Summer Travel Tricks for Stress-Free Trips

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Record air travel is anticipated for this summer. Memorial Day Weekend, specifically, is typically one of the busiest travel weekends of the year and Expedia’s latest forecast shows flight searches up for June, July, and August, compared to the same time last year. After the holiday meltdown that impacted all air travel, combined with staff shortages, unexpected weather, long security wait times, lost baggage, and an increase in reports of unruly passengers, it’s more important than ever to be prepared.

The travel experts at The Parking Spot have a number of tips to help folks taking summer trips reduce stress during this busy time. Anyone anticipating summer travel should plan ahead with these considerations in mind.

Look for Ways to Save Money
Delta Air Lines reported record advance bookings for summer travel, so deals will take a lot of work to come by. Typically, the earlier you make reservations, the lower your cost will be given availability/inventory. If you can be flexible in your schedule, set alerts so you know when prices drop, and clear your computer cookies after each search or use an incognito browser.

Given continuing inflation and increased cost of living, it’s unlikely that the cost to travel will go down in the near future. If you plan to travel more than once, look for free loyalty rewards programs to join and earn perks toward free services. For example, The Parking Spot’s Spot Club allows you to earn points toward free parking, as well as faster entry to and exit from lots, plus additional perks such as waived reservation fees and access to exclusive deals.

Be sure to also examine all of your current memberships, including credit cards, insurance, phone company, credit union, and more, to see if you have access to any deals on travel, transportation, or lodging. In addition to discounts with major brands, these often include TSA Pre-Check reimbursement and access to airport lounges that feature free food and drink.

If possible, consider driving to the airport instead of rideshare. While rideshare can be convenient, travelers are subject to whatever surge pricing is taking place at the time requested, and wait times can vary based on driver availability. When using a service like The Parking Spot, you can guarantee you’re getting the best rate and lock it in when booking in advance.

While minor, it’s also a good idea to pack snacks and an empty water bottle to fill at a refill station so you aren’t beholden to airport food pricing.

Prioritize Flexibility & Find Ways to Save Time
When making reservations, seek out options that allow for last-minute changes for low or no fees. Air travel is unpredictable, and you don’t want to be stuck paying for a service you can’t use. At The Parking Spot, customers have same-day in/out privileges with Pay Now reservations, so they aren’t stuck at the airport if they encounter lengthy delays. Plus, the app allows for easy reservation changes if there are any issues returning home.

Sign up for a program like TSA Pre-Check or CLEAR to help expedite the security process. Packing just a carry-on can also help breeze through check-in by skipping the bag check line. However, even with these precautions, you should still arrive at the airport early as these programs are becoming more popular, and TSA is experiencing the same staff shortages as most other organizations.

Use The Parking Spot
The Parking Spot at BWI is an excellent option for travelers seeking a convenient, safe, and affordable parking solution. At Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport, The Parking Spot offers two convenient locations with complimentary trunk-to-terminal service and the option for add-on amenities like covered parking or a car wash.

Find out more about how The Parking Spot can help ease summer travel stress here.

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