Features > Travel Tips > How to Avoid Two Major Travel Disasters
It takes a lot of luck and a little preparation to avoid travel disasters. Some of us has experienced that sinking feeling when we are standing by the luggage carousel until everyone else has gone, and still no sign of our luggage. And then, in half-panic, finding a way to the airline's little lost luggage booth, only to be met with sarcasm, and no satisfaction.
What can you do to avoid this scene? Some smart guys have created luggage shipping companies that pick up your items a day prior to departure, and have them waiting at your location before you arrive. I love this sweet deal, especially if I have to transfer airlines and re-check my baggage. With these companies, I can avoid all that hassle. Companies like Luggage Forward and Luggage Free provide this service, but be advised, it's not free! However, the peace of mind is priceless. If you're traveling domestically, you may also want to consider Fed Ex .
Here's another cringe-worthy scene: You finally arrived at your destination, but your reservation didn't. What do you do then? Well, you can't do anything then but cry, but what you can do to avoid this is print out your confirmation sheet. All companies, from hotels to car rental agencies, provide a confirmation sheet for your protection. Whenever a representative looks at you with a condescending smile and says, “I'm sorry, we don't have your reservation,” all you have to do is tender your confirmation sheet. Ahhh! That's the best feeling in the world. It'll wipe the smug right off their face every time, guaranteed. This is your best insurance to avoiding a potential disaster, and comes in handy especially if the hotel or car rental agency is sold out.
These tips helped to save my sanity. Do you have any travel tips to share? Leave me a comment.
Jessica | Jan 21, 2009 | Category: Travel Tips