Brief Summary
This video provides essential travel updates and tips for 2024, focusing on airline changes, airport security enhancements, and passenger rights. It covers new flight routes, self-scanning TSA systems, and strategies for managing potential travel disruptions.
- New flight routes from major airlines to various international and domestic destinations.
- Introduction of self-scanning TSA systems in Las Vegas airport.
- Tips for managing delayed or canceled flights, including understanding airline policies and passenger rights.
Travel updates for 2024
In 2024, major airlines are expanding their routes. American Airlines will introduce flights to Copenhagen, Nice, and Naples. Delta will increase domestic routes, including Detroit to Anchorage. United Airlines will begin flights to Faro, Portugal. Las Vegas' Harry Reid International Airport is set to open self-scanning TSA pods where passengers can scan themselves and their bags, aiming to streamline security. The goal is to expedite the airport security process while maintaining safety.
Smaller personal item bag space
The space under airplane seats for personal items appears to be shrinking due to technology updates and footrests. When flying internationally, especially to Australia, airlines are restricting personal item bag sizes, potentially encouraging more checked bags. Using a black backpack or tote bag may make it appear smaller. When purchasing luggage or personal item bags, choose retailers with free return policies.
Small backpacks for 2024
The speaker recommends streamlined backpacks like the Nomad Lane and a similar one available on Amazon, noting their luxurious fabric and high-quality zippers. These backpacks feature lighter interiors, which help in seeing the contents easily. The speaker shares an experience of buying and returning several backpacks from Amazon's Love Book brand, highlighting the importance of free returns when searching for the right luggage.
Not show ID in 2024
Delta Airlines allows passengers with pre-check and using their app to bypass showing their ID on flights from Detroit, Atlanta, LaGuardia, and JFK. American Airlines also has an app where passengers can upload their information and photo to expedite security checks. The speaker advises patience with new travel updates, as changes can initially feel uncomfortable.
Travel tips for 2024
Arriving at the airport two hours before boarding helps reduce stress. The speaker, drawing on over 20 years of experience flying with carry-on luggage, emphasizes the importance of being prepared and staying informed.
International travel 2024
The requirement for the shenen visa for European travel has been delayed until 2025. Airport security in Belgium was efficient, but the speaker had to switch to a smaller liquids bag to comply with local regulations. Global Entry and TSA PreCheck are exclusive to the United States. For those who fly internationally less than twice a year, Mobile Passport Control is a useful free app for streamlining customs.
Passenger rights
Airlines have customer service pages outlining their commitments for significant delays or cancellations. Passengers should screenshot these policies when booking tickets. "Significant delay" is vaguely worded, but airlines typically cover meal vouchers, hotel accommodations, and transportation for overnight cancellations or significant delays. Airlines are exempt from providing accommodations for uncontrollable circumstances like weather.
Delayed flights
The United States Department of Transportation holds airlines accountable for their promises. Passengers should document any disruptions with screenshots and flight numbers. With increased passenger numbers, airlines are upgrading their fleets, but a shortage of available planes can lead to cancellations. The speaker recommends booking early morning flights to increase the chances of finding alternative flights if needed.
Reconfigured airplanes
New and reconfigured airplanes feature larger overhead bins, allowing carry-on suitcases to stand upright. Gate agents may not always be aware of these updates due to outdated booking systems. Essential electronics and medications should be kept in a personal item bag in case checked bags get lost. Airlines are increasingly strict about carry-on allowances, often limiting passengers to one personal item and one carry-on.
