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TRAVELING TODAY: A Complete Guide to Planning Your Flight

Planning a flight today involves considering factors beyond just price. From new "Low Cost" fares to digital entry requirements, here are essential recommendations to ensure an optimal experience from booking to landing.

1. Flight Selection and Fares

• Watch out for "Basic Economy": Many airlines (even legacy carriers) offer cheap fares that do not include a carry-on bag or seat selection. Read the fine print before buying.
• Smart Layovers: If you have a connection, avoid layovers shorter than 2 hours at large international airports. If flights are booked separately (not on the same ticket), leave at least 4 hours between them.
• Flexibility Policies: Given the possibility of unexpected changes, prioritize fares that allow date changes with reduced penalties.
• Advance Purchase: For peak season, booking 3 to 5 months in advance usually ensures availability and better rates.

2. After Buying the Ticket

Once you have your reservation, take these key actions:

• Download the Airline App: It is essential today. It will notify you of gate changes, real-time delays, and make check-in easier.
• Verify the Terminal: In cities like London, New York, or Madrid, going to the wrong terminal can mean missing your flight.
• Seats and Meals: If you have dietary restrictions or want to secure a window/aisle seat, manage it online immediately after purchase.

3. Documentation and Entry Requirements

The most common mistake is not checking document validity:

• Passport (6-Month Rule): Most countries require your passport to have at least 6 months of validity remaining from your travel date. If it expires sooner, you will be denied boarding.
• Visas and Electronic Permits: Check if you need a Visa, ESTA (USA), eTA (Canada), or the upcoming ETIAS (Europe).
• Onward Ticket: Many countries require proof of a confirmed outbound flight before letting you enter.

4. Connectivity: eSIM and Roaming

Staying connected is vital for using maps, translators, and ride-share apps. Forget expensive traditional roaming:

• International eSIMs (Recommended): If your phone is compatible, you can buy a digital data plan before traveling. Providers like eSIM.me, Holafly, HolaSim, Ubigi, and Airalo offer immediate activation upon landing.
• Local Physical SIM: Usually the cheapest option, but it involves finding a store upon arrival at the destination airport and swapping your phone chip.

5. Travel Insurance

Never travel without coverage. Insurance should cover:

• Medical expenses for illness or accident (minimum USD 50,000 recommended).
• Sanitary repatriation.
• Lost luggage and flight delays.

6. Baggage: Avoid Extra Fees

Airlines are increasingly strict with dimensions. Clearly distinguish these two concepts:

• Personal Item (Small Backpack/Purse):
  • Must fit under the seat in front of you.
  • Typical dimensions: 40 x 30 x 15 cm (16 x 12 x 6 inches).
  • Almost always free on all fares.
• Carry-on (Cabin Bag):
  • Goes in the overhead bin.
  • Typical dimensions: 55 x 40 x 20 cm (22 x 16 x 8 inches) and up to 10 kg.
  • Warning: On Low-Cost airlines, this often costs extra.
• Checked Baggage (Hold):
  • Standard weight: 23 kg (50 lbs). Overweight fees are very expensive (approx. USD 100).
  • Prohibited in hold: Lithium batteries (power banks), e-cigarettes, and valuables/cash.

7. Health and Vaccines

• Yellow Fever: Countries like Thailand, Brazil, Colombia, or South Africa may require it if you come from endemic zones.
• Medication Kit: Carry prescription meds in their original box with the medical prescription, especially for psychotropics or injectables.

Official Interest Links

Always consult official sources to avoid scams or outdated information:

• Europe (EES and ETIAS): Information on the new biometric entry/exit system and travel permits.
• United States (Visas and ESTA): Official US government site.
• WHO - Vaccines: International health alerts.