Fly with Chris and Di

We talk about traveling, because it's something we do and love. Having new experiences and seeing new places is definitely worth the work, expense, and risk for us. Still, we take a few common sense precautions to make sure that our trips our safe for us, our family, and our possessions. We like to expect the best, but have a back up plan just in case.

In this episode, we share tips and tricks to help keep you safe while traveling. We talk about precautions that can be done ahead of time during the research process. We talk about transportation, car services, having a backup for important documents, blending in with the locals, having a contact person at home, and more to make your trip safe and fun.

Show Notes

[01:55] Take a look at the neighborhoods that you will be visiting on your trip. Learn what areas are safe and what areas you should avoid.

[02:14] Know if there is a nearby medical facility. Look up this information before you head out on your trip.

[03:17] Use travel reviews to learn about whether the area is safe or not.

[04:54] Think about how you're going to get from place to place. Public transit is great during the day, but it might not be as safe during the night time.

[06:44] Think about whether you need vaccines before you go to specific destinations. Also make sure you have your prescriptions refilled.

[07:46] Safety comes first when it comes to excursions. Pay attention to the providers reputation. If it doesn't look right, don't do it.

[09:34] Thoroughly research your destination before you go to have a fun and exciting adventure that is also safe.

[10:01] Don't bring valuables if you can avoid it.

[11:48] You will have to have money, credit cards, passports, and licenses with you. It's important to keep these things on your person.

[14:14] Don't leave valuables in a rental car. People can tell that you are a tourist. #Don'tFlashCash

[16:44] Leaving stuff behind in your hotel room lowers the risk for theft.

[18:21] PSA Be careful what you are drinking. It's fine in a safe secure place like a cruise, but be careful in a strange city. You need to be aware of danger and be able to get around safely.

[20:30] Try to blend in. In Paris, people don't wear t-shirts and shorts. Europe is a little more formal than the US. It's fun to feel like one of the locals.

[22:45] Have an air of confidence about you. Have a plan and know where you are going.

[23:49] If you get lost go into a shop or restaurant and ask for directions.

[24:59] Plan your flight, so that you will during daylight hours. Arrange to have a car pick you up at the airport. Don't walk around late at night.

[26:38] Lyft allows you to reserve ahead of time. The app should tell you the drivers name, and they should know your name. The license plate, make, and model of the car are on the app.

[28:49] It might be worth it to pay more and stay in the city or in a safer area. This is important when traveling abroad.

[29:46] Trust your instincts when you are considering excursions.

[30:57] Have a backup plan and prepare for the worst. Have backup documents. You can access documents on the cloud. If you lose your passport, you can go to an embassy and get help. Have backup cash in a secret spot.

[34:56] Travel insurance is a reimbursement type insurance when you're traveling. The cost of travel insurance is usually 4% to 10% of the cost of the entire trip. It's also important to know what is and isn't included.

[37:46] Have someone who you can check in with that knows where you are staying. Then let them know how things are going and where you are. They can also have the backup document information. Don't post on social media while you are out of town.

Links and Resources:

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Travel Money Belt

For pictures, tips and more, be sure to check out our Fly with Chris and Di Facebook page and signup to download a copy of The Best City for You. Please take a moment and subscribe to our podcast and leave a review. It will only get better from here. Don't miss out on future episodes where we continue to share tips and tricks to get the most out of your vacation.

If you are a first time cruise passenger, there is actually a lot to know. In episode 10, we talked about Cruising 101 and how to prepare for your cruise. Today, we take things a step further and tell you everything you need to know to board your ship and have the perfect cruise.

We talk about embarkation day. What to do when you first get on the ship. How to be prepared for the muster. How to communicate with your travel companions without breaking the bank. How to make sure you get booked for the shows and excursions you want. How not to get left at the port, and we even share a smart tip, so that you won't end up getting off the ship in your pajamas.

Show Notes

[01:57] Embarkation day. Time to get on the ship.

[01:54] You may not have access to your cabin right away. Grab a map and get the lay of the land.

[02:16] Learn what's on each level and where the pools and bars are.

[02:33] It's your seven day home away from home.

[02:53] You can grab lunch and look into booking services and reservations. Look into the shore excursions that you want to check out. It's important to book fast, because things can sell out.

[03:42] Muster drills are like a fire drill for adults. You need to know how to get off of the ship if there is a problem. You are required to go to your muster point. Have your life jacket and plan on getting comfortable. Get there early and find a seat, if possible.

[05:07] Most ships provide you with a daily newsletter. Some also have an app.

[06:47] Highlight what you want to do.

[07:14] There are excursions in a port of call.

[07:34] Shore excursions are available on the cruise line website about six months in advance.

[08:19] Di loves snorkeling. Chris loved going to Pompeii, walking through the ruins with a headset. It's like going back in time.

[10:24] Hiking, shopping, and all kinds of adventures are available.

[10:57] If you go on your own, the cruise line won't wait for you.

[12:12] The ship is quiet when at shore. You can relax on the ship too.

[12:49] Many cabins are equipped with phones. Most ships are cell phone friendly now. Check with your provider. Some ships have Wi-Fi.

[14:19] Make sure you are in airplane mode when you step onto that ship.

[14:55] Walkie talkies can also be an easy way to keep in contact.

[15:18] The ship is a cashless system.

[16:22] Have some cash for tipping or when you get off the ship. There is a currency desk, where you can get local cash. You can see your balance on the TV channel.

[18:03] Flex or open seating options. Assigned seats with the same people.

[19:00] Having the same waiter is one of Di's favorite parts of cruising. They treat you like royalty.

[20:02] There is a buffet and a lot of fast dining options.

[21:16] Celebrating special occasions. They have packages with decorations, cakes, etc. You can renew your vows or get married.

[22:34] Tipping policies are different. You tip about $12 to $14 a day. You can get the automatic tips removed. These are for your steward and waiters.

[24:58] After seven days you have to settle your itemized bill. Go through it and make sure it is correct. There is a long line on the last night. Take care of things beforehand.

[26:32] It's going to take awhile to get the bags off of the ship. You need a carry on in your stateroom, so that you will have clothes for the morning.

[28:12] Have a plan for transportation getting back home.

Links and Resources:

Episode 10 Cruising 101

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For pictures, tips and more, be sure to check out our Fly with Chris and Di Facebook page and signup to download a copy of The Best City for You. Please take a moment and subscribe to our podcast and leave a review. It will only get better from here. Don't miss out on future episodes where we continue to share tips and tricks to get the most out of your vacation.

Disney has grown over the years. The amounts of theme parks, attractions, and events can get overwhelming. Mickey Mouse hasn't gone anywhere, but he is now joined by characters and attractions from decades of Disney movies. If you haven't been keeping up, it's easy to get lost in all of the new and interesting things that Disney has to offer.

This is why we have expert Disney Travel Guide Krystin Turner on the show today. Krystin loves Disney. Krystin and her husband even had their honeymoon there. On today's show, Krystin shares some of her favorite insider tips. She even tells us about some new rides and attractions. Plus, she shares how to have a reserved spot for the fireworks show while enjoying some fun Disney desserts.

Show Notes:

[01:50] Kristin works for dreams unlimited which is a travel agency that specializes in all things Disney.

[02:31] Kristin has four kids and has been a Disney expert since 2011. Although, she has been going to Disney all throughout her life. She even went there on her honeymoon.

[03:03] Her kids even have Disney themed names.

[04:45] Disney travel agents help book your Disney dream vacation at no cost to you.

[05:23] By booking with an agent, you not only get their expertise, but they also look for discounts.

[06:18] Star Wars Galaxy Edge is the biggest new thing coming to Disneyland. It's going to be 13 acres in both Florida and California. It will have rides, restaurants, and interactive experiences. The California one is opening at the end of this month.

[08:19] Insider scoop: eventually there will be a Star Wars hotel in Florida.

[09:50] You have to have a reservation to get into Star Wars land.

[10:33] Disney is getting a new gondola system. The Disney Skyliner. They are themed gondolas that connect the theme parks and resorts.

[11:58] Epcot is adding a Guardians of the Galaxy roller coaster. There's also going to be a ratatouille ride in the France Pavilion.

[12:31] Hollywood Studios is also getting a Mickey and Minnie Railway.

[13:04] Disneyland is also creating a Marvel land.

[13:58] You can pay a little bit at a time until your trip is paid off.

[15:10] The Dining Plan is a great way to make a Disney Vacation all inclusive.

[16:03] Disney has early morning or after hours events. This includes breakfast and access without the crowds.

[17:23] Toy Story Land has been open for about a year now, and it has a Slinky Dog ride.

[19:22] Christmas at Disney is decorated beautifully. Each deluxe resort has special food type things. They have music, lights, and parties that are separated events.

[22:13] All of the theme parks have night time shows. There are dessert parties that give you a reserved spot, plus a dessert and drink buffet.

[25:04] There are also magic kingdom fireworks pontoon boat cruises. There is a pirate cruise. There is a campground. The campground really decorates for Christmas.

[26:23] There are also Christmas sleigh rides and haunted sleigh rides.

[26:48] Kids can get makeovers from princesses to pirates.

Links and Resources:

Get a Free Month of Audible and a Free Book

Dreams Unlimited

WD Info

Kristin Turner on Facebook

@DisneyTripExp on Twitter

Star Wars Celebration

[email protected]

For pictures, tips and more, be sure to check out our Fly with Chris and Di Facebook page and signup to download a copy of The Best City for You. Please take a moment and subscribe to our podcast and leave a review. It will only get better from here. Don't miss out on future episodes where we continue to share tips and tricks to get the most out of your vacation.

We want to share our travel experiences with the ones we love most. If you have a large family, you are traveling with a lot of people. This can bring unique challenges and unique opportunities. We are fortunate to have Sharon Rowley, a real life mom of six and a travel expert who runs the Mom of 6 blog, on our show today.

Sharon offers all kinds of resources for planning, organizing, eating, and living with a large family. We especially love her travel tips, and she generously shares them with us. We talk about when to rent a house or a hotel, when to fly, how to plan for meals, tips for saving on food, tips for saving on activities, and the importance of staying flexible. Sharon offers great tips for making sure everyone enjoys the trip, and she offers a couple of hidden gems we didn't know about.

Show Notes

[03:03] Sharon lives in Westchester County New York, and she has six kids. Her kids are between the ages of 13 and 18. They have been traveling since her oldest child was literally an infant.

[03:30] When they moved to New York, they often traveled back to visit their family. They have also done overseas travel.

[04:04] On her blog Mom of 6, Sharon writes about how to help other moms get more organized and create routines for their children. She helps with things like throwing fun birthday parties that don't cost a fortune. And everything else that comes into play when you are raising six kids.

[04:36] They also talk a lot about family road trips.

[04:52] She has a lot of great ideas dealing with teens and tweens.

[05:24] Chris and Di have two kids, but they often bring their nephew with them and even an extra child adds to the dynamic.

[05:50] Sharon's favorite thing is to stay at an Airbnb, Vrbo or similar arrangement. If they are traveling for more than four or five days, it's great to find a house to stay in.

[06:31] When you're renting, you have kitchen access. Food expenses really go up when you have a large amount of people.

[08:19] For a night or two they like Springhill Suites, Embassy Suites, and Residence Inns.

[09:20] Sharon likes to use a website called SixSuitcaseTravel for hotel research.

[10:02] Camping is always the most economical way to travel, but there are other logistics involved.

[10:41] They love camping on the North rim of The Grand Canyon and Fort Wilderness Disney.

[11:57] Flying for 8 people can get expensive. 8 passenger cars are also expensive.

[12:58] If the trip is driveable, they do drive it, and they own a large van. There are so many opportunities to see the country.

[14:06] Audiobooks are good for younger kids. Screen time is allowed during travel, but it's limited at home.

[15:40] Leaving at 1:00 am is also a great way to have kids sleep through a lot of the trip.

[18:17] They tend to eat out for lunch as opposed to dinner. If they do go out to dinner, they try to make a reservation.

[19:50] A crock pot is important. Food can be put in before they head out for the day.

[20:40] When they arrive in town, Sharon likes to hit up the grocery stores and stock up on snacks.

[21:51] Attractions can get pricey. Save your budget for the fun stuff. Do your research in advance and plan out your tickets in advance. Get a national park pass. Get Groupon deals. Find free museums. Plan to make it the most cost effective, but it's all about the attractions. Businesses also put coupons on their Facebook page.

[24:27] Pick up brochures to travel like a local.

[24:46] Planning ahead makes everyone happy. Make lists and make dreams come true. That's what it's all about for Sharon.

[26:31] One major pain point for many group travelers is making sure that everyone on the trip is happy.

[29:10] Part of travel and part of life is sometimes cutting your losses and finding something different to do.

[29:44] Sharon makes bullet points of things to do and maps it out. She also tries to get to places early. She creates a framework and also has backup plans. Having a plan for food makes things better.

Links and Resources:

Mom of 6

[email protected]

Mom of 6 on Facebook

Sharon Rowley on Pinterest

@sharonmomof6 on Twitter

Audible Free Audiobook and Free 30-Day Membership

Springhill Suites

Embassy Suites

Residence Inn

SixSuitcaseTravel

North Rim Grand Canyon

Fort Wilderness

Sharon Rowley YouTube

How to Travel with a Large Family

For pictures, tips and more, be sure to check out our Fly with Chris and Di Facebook page and signup to download a copy of The Best City for You. Please take a moment and subscribe to our podcast and leave a review. It will only get better from here. Don't miss out on future episodes where we continue to share tips and tricks to get the most out of your vacation.

We love cruising, but on his first cruise Chris was a little concerned. What was there going to be for him to do? Will he end up just locked in his room? What will the food be like? Will he be able to eat it? These are a lot of the concerns for first time cruise trips.

If you are afraid of cruising because of food concerns or concerns about being stuck on a ship, don't worry we are going to answer those questions and more on today's episode Cruising 101. We are going to talk about all of the tips you need to know after you decide to book a cruise, so that you can cruise like a pro

Show Notes

[02:54] After booking a cruise, you need to identify your flight. There are some combination packages available, but you can usually save booking separately.

[03:42] Arrive a day before in case there's some type of delay. Arrive as early as possible.

[04:52] Port cities can be fun. We spent the day before and after our cruise in Barcelona.

[05:50] Also have a game plan if you encounter delays. Talk to the airline right away and let them know that you are a cruise passenger. You can also reach out to the cruise line. If you miss your cruise, you can meet up with them at the next port of call.

[07:50] There are important documents to be stress free. These are your luggage tags at the ship, so your porters can take them to the proper room. Hold off until after your flight. Information in your documents will tell you what is happening to your bags and what you are responsible for.

[09:41] Have a plan in place for getting to the pier. You can take a shuttle, ride share, or take your car and park at the pier.

[10:39] You can also find a Super Shuttle or Uber or Lyft. You need to have a good plan to get to the port.

[11:20] The porters will be taking your luggage.

[12:04] Cruise lines will have a formal night. Ties, tuxedos, evening dresses. These are a great time for family photos.

[13:16] You will also have informal opportunities. On cruises informal means a jacket and slacks for men and and a dress or pant suit for women. Resort casual is a step-down and it's most nights on a cruise. These are like khakis for men and no tie. The buffet is always casual, and you can wear shorts and a tank top anytime.

[14:00] As a man you need to have pants in the dining room. It gets expensive to purchase pants on a cruise.

[15:12] Cruise lines usually have policies about bringing alcohol. You can usually bring a bottle of champagne or a couple bottles of wine but they do have some limitations.

[16:16] Making your cabin a sanctuary. Bring adapters and USB ports. Power strips are great as well. Keep your important documents and passport in your mini safe.

[18:38] Have a carry on with essentials. All of your documentation, and medication. Bathing suit and change of clothes. Stuff for the kids and clothes for dinner. This packing strategy is key, because it will be hours before you receive your luggage, and it could even get lost.

Links and Resources:

Get a Free Month of Audible and a Free Book

Cruise Packing List

For pictures, tips and more, be sure to check out our Fly with Chris and Di Facebook page and signup to download a copy of The Best City for You. Please take a moment and subscribe to our podcast and leave a review. It will only get better from here. Don't miss out on future episodes where we continue to share tips and tricks to get the most out of your vacation.

Our friend Keith Dix the owner of Touchdown RV is here with us today to talk about some of the obstacles that first time RVers face and how to overcome those obstacles. Chris and I have been RVing for several years now, but it wasn't always that way.

From driving the big vehicle to hooking up the lines, there are a lot of unanswered questions that first timers have. We want to help answer these questions and more, so you can enjoy all of the benefits of RVing without any of the added stress.

Show Notes

[02:15] Keith is an IT guy by trade, but his interests in RVs has taken off into a full time gig.

[02:37] Keith got started with an old 1980 RV that they didn't use much. Then he realized that renting RVs around holidays is difficult. Then he got the idea to buy his own and start a business around that.

[04:36] Class A RVs look like buses. Class C looks like vans. Travel trailers need to be pulled by a truck.

[05:33] Touchdown RV has models ranging from 22 feet all the way up to 35 feet.

[05:49] Most RVs have 7 or 8 seat belts.

[06:47] Most RV accidents happen in gas stations, keep in mind the size of the vehicles. Use your mirrors and cameras.

[07:57] To choose the best RV, budget and plan for the amount of money you have and the amount of people who will be with you.

[09:31] Rental costs for a week could be about $1500 to $2000.

[11:46] There are so many RV campgrounds, and you can map out your route with Google. Think of fun destinations like Yellowstone or Indiana Dunes.

[14:18] Branches of Niagara is a great campground.

[16:09] RV spots have picnic tables and campfire areas.

[17:10] Get a campground with full hookup. This means that you have electricity, water, and sewer. Turning the generator on gives you electricity. The RV also has an on-board holding tank. It's a self contained little world.

[18:53] Walmart and Cracker Barrel let you park overnight if needed.

[19:39] Get the best hoses, the best connectors, and gloves.

[23:02] Renting an RV can help you overcome the fear of RVing.

[23:50] The shower is a real shower.

[25:11] RVs can be great for extended family trips, weddings in non-traditional places, movie talent, tailgate parties and more.

[29:44] Disney has campgrounds that accept RVs.

Links and Resources:

Free Audible Book

Touchdown RV Get a 5% Discount by Mentioning Fly with Chris and Di

Touchdown RV on Facebook

Touchdown RV on Instagram

Indiana Dunes

Branches of Niagara

For pictures, tips and more, be sure to check out our Fly with Chris and Di Facebook page and signup to download a copy of The Best City for You. Please take a moment and subscribe to our podcast and leave a review. It will only get better from here. Don't miss out on future episodes where we continue to share tips and tricks to get the most out of your vacation.

Traveling can take a toll on your fitness if you don't make an effort to make smart choices and keep fitness top of mind. This is why we have Cha Rae Smith and Michelle Stoltz from Fitness Sisters on the show today to talk about staying on track with health and fitness goals while traveling.

Cha Rae began Fitness Sisters to keep herself motivated when fitness started falling by the wayside with her busy schedule. Michelle is a founding member and admin. Fitness Sisters began as a Facebook Community that offered support for women and their fitness goals. They have grown beyond that, and Fitness Sisters is now a one stop shop for support, accountability, and motivation. They even have an app coming out soon.

Show Notes

[02:54] Cha Rae started the Fitness Sisters Facebook group in order to help her become more fit. The group grew organically and grew to about 5000 members in a year. The purpose is to offer support and encouragement with fitness goals.

[04:04] Cha Rae is a busy mother of three with a full-time job, and she also goes to school.

[04:12] It felt like she didn't have any time in the day for fitness or proper nutrition. She was going backwards with her fitness goals.

[04:47] She wanted to show her children that there is always time in the day to make progress towards your goals.

[05:15] Fitness Sisters is a place for everyone to connect, support, and relate to each other.

[06:05] There is the private Facebook group which is women only. Men can like and support the main page.

[07:35] Michelle is an admin leader for Fitness Sisters.

[09:03] Prepping for meals when on vacation. Find a place to stay with a kitchen.

[09:26] Start the day with a healthy breakfast made at wherever you are staying.

[10:40] You can have a bonding moment at the table planning the day.

[12:07] Find items that are healthy and still taste good. Watch those carbs.

[14:53] Keep in mind that the reason you do what you do is to be healthy. Have fun in moderation.

[16:25] Have one workout day while on vacation. Get a national gym membership. You can also make fitness tasks like using the stairwell (make the elevator off limits) and walk while sightseeing.

[19:45] Fitness Sisters has an app coming out soon!

Links and Resources:

Free Audible 30-Day Membership and Audiobook

Fitness Sisters

Fitness Sisters Facebook Community

Fitness Sisters HSG Facebook Page

@FITNESSSISTERS3 on Twitter

Fitness Sisters on Instagram

For pictures, tips and more, be sure to check out our Fly with Chris and Di Facebook page and signup to download a copy of The Best City for You. Please take a moment and subscribe to our podcast and leave a review. It will only get better from here. Don't miss out on future episodes where we continue to share tips and tricks to get the most out of your vacation.

Fun adrenaline filled adventures that you can enjoy off the Vegas Strip is our topic today. We hesitated before vacationing in Vegas. We thought it would just be about gambling. Once we gave it a shot, we discovered that there are so many fun things to do in Vegas from shows to sporting events to unforgettable off the Strip adventures.

We have been to Vegas four times in the last three years, and in this episode we share three fun adventure that we loved. In fact, one of them is Chris's all time favorite. Las Vegas turned out to be amazingly clean, shiny, and beautiful, and if you value experiences the way we do, you will love the adventures we share with you today.

Show Notes

[05:01] There are so many things to do in Vegas on and off the strip. We find the majority of our Off the Strip Adventures on TripAdvisor.

[05:15] Go to TripAdvisor > look at things to do > search outdoor activities > look for adrenaline and extreme activities.

[05:49] Red Rock Canyon Adventure. We went by slingshot.

[06:44] A slingshot is an amazing vehicles that is a cross between a three-wheeled motorcycle and a sports car. It's like driving a cool car, but everyone is looking.

[07:54] We went in October and the weather was beautiful. The temperature drops away from the strip.

[09:06] It got cold, and we had to stop at Target and bundle up.

[10:01] This adventure was a combination of renting a slingshot and visiting Red Rock Canyon.

[10:54] Red Rock Canyon is a 13-mile breathtaking scenic route. If you go here, bring you a camera because there are tons of neat things to take pictures of even the signage.

[11:39] With your own vehicle, you are on your own schedule. So, if you want, you can pull over and hike or do whatever you want.

[12:05] If you're a hiker, you may want to use different transportation than the slingshot, because it doesn't really have any storage.

[12:37] Once your at Red Rock, you can horseback ride, fly in a hot air balloon, rock climb, or just nature watch.

[13:43] Our next adventure is Bullets and Burgers. We purchased our package at CVS.

[14:43] This was Chris's favorite excursion of all. We took an open door helicopter ride over the Grand Canyon.

[15:48] They pick you up at your hotel. It was fun even riding the bus.

[17:01] When you first get there, you go on a ride on the world's longest monster truck. One of the people in the group was afraid of the monster truck. You spin around on the sand and go over cars and ramps. It was super fun.

[18:20] Then we suited up for the helicopter ride in flight gear. There were six or seven people in the group.

[19:13] Chris had the outside seat. It was his 40th birthday. There are no doors, but they harness you in.

[20:26] You have headsets on and the pilot explains what you see. You go to the edge of the Grand Canyon. At the edge, suddenly you see hundreds of feet below you. Chris's heart dropped.

[22:33] You can see where eagles build nests. It was an amazing adventure. This is Chris's number one adventure. Then afterwards you have lunch, and talk to the rest of the group.

[24:15] The Las Vegas Rock Crawler is also fun and exciting. This is a Jeep ride where you meet in the parking lot. You get in a big tire lifted Jeep. The also sell these.

[25:42] You head to Logandale and stop at a gas station and let air out of the tires, so the Jeep will rock crawl better.

[26:04] You are in a Jeep caravan with about six Jeeps.

[27:05] You crawl through rocks and sometimes, you are almost vertical. It looks scary, but they show you how to do it.

[29:04] After the rocks, you get to race around in the dunes. It was super fun.

[30:33] There are a ton of sporting events in Vegas. They have MMA, boxing, rugby, hockey, NASCAR, and the NFL Raiders will also soon be in Vegas.

[31:12] There are opportunities to get off of the strip and experience sporting events. If your a gambler, you can even bet on the events.

[32:36] We went to the Rugby Sevens match in Las Vegas. People wear costumes. It was fun, and we saw crazy wacky outfits. There is also a food court village that has food from around the world.

[34:46] There are tons of things to do off the strip. These are our faves! Let us know what you like to do!

Links and Resources:

TripAdvisor

How to Use TripAdvisor to Plan a Trip on a Budget

Adrenaline Rush Slingshot

Bullets and Burgers

Las Vegas Rock Crawlers

HSBC USA Sevens

For pictures, tips and more, be sure to check out our Fly with Chris and Di Facebook page and signup to download a copy of The Best City for You. Please take a moment and subscribe to our podcast and leave a review. It will only get better from here. Don't miss out on future episodes where we continue to share tips and tricks to get the most out of your vacation.

Boarding the plane is one of those things we all do, but it can take longer than we want. This episode is about saving time boarding the plane to ultimately save your sanity. This is part 3 of our How to Save Time (and Your Sanity) at the Airport series. In the previous episodes, we talked about security, getting to the airport at a good time, and carry on bags. Now it's time to tackle boarding the plane.

Some of the things we cover include assigned boarding on planes with assigned seats. Getting your carry on in the overhead. How to get travel bonuses, miles, and gift cards with slight delays. How to deal with Southwest airlines and their check-in policy with assigned boarding numbers. Plus, we share some personal tips and stories that makes talking about flying fun.

Show Notes

[02:47] What specific locations are you interested in?

[03:12] You should have a top 10 vacation list.

[02:32] Be on time!

[03:24] You will be called to boarding by zone. Wait until your zone is called. Sit down and relax.

[05:47] If the flight is oversold, they look for volunteers to take a later flight. If this happens and you can, take them up on the offer.

[06:56] You get travel dollars. Dianne got $900 in miles one time. Sometimes they add in Amazon gift cards. If you have to spend the night, you get hotel and food vouchers.

[09:34] Don't put your seat belt on until boarding is completed.

[10:42] With a large bin, you can put your bag in with wheels facing out. Hold on to your jacket. Don't close the bin until it's full.

[12:41] In first class, you get a pillow and a blanket.

[13:33] Go to the restroom before boarding.

[16:18] You need to know the exact number of seats between you and the exit. Just in case.

[17:03] Put your phone in airplane mode.

[17:57] Flights now provide free Wi-Fi and free TV.

[18:36] Put your seat in the upright position when they tell you to.

[19:55] Southwest Airlines doesn't have assigned seats. They assign you a number. You can check-in 24 hours before your flight. You get the number when you check-in.

[21:31] They have three sections A 1-60, B 1-60, and C 1-60. You board based on the letter and number you get. They begin with A 1-30 and on down the line. Check-in as soon as possible to get a better seat option.

[22:52] As a passenger, you have to find where you are in line. Once you get in, the fun begins as seatmates are chosen. The front and exit rows are taken first. Then windows and aisles.

Links and Resources:

Episode 4 - How to Save Time (and Your Sanity) at the Airport (part 1)

Episode 5 - How to Save Time (and Your Sanity) at the Airport (part 2)

How to Save Time (and Your Sanity) at the Airport Blog Post

Episode 2 - Our Favorite Travel Apps

For pictures, tips and more, be sure to check out our Fly with Chris and Di Facebook page and signup to download a copy of The Best City for You. Please take a moment and subscribe to our podcast and leave a review. It will only get better from here. Don't miss out on future episodes where we continue to share tips and tricks to get the most out of your vacation.

It's time for part 2 of How to Save Time (and Your Sanity) at the Airport. In part 1, we talked about how to be prepared for your flight. This episode is all about security. We talk about knowing which line you should be in, the 3-1-1 rule for liquids in your carry on bag, and then we go into detail on the three types of lines that you can be in.

We also talk about things you can do to help keep the line moving and not hold up everyone behind you. We also share why we love TSA Pre✓ ® and what you can do to get it. We also talk about the VIP for VIPs called CLEAR and many more travel tips. This episode will save you time and help you to avoid embarrassing mistakes while making it through security like you do it everyday.

Show Notes

[02:22] Security is one of those things that you need to be prepared for. Even seasoned travelers sometimes forget the rules that need to be followed in the security line.

[03:24] Plan ahead because the person in front of you may not be prepared. Check out the TSA website for current and updated security information.

[04:02] 1. Know which line you are supposed to be in. You need to know if you need to be in the regular line or TSA Pre✓ ® . Check your boarding pass or the app to be sure.

[04:51] 2. The 3-1-1 rule is 3.4 ounces or less of liquid per container. You can have one clear plastic quart sized bag with a zip top that contains all of your liquids. 1 bag per passenger. Medications and breast milk can be exceptions.

[07:07] The above rules are for your carry on bag. You can put more liquids in a checked bag.

[08:22] Now we are going to talk about the regular line, the TSA Pre✓ ® line, and the CLEAR line.

[08:36] If you don't travel a lot or can't get security clearance, you will likely go through the regular line.

[09:13] You may have to remove your shoes. Pay attention to what others around you are doing. Be prepared and wear something easy to take off and put on. Don't block the line while lacing your shoes.

[10:40] You will also have to remove your laptop, bag of liquids, everything in your pockets, and your belt and jacket. Prepare before you get up to the front of the line.

[11:46] Don't bring weapons and listen to TSA.

[12:13] Put the things in the bin that go in the bin. Put your carry on onto the belt and push things forward.

[13:05] Walk through the scanner. Put your feet on the mark, raise your arms, and listen to the instructions.

[13:38] Once through, grab your items and move out of the way.

[14:57] We love TSA Pre✓ ®. You can purchase it for $85 for five years.

[16:14] To be qualified you need to go through a background check. Certain airports allow you to do this while you are there. You can also do it at outside locations.

[17:22] Once you get your known traveler ID, you will use it every time you book a flight.

[18:23] The TSA Pre✓ ® line is shorter, and you don't have to remove your shoes. You don't have to take out your laptop or liquids. You get VIP service. You go straight through. There is no body scanner. You still have to take your keys and phone out. Although, you could still be randomly selected to be scanned.

[19:52] Make sure you know what you are doing in the line. Not all airports have it, and it's not always open.

[21:22] CLEAR is like VIP VIP. Atlanta and Minneapolis have this. A few airports have this. it's $15 a month or $99 a year with Delta SkyMiles, $79 for platinum and gold, and free for diamond members.

[23:02] They use a retina scan and fingerprint. There is a person at the kiosk that help you move through quickly. They take care of security identification and allow you to walk straight up to the bins.

[25:05] CLEAR helps because TSA Pre✓ ® lines are getting longer. It's about saving time for consumers.

[26:36] Carry on bags are one of Dianne's pet peeves. Chris likes not having to wait for checked bags.

[28:22] Know the size that your airline allows.

[29:24] Avoid liquids or keep in mind the 3-1-1 rule.

[30:17] Watch the weight of your bag too.

[30:50] They ask people to check roller bags for a reason. If they are asking, go ahead and check it. Most of the time, you get it when you get off the plane and if it is checked, there is no charge.

[33:10] If the overhead bin is closed, that means that it's full. Put your personal item under the seat not in the bin. Keep your comfort items close to you.

[36:24] Think about breakables. Sometimes it's more beneficial to ship them back.

[37:17] Some airlines are guaranteeing shorter wait times for checked bags.

[38:25] Tune in for part 3, next week, when we talk about boarding the plane.

Links and Resources:

Episode 4 - How to Save Time (and Your Sanity) at the Airport (part 1)

How to Save Time (and Your Sanity) at the Airport Blog Post

TSA Website

Apply for TSA Pre✓ ®

CLEAR

For pictures, tips and more, be sure to check out our Fly with Chris and Di Facebook page and signup to download a copy of The Best City for You. Please take a moment and subscribe to our podcast and leave a review. It will only get better from here. Don't miss out on future episodes where we continue to share tips and tricks to get the most out of your vacation.