my travel.org

We’re sorry, this site is currently experiencing technical difficulties. Please try again in a few moments. Exception: request blocked

An official website of the United States government

Here’s how you know

Official websites use .gov A .gov website belongs to an official government organization in the United States.

Secure .gov websites use HTTPS A lock ( Lock Locked padlock icon ) or https:// means you’ve safely connected to the .gov website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.

U.S. passports

Find out how to apply for or renew a passport and what to do if your passport is lost or stolen.

U.S. citizens traveling abroad

Find out about visas, the Trusted Traveler programs, what to do in an emergency, and more.

International travel documents for children

See what documents a child needs to travel to or from the U.S. alone or with a parent or relative.

Travel to or within the U.S.

As a visitor, find out which documents you will need to travel to and drive in the U.S.

How to get a REAL ID and use it for travel

The REAL ID Act sets higher security standards for state-issued driver's licenses and ID cards.

Travel documents for foreign citizens returning to the U.S.

As a non-citizen U.S. resident, learn what documents you need to return to the U.S. if you leave.

Looking for something else? Explore all topics and services

Future of Travel Mobility
Travel Action Network

Please log in or create an account to continue.

Please contact U.S. Travel's Member Services team at [email protected] or 202.408.8422 if you have questions or need assistance to log in.

Forgot your password?

Don't have an account?

Nevermind, I've remembered my password.

U.S. Passport Application Status

About This Site

Terms of Use
Privacy Notice
Mission Statement
Interagency Relations

Notice: Our website and its third party tools use cookies to manage and track usage to enable us to deliver the best possible service and customer expectation. By closing this banner and continuing to browse the site, you agree and consent to our use of cookies. If you want to know more, please refer to our Cookie Policy .

We noticed that you have disabled your Cookies which may affect certain functionalities. FundMyTravel requires your browser cookies to be enabled to operate. Please enable your browser Cookies and try again.

Start Fundraising

How it works, fund meaningful travel experiences, featured campaigns.

Recent Campaigns
People You Know

Medical Mission in Vietn...

This mission's goal is to improve access to quality healthcare in Ho Chi Minh City. There is a need for medical ultrasound training and...

Help me to help save our...

Hi everyone, My name is Kady and I live in the UK. In February 2024 I will be leaving my home comforts behind and swapping my heels for walking...

￡ 2195

Iggy travels 101

I'm going to Costa Rica and I am so excited! My trip is organized by Global Works Travel. I'll have a chance to help out a different community by...

Help me study abroad in ...

Hi everyone!! My name is Ernest Romero and I am a sophomore studying Communications and Marketing at Boston College. I'm super excited to announce...

Learning Under the Sea i...

Hi! My name is Brianna and to try to keep it short, I have always known I wanted to travel the world. Most of my life Ive barely even seen the...

Research Presentation-20...

Hi, my name is Megan and I'm currently a sophomore at SUNY Genseo studying Neuroscience with a minor in Human Development. About a year ago, I...

Help Cole Study Abroad i...

My name is Timothy (I go by Cole), and I am a Senior Electrical Engineering student at the University of Oklahoma (OU). I have been accepted to...

Saving turtles in Bali, ...

I will be going on a three week volunteer trip to Ubud on the island Nusa Penida in Bali, Indonesia to help the turtles and community! The goal is...

It’s simple to start your fundraising page - tell people your story and get them excited about your trip!

Spread the Word

Easily share your campaign on through built-in social media and email buttons.

Donations are automatically sent to your account - no waiting till you hit your full goal.

Success Stories

Alice Turner, SLV.Global

Many of our volunteers have used FundMyTravel to help make raising the funds for their placements a simple and easy process. Volunteers can personalise their fundraising page and provide information about what donations will be going towards as well...

Reynolds Whalen, Performing Arts Abroad

FundMyTravel provides a valuable resource for our participants to raise money for their programs with us. Our participants have raised over $12,000 for their programs! It also gives us an additional platform to promote our programs, as each campaig...

Yesmeen Scamahorn

When I started to research campaign platforms, I sought out platforms that supported those embarking on a volunteer/service based project. I stumbled upon Fund my Travel and knew it was going to be the perfect fit. Although there wasn't a customer se...

Crowdfund meaningful travels

Send feedback.

By checking this box, I consent to FundMyTravel collecting and storing my data through the submission of this form. I understand that FundMyTravel will use the information collected to provide me with a response. Furthermore, I verify that I am 16 years of age or older and do not need parental consent. By submitting this form, I agree to FundMyTravel’s Privacy Policy and Terms of Service .

While traveling is our passion, traveling safely is our priority!

Joshua Expeditions

Explore ethens.

High quality, Christ-centered student educational travel engaging the world by inspiring purpose, developing leaders, and sharing Christ.

Travel the world with je, destinations.

Make A Payment

We provide Christian global opportunities that will challenge individuals to consider God’s purpose in their lives through international site talks, incredible nature excursions, or simple intentional conversations.

We provide global mission opportunities that will examine an individual’s character, expand their perspective, and challenge them to greater leadership as they develop a greater understanding of the world through travel.

We provide global opportunities for individuals to engage others with the Gospel. Individuals are challenged to take a spirit of humility and love as they serve under local ministries to advance the Kingdom through travel.

WHAT TRAVELERS ARE SAYING...

This was one of the best trips I’ve ever been on!! I can definitely say it was life-changing.

I loved that JE planned most of the meals to focus on the local cuisine. It was a great experience!

I love this organization! It makes planning so easy and we have never been disappointed.

Thank you for your faithfulness in serving Jesus through this wonderful ministry of student travel. I highly recommend JE!

JE is Christ-centered and they understand the importance of training students to have an eternal perspective.

The trained guides of JE have led with such excellence that our students have been encouraged to share Christ.

I’ve traveled with JE for the last nine years and I would not imagine traveling with any other company.

JE’s depth of knowledge, logistics, and well-trained guides are why I don’t take trips with any other company.

Latin America
North America
Other Regions
School Tours
Int. School Tours
Church Groups

By Destination
Air-Only Travel
Family Adventures
Int. Student Groups
Request A Quote
Traveler Application
Expedition Form
Group Leaders Lounge
Traveler Lounge

Credit cards
View all credit cards
Banking guide
Loans guide
Insurance guide
Personal finance
View all personal finance
Small business
Small business guide
View all taxes

You’re our first priority. Every time.

We believe everyone should be able to make financial decisions with confidence. And while our site doesn’t feature every company or financial product available on the market, we’re proud that the guidance we offer, the information we provide and the tools we create are objective, independent, straightforward — and free.

So how do we make money? Our partners compensate us. This may influence which products we review and write about (and where those products appear on the site), but it in no way affects our recommendations or advice, which are grounded in thousands of hours of research. Our partners cannot pay us to guarantee favorable reviews of their products or services. Here is a list of our partners .

Ask a Travel Nerd: How I Introduce Friends to Award Travel

Many or all of the products featured here are from our partners who compensate us. This influences which products we write about and where and how the product appears on a page. However, this does not influence our evaluations. Our opinions are our own. Here is a list of our partners and here's how we make money .

I’ve been an enthusiastic award traveler for over a decade, using points and miles earned from credit cards to book flights, hotels and more. Award travel has granted me experiences that would have otherwise been over my budget, helping me explore the world, spend time with loved ones and get where I’m going in comfort.

I’m grateful for my hobby and eager to share it with curious friends and family. However, award travel has complexities and pitfalls that make it risky.

I’ve learned over the years that introducing others to award travel requires a degree of care, so here are five guidelines I use when I welcome new players to the points and miles game.

1. Set realistic expectations

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average U.S. household spent over $1,850 on transportation and lodging for out-of-town trips in 2022. With that figure in mind, I’m not surprised people commonly get into award travel as a way to cut costs. But while “get a credit card and travel for free” sounds alluring, the reality is it’s not free and not that simple.

Booking with points and miles takes varying degrees of effort, depending on where you want to go and how luxuriously you want to travel. In addition to planning your itinerary, you’ll have to figure out which airline and hotel programs you’ll use to book it.

Once you earn enough points and miles, there’s no guarantee the airplane seat or hotel night will be available. Even when they are, booking them may involve out-of-pocket costs, such as taxes, fuel surcharges or resort fees . In short, it’s no sure bet.

To manage expectations, I paint an honest picture of award travel. While it’s not a golden ticket to first class seats and presidential suites, it can help you travel for less.

2. Start small

Since I started collecting points and miles in 2010, I’ve opened over 80 credit cards in pursuit of sign-up bonuses, spending rewards and other benefits. I've sometimes averaged more than one new credit card per month.

I can handle that volume because I’ve worked up to it, learning how to manage my credit and loyalty accounts over the years. But a beginner attempting that same pace would be like a student driver entering a Formula One race.

I encourage newbies to start small and set an achievable travel goal (like booking one flight or hotel stay with points) and figure out how best to meet it. That narrow focus provides an opportunity to learn the ins and outs of award travel without getting overwhelmed. If things go well, ramping up is easy. If not, the cost of failure is low.

3. Emphasize good financial habits

You’re not likely to ding your credit score by trying chess or snorkeling, but getting into award travel generally involves opening (and monitoring) various financial and loyalty accounts.

Richard Kerr, vice president of travel at Bilt Rewards, says that award travelers must set their priorities appropriately.

“Rewards never outweigh interest and fees,” Kerr said, who adds that it's important to make sure "the well-being of your personal finances always comes first in your pursuit of points and miles.”

According to data from the Federal Reserve, credit card annual percentage rates averaged more than 20% in 2023. Meanwhile, when redeemed for travel, most points and miles are worth just 1 to 2 cents.

Mismanaging accounts can be costly, so I stress the importance of organization and fiscal responsibility. I implore new award travelers to pay their credit card balances on time and in full and warn them against overspending. I also offer tips for keeping track of accounts and due dates and share my organizational tools where needed.

4. Follow along

Points and miles can open a lot of doors, but throwing folks in the deep end to fend for themselves can do more harm than good.

Once I introduce someone to award travel, I feel some responsibility for the outcome, so I offer my continued assistance as needed to help them stay afloat.

I try to proactively check in with folks about their progress and ensure they’re meeting spending requirements, managing accounts and avoiding unnecessary costs. If all goes well initially, I keep them apprised of future opportunities (like award sales or outsized credit card bonuses ).

5. Don’t be pushy

The prospect of traveling at a heavy discount has the ring of a late-night infomercial, making many folks distrustful of it initially. I talk about award travel without sounding like I’m selling something. I speak plainly, avoid overhyping and never force details on disinterested parties.

On a related note, I’m upfront about any way I stand to gain personally. For example, I always disclose when a credit card offer earns me a referral bonus (even though I send my friends only the best available offers anyway).

Finally, I don’t ask for anything in return — my help comes with no strings attached.

The Platinum Card® from American Express

on American Express' website

on Chase's website

on Citibank's application

Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $8,000 on purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Terms Apply.

Enjoy a one-time bonus of 75,000 miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel.

Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $750 when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

Earn 60,000 bonus ThankYou® Points after you spend $4,000 in purchases within the first 3 months of account opening. Plus, for a limited time, earn a total of 10 ThankYou® Points per $1 spend on hotel, car rentals, and attractions (excluding air travel) booked on the Citi Travel℠ portal through June 30, 2024.

How to maximize your rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are our picks for the best travel credit cards of 2024 , including those best for:

Flexibility, point transfers and a large bonus: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

No annual fee: Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card

Flat-rate travel rewards: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Bonus travel rewards and high-end perks: Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Luxury perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express

Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

On a similar note...

25 Great Ways to Save on Travel

Your guide to saving on epic getaways — without skimping on fun.

Stephanie Vermillion,

illustration of an airplane in the sky sounded by clouds in the shape of dollar signs

Your travel bucket list doesn’t have to break the bank. To help you fulfill your globe-trotting goals — sans the high spending — we talked with travel industry professionals and writers about their favorite cost-saving tips. Here are 25 of the best ways to save on travel, and don’t forget to share your own budget-travel tips in the comments section at the bottom of the page.

1. Try a price prediction tool

Some budget travelers swear by only booking their flights on Tuesdays. Others suggest booking on Saturdays. But according to Nick Ewen, senior editorial director for The Points Guy, “that ‘day to book’ thing is largely a myth.” What could matter? The day of the week, or the time of day, you actually fly. Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Saturdays are often cheaper days to fly than Fridays or Sundays. Because prices fluctuate, Ewen recommends using tools such as Hopper , Google Flights or Kayak to track and monitor when a flight is a good deal and when it’s not. “Price prediction tools will essentially say, ‘Right now, prices on this route are high, but we expect them to drop within the next 30 to 45 days,’” he says, noting it’s not always a guarantee — but “these tools can help you make a more informed decision.”

AARP Membership — $12 for your first year when you sign up for Automatic Renewal

2. Cash in those airline miles

If you’ve built up miles with a specific airline, use them, says Ewen. “Any opportunity to use your miles to keep cash in your pocket is a good redemption,” he says. “I often see people who are new to the world of loyalty programs, points and miles, and they’re afflicted with analysis paralysis.” Instead of using their perks, they sit on them — but doing so could be costing you. “Points and miles are terrible long-term investments; they only lose value over time,” Ewen says. If you want to double-check the miles-to-money conversion before booking, try online calculators that tabulate this equation, including NerdWallet , Omni Calculator and The Point Calculator .

3. Track and modify your trip

Here’s even more incentive to book: In recent years, a growing number of U.S. airlines, including United, Delta, American and Alaska, have removed change fees. That means if you book a ticket, then see a better flight deal, you can modify your reservation and pocket the difference. This goes for not only flights booked with dollars, but also miles. “Since the pandemic, just about every airline, aside from basic economy status, has made award tickets, generally speaking ... are now fully refundable,” Ewen says.

4. Keep tabs on your credit card discounts

If your credit card comes with a steep annual price, know that “oftentimes there are many ways to offset that fee,” Ewen says. Many cards offer travel credits, complimentary companion passes and other lifestyle perks. But to benefit, you need to actually use them. “Credit card issuers rely on people to not be informed; that way they can offer a perk that [would] cost them money, but they’re not actually going to have to fork that money over,” he says. To keep tabs on your card’s perks, which include everything from rideshare and TV subscription credits to grocery discounts, Ewen suggests checking your account every month and creating a spreadsheet of all available offers.

illustration of a person relaxing with a drink in an airport lounge, with his tablet plugged into his lounge chair and an airplane visible out the window

5. Look into living the lounge life

Airport lounges can help you save on overpriced terminal fare, and typically offer complimentary food and drink (in many cases alcoholic beverages), showers, less-crowded bathrooms, numerous charging ports and comfortable seating. Lounge life can improve the air transit experience, but there is a cost. Many airline lounges require a paid membership or can be accessed by paying annual fees on travel credit cards. These several-hundred-dollar annual fees come with a variety of perks, such as the opportunity to bring one or several guests free of charge. To determine if lounge membership fees are worth it, Ewen suggests crunching the numbers to see how often you plan to travel and how much you and your potential airport lounge guests could save on amenities. Additionally, if you do decide to obtain lounge membership, make sure your home or go-to airport has that specific airline lounge, he says.

6. Don’t shrug off shoulder season

Want to cut spending and dodge congestion? Travel journalist, photographer and founder of the blog Camels & Chocolate Kristin Luna has some advice: “Traveling in [the] off-season, or shoulder season, is my favorite way to travel — not only do you save money, but you avoid the crowds,” she says, noting that, on a November trip to Iceland — well outside the summer high season — she and her family saved big: “We paid roughly half of what we would have had we decided to travel in summer months.” They also saw a fraction of the crowds. Of course, traveling in the shoulder season can come with a downside, like seasonal closures or bad weather. Before booking a shoulder-season adventure, make sure the restaurants, attractions and experiences you hope to enjoy are still available.

7. Skip the gas pump

Another way to save on rental cars: Go electric. “It may wind up being cheaper than filling up with gas, especially if you’re outside the U.S.,” says Ewen, noting gas in many destinations across Europe can be “incredibly expensive.” That said, an EV isn’t always the best option. “The big thing is going into it knowing exactly how you’re going to charge the car,” Ewen says. If you’re largely in the countryside, where there are minimal EV charging stations, you could end up in trouble. But if you’re mostly traveling between cities or large urban areas, you should be in the clear — although it’s smart to research EV guidelines for specific countries and regions before you book. For that, EV-focused websites like Chargemap , Electromaps and PlugShare can help.

8. Use credit card rental car insurance

If you have a travel credit card, odds are it includes rental car insurance — but you have to follow a few important steps to use it. First, decline all of the rental car company’s protection offerings, Ewen says. This includes roadside assistance, collision damage waiver — any and all protections. If you do have an issue during your trip — say, a cracked windshield — you can submit the claim by contacting your credit card company. Before you rely on this method, it’s important to know what’s included with your card’s insurance. “Coverage on car rentals through credit cards is limited to damage and theft,” Ewen says. If you have questions, call your credit card company (via the phone number on the back of your card) to confirm. When you prefer more coverage than what’s offered through your credit card — or you’d rather avoid dealing with the potential claims process — consider the rental car company’s options, but do your research ahead of time to avoid being pressured into any decisions.

Most Popular

AARP NEWSLETTERS

%{ newsLetterPromoText }%

%{ description }%

ARTICLE CONTINUES AFTER ADVERTISEMENT

9. Take advantage of public transit

In many cities, using public transportation instead of a rental car or rideshare service can keep money in your pocketbook. Katie Holden of the blog Katie’s Travel Tricks suggests using an app, such as Google Maps , to navigate safely. “Just toggle over to the public transportation icon after you enter in your destination,” Holden says. “In some countries it even includes detailed instructions on which [station] exit to use.” To help with comparison, Google Maps will often provide an estimate of what a rideshare price would be for the same trip. Other public transit map options to consider include Moovit and Transit . Additionally, in places with robust train infrastructure, like Europe, you can save (and reduce your carbon emissions) by opting to train between destinations instead of flying.

illustration of a foot kicking a car tire that looks like a gold coin with a dollar sign on it

10. Check out deals for your wheels

Before you book a rental car, Ewen recommends checking a website like AutoSlash (alternatives include Expedia or Momondo ) to look for deals. These kinds of services incorporate your memberships, such as a Sam’s Club, AAA or AARP, then make recommendations on the best rental-car deals and saving options. Additionally, if you’re booking a rental car, always join the company’s loyalty program, Ewen says. These memberships, which are typically free, can help you skip the line and expedite the check-in process. Another way to save: Try an alternative transit mode. If you’re visiting only one city, consider renting a bike; many bicycle shops offer e-bike and regular bike rentals for either a few hours or several days — helping you save on not only rental cars and parking, but also gas.

11. Buy one, get one free with a stopover

Several airlines offer stopover programs that let you experience a city for a few days while en route to your final destination. This is a great way to get more bang for your travel buck, says Luna, who has used stopover offerings for a stint in Doha en route to Bangkok, a stop in Iceland while traveling to Germany, and a visit to New Zealand on the way to the Cook Islands. Since you don’t have to purchase additional flights in a stopover program, “it doesn’t cost more money, so it’s basically buy-one-get-one-free flights to see two places instead of one,” she says.

12. Search for a seasonal deal

End-of-year savings aren’t just for holiday gifts. Many companies in the travel industry offer major discounts timed to Black Friday and Cyber Monday. The cruise industry also extends this savings potential with “wave season” (typically January through March), which is “when cruise lines do big pushes to get sales up,” says writer Mikkel Woodruff of the cruise website Sometimes Sailing. In addition to saving on your cruise booking itself, you may also snag goodies like free internet or discounted airfare. Additionally, during the spring, many car rental services need to move their vehicles in the south back north, which means it’s a great time to grab a deal on a one-way rental car if you’re looking for a spring road trip from, say, Florida to New England.

13. Stay ahead of cell-service charges

International data charges can add up quickly. That’s why Holden recommends going into your trip armed with connectivity options. For example, apps like WhatsApp , Viber and Signal will help you text or call via Wi-Fi. It’s also helpful for booking dining or inquiring about tours. “Internationally, many businesses will have an option to contact them via WhatsApp,” says Holden. She also uses a cell plan that comes with international data and texting, which you can inquire about with your carrier pre-trip. And, if you know you’ll need faster data service, Holden recommends buying a local eSIM card.

14. Save big with senior passes

Memberships and passes can help you save big on your adventures, whether it’s using your AARP membership to get deals on car rentals, cruises or train travel, or taking advantage of senior discounts for museums. Additionally, if you’re planning a national parks trip, travel writer Emily Pennington shares some advice: “The number one thing to do is get the America the Beautiful Pass ,” she says. America the Beautiful covers the entrance fee for any National Park Service park, as well as lands managed by the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service and several other federal organizations. Travelers age 62 and older can buy an annual pass for $20, or a lifetime pass for $80 (the price for a standard annual pass alone is $80). For another cost-saving trick, Pennington suggests volunteering with the park service for free park admission. “If people want to spend no money on the park pass, they can do a certain amount of volunteer hours and earn a free park pass that way.”

illustration of a person carrying a bag of groceries while pulling a roll-aboard suitcase behind him

15. Stock up at a grocery store

Dining out can take a major bite out of your travel budget. To avoid this — without skimping on the joy of travel cuisine — Luna suggests hitting the grocery for small meals and snacks. “If we’re staying somewhere multiple days in a row, the grocery store will be our first stop. We stock up on yogurt, fruit, other breakfast items, coffee and beverages,” Luna says. This way, you can save by having lunches at home, then splurge on restaurants for dinner. And, to ensure you’re not missing the cultural side of cuisine, skip the big-box grocery stores. “Street food or bodegas can be a great way to try the local flavors while not splurging on expensive meals,” Luna says.

16. Look for budget-friendly tours

If you want to see a new destination but can’t splurge on a private guide, consider joining a “free” guided walking tour, offered through numerous services, such as Free Tour , Free Tours by Foot and GuruWalk . (Note that while there’s not a set fee for this tour, you should pay or tip what you think is appropriate.) Additionally, consider alternative tours that won’t break the bank but will help you authentically experience the culture. For that, Holden recommends options like Airbnb experiences. “These are experiences run by locals who are an expert in one area,” she says. “We learned to play Japanese card games in Nara, Japan, and dyed silk scarves in a marbled pattern in Florence, Italy.” Other locally led options include Tours by Locals and With Locals .

17. Download a free audio tour

For a more DIY budget-friendly sightseeing option, look to podcasts or audio tours. Well-known travel gurus like Rick Steves offer self-guided walking tours that use narration to immerse you in a new destination, while the app SmartGuide runs digital tours with audio guides, city maps and insider tips. The website VoiceMap also features hundreds of on-your-own audio walks, bike rides and drives, helping you see the highlights without needing to join a group or in-person guided tour.

18. Save on souvenirs

To save on souvenirs, skip the resort or airport gift shop where prices are typically inflated and consider craft markets or even grocery stores instead. According to Holden, it’s wise to go in knowing exactly what you want so you don’t overspend. “Everyone in our family has a certain small item they collect and we buy that — a statue for my daughter, a magnet for my son,” she says. “We also visit thrift stores and the local equivalent of a dollar store.”

19. Consider alternative accommodations

Options abound when it comes to booking overnights. Sure, hotels are great — and can come with great deals if booked using credit card points, says Holden — but alternative options like rental homes, hostels (many offer private rooms) and even couch surfing can help you save. Some may even help you make local connections. “We’ve used the website Couch Surfing to stay with strangers for free,” Holden says. Tripping.com also features couch-surfing rentals. For any sites, especially couch-surfing ones, be sure to read plenty of reviews. “Another budget option would be to watch someone’s pets in exchange for a free stay at their home,” Holden says. Numerous house-sitting options exist around the globe; to try it, join services like Trusted Housesitters , Nomador and Mind My House .

illustration of a person with a backpack in an airport walking past a window with a plane outside

20. Go carry-on only

Some travel credit cards offer one or two free checked bags. If you have this perk, take advantage of it. If not — or if you want to avoid the hassle of lugging heavy bags — Luna suggests opting for carry-on only. “Nearly every [U.S.] airline charges for checked bags,” she says. “I haven’t checked a bag in more than seven years, mostly because I don’t trust the airline not to lose [it].” Luna also says the carry-on lifestyle is easier than you might think: “Ditch all the unnecessary items like multiple pairs of shoes, purses, accessories, and stick to basics in neutral tones that you can layer.” But, before you pack, make sure to check your airline’s carry-on restrictions. Many airlines — particularly those outside the U.S. — have strict guidelines and will charge you a fee if your bag is overweight or larger than the allowed dimensions.

21. Expand your outbound airport options

Many Americans live within driving distance of not just one but several airports. If you’re unable to find a budget-friendly flight from your nearest airport, consider looking within a driving radius of a few hours. Even with a drive, this could cut your total transit time — especially if you can nab a direct flight instead of multiple connections — and also save you money. Of course, to ensure you don’t overspend on pricey garage parking, build in plenty of travel time and park away from the main airport lot. Another option is to park nearby and take a shuttle or city transit to the airport. Wally Park has 10 locations in eight cities and allows people to park and shuttle to their airport. Boston’s Park Shuttle & Fly and The Parking Spot have similar options. Some will even offer a free car wash before you exit. Additionally, you may be able to park a few transit stops away from the airport and save money on parking, too. Always look for coupons on airport parking before you reserve.

22. Invest in travel insurance

Don’t lose your money if you need to cancel a trip; instead, invest in travel insurance. “Travel insurance is important for any kind of travel where you have nonrefundable trip costs at stake that would be subject to you forfeiting money if something disrupted the trip or you had to cancel,” says Stan Sandberg, cofounder of insurance comparison site Travelinsurance.com. “When you’re traveling internationally, it becomes even more important for the traveler because with international travel, you’re going to have a more expensive trip.”

23. Know when to be loyal

When traveling, it can pay to be loyal, whether you get free upgrades on an airline or complimentary internet access with your hotel stay. For airlines, Ewen says determining which brand you’re loyal to should stem from where you live. If your hometown airport is a hub for one specific airline, it’s wiser to prioritize that airline to reap the loyalty rewards — but know that what you’ll get back largely depends on how often you travel. Sometimes, especially for casual travelers, it’s better to keep your options open. “The valuable perks of earning elite status really come for those who travel a ton for work — like once every other week,” Ewen says. So when should you be loyal? “Ask yourself if you would be willing to pay more for a preferred airline flight, or taking a more inconvenient route to be on your preferred airline. If the answer to one or both of those is no, don’t go crazy trying to be loyal.” Additionally, always look for hotel loyalty programs, because even free memberships can come with perks like early check-in, late check-out and the chance to earn rewards for discounted future stays.

24. Rack up points and miles on everyday purchases

You can build your credit card points and miles base not only by flying, but also by strategically spending on everyday purchases, Luna says. Her first rule of thumb: Ditch debit cards. “Use credit cards for everything: home purchases, groceries, renovation and gas,” she says, noting that with many travel credits cards, such as American Express Business Gold, Chase Sapphire Preferred or the Ink Business Preferred Credit, “those small bills can add up to a lot of points.” With these cards, you earn points for your spends, so consider checking to see if you can put your property tax, home insurance, gym membership or phone bill on a card, Luna says.

25. Outsource your travel hacking

Travel hacking can open up a new world of low-cost or free jet-setting opportunities, but you have to know what you’re doing — and it can take a bit of training and time. To help, some travel experts have launched courses on the subject; others offer coaching in travel hacking. But, if you want the travel hacking perks without the time expenditure, Ewen recommends looking into outsourcing, available with companies like I Fly With Miles , Point.Me and Jet Better . “You can basically hire them and pay them a small fee to maximize your points.”

More Members Only Access

Discover AARP Members Only Access

Already a Member? Login

Recommended for You

AARP Value & Member Benefits

chicken parmesan lasagna fettucine alfredo caeser salad bread wine

Carrabba's Italian Grill®

10% off dine-in or curbside carryout orders placed by phone

woman smiling handing man credit card at hotel check in, other man sitting in background

AARP Travel Center Powered by Expedia: Hotels & Resorts

Up to 10% off select hotels

man sitting on couch looking at woman sitting on floor in living room during day time

ADT™ Home Security

Savings on monthly home security monitoring

AARP® Staying Sharp®

Activities, recipes, challenges and more with full access to AARP Staying Sharp®

SAVE MONEY WITH THESE LIMITED-TIME OFFERS

4 travel tips to put your mind at ease during your next trip

The season of summer holiday travel is just around the corner.

You might find yourself heading to one of the U.S.’s many national parks, exploring a historic European city or jetting off somewhere tropical, like the Maldives.

That all sounds like fun, but unfortunately, travel mishaps may also happen. Luggage gets lost, passports get misplaced and phones may not work at international destinations when they aren't connected to Wi-Fi.

To avoid the headaches and prepare for whatever may come your way (or what accidentally gets left behind), follow these simple tips.

Watch this video to see the four things you should do before your next trip.

Learn more: Best credit cards of 2023

Pre-Travel Tips

All you need to get travel-ready is your smartphone.

Take pictures.

Take pictures and screenshots of the important items and documents before you leave for your trip.

This would include:

Your luggage
The photo page of your passport
Your ID cards
Any travel-related confirmations
Location and contact details for the places you’re staying

Creating an album on your phone or marking the images as favorites will make it easier to find them should you need them.

It couldn’t hurt to also share these pictures with a trusted loved one, like a significant other or close friend.

Turn on Notify When Left Behind

Turn on Notify When Left Behind if you use Apple products.

The feature, available on some iPhones, iPads, Macs, and AirPods, will notify you if you are separated from your items, like if you forget your AirPods in your hotel room.

To turn Notify When Left Behind on or off, open the “Find My” app, select the device and then toggle the setting on or off.

Tell your credit card company about your plans

Have you ever had your card payment declined when paying for something on a trip? That’s probably because your credit card company is picking up unusual activity and flagging it as suspicious.

Prevent that from happening by informing your credit card company of any upcoming domestic or international travel by setting a travel notification.

Many credit card companies allow you to set the notification online or via the app, though some companies may not require one at all.

Check international phone plans

If you want to use your phone when you're not connected to Wi-Fi while traveling, see what international phone plans your mobile carrier offers that fit your budget. An international plan will allow you to do things like make and receive phone calls, access social media and find directions as long as you have cell service. Without a plan, those functions will only be available when the device is connected to Wi-Fi.

Bonus tip, you can download maps to use offline and easily navigate a new place!

Reviewed-approved travel recommendations

Purchases you make through our links may earn us and our publishing partners a commission.

Reviewed helps you find the best stuff and get the most out of what you already own. Our team of experts test everything from sleep masks and travel pillows to luggage and packing cubes to help you shop for the best of the best.

Tracking game-changer: Apple AirTags
Our favorite sleep mask: Mzoo Sleep Eye Mask
A top wireless charger: Yootech Wireless Charger
Must-have luggage: Travelpro Platinum Elite Softside Expandable Luggage
Organization hack: Amazon Basics 4-Piece Packing Cubes Set
The best portable battery pack: Mophie Powerstation Plus
Our favorite travel pillow: Cabeau Evolution Classic Travel Neck Pillow
Top-rated adult coloring book: Cindy Elsharouni Stress Relieving Adult Coloring Book

share this!

April 16, 2024

This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility:

fact-checked

trusted source

written by researcher(s)

Space exploration: A luxury or a necessity?

by Daniel Fillion, The Conversation

Space exploration is not a luxury, it's a necessity

"Oh, come on Daniel, space travel is so expensive, and pointless!" These were the words of my friend Max, during a Christmas party where I was discussing my thesis project: studying places on Earth where the living conditions are so extreme, they could hold lessons for future space missions.

This disdainful attitude toward space research is actually quite common.

Space exploration is currently booming. Just think of the Artemis missions, SpaceX's ambitious plans for Mars, the deployment of the James Webb telescope or the recent "race to the moon."

A number of large-scale projects are getting the green light now, mainly from NASA, including the Artemis II mission that will carry four astronauts to the moon, which will have Canadian astronaut Jeremy Hansen aboard . This will be a first since 1972. Incredibly, it's been 50 years since the last human mission to Earth's natural satellite.

Although many people find space exploration inspiring, others are skeptical and even angered by what they see as an unjustifiable waste of resources and money on an activity that only spreads pollution to another place. This sums up the feelings of my friend Max.

In this article, I will try to prove him wrong.

Humans are explorers first

My great curiosity has led me to travel to extreme places so I can study them . But I am not the only one with this desire to explore.

In my Grade 9 history class, my teacher stood on top of her desk and, with a grave and serious tone, went on to act out Jacques Cartier's arrival in North America in her own, colorful style. A few years earlier, I had learned about how the first humans left their caves to climb mountains. One hundred and thirty years ago, humans sailed further and further south until they saw the glacial landscapes of Antarctica for the first time . At the same time, humans were attempting to dominate the skies and aiming for the beyond with planes and rockets—which is how we got to the moon.

What is the common denominator in our history? Exploration, of course.

Human nature is characterized by a propensity to travel, to look further and to discover. We are all curious by nature. If we stop wanting to explore, we stop being human.

The Earth has rings

So, my friend Max, let me invite you outside. It's a beautiful, starry night with no moon. It's a bit cold, but at least the atmosphere isn't too humid, which makes the sky more transparent. We can see stars flickering. Some are blue, others are red. And the more our eyes adapt, the more the sky reveals its secrets.

Suddenly, something else stands out. It's another light, but it's not flashing, and it's moving quite quickly. A shooting star? No, the atmosphere would have burned it up in a few seconds .

It's a satellite, one of thousands that orbit the Earth like rings. These satellites are a direct consequence of space exploration. We would be living in a completely different world without them.

Indeed, not an hour goes by in our lives when we don't use a satellite .

On the one hand, you would likely have gotten lost on your way here, Max, because there would have been no GPS to show you which exit to take. And secondly, I wouldn't have been able to help you find your way because there would be no wifi. We can push our thinking even further; agriculture, environmental monitoring, communications, the weather, even banks, all of these depend on satellites.

But how does this work? You have to understand that these satellites move so quickly they actually circle the Earth several times a day. Combined with a very large workforce, they provide a complete view of the globe. From the middle of the oceans to the highest mountains and the almost inaccessible poles, we have eyes everywhere. By drawing on this vast quantity of observations, we obtain data on changes to the earth's surface, the spread of forest fires, the movement of winds, the melting of ice and many other things, while enabling global communication and credit card transactions .

Space exploration was the trigger that enabled us to develop and operate these technologies. And it doesn't stop there.

Two birds, one stone

The practice of medicine in remote areas also benefits from space exploration. It's not easy for communities in remote areas to access health care, especially since hospitals don't always have the sophisticated equipment they need.

If you think about it, when astronauts explore space, they become a small population in a very, very remote region. It's true. What happens if someone has a really bad stomach ache? Or breaks an arm? They don't have time to come back home for treatment, so we have to react, and quickly.

Scientific research in telemedicine has developed to address this important issue, producing a number of innovative technologies. And if these are useful for astronauts, why not use them for rural populations, too?

A few years ago, three Québec researchers from different universities were working on a tiny probe that could rapidly analyze and diagnose a blood sample .

Although some prototypes are not yet on the market, others are already in widespread use, such as the ultrasound scanner designed by NASA . This scanner takes precise photos of organs and bones that can be transmitted to a doctor, who will then have crucial information on hand to recommend treatments.

In a way, space exploration provides us with opportunities to respond to urgent needs on Earth. So, Max, are you beginning to see the need for it?

Another perspective

Finally, I have to admit that I find it rather encouraging to see Russians, Americans, Japanese, Canadians and Europeans living together on the Space Station. Not so long ago, some of these countries were attacking each other with nuclear bombs. In space, no such borders exist.

Exploration brings people together. It opens our eyes to new perspectives. It shows us that we're all in the same boat together. That's pretty important, don't you think, Max?

Our planet is magnificent and unique, an oasis of impossible life. But it is fragile. We need to protect it. That's why exploring beyond the Earth should not be considered a luxury; it's an investment in our shared humanity.

So, Max, when Jeremy Hansen and his crew take off in 2025, will you be there to watch them?

Provided by The Conversation

Explore further

Feedback to editors

Ghost particle on the scales: Research offers more precise determination of neutrino mass

41 minutes ago

Light show in living cells: New method allows simultaneous fluorescent labeling of many proteins

Warming of Antarctic deep-sea waters contribute to sea level rise in North Atlantic, study finds

Unraveling water mysteries beyond Earth: Ground-penetrating radar will seek bodies of water on Jupiter

51 minutes ago

Baby white sharks prefer being closer to shore, scientists find

5 hours ago

Key protein regulates immune response to viruses in mammal cells

9 hours ago

Unraveling the mysteries of consecutive atmospheric river events

12 hours ago

Research team resolves decades-long problem in microscopy

RNA's hidden potential: New study unveils its role in early life and future bioengineering

13 hours ago

Smoother surfaces make for better accelerators

Relevant physicsforums posts, our beautiful universe - photos and videos.

3 hours ago

Will we ever communicate with extraterrestial life in a reasonable time frame?

4 hours ago

Orientation of the Earth, Sun and Solar System in the Milky Way

18 hours ago

The linear polarization and brightness of pulsars

21 hours ago

Recommendations for International Research Competitions

Apr 18, 2024

Where Are the Missing Black Holes in the Milky Way?

Apr 16, 2024

Through astronaut eyes, virtual reality propels gateway forward

Apr 10, 2024

What delays to the Artemis II and III missions mean for Canada

Jan 15, 2024

To the moon and back: NASA's Artemis II crew rehearses splashdown

Feb 29, 2024

NASA astronauts test SpaceX elevator concept for Artemis lunar lander

Dec 21, 2023

Artemis launch brings us closer to space exploration goals

Aug 26, 2022

NASA is looking for commercial Mars missions. Do people still want to go to Mars?

Feb 5, 2024

Recommended for you

'Tube map' around planets and moons made possible by knot theory

Apr 17, 2024

NASA's Ingenuity Mars helicopter team says goodbye—for now

NASA confirms mystery object that crashed through roof of Florida home came from space station

NASA is seeking a faster, cheaper way to bring Mars samples to Earth

NASA unveils probe bound for Jupiter's possibly life-sustaining moon

Apr 12, 2024

A new type of seismic sensor to detect moonquakes

Let us know if there is a problem with our content.

Use this form if you have come across a typo, inaccuracy or would like to send an edit request for the content on this page. For general inquiries, please use our contact form . For general feedback, use the public comments section below (please adhere to guidelines ).

Please select the most appropriate category to facilitate processing of your request

Thank you for taking time to provide your feedback to the editors.

Your feedback is important to us. However, we do not guarantee individual replies due to the high volume of messages.

E-mail the story

Your email address is used only to let the recipient know who sent the email. Neither your address nor the recipient's address will be used for any other purpose. The information you enter will appear in your e-mail message and is not retained by Phys.org in any form.

Newsletter sign up

Get weekly and/or daily updates delivered to your inbox. You can unsubscribe at any time and we'll never share your details to third parties.

More information Privacy policy

Donate and enjoy an ad-free experience

We keep our content available to everyone. Consider supporting Science X's mission by getting a premium account.

E-mail newsletter

SUGGESTED TOPICS
The Magazine
Newsletters
Managing Yourself
Managing Teams
Work-life Balance
The Big Idea
Data & Visuals
Reading Lists
Case Selections
HBR Learning
Topic Feeds
Account Settings
Email Preferences

Middle Managers Should Drive Your Business Transformation

Michael Mankins
Patrick Litre

Shift your approach from top-down to middle-out.

Successful transformations harness the collective wisdom of middle managers and teams. To increase your company’s chances, you need to: 1) Enlist your very best middle managers. Transforming a business demands a blend of creativity and ingenuity. By setting this challenge you can also test and nurture the next generation of leaders. 2) Empower the middle to sponsor transformative changes. It’s imperative to actively encourage middle managers to bring forth innovative ideas and to provide adequate support when these managers propose significant changes. 3) Reward bold action and results. Successful transformation demands a fundamental reexamination of every aspect of a business to achieve breakthrough results. To achieve this, rewards must reinforce this need for wholesale change.

The conventional approach to business transformation — top-down directives coupled with bottom-up execution — isn’t working. Today, fewer than one in eight transformations yield lasting results, leaving seven in eight lacking sustained impact. While the traditional top-down method may aid in cost-cutting and efficiency, it fails to produce enduring breakthroughs in business performance.

Michael Mankins is a leader in Bain’s Organization and Strategy practices and is a partner based in Austin, Texas. He is a coauthor of Time, Talent, Energy: Overcome Organizational Drag and Unleash Your Team’s Productive Power (Harvard Business Review Press, 2017).
PL Patrick Litre leads Bain’s Global Transformation and Change practice and is a partner based in Atlanta.

Partner Center

IMAGES

Travel.org-Cellphone Service Info for Europe Travel Dreams, Cell Phone
Home
My Travel App
Travel-booking.org
Travel agency org chart example
My Travel

COMMENTS

Create a MyTravelGov Account
MyTravelGov. MyTravelGov provides a modernized platform where you can submit and check on requests to the Bureau of Consular Affairs. To get started, create MyTravelGov account. With an account, you can apply for an electronic Consular Report of Birth Abroad (CRBA) in most countries. Click Here For Your MyTravelGov Account Log-In.
New Appointment Guest
Step 1: Read and Acknowledge the Policy Review. Authorities: the information solicited on this form is requested pursuant to provisions in Titles 8 and 22 of the United States Code (U.S.C.), whether or not codified, including specifically 22 U.S.C. 2705 and predecessor statutes; 22 U.S.C. 211a et seq.; 8 U.S.C.1104; and by regulations issued ...
U.S. passports
Lost or stolen passports. If your passport is lost or stolen you must report it to the State Department right away. How you replace it depends on if you are inside or outside the U.S. Find out how to apply for or renew a passport for an adult or a minor under 18. Know what to do if a passport is lost or stolen.
Travelers
Please call 1 (888) 407-4747 (U.S. and Canada) or 1 (202) 501-4444 (overseas) or contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. As a first step in planning any trip abroad, check the Travel Advisories for your intended destination. Our highest priority is to protect the lives and interests of U.S. citizens overseas.
eCRBA: Login.gov Integration to MyTravelGov
To start the process of applying for a CRBA online: Step 1. Create your profile: To apply for a CRBA online, you need to create a Login.gov account and create a MyTravelGov account. Watch this video to learn more about creating your https://mytravel.state.gov account. Step 2. Complete the online application: Access eCRBA through MyTravelGov ...
Travel
As a non-citizen U.S. resident, learn what documents you need to return to the U.S. if you leave. Looking for something else? Explore all topics and services. Learn how to get or renew a passport. Get tips for traveling outside the U.S. Foreign visitors: understand tourist visas and other documents to enter the U.S.
Login
Please contact U.S. Travel's Member Services team at [email protected] or 202.408.8422 if you have questions or need assistance to log in.
U.S. Passport Application Status
If you applied for a special issuance passport, contact your federal travel office or check passportstatus.state.gov on a U.S. government computer or device. Travel.State.Gov U.S. Passports
PDF Cross-Organization Funding
In the Defense Travel System (DTS), the Cross-Organization (X-Org) Funding feature allows an organization to release access of a LOA, to make funding available to another organization or to a specific traveler. *In this information paper, "you" are a Defense Travel Administrator (DTA) who can complete and/or assist with cross-org funding ...
Welcome to UNDSS
Welcome to UNDSS. Login. Use your regular UN or UN Agency email credentials to log in: Log in with your UN Agency Email. Register. This site provides resources such as security clearance requests, travel notification processing and travel advisories for staff members of United Nations departments, agencies, funds and programmes.
Renew my Passport Online
Renew Online - Limited Release. The Limited Release is Currently Paused. On March 8, 2023, we paused our limited release of the online renewal service, so that we can introduce improvements based on customer feedback. During our limited release, over 500,000 customers volunteered to submit their applications online and test our system.
VA Travel Pay Reimbursement
File a claim for general health care travel reimbursement online. General health care travel reimbursement covers these expenses for eligible Veterans and caregivers: Regular transportation, such as by car, plane, train, bus, taxi, or light rail. Approved meals and lodging expenses. You can file a claim online through the Beneficiary Travel ...
FundMyTravel
Reynolds Whalen, Performing Arts Abroad. FundMyTravel provides a valuable resource for our participants to raise money for their programs with us. Our participants have raised over $12,000 for their programs! It also gives us an additional platform to promote our programs, as each campaig...
Joshua Expeditions
High quality, Christ-centered student educational travel engaging the world by inspiring purpose, developing leaders, and sharing Christ. TRAVEL THE WORLD WITH JE. DESTINATIONS. PROGRAMS. Make A Payment. INSPIRING PURPOSE.
Official Trusted Traveler Program Website
This is the official U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) website where international travelers can apply for Trusted Traveler Programs (TTP) to expedite admittance into the United States (for pre-approved, low-risk travelers).
MyTravel Group
MyTravel Group plc was a British, global travel group headquartered in Rochdale, England.It was founded in 1972 as Airtours Group. The group included two in-house airlines, MyTravel Airways UK and MyTravel Airways Scandinavia, and various tour operators around the world. On 19 June 2007, the group merged with Thomas Cook AG to form the Thomas Cook Group plc.
myIDTravel
myIDTravel is a platform that enables airline employees and their families to book discounted flights on participating airlines. You can access your account, check availability, and manage your bookings online. Join myIDTravel and enjoy the benefits of flying around the world.
Travel
You are about to leave travel.state.gov for an external website that is not maintained by the U.S. Department of State. Links to external websites are provided as a convenience and should not be construed as an endorsement by the U.S. Department of State of the views or products contained therein. If you wish to remain on travel.state.gov ...
How I Introduce Friends to Award Travel
1. Set realistic expectations. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average U.S. household spent over $1,850 on transportation and lodging for out-of-town trips in 2022. With that ...
25 Great Ways to Save on Travel
Here are 25 of the best ways to save on travel, and don't forget to share your own budget-travel tips in the comments section at the bottom of the page. 1. Try a price prediction tool. Some budget travelers swear by only booking their flights on Tuesdays. Others suggest booking on Saturdays. But according to Nick Ewen, senior editorial ...
Travel tips to live by: Checklist for every vacation
Take pictures. Take pictures and screenshots of the important items and documents before you leave for your trip. This would include: Your luggage. The photo page of your passport. Your ID cards ...
Renew my Passport by Mail
Renew by Mail. Follow these steps to renew your passport and track your status: Confirm you meet the requirements. Fill out your form online and print it. Submit your most recent passport. Submit other documents (if you are changing your name) Provide a photo. Calculate fees. Submit application.
Space exploration: A luxury or a necessity?
"Oh, come on Daniel, space travel is so expensive, and pointless!" These were the words of my friend Max, during a Christmas party where I was discussing my thesis project: studying places on ...
Middle Managers Should Drive Your Business Transformation
To increase your company's chances, you need to: 1) Enlist your very best middle managers. Transforming a business demands a blend of creativity and ingenuity. By setting this challenge you can ...

Most popular