Category Archives: Tips

January 2023

28 Saturday Jan 2023

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Leaving On A Jet Plane (or at least trying to…)

So far 2023 has been a doozy thanks to the airline industry (special thanks to SWA for bringing all that chaos into 2023!) Hopefully, you were not caught up in that bit of a mess, but I was and so were some of my clients. Fortunately, my clients had the savvy to start tracking down flights that would get them from their domestic location to their international destination, even if it meant overnighting in an unexpected city and flying on a different airline. Fortunately for me, I had the option to drive to my destination, Telluride, CO, which we have done many times. My kids are so used to road tripping they were actually looking forward to the experience. Me- not so much. I am a trooper but it is a lot of work to drive through the entire state of Utah in the winter months when the weather can be very unpredictable. I also saw those horrific photos of everyone’s luggage piled up in Vegas and Denver (nightmarish visions of LHR and FRA this summer!!) and some lost for weeks like Flat Stanley, making its way around the country until it finally ended up where it was supposed to, if lucky enough. My sister’s family and my son had too much valuable snowboarding gear to take that chance, so RoadTrip it Was! We ended up having a great time and New Year’s Eve was saved! We watched the Torch Light Parade of skiers come down the mountain as intended, ooo’d and awww’d at the fireworks, sipped champagne and made it back to the house before midnight where we cooked dinner, played games and had a dance party. Best time ever.

Enough about me…for those of you who haven’t been so lucky in the Flight Club, what’s a passenger to do when the airlines fail us and destroy our travel plans? I wish I had all the answers for this, but I can offer a few suggestions that might make the next time (and sadly, there will probably be a next time) a little smoother.

TRIP INSURANCE: Yes, this is my number one response, and I know you all hear me say it over and over again, but having Trip Insurance should be a non-negotiable for your travel budget. Here’s why:
Scenario- You’re on a non-stop flight to your destination. What could go wrong? A lot. I lived this scenario this past summer. Nonstop flight to Costa Rica. Weather Delay. Divert to Panama City. Not enough crew members to fly a plane (remember Delta this summer?), or to rebook us on another flight or to take our luggage off the plane so we could book ourselves on another flight (I’ll talk about that next). We missed the first two days of our trip. We missed a family spa appointment that was pre-paid. We missed an excursion, partly paid. Guess what? If you miss all that because of the airline- it’s not on the hotel or the supplier to dig into their pockets to make it right. It actually should be on the airline, but in the US, passengers have very little to no rights when there is any sort of delay or cancellation on the airline’s part. In these cases, you are at the mercy of the airline and what they might offer, if anything, to compensate you for your time and investment. Trip insurance will cover some of these losses, all of these losses, or up to a certain amount. It is super important in these situations to take photos of all the things- the board at the gate saying there is a delay, any receipts for food, accommodations, clothing, or transportation that you would not have paid for if not delayed. Screen shot any conversations you have with airline agents on chat in the app or emails confirming what occurred. The more you can prove the quicker and better chance you have to receive the most amount of money back. I partner with Allianz Travel Insurance when booking custom quotes, and sometimes I use the supplier’s Trip Protection because they are easier to work with, less time filing claims, etc., and you get your money back faster. Of course, you can always seek out your own, and some credit card companies will offer trip protection if you paid for the trip with that credit card. However, super important to understand the language around their coverage as it may not actually cover what you need or want it to cover. And, don’t be afraid to pick up the phone and ask the agents all the questions- it is their job to make sure you 10000% understand their policy before you purchase or decide to only use their coverage. There’s a few items like “Pre-Existing” or “Cancel At Anytime” that have strict rules and language to make sure your claims qualify if needed.

CARRY ON: When you can. This is not easy for me, I am a “pack it to the brim and check it so I can relax” traveller. Carrying on stresses me out because I usually forget stuff, or I don’t leave room for things I buy, or it’s just so dang heavy to lift over my head, or what if I don’t have overhead space when I get on the plane?? UGH! I am getting better at it, and realize the benefits. So I have allowed myself in certain situations to carry-on on my way TO my destination, and allow myself to check on my way BACK home. Carrying on is beneficial for several reasons:

1. Your flight is delayed or cancelled. Having your bags with you gives you the freedom to hop on another flight, or get a rental car or whatever mode of transpo to get you to your destination.

2. Going through Customs is so much quicker. You won’t have to wait for your luggage to show up so you can haul it off the belt, push it through Customs then check-it back in again. We all have Global Entry, or are working on it, right? So if you have Global Entry and you check your bag, guess what? You still have to wait with everyone else who doesn’t have Global Entry. I was slightly embarrassed and a tad jealous to watch this gorgeously dressed couple ease through Global and cruise through Customs while I was the first to get through Customs, but one of the last to get out since I had to wait for my bag. 🙄 I mean, sometimes, you just cannot avoid checking, but when you can or you know it’s going to be an easy trip to pack for, carrying on will be in your favor.

3. If you have multiple destinations in your destination. For example- you are moving throughout a country every 2-3 days, most likely, if your bags are lost or delayed, it will be very difficult and/or timely for the airline to find you. Again, carry-on there, check on the way back. I also try to bring an extra bag that I can fold up but fill up during my travels. One that is sturdy enough to check, but also, I rearrange items so that I am carrying on with me things I don’t want to lose (precious or expensive purchases, my favorite handbag) but checking in items I would not be too devastated if I lost. I also purchase Trip Insurance for every trip I take, seriously. If it is lost, then I will file a claim like everyone else and get reimbursed.

4. Tight connections. No nonstop, no problem. Carrying on will assure you that you will have your bag when you arrive. I am not a fan of tight connections, but the airlines seem to think we can maneuver through the airports like a certain sports star back in the day. It seems like connections are either getting tighter or reallllyyyy long. So the nice thing about carrying on with a connection is that you have your stuff. Also, it is nice to be able to rest that heavy personal item you have loaded down and wheel it through the airport instead of suffering neck and shoulder spasms on your next flight.

HAVE A BACK UP PLAN: I get it. No one wants to spend more than they budgeted for on vacation. It is stressful. We all want everything to go as planned. But, sometimes, and most often lately, it doesn’t always work that way. So, if you have purchased the Trip Insurance, in the back of your head you know you can file a claim to regain some of those expenses. If you checked your bag, make sure you have one night’s worth of stuff to get you through in case you and your luggage get separated. You really don’t need a whole suitcase full of pjs and clothes, etc., but do make sure you take the basics with you: glasses, contacts, medicines, travel sized deodorant, toothbrush, toothpaste, clean underwear, socks, bathing suit, pair of flip flops. Consider your destination and think about what you know you would be able to find if necessary, and what might be a challenge. When we were stuck in Panama City for 18-hours, believe it or not, it was tricky to find a toothbrush, and this was not something I thought about bringing on board with me. And, worse case scenario, make sure you have a credit card with a decent amount available in case you do need to book a flight, a hotel room, buy a new wardrobe, etc. One that won’t eat into your current travel budget. I always travel with my AmExPlatinum- mostly for access into the lounges, but also because it gives me peace of mind to know that in an emergency I can use it. It pretty much stays tucked away in my “goes in the safe” bag and hardly ever comes out. Another option is to find a credit card company that offers a debit account where you can stash some emergency cash in case you don’t want to mess with credit cards. American Express has a Rewards Checking that offers a competitive APY and you can also earn points on your purchases. The only downfall with this option are the international fees accrued when using this card outside of the US.

Be prepared for the worst, but hope for the best! Happy Travels!

xoxo-

Stefanie

How to Plan Your Own Travel

29 Wednesday Aug 2018

Posted by in Fun, Lifestyle, RSMLVTravel, RSMLVTravel, Tips

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There are affiliate links in this post.

It is supposed to be fun and exciting and interesting, but often times planing your own travel can become daunting and overwhelming and stressful. So then we just stop doing it, or we only book air and hotel in hopes that when we get to our final destination, we will figure it out. Sound familiar? It is one of the reasons I got into this business…because I love doing what others dread or don’t want to do– plan, create and book an itinerary and trip that covers everything– down to every detail and putting it all together in an organized fashion so the stress is manageable or non-existent. I’m going to share some tips on how to plan your own travel so that it can be an enjoyable experience to prepare you for a trip you will love.

First Up: Get a pencil and a journal or notebook. Yes, I said pencil. You will change your mind many times, you need the eraser. A journal or notebook helps to keep notes in one place. Pick something pretty so your planning journey doesn’t seem like a chore. Personally, I prefer the Day Designer. I love how the rings allow the book to either lay flat or you can easily fold it to just have one side exposed. I also like the page layout…title, column and body space to make notes and label things. Plus, it is small enough to throw in your bag in case you have an idea during the day so you can write it down.

How to Plan Your Own Travel

 

 

 

Second: Decisions, decisions. Now is the time to get down and dirty and start asking the real questions: WHO is coming with you on this trip? WHAT is your budget? HOW are you getting there? WHEN are you going?  Now for the WHERE, and yes, do it in that order. Even if you start out by saying, “I want to go on a trip to Hawaii,” by the time you start asking yourself all of the above questions, that location might have to adjust, change or maybe you will indeed confirm, that yes, you are going to Hawaii. I didn’t forget the WHY, we will get to the WHY later and the 2nd part of WHAT.

Find yourself a cozy spot where you can have a cup of coffee, tea or a glass of wine. Make sure there is internet access for your laptop or iPad, and get to work! Let’s get started…

WHO is coming with you on this trip? This is important to consider for many reasons but mainly because in the end it will help you determine your budget, activity level, and the rest of the HOW and WHERE questions. For example, is this a family trip? Young children? Teens? Does the place you are considering offer accommodation options for families with children (connecting rooms, large enough suites, roll-aways, and cribs)? Are there enough activities to keep the teens interested and engaged? Does the resort accept families? (Yes, this is a real question especially when looking at places in Mexico or the Carribean.) Or maybe you are planning a multiGen vaca, which requires more thought on activity level, type of activities and accommodation. Girls trip? Couples Trip? Solo trip? All very important to consider as you embark on your planning journey.

WHAT is the budget? So you come up with a number. Does this include transportation and meals? Excursions? Tickets for shows? Don’t become discouraged if your budget seems low. There are always corners to cut or reward miles to be had that can enhance your trip. I love when I’m given a budget and work to meet the challenge of finding hidden amenities and treats that are included in pricing. This may also be the time where you decide if you’re going to work with a Travel Advisor. There is always some type of insider knowledge a Travel Advisor will bring to the table to help you meet your budget. Even if the sky is the limit or money is no object, you still want to hone in on the best ways to use your budget to get the biggest bang for your buck. Put the extra savings into that amazing restaurant you’ve been wanting to try or upgrade yourself to business class. A budget is just a number. You can do a lot with a budget. You just need to know how to work it.

HOW are you getting there? Again, WHO is coming plays into HOW you are getting there. Obviously, if you are planning an island vacation, your options are limited. Can everyone in your party fly? Can they fly for that long? Is anyone claustrophobic? Do they get seasick? Does airfare eat up all of your budget? Will the little ones be ok on a 12-hour flight to Tahiti? Is my car road trip ready or will I need to find a rental? Sprinter? RV? Does it make more sense to drive or fly? Is gas really cheaper than the airfare? Do you want the hassle of an airport or would you rather fly private. Don’t laugh, that’s a thing that can actually be worked into your budget. If you live in Las Vegas or California, JetSuite is an option to save you from commercial.

Jet between major West Coast cities on daily flights between Burbank (LA), Orange County, the East Bay/Concord, Reno, Oakland and Las Vegas. Hop on seasonal flights to Mammoth Mountain, and special event service to Sundance, CES and more!

Flying with JetSuite saves you the hassle of dealing with long security lines, having to be at the airport for hours before your flight, luggage conditions, and uncomfortable gates. When you fly JetSuite, you will go to a separate terminal, arrive within 30 minutes of flight time, and enjoy spacious cabin seating. Next time you are researching fares and you are visiting the cities JetSuite flies, do a price comparison. I’ll bet you will be surprised at the cost between JetSuite and Southwest…in a good way. If you book, here’s a code to get $20 off your first flight.

JetSuite Referral Link Stefanie Van Aken

WHEN are you going? So far, has any of the above questions changed your end goal? If not, this one might. Are your dates flexible? Are you working around when the kids are out of school? When can you get the time off? Do you have to meet the needs of several other adults in the group? WHEN is a big deal because not only does it affect your own personal time schedule, you also have to consider if the WHERE will work. WHEN is a biggie when it comes to working with a budget as well. Traveling during the holidays is high demand- 3-day weekends, Thanksgiving Break, Spring Break, Festival, Christmas, New Years…everyone else is going then, too. Expect crowds and inflated prices. It is always best if you can travel in the off-season, but the reality is that sometimes, it is just not an option. If this is the case, and you are working with a limited budget but do not want to sacrifice too much in the way of resorts or location, start planning as soon as possible. Most airlines will book 11 months out from your date of travel. Resorts will often start working with you once you reach out to them directly, but you may not be able to get released dates on third-party sites like Expedia or Travelocity sooner than 6-8 months prior to travel. Another great reason to have a Travel Advisor who is connected and get the ball rolling in your direction. Something else to consider for the WHEN question…season. Did you know hurricane season in the Atlantic actually begins June 1-November 1st? However, most hurricanes typically occur from August – October. Weather conditions are definitely something to consider for the WHEN part of the planning.

WHERE did you end up deciding to go after answering all of those questions? Still headed to the same place you thought? Awesome! Need some new ideas? No stress. I can help you figure that part out. Now that you have your answers, you can start building on the bullet points:

  • WHO is coming?
    • Number of Guests in Your Party
    • Ages
    • Passport Information (if applicable)
    • Separate guests by who will stay with whom so you know how many rooms and room types you will need
  • WHAT is the budget?
    • Transportation
    • Accommodations
    • Excursions/Activities
    • Meals
  • HOW are you getting there?
    • Planes
    • Trains
    • Automobile
    • Boat
  • WHERE are you going?
    • Time of Year
    • Weather
    • Length of Stay

And, now, for the WHY! WHY are you going? What are you expecting to gain from this trip? Relaxation? Rest? Build memories? Spend downtime with your significant other, kids, friends? Party all night, sleep all day? Achieve a personal goal or a lifelong dream? Really, these are questions you should be asking yourself. This question will help you identify things like…what about my budget is important to me? Where do I want to splurge and where do I want to save? What activities or excursions will help me achieve my goal? Which ones will just be a waste of time and money? Also, the WHY helps you identify and accept your level of expectation for the trip, and allows you to communicate expectations with those traveling with you encouraging everyone to be on the same page. Without this part, we can feel let down, or disappointed or exhausted and come home feeling like we still need another vacation. Let’s not do that. You are putting in good hard earned time and money on this trip and I want you to feel satisfied when you come home.

When you plan your own travel you become apart of it. Respect the process. Create the space. Set aside the time. You will be so happy you did and your fellow travelers will be grateful. So grateful that they will want you to plan the next trip, too!

RSMLVTravel Travel More Subscribe Now Luxury Travel Family Travel Stefanie Van Aken

Travel Tip: Real ID Card

16 Wednesday May 2018

Posted by in Featured, Fun, Tips

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Have you heard the latest? Is your state compliant? Starting October 1, 2020, if you have not obtained a REAL ID Card, you will not be able to board a domestic flight with only your Driver License. A valid United States passport or other federally approved identification like a military ID will still get you on a domestic commercial flight. However, you will not be able to access federal facilities and nuclear power plants without a REAL ID.

I recently learned this when at the DMV renewing my driver license. I wish I would have paid more attention to the details of what I needed to bring with me in order to get the REAL ID card– which is basically your state’s driver license with a gold star added to it, stating you are in fact, a citizen of the United States. I had been hearing some rumblings of this, but honestly paid little attention until my license was about to expire. I looked further into the explanation behind the REAL ID, and in case you also are unaware here is a brief description of its purpose according to the Department of Homeland Security website:

Secure driver’s licenses and identification documents are a vital component of our national security framework. The REAL ID Act, passed by Congress in 2005, enacted the 9/11 Commission’s recommendation that the Federal Government “set standards for the issuance of sources of identification, such as driver’s licenses.” The Act established minimum security standards for license issuance and production and prohibits Federal agencies from accepting for certain purposes driver’s licenses and identification cards from states not meeting the Act’s minimum standards. The purposes covered by the Act are: accessing Federal facilities, entering nuclear power plants, and, no sooner than 2016, boarding federally regulated commercial aircraft.

You can check the dhs.gov/real-id website to find out if your state is compliant or has an extension. Apparently, participation by states is voluntary, so each state basically has the option of whether or not they are going to choose to become compliant under the REAL ID Act. However, regardless if your state chooses to become compliant, a regular driver license will no longer be an acceptable form of ID to board a domestic flight or access federal facilities and nuclear power plants after October 1, 2020. Sounds like you will either need to have a REAL ID or a valid US Passport no matter what.

REAL ID US MAP

Clearly, I am not a federal agency, nor do I work for one. I obtained this information, just like you can, through the Department of Homeland Security and the Nevada DMV websites. The information I am sharing with you below is from a flyer given to me from the NVDMV. You should always check with your own state in regards to compliance information and if there are any further documentation needed in order to apply for and obtain your REAL ID. I am sharing this info with you because I was totally annoyed at the fact that I went all the way down to the DMV (with an appointment!) and did not have the right docs with me, and now I have to go back. So this is really just a courtesy post, not an official government issued certified one.

If you choose to update your current license with a REAL ID prior to October 1, 2020, here is what you need to bring with you to the DMV:

  • Proof of Identity:
    • US Birth Certificate
    • US Passport or Passport Card
    • US Certificate of Citizenship or Naturalization
    • Permanent Resident/Resident Alien Card (I-551) (Permanent Resident Cards must be updated at age 14 unless the bearer turns age 16 prior to expiration)
    • Foreign Passport with temporary I-551 stamp
    • Out of State REAL ID (not marked limited term)
    • Name change documents such as a marriage certificate or court order- if different from birth name
  • Limited-Term Documents: (Limited-Term will be indicated when limited-term Immigration documents are presented)
    • Employment Authorization card (I-766)
    • Foreign Passport, US Visa & I-94
  • One (1) – Proof of Social Security Number
    • Social Security Card
    • Paystub with complete Social Security Number
    • W-2 or 1099

*All documents must be valid, unexpired original or certified copies that were issued in the United States (except for foreign passports). The DMV does not accept photocopies.

By the way, you actually have to go to the DMV to update to a REAL ID because they will take your picture. No worries though! There are several DMVs in the Las Vegas and Henderson areas that schedule appointments. I did this last week, and it was easy peasy. Like in and out in 15 minutes, no joke.

For the record, the following items are NOT affected by whether or not you have a REAL ID:

  • Entering Federal facilities that do not require a person to present identification
  • Voting or registering to vote
  • Applying for or receiving Federal benefits
  • Being licensed by a state to drive
  • Accessing Health or life-preserving services (including hospitals and health clinics), law enforcement, or constitutionally protected activities (including a defendant’s access to court proceedings)
  • Participating in law enforcement proceedings or investigations

I encourage you to visit the dhs.gov/real-id website and your state’s DMV website to learn more about the REAL ID Act. It is actually laid out quite well and answers a ton more questions than the snippets I have here.

*RSMLVTravel and RockStarMomLV is not and was not employed by any government agency to share this information. The information shared was taken directly from the Department of Homeland Security and NVDMV websites. My job is not to enforce the law or regulations…my job is to keep you traveling!