Top 10 New Year's Travel Resolutions for 2010

Copy Editor Jaclyn Liechti has been with SmarterTravel since June 2009. She holds a master's degree in writing, literature, and publishing from Emerson College.

Born and raised in the Midwest, she has marveled at the grandeur of Mount Rushmore and been whitewater rafting in Colorado, but has yet to make it to the "ruins" of Carhenge in her home state of Nebraska. A semester in Dublin allowed her to visit more far-flung destinations such as Rome, Mykonos, and London, but her travel aspirations are far from complete.

See recent posts by Jaclyn Liechti

As anybody who has ever tried to give up caffeine, nicotine, or chocolate can testify, New Year’s resolutions can be difficult to keep. But if you’re planning on traveling during 2010, you owe it to yourself to make a few promises that will ensure your vacations go off without a hitch. So we’ve taken the liberty of coming up with a short list of ten things that travelers will want to follow for the new year. And to help you succeed, we’ve rounded up the very best of this year’s helpful tips.

1. I will not pay extra fees when traveling

It seems like everyone in the travel industry is trying to add on sneaky fees to what used to be—or should be—basic services. But by knowing the rules, you can avoid them when you fly. And luckily, major online travel agencies (OTAs) have become more consumer-friendly.

2. I will not get sideswiped by hidden add-ons

Consumers must be more vigilant than ever, since airlines are finding newer ways to increase revenue. And hotels are getting in on the action too, adding surcharges and fees that don’t show up on the base rate.

3. I will not get taken to the cleaners by a car rental agency

The real cost of renting a car may be surprisingly more than the advertised rate.

4. I will review all my options before booking accommodations

When booking a place to stay, it’s important to compare various providers to make sure you find the best price. And travelers on a budget should include vacation rentals as part of their search, as well as hotels.

5. I will move through security quickly

With all the rules and regulations surrounding airline travel these days, it’s critical to know what you can and can’t bring with you on the plane, and to be ready to move through the line quickly.

6. I will not pack more than I need

Long gone are the days when travelers could pack everything but the kitchen sink at no extra charge. These days, smart packers know that minimizing bags and maximizing space will pay off in the long run.

7. I will have a pleasant flight (crying baby or not)

Babies cry, passengers are loud, and flights get delayed. But it shouldn’t ruin a vacation, and a little bit of planning ahead—and an upbeat attitude—can make an unpleasant flight experience seem like a minor bump in the road.

8. I will have a stress-free vacation

Nobody wants his or her time to get away from it all to turn into a horror story, so planning ahead and knowing how to react in a situation can turn a nightmare vacation into a dream come true.

9. I will not get sick, swindled, or stumped

Travelers can avoid these common vacation mishaps, and this year is the time to do it.

10. I will find the right trip at the right price

That’s what SmarterTravel is all about, and we want to help make your next trip the best one ever.

So Happy New Year, fellow travelers. Make this year a fantastic one.

What are your travel resolutions for 2010? Share them in the comments space below.

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