Benefits with Commonwealth of Virginia Members

Travel: Consumer Tips

Whether you're reserving a hotel room, buying plane tickets or making other travel arrangements, these tips will help you get the deal that best suits your needs:

• Plan as far ahead as you can. Special deals on hotel rooms and airline seats often sell out very quickly.
• Be flexible in your travel plans. Hotels usually offer better rates on days when they expect fewer guests. Once you get a fare quote from an airline, ask if you can save money by leaving a day earlier or later, by taking a different flight on the same day or by using a different airport. Changing planes during your trip is sometimes cheaper than a nonstop flight.
• Check out the seller. Ask tour operators and travel agents whether they belong to a professional association, then check to see if they are members in good standing. Confirm that you are booking your travel with a legitimate travel booking site, not a fake.
• Comparison shop. Determine the complete cost of the trip in dollars, including all service charges, baggage fees, taxes and processing fees.
• Beware of unusually cheap prices and freebies. These could be a scam, and you could end up paying more than the cost of a regular package tour.
• Make sure you understand the terms of the deal. If you hear you have won a free vacation, ask whether you have to buy something in order to get it. Verify locations and amenities, especially if you are renting a private home.
• Ask about cancellation policies. Look into travel insurance for added protection. Visit websites that offer pricing and policy information on plans from different companies.
• Insist on written confirmations. Ask for written proof of reservations, rates and dates.
• Ask for the total price. Some airlines may sell each item separately, so the advertised price is much less than what you have to actually pay.
• Pay by credit card. Paying by credit card gives you the right to dispute charges for services that were misrepresented or never delivered. Your credit card may also offer insurance for booked travel and car rentals.
• Do you have valid ID? The Transportation Security Administration requires you to have a secure state driver's license or identification card in order to fly. If your license doesn't comply, you will have to present a passport to board a flight, even between two U.S. cities. Find out if your state license complies at https://www.dhs.gov/real-id-enforcement-brief.
• Do you have a credit card that uses embedded chip and PIN technology instead of a magnetic strip? If traveling internationally, you will probably need it, since magnetic strip credit cards are not accepted in some countries.
• Are you renting a car? Know your rights, and read the contract carefully.

In some states, travel sellers must be registered and insured. Advance payments for travel must be placed in an escrow account until services are provided. Prizes or "free" gifts may also be regulated. Contact your state consumer protection agency (https://www.usa.gov/state-consumer) to find out about your rights and how to file complaints.

Travel Fees

Fees are a common part of travel. While some fees are easy to understand, others have become more confusing, such as these:

• Seat selection — You may pay a fee for the privilege of choosing your seat when you book your flight.
• Car rental — Beware of other costs, such as energy surcharges, concession fees and facility fees.
• Resort — These fees give you access to fitness centers, golf courses and other amenities. These may be charged to your account, whether or not you use them.
• Minibar — Some hotels charge you a restocking fee for replacing the items you purchased.
• Valet parking — Some hotels advertise valet parking as if it is an optional service, but some hotels make it mandatory.
• Carry-ons — Some airlines charge for carry-on bags.
• Wi-Fi — Does the hotel charge a fee for access to its Wi-Fi network?

Before you book your travel, contact airlines, car rental companies and hotels to get an explanation of fee policies. Also, when you check out or complete your rental, review your receipt carefully. Speak up if you have been charged for something that you don't understand or services you didn't purchase.