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The Smarter Way to Travel™

Category Archive: Blog

  1. The end of free meals?

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    British Airways is the latest high-profile airline to start charging for meals. Not all passengers will have to pay, and the airline is touting it as an enhancement to the service offering on board BA short-haul flights, but the reality is that it’s another revenue mechanism and means for the airline to compete with low cost carriers.
    Low cost carriers have developed their business model around ancillary fees. In the most basic of models, what you are buying is transportation from A to B, and everything else is Extra. Ryanair – known for its outlandish schemes – even charges passengers to check in. Of course it’s ridiculous that you buy a product for which you will have to pay a fee to be able to use the product, but somehow they get away with it. This article though, is focusing on catering.
    There are some advantages to buy-on-board for passengers. Whereas in the past when there was a free meal, there was little choice; chicken or beef, anyone? Buy on board has introduced menus to passengers and items for sale, though they often depend on the length of the flight, can vary from a bag of chips, to a full hot meal. The airlines, of course, are hoping to make a little money on this not only through the sale of the meals, but also on savings that they can realize.
    Fuel prices have gone up, and everything that gets loaded on to the aircraft means the plane gets heavier. When the plane gets heavier, it burns more fuel. Buy-on-board may not necessarily save on fuel if the entire menu has to be stocked for the aircraft, but many airlines are now offering the opportunity to pre-order. This way they know beforehand who wants what, and they can load accordingly.
    These systems do take time, and cost money to implement. But with the proper management, they can be an excellent source of revenue for any airline and helps them keep fares competitive.

  2. Get through security faster

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    Airport security is a necessary part of all air travel. With increased restrictions and seemingly ever-changing regulations it’s no surprise that the queues keep getting longer. But so too do the queues get longer, or there are various ways in which airports, airlines, government, and private corporations are trying to give the travelling public ways to bypass the line.
    For many parties involved, getting passengers through security as quickly as possible makes sense. For the airlines it makes sense because shorter check-in times mean more incentive for people to travel, as well as less chance that a person would miss a flight which can cause delays. Airports, however, also benefit from shorter security queues. Fewer frustrated passengers can lead to more return visits; but ultimately a large portion of an airport’s revenue comes from sales in the terminal. Less time at security equals more time to shop.
    So how are the players reacting to this? In the US since 9/11 security has been part of a mandate from the Department of Homeland Security. They, through the Transportation Security Administration determine who gets through and how they are screened. Airports and Airlines do not have much say over this, but they can influence the order in which people get to the front of the queue. Mostly this means priority access for those passengers in premium cabins, but there are options for other travellers too. The TSA has launched PreCheck for low-risk travellers, giving them access to a separate security screening lane at many airports. There are various eligibility criteria and it can be as simple as applying. Benefits of PreCheck include not having to take out laptops and getting to keep shoes on.
    Another option that’s coming up more and more in the US is CLEAR. This service is based on an annual subscription whereby participants are escorted to the front of the line at security at participating airports, bypassing even the priority queues. Unlike PreCheck, this does not qualify you for any different security screening; it just gets you through quicker.

  3. North American Invitation Only frequent flier programs

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    If you’ve ever watched the movie “Up in the Air” with George Clooney, you may remember the scene where he and Vera Farminga are comparing their frequent flier and other loyalty accounts. George Clooney’s character pulls out the ultimate trump card: American Airlines’ Concierge Key. While the actual perks are somewhat overblown in the film, it has helped propel the concept of invitation only top-tier elite programmes. The truth is that these have existed for quite a number of years, though they all share one common feature; you cannot automatically qualify for the status, you are chosen to receive it.

    The three major carriers in the US all have an invitation only level to their frequent flier programs. United Airlines makes no secret of its Global Services level and advertises some of the main benefits, albeit indirectly at times. In addition to priority check-in and boarding, Global Services members also receive automatic 1K status in the Mileage Plus program and more ways to spend miles with additional inventory and availability.

    Delta Air Lines 360 is relatively new, and as such the benefits aren’t as clearly defined or refined yet but we’re expecting a more individualized service to be the major draw for its members. 360 members can expect a dedicated phone line, chauffeur driven car transfers at major hubs between connecting flights, and a higher upgrade priority.

    Already mentioned above, American Airlines’ concierge key is the invitation level program of the American Advantage program. It grants the holders of the status access to all of the flagship services normally reserved for international first class passengers, in addition to complimentary upgrades with a higher priority and Admirals Club membership; to name a few of the benefits.

  4. Status Matching on Alaska Airlines and American Airlines

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    Tried and tested, your results may differ from the below.

    Alaska Airlines

    Alaska offers status matches by simply showing that you have elite status with another carrier. No mileage requirements or co-pay hoops to jump through. Status matches can only be done once. Send a copy of your account statement, driver’s license or passport, and elite level card from another carrier to elite.flyer@alaskaair.com . Matches take about two weeks to process; those requested before Nov. 1 of the calendar year are good until the following February. Those requested after Nov. 1 are good for the entire following year.

    MVP Gold 75K, the airline’s top level, is not eligible for a status match; only its bottom two levels. If you have substantial travel on Alaska coming up and are elite with another carrier, this may be a great option to enjoy some elite perks.

     

    American Airlines

    AA does not offer an outright status match opting instead to challenge new members to fly a certain amount within a period of time in addition to paying a fee. The airline offers the challenge for all but their top tiers although these are sometimes granted an exception based on the types of fares paid and number of trips taken. To ask about a challenge from your current carrier, call 800-882-8880.

    The cost varies depending upon when it is requested in the calendar year. Flyers will spend around $120 for a Gold challenge (lowest elite tier) and $180-240 for a Platinum challenge (middle elite tier). The gist of the challenge is that one must fly 5,000 Elite Qualifying Points (not the same as miles) within three months or 10,000 Elite Qualifying Points within three months to earn Gold and Platinum status respectively. The caveat with the new Elite Qualifying Points system is that discounted fares only count for half (one mile=half a point) while more expensive tickets count as a whole point or 1.5 points (one mile=one point). Typically, American does not offer elite status during the challenge period meaning no upgrades for new American flyers until they complete the requirements successfully.

  5. Low Cost Carriers

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    Southwest, Frontier, Spirit in the US; Ryanair, Wizz, Easyjet in Europe; Scoot, Air Asia X, Jetstar in Asia. These are but a handful of the low-cost airlines in operation today. Born of deregulation, low-cost carriers entered the market to provide an alternative to the “traditional” carriers by offering rock-bottom fares. So what are some of the differences? We’ve set out some of the key points that differentiate the low-cost carriers from full-service airlines below. Of course, this list is not universal and often the lines between full-service and low-cost are getting blurred as the airlines are competing amongst one another. Some might call it a race to the bottom at times, but it’s the effect of the open market that is driving these commercial decisions. Ultimately we, the consumers, want to pay less and get the most but sometimes service comes at a cost.

    Even within the low-cost segment there is further differentiation. Some airlines such as Ryanair and Spirit bill themselves as completely no-frills. I.e. you are buying transportation for yourself from point A to point B. For everything else, there is a charge. Let’s get in to the nitty-gritty.

    Baggage Fees:

    One of the things that the low-cost carrier model has brought to the airline industry are baggage fees. Many airlines and flights will now charge you to take even one piece of luggage. Ancillary fees now make up most of the profits of an airline which is the result of charging as little as they can for the ticket getting you from A to B. Prices in base fares have in many cases come down, or not risen as much as inflation; thanks in part to airlines charging extra for what was once included in the fare.

    Seat Selection:

    Many low-cost carriers have re-defined how we determine where we sit on the plane. Some airlines such as Southwest don’t print seat numbers on the boarding pass, but instead it is a free-for-all and first-come-first-served model. Of course, the airlines have also found a way of capitalizing on this and some will offer you the opportunity to purchase early access to the plane. So while it’s not a dedicated seat, you’ll have the opportunity to get an earlier pick of the best seats.
    Some low-cost carriers are doing away with this model entirely and will assign you a seat of their choosing, whereby you can change the seat for a fee. Better seats costing more than less desirable seats, of course. And we even see this model in full-service airlines whereby seats with extra legroom, or closer to the front of the plane are offered at an additional cost, or available only to elite frequent fliers. A handful of full-service airlines will charge for seat selection for any seat.

  6. Saving Time and Money on your next Car Rental

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    When it comes to travelling, not all places are equipped with a first-rate public transit system. North American cities and towns in particular are notorious for their lack of communal transportation. In these situations, sometimes your best option is to rent a car for your trip. So what are some of the things to watch out for when you’re renting a car? How do you score the best deals?

    Renting a car can be pretty involved if you don’t do it often. But even if you are an infrequent renter, you can save yourself lots of time by signing up for the rental agency’s loyalty programme. Doing this means that the rental car company has your information on file, and can just pull it off of their systems when you turn up to rent a car. You’ll still need to bring a driver’s licence and credit card; but often the contracts will come pre-printed for your reservation meaning all that you have to do is verify and sign, and you’re on your way!

    Not only is joining the loyalty programme a potential time-saver; it can also save you money with free upgrades and member-only discounts. For example, National offers a unique booking code to any of its members and lets you choose any car and go at many of their US destinations. Sometimes you can be lucky and get a full-size car or SUV when you book with the mid-size rate, just for being a member. Being an Emerald Club member at national also allows you to bypass the counter at their so-called “aisle” locations.

    Shopping around can also save you money. Not only between brands, but different locations in the same city of the same brand can yield savings. Sometimes airport rental locations charge a premium, whereas neighbourhood locations don’t; which can lead to substantial savings on the total cost; however, this isn’t always the case. In cities where parking comes at a premium cost, downtown locations will often pass this on to the consumer in the price of the rental and you might find that the airport is the best place to pick up your car.

  7. What to do when your flight is cancelled or delayed

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    We’ve touched on the subject before, but recent experiences and the summer travel season have brought it back to the top of our minds. The most important thing to remember is to be patient and friendly. Delays happen. They can be caused by a variety of factors and not all of them are in the airlines’ control. Most certainly not the staff member’s control who is assisting you (most likely).

    Throwing a fit, getting angry, or raising your voice is likely not going to get you very far (literally). The agents are there to help you get to your destination and showing them a little bit of friendliness will go much further, even if their hands are tied.

    Have an idea of what other flights are available
    Knowing the airline’s schedule, or having an idea of other routings/airports can get you to your final destination quicker sometimes. Taking a direct flight may save you time when everything’s on schedule; but if you can get there with a connection you might have a better chance of arriving earlier than those who are willing to stick it out.
    Sometimes agents may even be able to fly you on a different airline. In times of disruption, airlines will often call upon other airlines to help them out. Don’t automatically assume it’s available and be prepared to ask the agents specific questions because it’s not always offered; and certainly not automatically.

    One thing that can really help you with your accommodation on another flight is to not have a checked bag. Airlines are obliged where possible to fly the bags with the owners on the same flight. In the event of switching flights and delays and cancellations, these bags need to be traced and re-sorted onto the owners’ new flights. If you only have carry-on; all you have to do is show up at the gate.

  8. The Best time to book the lowest fares

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    There is no one golden rule when it comes to booking airfares. They fluctuate daily based on supply, demand, exchange rates, and other commercial considerations. Generally speaking, though, it is more wise to book a flight further out than close-in. With plenty of time between the day you book and when you want to travel, you’ll definitely notice that you will have more options when it comes to airlines, seats, and flights. what are some other tips to getting the lowest fares possible:

    Be Flexible

    Having a rigid travel schedule can quickly add significant cost to your trip. Sometimes this is unavoidable, but if you can spare a day or two; have a look at alternate dates and alternate airports close to your destination, and you may shave a few hundred dollars off of your flight.

    Travel off-peak

    If you are a young couple with no kids, single, or otherwise not bound by school holidays and peak travel times you’re in luck! Flying outside of the peak periods can easily save you a great deal in airfare and accommodation costs. It makes sense, when more people want to travel, the higher the demand for a limited resource is and the higher the price will be. taking your beach vacation to the Caribbean after Labour day, but before the peak holiday season means fewer crowds and more cash in hand to spend on souvenirs (or fine dining).

    Take a flight with connections

    This tip is a bit of a double edged sword. for many, travel is tedious and we’d all rather just get to our destination as soon as possible. The airlines know this, and this is why they price direct flights higher than connecting flights. Remember, business travellers tend to have a bit more to spend and less time to waste, so the airlines will try to get this premium in fares where they can. Though sometimes, with enough competition direct flights are priced competitively.

  9. 3 Essential Electronics for your flight

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    In-Ear noise cancelling headphones

    Many people are surprised to learn that airlines have started charging for headphones. Not all airlines do of course, but the road warrior comes prepared with the right pair for the job. The road warrior also knows that not just any pair will do. They’ve researched and compared and reached a decision on which pair is best for them. Our personal favourites are the Bose in-ear noise cancelling headphones. They’re comfortable, lightweight, very good at cancelling ambient noise, and even that screaming child in row 5. They are definitely not the least expensive pair of headphones you’ll ever buy but they are worth every penny. Excellent for day to day use as well, they come in both Android or iPhone models.

    Tablet, iPad, Surface

    Seat-back TVs are great, for passengers (mostly). Not so much for the airlines. They are costly to install, maintain, and even operate. The electronics that comprise the system weigh a substantial amount each extra pound or kilogram that needs to be lifted into the air increases the fuel consumption of the aircraft. Internet and streaming video are making their way onto many planes and to get access to these services, you’ll need your own device to get access. An added bonus, is that you can pre-load your device with what you really want to watch, and not just what’s piped through the airplane’s system.

    A battery pack

    The bigger, the better. Listening to music, connecting to wifi, and streaming or watching your video are big drains on your device’s battery. When you reach the other end, the last thing you want is a low battery notification when you need to make that call to your hotel, or to get an Uber. Packing a battery pack will be sure to give you that extra boost you need to keep your device alive so you can stay connected. Planes are increasingly being equipped with USB and power ports but don’t count on it, and airports… well, most were built before everyone had a mobile phone, let alone a smartphone so don’t expect to find many outlets when you need them most.

  10. Ways to get a free flight upgrade

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    There are a huge number of urban legends about flight upgrades. We’ve all heard someone boast that having bought a New York return for two pounds twenty, they sweet-talked the check-in staff and were bumped up to first class on every flight for the next 17 years. Sadly it’s not true. Free or ‘operational’ upgrades do happen, but it’s rare. If you’re lucky enough to get one, consider it a privilege. There are a host of hot tips to boost your chance of a free upgrade from minuscule to just unlikely. As most are neither arduous nor difficult, why not give them a go? It’s possible to steal a march on the competition even before you’ve decided on a flight. Anything that gets you nearer the front of the queue for the front of the plane’s a good thing.

    Before doing anything:

    (A)   Ask friends who work for the airline to pull some strings

    The old adage it’s not what you know, but who you know works here. If you’ve got close friends at the check-in desk, or better still, higher up in the airline, they may be able to wangle you occasional special privileges. Some airlines also give their staff upgrade vouchers, which’ll effectively buy you an upgrade if there’s a higher class seat available.

    (B)   Use your title

    If you have an impressive title, be it Doctor, Professor, Judge, Councillor, or especially if you’re a VIP, there’s a mountain of anecdotal evidence to back the idea you’ve a stronger chance of getting an upgrade. You have to let them know beforehand for it to work.

    So if you’re booking through a travel agent, ask them to note this on a file. If you’re booking on the web and are a Doctor or Reverend (and it says so on your passport), use your title when booking.

    (C)   Don’t order special meals

    If you order a special in-flight meal – such as vegetarian, vegan, halal or kosher – you may destroy your upgrade potential, as flights rarely carry spares, especially for higher class seats whose food costs more. So you’re likely to be overlooked for someone less picky.