http://www.smartertravel.com/tip-of-the-day/?source=rss SmarterTravel.com's Tip of the Day Wed, 22 May 2013 12:26:01 -0400 Wed, 22 May 2013 12:26:01 -0400 Spirit offers special fares exclusively to members of its $9 Fare Club. Airfare expert Jessica Labrencis explains how it works and tells you if membership in the club is worth the cost, or merely a marketing gimmick. http://www.smartertravel.com/travel-advice/is-club-worth-the-cost.html?id=2897446&source=rss tip_of_the_day Tue, 26 May 2009 00:30:38 -0400 Finding a local to show you around is one of the best ways to get to know a new city or rediscover an old favorite. Here are ways to find willing guides. http://www.smartertravel.com/travel-advice/discovering-new-cities-with-friendly-locals.html?id=2817413&source=rss tip_of_the_day Tue, 27 Jan 2009 00:00:00 -0500 A few simple tips so you can enjoy a fun and fearless trip to Mexico, whether you're on vacation, a business trip, or just passing through. http://www.smartertravel.com/travel-advice/traveling-safely-in-mexico.html?id=2817454&source=rss tip_of_the_day Wed, 21 Jan 2009 19:50:37 -0500 One of the first things you should do in the trip-planning process is find out if you need a visa, even if you think you don't. It's easy to find out, and knowing the rules can be vital to your trip. http://www.smartertravel.com/travel-advice/before-you-go-abroad-always-check-visa-requirements.html?id=2806273&source=rss tip_of_the_day Wed, 21 Jan 2009 00:00:00 -0500 It's not mere fantasy—find tried-and-true recommendations for getting upgraded for your next hotel stay. http://www.smartertravel.com/travel-advice/tips-for-getting-upgraded-at-your-favorite-hotel.html?id=2805906&source=rss tip_of_the_day Thu, 15 Jan 2009 00:00:00 -0500 Savvy travelers expect more from providers nowadays, and vacation rental sites are no exception. There are some new sites that offer great customer service and interactive benefits http://www.smartertravel.com/travel-advice/new-vacation-rental-websites-to-check-out.html?id=2802858&source=rss tip_of_the_day Tue, 13 Jan 2009 00:00:00 -0500 Leave your comfort zone behind and consider these possible travel resolutions over the coming months. http://www.smartertravel.com/travel-advice/try-something-new-in-2009.html?id=2794794&source=rss tip_of_the_day Thu, 08 Jan 2009 00:00:00 -0500 Do airport improvements make for better passenger experiences? Here's a roundup of some of the new airport developments in 2008. http://www.smartertravel.com/travel-advice/better-airports-happier-passengers.html?id=2793300&source=rss tip_of_the_day Wed, 07 Jan 2009 00:00:00 -0500 Airports are a hacker's dream come true but a taking a few simple steps can help protect your personal information. http://www.smartertravel.com/travel-advice/don-get-hacked-at-the-airport.html?id=2788132&source=rss tip_of_the_day Fri, 26 Dec 2008 00:00:00 -0500 Our reporter takes a virtual stroll through an airport and likes what she finds. http://www.smartertravel.com/travel-advice/gift-shopping-at-the-airport-can-you-get-away-with-it.html?id=2780474&source=rss tip_of_the_day Fri, 19 Dec 2008 00:00:00 -0500 'Tis the season for car rental promotions, especially if you're heading to warmer climates. One-way trips to Arizona, California, Florida, and Texas typically yield the most deals. http://www.smartertravel.com/travel-advice/heading-south-you-can-get-great-rental-car-deal.html?id=2785808&source=rss tip_of_the_day Tue, 16 Dec 2008 00:00:00 -0500 Having trouble using your frequent flyer miles? Take advantage of newly launched routes, where award seats are plentiful. http://www.smartertravel.com/travel-advice/new-flights-are-good-for-frequent-flyer-awards.html?id=2783777&source=rss tip_of_the_day Wed, 10 Dec 2008 00:00:00 -0500 Just because the airlines use computerized systems to keep track of information doesn't mean they actually share those details. This is especially true in the case of baggage-tracking information. http://www.smartertravel.com/travel-advice/hold-on-to-your-checked-bag-tracking-number.html?id=2780312&source=rss tip_of_the_day Thu, 04 Dec 2008 00:00:00 -0500 Some air travelers are able to conk out as soon the plane engine revs and then stay asleep until landing. If you're not one of the blessed few, here are some tips for making it easier to rest on your next flight. http://www.smartertravel.com/travel-advice/ten-tips-for-sleeping-on-planes.html?id=2762782&source=rss tip_of_the_day Fri, 28 Nov 2008 00:00:00 -0500 To avoid headaches and hassles when traveling by air, take only the essentials when packing toiletries. All-in-one products, non-liquid cleansers, and more do the trick. http://www.smartertravel.com/travel-advice/the-most-useful-toiletries-to-bring-on-vacation.html?id=2774704&source=rss tip_of_the_day Wed, 26 Nov 2008 00:00:00 -0500 Before you go over the hills and into the woods, here are a few helpful tips to make your holiday drive a safe and enjoyable experience. http://www.smartertravel.com/travel-advice/tips-for-safe-holiday-road-trip.html?id=2774881&source=rss tip_of_the_day Mon, 24 Nov 2008 10:28:44 -0500 There's no worse feeling than not having anyone to call for help when you're far from home. That's why it's vital to program your cell phone with important numbers in advance. http://www.smartertravel.com/travel-advice/program-these-numbers-into-your-phone-before-you-go.html?id=2762781&source=rss tip_of_the_day Thu, 20 Nov 2008 00:00:00 -0500 Do all the new baggage fees have you wondering how you're going to fly with gifts this holiday season? Here are some tips for flying lighter. http://www.smartertravel.com/travel-advice/giving-ideas-for-those-who-can-pack-big-gifts.html?id=2770845&source=rss tip_of_the_day Tue, 18 Nov 2008 00:00:00 -0500 Here's how to transport winter items such as home-baked goodies, that Santa outfit you've been dying to wear, or bulky ski equipment. http://www.smartertravel.com/travel-advice/flying-with-winter-items.html?id=2768870&source=rss tip_of_the_day Fri, 14 Nov 2008 00:00:00 -0500 The TSA's rules for transporting gifts are clear cut: No liquids, no gels, and make sure your gifts aren't wrapped. http://www.smartertravel.com/travel-advice/how-to-bring-gifts-through-security.html?id=2766939&source=rss tip_of_the_day Wed, 12 Nov 2008 00:00:00 -0500 In a test-case scenario, our writer compares the cost of checking two bags at the airport against shipping prices from major retailers. The price discrepancies may surprise you. http://www.smartertravel.com/travel-advice/is-it-cheaper-to-ship-gifts-ahead-or-take-them-with-you.html?id=2763505&source=rss tip_of_the_day Mon, 10 Nov 2008 00:00:00 -0500 With the holidays right around the corner and baggage fees at an all-time high, getting your gifts home requires a little extra foresight. http://www.smartertravel.com/travel-advice/skip-high-baggage-fees-by-buying-gifts-online.html?id=2763452&source=rss tip_of_the_day Thu, 06 Nov 2008 00:00:00 -0500 Heading to the airport this holiday? Chances are you'll have a connecting flight. If so, you can plan for a smoother trip by avoiding connecting airports that are known for delays. http://www.smartertravel.com/travel-advice/ensure-smooth-travels-by-avoiding-the-most-delayed-airports.html?id=2762742&source=rss tip_of_the_day Mon, 03 Nov 2008 00:00:00 -0500 With a bit of preparation (and a good attitude), you can be on the plane and on your way with minimum hassle. Our tried-and-true strategies show you how. http://www.smartertravel.com/travel-advice/five-ways-to-cut-down-on-airport-delays-during-the-holidays.html?id=2759088&source=rss tip_of_the_day Fri, 31 Oct 2008 00:00:00 -0400 With airfare prices reaching new heights, it only makes sense that parents are wondering if they can save a little extra cash when flying with children. But the reality may be disappointing. http://www.smartertravel.com/travel-advice/is-there-such-thing-as-child-fare.html?id=2757350&source=rss tip_of_the_day Mon, 27 Oct 2008 00:00:00 -0400