Smartest Travel Strategies: Kindle Your Wanderlust

Leading travel expert and USA Today columnist Christopher Elliott shares his secrets to better trips in his book 'How to Be the World's Smartest Traveler'. The book is a tip-filled guide from National Geographic, drawing on Elliott's 20 years of experience as a consumer travel advocate. It covers topics such as airlines, car rentals, cruises, hotels, security, staying connected, resolving complaints, and much more. The book is full of recommendations, real-life case histories, and answers to common questions, making it a must-read for anyone planning a trip.

Airlines

In his book, Christopher Elliot offers advice on how to navigate the often perplexing world of airlines. He suggests casting a wide net when researching flights, consulting multiple sources such as guidebooks, social media, and crowd-sourced sites. Each source has its strengths and weaknesses; for instance, crowd-sourced sites are constantly updated, while guidebooks are published annually. However, information from a professional source is generally more reliable than off-the-cuff remarks from a tourist. It is important to never make a decision based on a single source.

Additionally, Elliot advises against trying to 'game the system' when it comes to loyalty programs. Bloggers who divulge loopholes to the public only cause airlines to act quickly and restrict these programs, making them worthless. Instead, focus on finding your own formula for what you consider to be a good airfare. Accept that there will always be someone on the plane who paid less, and be at peace with that.

When it comes to saving money on air travel, Elliot suggests casting a wide net by securing price quotes from multiple sources, including the airline directly. He also recommends considering travel agents, who can often find discounts that may not be readily available to individuals. Visiting during off-peak times is another great way to save money, as is being flexible with your travel dates and times.

To save time when dealing with airlines, Elliot recommends planning ahead, finding a packing method that works for you, buying the right luggage, and making lists. Checking your passport validity well in advance of your trip will also save you time and potential hassle.

Finally, when problems arise with an airline, try to resolve them in real time, rather than waiting until you get home. Employees have more ways of addressing issues on the spot. If a polite email to the company doesn't work, you can always reach out to a consumer advocate like Elliot himself for further assistance.

Car rentals

When it comes to car rentals, it's important to make your decision before you arrive at the rental counter. This allows you to do your research and compare prices from multiple companies, ensuring you get the best deal. Additionally, keep in mind that most rental companies will try to upsell you on various extras, such as insurance and GPS devices. Consider whether you truly need these add-ons, as they can significantly increase the cost of your rental.

Another tip is to take photos of the rental car before you drive it off the lot. Document any existing scratches, dents, or other damage so that you aren't blamed for them when you return the vehicle. This can help you avoid any unnecessary charges or disputes.

If you encounter any problems or have a complaint during your rental period, remember to keep a paper trail of all correspondence. Having written records can be extremely valuable if you need to escalate the issue or seek assistance from a consumer advocate.

Lastly, be mindful of the fuel policy when renting a car. Some companies offer fuel plans where you pay for a full tank of gas upfront, while others expect you to return the car with a full tank. Understanding the fuel policy can help you avoid unexpected charges when you return the vehicle.

By following these tips, you can navigate the world of car rentals with greater confidence and ensure a smoother experience during your travels.

Cruises

If you don't believe this, wake up early on the day of disembarkation, get yourself a cup of coffee, and sit next to the check-out area, where people are settling their bill. You'll hear one argument after another: "I never charged that to my room!" and "What's this on my bill?". That's where they get you, right at the end.

Hotels and alternative lodging

When it comes to hotels and alternative lodging, Christopher Elliott's book, *How to Be the World's Smartest Traveler*, offers detailed advice on how to navigate the often perplexing world of travel. Here are some key insights from the book:

• The book provides recommendations and real-life case histories to help readers make informed decisions about their accommodation choices.
• It is important to plan ahead when it comes to lodging. This includes finding a suitable packing method, investing in the right luggage, making lists, reading the fine print, and checking weather and road conditions.
• Consider using a travel agent when booking accommodation. They can often offer great deals and make the process easier.
• Cast a wide net when shopping for accommodation by securing price quotes from multiple sources, including the hotel or property directly.
• Visit during off-peak seasons to find better deals and avoid the crowds.
• Be cautious when dealing with rental properties or vacation rentals. Always get everything in writing and keep a paper trail of all correspondence. This will help protect you in case of any disputes or problems.
• Be aware of your rights as a guest. Know the laws and regulations regarding lodging in the area you are visiting.
• Keep yourself informed about the latest trends and changes in the hospitality industry. This includes new types of alternative lodging, such as Airbnb or other home-sharing options.
• Compare prices and read reviews before making a reservation. Use multiple sources to get a well-rounded idea of the property's quality and value.
• Be mindful of hidden fees and additional charges. Ask about any extra costs, such as resort fees, parking fees, or cleaning fees, before booking.
• Consider using a travel management company or a travel agent to help you find the best accommodation options and negotiate better rates.

By following these tips and staying informed, travelers can make smarter choices when it comes to hotels and alternative lodging, ultimately saving time, money, and hassle.

The TSA and security

Practical Tips for Dealing with the TSA

Elliott offers practical tips for dealing with the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). He emphasizes the importance of planning ahead, such as checking the validity of your passport for your destination country several months in advance. This simple step can save travellers a lot of hassle and uncertainty. He also suggests taking steps to avoid confusion at the airport, such as avoiding black luggage, which is easily mistaken for someone else's.

Real-Life Case Histories

The book includes real-life case histories of travellers' experiences with the TSA and security issues. Elliott, who has over 20 years of experience as a consumer travel advocate, shares his expertise in resolving travel complaints and troubleshooting common problems. He advises travellers to keep a paper trail of correspondence with travel companies and to remain polite and collaborative when dealing with complaints, as this increases the chances of a positive outcome.

Online Security

In addition to physical security, Elliott covers online security and privacy. He offers a tip to clear your cookies when shopping for travel online, which can help protect your privacy and potentially save you money by preventing targeted advertising and price increases based on your browsing history.

Overall Advice for Travellers

While some of the advice in the book is considered common sense by experienced travellers, it can still serve as a helpful reminder. Elliott's expertise and experience in resolving travel complaints provide valuable insights for travellers dealing with security and safety issues. His book is a comprehensive guide to navigating the complexities of travel, ensuring that readers have the tools they need to become the world's smartest travellers.

Frequently asked questions