Travel Tips:

Here are some helpful tips and links to make traveling easier.

Travelers Checks: When traveling, it is advisable to carry a certain amount of money, for emergencies, in the form of travelers’ checks. Keep these checks separate from your regular cash and credit cards. In the event that your cash and credit cards are lost or stolen, you will be able to make due with your supply of travelers’ checks. Most banks and businesses will cash your checks for you as long as your signature matches the existing signature on the travelers check.

Meals on Airplanes: The meals/beverages offered on your flight will vary based on the airline, the flight taken, and the class/seat chosen. Most flights will offer a limited beverage service with complimentary hot/cold soft drinks and alcoholic beverages available for purchase. Alcoholic beverages must be purchased with cash, and exact change is appreciated. Few domestic flights offer complimentary meal service, but many now allow you to order meals for purchase.

State Department Advisories: From time to time, the US State Department will issue advisories for U.S. Citizens traveling to foreign countries. These advisories are intended to update and alert US Citizens traveling abroad to any potential risks or hazards associated with the countries/regions in question. If you are planning to leave the US on a trip, click here for the latest information regarding US State Department Advisories.

US Embassies: The US Government operates Embassies and Consulates in almost every foreign country. All US Embassies located in foreign countries are considered the sovereign soil of the US and the host country has no jurisdiction within the boundaries of the embassy.* US Citizens are welcome inside an embassy at any time and will receive the protection of the US government. Proper ID, in the form of a US passport, is required to enter. For locations and information on US Embassies throughout the world, click here.

*In order to ensure that your trip abroad is pleasant, please familiarize yourself with and observe the laws of all foreign countries that you visit.

Passports: You must have a valid US Passport when you travel outside the US. If you do not have a passport, it will take up to 6-8 weeks* to have one issued to you from the US Government. All US Citizens (including small children) traveling outside of the US must present a valid Passport upon leaving and reentering the US. For more information regarding the issuance of the Passport, click here.

*For a fee, there are services that can expedite your Passport application/renewal in less time than the normal 6-8 weeks.

Hotels: Each individual hotel determines its check-in policies. In most cases, you must be 21 years of age or older to check in to a hotel. Most hotels require photo ID (passport or drivers license) and a valid credit card at the time of check in. Many hotels operate a 24 hour front desk for late arrivals, but if you plan to arrive late, you should call the hotel and confirm their late night check-in procedures. While some hotels no longer permit smoking in any of their rooms, please make sure to confirm that you requested either a smoking or non-smoking room. Pets are allowed in some hotels, service animals are permitted in all hotels. If a hotel permits pets, an additional fee and/or damage deposit may be required as well. Please contact the hotel directly before you travel for specific information regarding their check in policies.

Cars: Most rental car agencies require the renter to be at least 25 years of age with a valid driver’s license and credit card. There are a few that permit renters as young as 21 if you pay an additional fee. In most cases, you can add additional drivers to a car rental, as long as those drivers meet the age and license requirements set forth by the agency. Most rental car agencies offer insurance on all rentals, check with the agency for rates and coverage plans. One way rentals are available from many rental car agencies for an additional fee. It is recommended that you always rent a car with unlimited mileage. It allows you the freedom to explore your destination without worrying about excessive charges at the end of your trip. Please check with the agency before you travel to verify their policies and procedures.