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TRAVEL TODAY: How to plan your flight

Planning a flight involves considering multiple factors that can influence the comfort and efficiency of your journey. Below are essential recommendations to ensure an optimal experience, from booking to landing.

1. Selecting the Right Flight

• Types of flights: Evaluate available options such as direct flights, stopovers without changing aircraft, or connecting flights requiring an aircraft change. Consider the total travel time and possible complications of each alternative.
• Rescheduling and cancellation policies: Given the possibility of unexpected changes, it is essential to understand the conditions for modifying or canceling your flight, as well as the airline's refund policies.
• Early booking: If you plan to travel during peak seasons, purchasing tickets weeks or even months in advance can help secure availability and better rates.
• Flight duration: The cheapest option isn't always the most convenient. Evaluate the total travel time, especially if stopovers are long or involve airport changes.
• Schedule verification: Although airlines usually notify changes in schedules, it's advisable to confirm your flight's status at least 24 hours before departure, either by phone or online tools.

2. Information After Purchasing the Ticket

Once you've bought your ticket, ensure you have the following details clear:

• Operating airline(s): Accurately identify the airlines responsible for each leg of your journey.
• Departure and arrival times: Keep in mind that schedules are expressed in the local time of each city.
• Details of stopovers and connections: Learn about the duration of stopovers and whether they require a change of aircraft or terminal.
• Check-in counters and boarding gates: Some airports have multiple terminals; verify this information in advance to avoid confusion.
• Name of the destination airport: In cities with more than one airport, it's crucial to know your exact arrival location.
• Baggage policies: Check restrictions on weight and dimensions for checked and carry-on baggage, as well as any additional fees.

3. Documentation and Visas

Before heading to the airport, ensure you have all the necessary documentation:

• Personal identification: Carry a valid and current identification document.
• Passport: Ensure it is valid and meets the requirements of your destination country.
• Visas: Research whether a visa is required for your destination country and obtain it well in advance.
• Boarding pass: Bring a printed or digital copy, depending on the airline's policies.
• Reservation confirmation: Keep a copy of your flight confirmation for reference.

4. Mobile Services

Depending on your destination, your mobile service provider might not offer coverage, or roaming charges could be high. Consider these options:

• International eSIMs: Providers such as eSIM.me, Holafly, HolaSim, Ubigi, and Airalo offer flexible global data plans. These can be purchased online before your trip and activated seamlessly upon arrival at your destination.
• Local SIM cards: If your smartphone does not support eSIM technology, you can opt for a local SIM card at your destination. This option is often more cost-effective for accessing data and making calls during your stay.

5. Travel Insurance

Purchasing travel insurance is essential to cover potential issues such as:

• Medical assistance for illness or accidents.
• Theft or loss of luggage.
• Trip cancellation or interruption.
• Legal assistance abroad.

Review coverage and conditions to ensure they meet your specific needs.

6. Baggage Policies

Understanding the baggage policies of your airline is essential to avoid issues and extra fees. While policies vary, the following standards can serve as a guide:

• Carry-on luggage:
  • Common dimensions: Typically, carry-on bags should measure up to 55 x 40 x 20 cm (22 x 16 x 8 inches), including handles and wheels.
  • Weight allowance: Ranges between 7 and 10 kg (15 to 22 pounds), although some airlines allow more, especially in higher classes.
  • Personal items: In addition to carry-on luggage, you can bring a small personal item such as a backpack, handbag, or laptop, with typical dimensions of 40 x 30 x 15 cm (16 x 12 x 6 inches).
• Checked baggage:
  • Common dimensions: Airlines generally allow checked baggage up to 158 cm (62 linear inches), considering height + width + length.
  • Standard weight: Most airlines permit pieces up to 23 kg (50 pounds) in economy class, with allowances increasing to 32 kg (70 pounds) in premium classes.
  • Overweight fees: Fees for exceeding weight limits typically range from USD 50 to USD 150, depending on the excess weight.

7. Vaccination and Health

Before traveling, consider the following health aspects:

• Required vaccines: Some countries mandate specific vaccines; research and comply with the requirements in advance.
• Vaccination certificates: Carry documentation of your vaccinations, especially during pandemic times.
• Personal medication: If you require medications, bring an adequate supply and, if possible, a translated prescription for the destination country's language.

By carefully planning your trip and addressing these details, you can enjoy a safer and more pleasant travel experience.

INFORMATION LINKS

- Entrances and exits to/from the United States

- Entry/Exit System (EES)

- Vaccination

- Commonwealth citizens and British nationals (overseas)

- MERCOSUR: South American Common Market