Frequent Flyer Miles Is Illegal
by Tim Winship
Should frequent flyer program members be free to sell their airline miles? Ruling on a lawsuit filed by Alaska Airlines, a judge said No.
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Allegiant Boots Mom and Noisy Kids, But No Refund
by Carl Unger, SmarterTravel.com Staff
For the second time this month, an airline removed a mother and her children, both of whom were causing a scene. But the real story here is Allegiant's complete lack of sympathy.
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Winter 2010 Savings for Snowbirds
by Christine Sarkis, SmarterTravel.com Staff
One-way car rental specials and big discounts on vacation rentals and campground sites in warm southern states make escaping the cold easy and affordable.
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What is a Liquid, and What Isn't?
by Carl Unger, SmarterTravel.com Staff
'Tis the season for traveling with food, which means it's also time for the TSA to start confiscating our leftover mashed potatoes and gravy. So what does the TSA consider a liquid, anyway?
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Best Ways to Avoid Baggage Fees: A Holiday Travel Primer
by Sarah Pascarella, SmarterTravel.com Staff
As the holidays approach, there's no better time to re-acquaint yourself with what fees are in effect, especially if you're planning on traveling with gifts and extra winter gear.
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Three Affordable European Vacations for Spring
by The Deal Detective, SmarterTravel.com Staff
The Deal Detective helps a reader plan a homecoming vacation for her husband returning from Afghanistan. Destinations include Berlin, Prague, and Venice.
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Got Miles? Use Them for Holiday Gifts
by Tim Winship
Many frequent flyer program members are looking to use their miles in lieu of cash to take some of the financial sting out of this year's holiday gift-giving.
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The Top Five Frequent Flyer Deals for November 2009
by Tim Winship
This month, we feature frequent traveler promotions from American, British Airways, Continental, Delta, Spirit, United, and six hotel chains.
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Welcome to Newark International ... Shopping Mall?
by Carl Unger, SmarterTravel.com Staff
The mallification of airports around the world isn't news, but the amount of money these retail outlets bring in is surprising and, these days, essential.
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Meet Your Rep: The Passenger Rights Lobby in D.C.
by Carl Unger, SmarterTravel.com Staff
Charles Leocha, Director of the newly formed Consumer Travel Alliance, explains that passenger rights shouldn't stop at tarmac delays, and says there is hope on the horizon.
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Holiday Tips for Safe and Fun Family Travel
by Eileen Ogintz
With many factors to consider this holiday season, such as airline fees, the flu, and crowds, it may seem impossible to actually enjoy your trip. Keep all in good spirits by following these tips.
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Stuck on a Plane With an Annoying Seatmate? Tell Us About it!
by Sarah Pascarella, SmarterTravel.com Staff
Ever been trapped next to a misbehaving child, a less-than-sanitary seatmate, or a rude traveler? We want to hear how you coped. The best reader stories and tips will appear in an upcoming feature.
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DOT Establishes Panel to Fix Airline Industry
by Carl Unger, SmarterTravel.com Staff
Two words: Good luck! But the Department of Transportation is serious, and plans to create a "roadmap for the future of the airline industry." But is there really any hope?
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World's Scariest Haunted Hotels
by Kate Hamman, SmarterTravel.com Staff
Meet the spirited guests of the world's most haunted hotels.
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Top 10 Fall Foliage Drives Around the U.S.
by Kate Hamman, SmarterTravel.com Staff
Buckle up for the greatest colorful drives around the country. Here are our top picks for routes that not only highlight fall colors, but also emphasize the season's bounty.
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The 10 Best Bargains in Adventure Travel (2009 Edition)
by Jaclyn Liechti, SmarterTravel.com Staff
This year's best adventure bargains are unique trips at the right price.
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Is This the Year You Travel to ...
by Carl Unger, SmarterTravel.com Staff
Have you always wanted to travel to an exotic locale, but couldn't justify the cost or long flights? Well, with the travel industry slumping, it may be time to finally visit that far-flung destination. Here are five places to consider.
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Five Ways to Celebrate Your Independence in Style
by Kate Hamman, SmarterTravel.com Staff
Go solo this summer by taking a class, a tour, or a hike.
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Summer Savings in America's Top National Parks
by Josh Roberts, SmarterTravel.com Staff
There's never been a better time rediscover America's national parks.
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Ten Great Theme Parks and How to Save
by Kate Hamman, SmarterTravel.com Staff
Plan a thrilling summer vacation without going broke.
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Ten Amazing Adventures Under $1,000 (2009 Edition)
by Molly Feltner, SmarterTravel.com Staff
Adventure travel on a recession budget. What's not to love?
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Ten Cheap Spring Europe Vacations
by Jessica Labrencis, SmarterTravel.com Staff
Our picks for the top Europe vacations of the year include old standbys such as Paris, Rome, and London, plus unique trips to the Greek Isles, castles in Scotland, and a rail trip through Amsterdam, Berlin, and Prague.
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New International Routes Translate Into Big Savings
Many airlines are launching new international service in 2009 to capitalize on new markets. Flying on introductory routes is a great way to save on overseas travel.
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Virgin America (and Richard Branson) Arrives in Boston
by Carl Unger, SmarterTravel.com Staff
Virgin America celebrated its new service from Boston, and our blogger was invited to the festivities. Take a peek inside the carrier's swank plane, plus see Sir Richard Branson in drag. Yes, in drag.
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Which Mexico Destination Is Right for You?
by Sarah Pascarella, SmarterTravel.com Staff
Choosing the best location for your ideal Mexico vacation may seem overwhelming. We've done the research for you, and compiled the best locales for all types of travelers.
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Six Secret Mexican Gems for the Budget Traveler
by Molly Feltner, SmarterTravel.com Staff
Forget Cancun. Mexico's cheaper, under-the-radar beaches, colonial towns, and adventure destinations offer the best value in these rocky economic times.
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New Cruise Ships in 2009
by Erica Silverstein and Molly Feltner, SmarterTravel.com Staff
These ships have more excitement than most big cities.
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Seven Affordable, Under-the-Radar Beach Destinations
by Molly Feltner, SmarterTravel.com Staff
Even in rough economic times, it's important to treat yourself to some relaxation. Preferably, it's nice to do so on a nice warm beach. I've found seven great, lesser-known beach destinations in the Caribbean and Atlantic that also go easy on your wallet.
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Cheap, Exotic Beach Resorts Around the World
by Molly Feltner, SmarterTravel.com Staff
Make an exotic escape a reality with these seven super-affordable resorts in Africa, Asia, and the Pacific.
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Our Favorite Places of 2008
by Kate Hamman, SmarterTravel.com Staff
From the mountains of Rwanda to the hiking trails of Oregon, find out where we visited in 2008 and how we saved money doing it.
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Twelve Adventures for Twelve Months
by Sarah Pascarella and Kate Hamman, SmarterTravel.com Staff
Discover the perfect adventure for every month of 2009. Our possibilities will take you all over the globe, plus show you the best ways to get outdoors in every season.
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Ten (Almost) Free Travel Deals
by Molly Feltner, SmarterTravel.com Staff
While you're unlikely to get an all-expenses-paid trip unless you win a game show, you can still get portions your trip for free if you book certain promotions or take advantage of some alternative modes of travel.
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Affordable Spas at Home and Abroad
by Sarah Pascarella, SmarterTravel.com Staff
Not all spa vacations mean you have to drain your stress and your wallet. From New Orleans to Bali, Quebec to Indonesia, here are 10 possibilities that promise bliss for less.
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Avoid Fees and Hassles With a Well-Packed Bag
by Sarah Pascarella, SmarterTravel.com Staff
Our visual guide shows you what to do and not to do when packing.
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Our Readers' Best Adventure Travel Photos
Earlier this summer we asked readers to submit their favorite adventure travel photos. Here is the cream of the crop. Congrats to the eight selected photographers!
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See the Icons of America for Less
by Sarah Pascarella, SmarterTravel.com Staff
It's a testament to "free"dom that many of the country's most iconic attractions cost little or absolutely nothing to visit.
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Find 'La Dolce Vita' in Lesser-Known Italy
by Sarah Pascarella, SmarterTravel.com Staff
Leave the cities behind, and check out these places off the well-trodden path—you may find you'll have Italy all to yourself.
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Ten of America's Favorite Theme Parks and Ways to Save
by Kate Hamman, SmarterTravel.com Staff
With summer right around the corner, now is the time to plan a trip the whole family can enjoy. Here are 10 theme parks that will make the long days of summer melt into your memory forever.
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Top 10 Green Destinations
by Molly Feltner, SmarterTravel.com Staff
Find out which places make the grade and why.
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Classic Treks Around the World
by Molly Feltner, SmarterTravel.com Staff
Learn about 10 great treks featured in Classic Hikes of the World, a new book by outdoor adventure writer Peter Potterfield.
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Alternative Beach Accommodations For Extraordinary Trips
by Kate Hamman, SmarterTravel.com Staff
Here are several different ways to be close to the water without sacrificing your overall needs. From camping to sleeping under the sea, there's something for everyone who loves the water.
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Women Travel Writers' Favorite Destinations
by Sarah Pascarella, SmarterTravel.com Staff
Where do the women you love to read love to go? We asked some of our favorite women travel writers about their top destinations, and their recommendations may inspire your next trip.
