You live, you learn.

We lived it up with our summer trips and we learned what to do differently this fall – especially since LDW showed us that travel is still very hot. Keep reading to get our seasonal travel recap to (hopefully) make for chiller upcoming trips.

The pre-check

The week’s latest travel stories and news.

• Ch-ch-ch-changes.
  
  Much like the seasons, the DOT stated that US airlines have committed to making “significant changes” to take better care of travelers.
• Pay me what you owe me.
  
  Remember when we mentioned a new dashboard to help travelers find out what they’re owed? Well, it’s officially up and running.
• When it’s a short week…
  
  We’re running behind – like app processing for Global Entry. The US Dept. of Homeland Security recommends applying for TSA PreCheck instead.
• Happy and sad at the same time.
  
  The post-vacation struggle is so real, especially as summer winds down – here are five ways to try and combat post-trip blues.
• These can stay.
  
  While we’re glad that travel feels back to normal, there are a few COVID travel trends that we liked – like hitting up our National Parks.

Trending travel

What we learned from summer ‘22 travel.
Summer 2022 really was the season of revenge travel. While we’re grateful that we got back out there, it didn’t go without its hitches. The good news is that many of the challenges we faced this summer have subsided and now, we’re better equipped for how to deal with them, should they resurface this fall. As a summer recap, here are some things to remember during your autumnal excursions:

• Use tools to save.
  
  While flight prices (and the cost of travel in general) increased in a big way, it’s likely that this fall will be more affordable. Don’t forget to use tools like Price Alerts and Price Freeze when planning your next trip(s).
• Have a backup plan.
  
  With weather delays and staff shortages, we were reminded to always prep a travel backup plan and to get to the airport early. In the case that your flight can’t get off the ground, we now have the DOT dashboard to find out what you’re owed.
• Pack light when possible.
  
  When checked luggage got lost or delayed in transit, we got a refresher on how to pack light and avoid checking bags altogether. Though these issues have cleared up, it can’t hurt to travel light this fall.
• Weigh your options.
  
  To help offset travel costs, we compared which modes of transportation made the most sense in getting to our destination. We also remembered that opting for an electric car rental can help with saving money at the gas pump.

Tricks of the trade

Fall aboard.
Looking for a fall trip that involves gorgeous autumnal views without the hassle of driving? Amtrak has you covered. They recently relaunched a fan-favorite route for the season, starting in Seattle and taking you through Vancouver, BC for picturesque glimpses of dazzling foliage.

Oh and here’s a fun reminder – you can book this train and others all through KAYAK. Just head to trains and buses and plug-in King Street Station to Pacific Central Station to search and secure your seat.

What we’re watching

Picture this: Balling out on your next vacay because you saved with KAYAK – no sketchy gimmicks required.

Skimping on trip excursions isn’t all it’s croc(ed) up to be – that’s why we’re here to help you save.

Links in this Newsletter are for informational purposes only, and there is no affiliation, sponsorship, or endorsement by or with KAYAK Software Corporation whatsoever.