Key Note Speaker Summary

Our club was privileged to have Dr. Bill Wittich address us on Monday regarding helpful tips for frequent travelers.  Dr. Wittich is a well known speaker, author, and “life coach” and has compiled an excellent list of pointers for those of us taking to the air.  His tips range from how to save time, to how to save money, to how to ease stress that often accompanies long trips through various cities and airports.  Here’s a summary of his travel tips: 

·                     Buy tickets more than 21 days in advance to get the lowest fares

·                     Try to book flights on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays for lower fares

·                     Avoid flights on Friday and Sunday afternoon when fares are highest

·                     Avoid “direct flights” to get lower fares (accept several stops)

·                     Always leave at least an hour between connecting flights

·                     Avoid booking on the last flight of the day – those flights are often cancelled

·                     Google “Seat Guru” to find out which seats are most “friendly” on your flight

·                     Avoid seats at the rear of the plane

·                     If traveling in pairs, book one aisle and one window seat

·                     Check your seat assignment on line before departing for the airport

·                     Print your boarding pass off the internet before departing

·                     Pay the $10 to Southwest for the “Early Bird Check In” upgrade

·                     Make sure your ticket is issued to the exact same name as your photo ID

·                     Join your favorite hotel chain’s frequent guest club for great discounts

·                     Avoid rooms near the elevator and near the vending/ice machines

·                     Generally the higher the room is the better – less road traffic noise

·                     Avoid non-refundable reservations

·                     Avoid using mini-bars and using the hotel phone

·                     Avoid checking baggage – use one carry on and mail or wear extra cloths

·                     Buy noise reduction headphones for use during the flight

·                     Carry on snacks/food whenever possible

·                     Wear slip on shoes and avoid prohibited items to speed up security process

Bon Voyage and happy traveling!  Our thanks to Dr. Wittich for this sage advice!