NICK GOSNELL
Hutch Post
HUTCHINSON, Kan. — If you haven't booked your summer vacation yet, it's time, especially if you plan to fly, says Shawn Steward with AAA Kansas.
"We're now less than a month away from the Memorial Day holiday, which unofficially kicks off the summer travel season," Steward said. "It could be a very busy one for travel, both on the roads and at the airport. On top of AAA reporting a significant increase in international travel bookings this year, up 200% compared to last year, the Transportation Safety Administration (TSA), is now warning travelers that summer airline passenger levels are expected to be comfortably above pre-pandemic numbers."
If you are going to fly, it's best to plan ahead.
"If you can, try to book the first morning flight of the day," Steward said. "Early flights give you more flexibility, if there's a delay or cancelation and you need to reschedule. It just gives you more options of other flights, if you need to switch. With TSA projecting strong numbers this summer, make sure that you're arriving at the airport at least two hours before domestic flights and at least three hours before international flights. You just want to give yourself extra time to get through security and get to your gate in plenty of time."
Steward also notes that if it is possible, avoid checking a bag. Carry-on luggage allows you to be more flexible if there’s a delay or cancellation.
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