Flexibility with date and destination helps save money
HOUGHTON -- The constant snow falling outside the Travel Leaders office in Houghton makes the tropical trips they advertise all the more enticing.
Hoping to head to Hawaii? Cancun? The Caribbean? Owner Kierstin Waara says it can still be done, and you can probably find a good deal.
"I’ve got people leaving at the end of February right out of Hancock, going to Cozumel to an all-inclusive resort, and it was just under $3000 for two people,” says Waara. “That includes all your meals, drinks, entertainment, room, and flights. It's everything."
Traveling with a friend is more fun and will get you a better price on airfare and hotel stays. The more flexible you can be about your departure date and destination will also help save money.
"We have some capabilities above and beyond the Internet to help people out in the times of canceled flights and/or schedule changes with misconnects,” Waara says. “We work very closely with the airport."
Waara says the most popular week for travel this spring is during school vacation at the end of March.
The Houghton County Airport and others in the U.P. are almost completely booked up.
"If you only get here 30 minutes early, there is a good possibility that you won't get on the flight,” says airport manager Dennis Hext. “Especially if you're traveling internationally, you should definitely be here at least an hour early, and you'll want to have the right documentation and information."
When it comes to packing productively, the 3-1-1 rule is the most important thing for passengers to remember. It's a quick reminder that anyone can take liquids of three ounces or less in one 1-quart bag in their carry on.
If you're looking for more information or travel tips, it's a good idea to go on and check out your airline's Website or www.tsa.gov.