5 Simple Things You Can Do to Take Your Vacation to the Next Level

Making the most of your vacation is the goal of every traveler that I work with.  As a professional travel advisor, I see countless itineraries for travel all over the globe and I often see the same mistakes made over and over again.  Sometimes it’s the little things that, if done right, can have a huge impact on the overall experience.  

Private cooking class in Florence with a local chef

Private Experiences

Private guides and local experiences are usually expensive and therefore many people prefer group activities or exploring an area on your own.  I’m here to tell you that even for the budget traveler, spending money on the RIGHT experiences is a worthwhile addition to your trip.  Think private sunset cruises along the Amalfi Coast, cooking classes with a Tuscan chief, wine tasting in the private cellars of the French countryside.  These are the things you and your traveling partners will remember fondly for years to come.

Pre-arranged Airport Transfers

The first thing crossed off any itinerary proposal by clients is the “costly” airport transfers.  These can make the difference between a relaxing arrival and a trip from hell.  For most people arriving in a foreign country means walking out of the airport to throngs of people, all trying to get your money.  Even if you do make it to the correct cab line are you sure the driver is taking you the most direct way? Are you sure they know where you are going?? Compare that to the smart traveler who, for a few dollars more, pre-reserved a driver and car who is waiting for them upon arrival and who already knows where they are going. 

Don’t over-schedule

Not over-scheduling means more time relaxing

I often hear from clients who want to try and see everything in a major city like Paris, Rome or Tokyo in 3 nights, or hop from city to city with huge wish lists.  It’s easy to fall into the trap of over-scheduling, but traveling on these itineraries feels more like checking things off a list and living through your camera lens. By slowing down, spending more time in each location, and accepting that you will not see everything you actually get the chance to relax and truly experience the destination.   

Book Direct Flights

As a travel advisor one of the most surprising things is watching how easily travelers disregard the value of their time when booking air travel.  When looking at air options it's important to recognize the many downsides and risks associated with connecting flights.  First, it usually adds at least 3 to 4 hours onto a trip.  Second, it greatly increases your chances of missing a flight due to delays.  Last but not least, it may subject you to additional screening / customs depending on your itinerary.  If direct flight options exist for your itinerary, think long and hard about the hassle-free experiences and time savings that spending a little more money can offer.

Use a Professional Travel Advisor

No matter where you are in your travel planning, consulting an expert to review and offer suggestions will get the most out of every trip.  Even if you don’t have the destination in mind, Travel Advisors can use your budget and preferences to select the perfect spot. It’s never too late to make sure you get the most of your well-earned time off.  Nick Running Travel is here to help you accomplish your travel goals. Reach out to us today to get started on your next adventure!.

5 Places to Travel in 2019

Every January many of us sit down to plan out our goals, health and activities for the rest of the year.  Because of that, there is no better time to finalize your spring break travel, summer vacation or start thinking about your upcoming holiday travel.  Nick Running Travel wants to help you kick start your planning by giving you our 5 favorite destinations for this year.  Whatever your travel plans in 2019, reach out to us today so we can ensure it is rewarding, enriching and most of all, perfectly tailored to you.

Southern Italy

If you’ve “been there, and done that” when it comes to the major cities and regions in Italy, add Southern Italy and Puglia to your list. The region shows a completely different side of Italy.  Matera in the “arch” of the boot is built into the rock of a ravine.  Its famous for sassi or cave like dwellings, including cave hotels!! In 1993 UNESCO declared Matera a World Heritage Site, and it is the 2019 European Capitol of Culture so expect fun activities all year long. 

Portugal

There is more to Portugal than Lisbon, Porto and the Douro Wine Valley. Portugal is filled with a vibrant culinary scene, beautiful landscapes and beautiful islands like the Azores or Madeira.  This year Madeira celebrates is 600th anniversary of discovery. It’s an island full of terraced vineyards, atmospheric fishing villages and pretty pebble beaches. Today, the “Island of Flowers” is luring a fresh set of adventure seekers with its warm year-round climes, dramatic landscapes and a 500-mile network of UNESCO-listed levadas, or irrigation channels, that serve as scenic hiking and mountain biking trails.

New Zealand

They say photos don’t do New Zealand justice, and it’s hard to believe this destination can be even more beautiful in real life, but somehow it is.  Air New Zealand’s new 787s have allowed them to expand service in US which means New Zealand is more accessible than ever.  Currently they fly direct from Auckland to Honolulu, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Houston and Chicago.  Once there take in the beauty of the South Island where dramatic topographical features dominate the landscape. The South Island is known for its bungee jumping, skydiving, and amazing backcountry trekking trails.

Egypt

Egypt is back and with waiting lists for many hotels and boat trips along the Nile, word has got out. Traveling here, more than 7000 years of history come to life before your eyes. Beyond the pyramids, you can experience the legendary Nile River, tranquil Red Sea spots, and vibrant cities.  In Cairo the brand new St. Regis will open in March as one of the top hotels in the city. 

Patagonia

It may take a while to reach the southernmost region of South America, but a trip to Patagonia is well worth it, especially if you love outdoor activities like hiking, horseback riding, and fly-fishing.  Adventurers are drawn to the vast emptiness of its desert and the drama of its Lake District, where the snow-capped Andes are reflected in the bright water.  Patagonia’s wine and food scenes are gathering pace as well. Río Negro’s fertile soils make for great farm produce and grapes as Patagonia now rivals Mendoza in producing Argentina’s best Malbec’s.

My Top Four Holiday Getaways for Procrastinators

Have you been thinking about planning a last minute getaway for the holidays? Did your excitement suddenly disappear after a few internet searches of your favorite hotels showed no availability or ridiculous prices with crazy 7 to 10 day minimum stays?  Nick Running Travel is here to help with our favorite last minute locations for travel over the holiday time period.

Sicily

Ready to try something new this holiday season? Belmond’s amazing Grand Hotel Timeo, which normally closes prior to the holidays is open until January this year.  Because of its southern location Sicily offers a mild winter climate for those looking to escape the harsh winters and enjoy a new part of Italy.  Belmond’s hotel, the first hotel to be built in the city, gazes out across the coast towards Mount Etna.  Bask in manicured gardens, savour sensational cuisine and fuel your imagination with cocktails on the Literary Terrace—just like generations of celebrated guests before you.  As a preferred partner of Belmond, Nick Running Travel Clients get perks like upgrades, free breakfast, and up to $200 of resort credit.

Paris

What better place to go for the holidays than the city of lights!  They beauty of Paris is most often shown during the night hours so what better time to go then the shortest days of the year.  Ice Skating rinks and Christmas Markets also help you enjoy the holiday spirit.  My favorite hotel for this time of year may also be the best hotel in the city.  Four Seasons George V boasts one of the most famous decorative lobby displays in the world designed by the amazing Jeff Leatham.  Make sure you book your stay with Nick Running Travel for Four Seasons Preferred Partner benefits.

Mexico

While people are flocking to Hawaii or the Caribbean, Mexico remains a bargain for travelers who know where to look.  Many places in the tropics this time of year have 7 to 10 night minimum stays on top of astronomical room prices.  When paying high prices you might as well get your money’s worth with a top of the line all inclusive experience.  Grand Velas Riviera Maya only requires a 5 night minimum stay, and for the holiday time period kids ages 4-17 are free.  That’s a great value for families looking for a little sunshine.  Booking with Nick Running Travel gets you complementary one way airport transfers and $100 spa credit.

French Polynesia

While there may not be hotel availability in your favorite Caribbean or Hawaiian Island, maybe think a little bit farther away this year.  Below the equator in French Polynesia it’s currently “rainy season” which means no minimum stays over the holidays at the best resorts (like the Four Seasons Bora Bora).  While Nick Running Travel can’t guarantee weather, who cares if there is a few hours of showers while you lounge in your overwater bungalow.  Make sure you book your stay with Nick Running Travel for Four Seasons Preferred Partner benefits, and if you are interested in other French Polynesia hotels make sure you reach out to take advantage of all the benefits we can provide for your preferred hotel.

7 Recommendations for Traveling with an Infant

When my wife and I first had our son Axel, we were a little concerned about how this would affect our traveling lifestyle.  After all, we have heard plenty of horror stories about traveling with infants, and of course, have been passengers on an airplane when there is a screaming child.  One thing I didn’t expect was that the logistics of getting on the plane would be more difficult than the plane ride itself.  Axel has now flown from the Bay Area to Seattle, SoCal (2x), Boston and we are currently headed to Maui.  From these trips we wanted to pass along tips to help new and expecting parents feel more assured when traveling with their infant.

1.       Make sure to bring your stroller and car seat all the way to the gate.

Many new parents are aware that airlines will check car seats and strollers free of charge, however did you also know that they will gate check them as well? I have seen many parents in the baggage claim line checking their car seat and stroller only to have to carry their child though the airport and on to the plane.  We have found it much easier to attach the car seat to the stroller and then use that to go through security and get to our gate.  Once you board and get to the end of the jetway, simply remove the car seat, fold the stroller and they will be waiting for you once you disembark.  The bonus is obviously that you get to use the stroller going through the arrival airport as well.

2.       Sit in First/Business Class

I know, I know, this isn’t always feasible. Before you rule it out, let me tell you why you should concider splurging for that first class ticket. First, the extra space is super helpful in making you and your infant more comfortable, which means better naps. Second, having a dedicated flight attendant makes it much easier to get hot water and other necessities to make a bottle or other needs your child may have. Third, after all the logistical hurdles of traveling with an infant, you are going to need that extra Bloody Mary!  Yes, you might get some dirty looks from people who think First Class should be kids free but don’t concern yourself with them. 

You will also notice I didn’t say BUY First Class tickets.  There are many other ways to confirm a seat up front like using miles or elite status upgrades. Nick Running Travel can help talk you through your options.

3.       Feed your baby during Takeoff and Descent

Babies have a very tough time with changes in air pressure. That ear popping that you experience while flying is due to the lowing and raising of the air pressure in the airplane during climb and descent.  Unfortunately, babies don’t have the ability to pop their own ears like we do.  By giving them a bottle,  nursing or giving them a pacifier during these times you are encouraging them to reduce the ear pressure by doing the same jaw movements that you would do.

4.       Be aware of your carry-on requirements

Infants do not get their own baggage allowance.  This can sometimes come as a surprise to new parents.  That means your diaper bag will now be considered a personal item.  If you are use to traveling with a laptop bag or purse as your personal item, you will need to rethink your strategy. When traveling as a couple, I no longer carry my work bag and instead put my computer and other items in the top of my rollaboard.  Make sure you plan ahead so you aren’t forced to gate check something that you planned on using onboard.

5.       Make sure your hotel is aware of your needs

No need to pack a crib or other baby products, most hotels have all that and will gladly have it waiting in your room on check in.  One of the perks of working with Nick Running Travel is that we do this for you.  We can confirm cribs and other infant items well in advance so you don’t have to stress on what to pack. We even work with the hotels to have some surprises waiting for both parents and children!

6.       Frozen milk can be brought through TSA security checkpoints

One difficulty of traveling is that no liquids over 3 oz are allowed through security, so as a nursing mother how are you supposed to feed your baby on a long flight?  TSA allows for frozen liquids to be taken through checkpoints.  Our trick is to not take the milk out of the freezer until right before leaving the house and ensure that its well-insulated.   Once you are on-board ask a flight attendant for hot water to defrost your milk and you are ready to feed.

7.       Be prepared for naps

If your baby is used to a certain outfit/blanket during naps make sure you bring that onboard.  When it’s time to go to sleep try to mimic the same process you would use back home. If your baby is wearing the same nap outfit as back home its likely they will fall asleep easier.  If your flight happens to fall during the same time as nap time its very helpful, if not don’t worry the sound of the plane engines should soothe your baby to sleep.

Overall, traveling with a baby can definitely be stressful, but by following these tips, travel can be a rewarding experience for you and your growing family.  If you are thinking of traveling with your newborn and are looking for assistance, contact Nick Running Travel, and we are happy to help with your next travel experience.

The best tip....... Have fun with it!!

Top 5 Weekend Getaways From The Bay Area

We all know how it is, you are super behind with work and the last thing you can do is take 2 weeks off for vacation.  However, you need some way to relax and recharge.  The perfect solution is a weekend getaway!  These are my favorite places to relax and unwind within a 2 hour drive from the Bay Area.

Ritz Carlton Half Moon Bay

Just 30-45 minutes from many places in the Bay Area, this resort sits right above the Pacific Ocean.  The resort offers an array of recreational activities that blend the elements of a seaside resort with lavish five-star accommodations, including making s'mores on your guestroom's terrace fire pit, exploring miles of ocean-side trails and golfing on two world-class courses. Be sure to grab a seat around the wood-burning fire pits at sunset to watch the lone bagpiper stroll down the bluff.  By booking with Nick Running Travel clients receive the following:

• Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
• Daily full breakfast for two
• $100 Spa credit
• Early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability
• Complimentary Wi-Fi

Carneros Resort and Spa

Carneros Resort and Spa, only an hour from San Francisco sits almost directly between the Napa and Sonoma wine regions making it the perfect weekend getaway for those who want to visit both areas. It is surrounded by 28 acres of grapevines, fruit trees and picturesque farmland.  Cottages have various amenities including fireplaces, indoor-outdoor showers, individual hot tubs and French doors leading to landscaped gardens.  By booking with Nick Running Travel clients receive the following:

• Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
• Daily full American breakfast for two at Hilltop Dining Room
• A $100  Spa credit
• Early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability
• Complimentary Wi-Fi

Meadowood Napa Valley

For those who want to concentrate on Napa valley, Meadowood sits just outside St. Helena and offers a very central location for exploring all the valley’s wineries.  Meadowood boasts a three Michelin star restaurant, and lots of activities onsite including a 9 hole golf course, tennis, swimming, hiking and croquet.  Most cottages have fireplaces and terraces and many rooms are unique.  By booking with Nick Running Travel clients receive the following:

• Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
• $50.00 daily credit towards breakfast in The Grill or via room service
• $100 Spa credit
• Welcome amenity of a box of handcrafted Napa Valley Chocolates
• Early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability
• Complimentary Wi-Fi

Carmel Valley Ranch

Located about 10 miles inland, this gated private resort spans 500 acres of vineyards, lavender fields, scenic foothills and an 18 hole Pete Dye golf course.  Carmel Valley Ranch features miles of hiking trails, tennis courts, yoga classes, multiple pools and evening s’mores. Of all the locations mentioned this is where you should go if your idea of relaxation and rejuvenation means getting active or outdoors.  By booking with Nick Running Travel clients receive the following:

• Upgrade at time of booking, subject to availability
• Daily full breakfast for two
• One $100 hotel resort credit
• Early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability
• Complimentary Wi-Fi

Rosewood CordeValle

Just 20 minutes south of San Jose, Rosewood CordeValle is a quiet oasis from the busy hustle and bustle of Silicon Valley.  Situated on a private country club in the foothills of the Santa Cruz mountains this resort is the perfect place to relax and unwind.  Golfers will enjoy the 18 hole Robert Trent Jones, Jr course that has previously hosted LPGA tour events.  Rosewood CordeValle was rated by Conde Nast readers choice awards as the #1 resort in California and #40 in the world in 2017. As a Rosewood Elite Member, clients of Nick Running Travel receive the following amenities:

• VIP Recognition
• Upgrade upon arrival, subject to availability
• Special on-property staff dedicated to you as an Elite client
• Top-of-waitlist in high demand periods like holidays
• Elite Price Assurance: If a special offer is developed after a reservation confirmation is generated for an Elite agent’s client, Rosewood Hotels & Resorts will extend better value upon request up until 24 hours prior to guest arrival.

The Best Courses to Golf in Hawaii

Now that the Masters has ended it’s officially golf season.  Unfortunately though for many places, the weather hasn’t allowed you to rid your game of the accumulated dust..  How about heading to your favorite Hawaiian Island and enjoy the sunshine on the course and post-round drinks at the beach.  I’ve included my favorite course on each island and the best hotel to stay at to make your trip complete. Make sure to book your trip with Nick Running Travel to get the VIP perks and benefits at all the noted hotels.   

Hawaii (Big Island):

Hualalai Golf Course

Just outside of Kona, this Jack Nicklaus signature course winds through the black lava fields and along the ocean.  The finishing stretch of holes hugs the coastline making you think twice about every shot.  This course also plays host to the PGA Champions tour during the Mitsubishi Electric Championship in January.

Where to Stay: Four Seasons Hualalai

The only way to play this course is to know a member or stay at the Four Seasons.  This hotel is set on Hawaii Island’s exclusive Kona-Kohala Coast, this showpiece oceanfront luxury resort in Hualalai captures the essence of Hawaiian design, culture and tradition.  The hotel offers seven swimming pools, beachfront access, three restaurants, and a state of the art fitness facility and spa.  As a Four Seasons Preferred Partner, clients of Nick Running Travel receive special amenities and perks, feel free to reach out to us for details.

Maui:

Kapalua Plantation Course:

Consistently ranked as the #1 golf course in Hawaii, playing The Plantation Course is sure to be on every golfer’s bucket list. Designed by Ben Crenshaw and Bill Coore, the course was designed on a grand scale in keeping with its location on the slopes of the West Maui Mountains and offers ocean views from virtually every hole.  With dramatic elevation changes, this course offers plenty of downhill tee shots. You’ll feel like one of the pros when you hit one of the longest drives of your life on the severely downhill 18th hole.  The Plantation Course is the site of the PGA TOUR's Sentry Tournament of Champions each January featuring an elite field of previous year's PGA TOUR winners.

Where to Stay: Ritz Carlton Kapalua

The Ritz is set on Maui’s northwest side away from the traditional resort areas of Wailea.  Just up the shore from Ka'anapali Beach the Ritz sits on the pristine 22,000-acre Kapalua Resort, giving guests exclusive access to amenities and activities such as Hawaii’s largest nature preserves with two marine sanctuaries, golf and miles of hiking trails.  A complementary resort shuttle can take guests to great local restaurants like Merriman’s Kapalua, Sansei Seafood Restaurant and Sushi Bar and The Plantation House.  As a Ritz Carlton STARS and Virtuoso member clients of Nick Running Travel receive:

• Room upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
• Daily Gourmet Buffet breakfast, for up to two in room guests
• $100 Resort or Hotel credit
• Early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability
• Complimentary Wi-Fi

Lanai:

Manele Golf Course

Built high above the shimmering waters of Hulopoe Bay, this Jack Nicklaus Signature course is Lanai’s premier golf course.  Built on lava outcroppings, the course features three holes perched on cliffs, enlisting the Pacific Ocean as a water hazard.  Tee shots over natural gorges and ravines must be precise, but golfers are rewarded with ocean views from the fairways and even the chance of whale sightings. Be sure to take note of the archaeological ruins that border the greens and the breathtaking views beyond.

Where to Stay: Four Seasons Lanai

Four Seasons Lanai was just completely remodeled from the ground up to become the new premier Hawaiian destination.  It sits on the southeastern shore of one of Hawaii’s last unspoiled island.  The hotel has nine different bars and restaurants, snorkeling, diving and sailing.  The hotel can also arrange ATV rentals, horseback riding and helicopter tours. As a Four Seasons Preferred Partner, clients of Nick Running Travel receive special amenities and perks, feel free to reach out to us for details.

Oahu:

Ko Olina Golf Club

Home to the LPGA's annual LOTTE Championship, Ko Olina Golf Club is recognized as one of Oahu's premier golf courses. Located on the western coast of Oahu, Ko'olina offers a challenging 18-hole championship course with exceptional water features, multi-tiered greens, and no parallel fairways. Located on the sunny West Coast of Oahu, just a short drive from Honolulu and Waikiki.

Where to Stay: Halekulani

Situated on five prime oceanfront acres, Halekulani has been a Waikiki Beach landmark for almost 100 years. Each tropically elegant guestroom features a large lanai that opens to views of the gardens, the Pacific Ocean or Diamond Head. Sunbathe or watch the surfing action on famed Waikiki Beach; relax by the dreamy swimming pool, made up of 1.2 million mosaic tiles; or indulge in the Pacific Islands inspired treatments at SpaHalekulani.  As a Virtuoso member clients of Nick Running Travel receive:

• Room Upgrade at the time of booking, subject to availability
• Daily breakfast for up to two in-room guests.
• $100 / $200 Hotel Credit depending on room type
• Early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability
• Complimentary Wi-Fi

Kauai:

Princeville Golf Course

Designed by Robert Trent Jones, Jr., who brilliantly integrated the wild beauty of the north shore of Kauai. Taking advantage of wilderness areas, natural water features and the dramatic coastline, the course winds its way through magnificent stands of trees and rolling landscape and views that will astonish you with their unforgettable beauty.

Where to Stay: St Regis Princeville

Located in the 9,000 acre resort community of Princeville at Hanalei, this luxury resort on Kauai resides on the northern shore of the "Garden Island" and provides visitors all the amenities expected from an island destination considered to be one of the most spectacular in Hawai'i. Guests of our Kauai resort reside in a bastion of tropical sophistication featuring cuisine that celebrates local flavors along with an array of diverse activities. Don't miss the nightly champagne sabering at sunset from the St. Regis Bar.  As a Virtuoso member clients of Nick Running Travel receive:

• Room upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
• Daily full breakfast, for up to two in room guests
• $100 Resort or Hotel credit.
• Early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability
• Complimentary Wi-Fi

6 Things I Learned after the Airlines Lost My Luggage

On a recent business trip to Australia, I landed in Melbourne after a 15 hour flight from LAX only to realize once the baggage carousel stopped moving that my checked bag hadn’t made the same trip.  This experience happens to people everyday, and Nick Running Travel wants to make sure our clients learn from our first hand experience.

Don't be this person!

1.       Don’t leave the airport without submitting the proper paperwork
After the horror sinks in that your bag didn’t make the trip, make sure your first action is to go to the local baggage office for that airline and submit the required forms.  Many airlines require you to submit this prior to leaving the airport.  Additionally, if the airline doesn’t immediately hand you a claim number, take a picture of the completed form with your cell phone. The airline I flew told me they would email me a claim number and receipt after processing the form, but I never received it.

2.     Always try to pack a change of clothes in your carry-on
I know this isn’t always possible but it can buy you time before having to go to the store to buy new clothes.  Unfortunately I didn’t do this, so I had to immediately go shopping in the same clothes that I had worn the previous day which included a 15 hour flight.  Many times your bag will show up a few hours later, so having an extra set of clothes may save you from going shopping all together.

3.       Make sure you inform the airline of travel plans for at least a week
Sometimes it can take a week or longer to find and deliver bags, if for instance you got on a flight to Australia and your bag got on a flight to Europe.  Once the bag is located and re-directed it could take days to arrive at the intended destination.  If your trip involves city hopping or changing hotels make sure you tell the airline exactly where you will be on which days so your bag can possibly reunite with you along your trip.

4.       Buy clothes at a large chain if possible
Worst case, your bags don’t show and you have to go buy clothes. Buy new clothes from a large chain retailer.  In my instance I bought work clothes from Brooks Brothers. This is especially important if you aren’t staying in the same place.  Chains have store locations in many cities and it becomes possible to return items you don’t use even after you changed cities.  I bought clothes in Melbourne, but didn’t have time to return the unused clothes until a few days later in Sydney.  Since Brooks Brothers has stores in both cities, the return process was easy.

5.       Check in constantly with the airline
Make sure you or your representative checks in frequently with the airline in question.  You will feel more at ease and will have the best possible information on when to expect your luggage.

6.       Check your credit card for possible Baggage Delay, Lost Protection or Travel Insurance
Some credit cards provide Baggage Delay or Lost Baggage compensation for travel booked with that credit card. Make sure you know what benefits your credit card(s) provide.  Also many different types of travel insurance come with the same coverage. If your credit card doesn’t offer such protection, it might be another reason to consider purchasing travel insurance.

How can you avoid lost bags all together?
OK, so you want to minimize your chance of dealing with something like this during your vacation, here are some ideas.

1.       Don’t check bags
This is obvious but must be said. For shorter trips where all of your belongings can fit in a carry-on don’t check a bag.  Most carry-ons these days have wheels and other features that make lugging them around an airport easy.

2.       Non-stop flights
The less that your bag(s) gets offloaded and loaded onto an airplane the less chance you have of something going wrong.  Non-stop flights are great for getting you to your destination quickly, but they also minimize the chance of losing a checked bag.

3.       Avoid tight connections
Obviously non-stop  flights are not always possible, so what can you do when booking flights to give your luggage a better chance of making your destination? Ensure that your connections leave enough time for the bag to get from one plane to another. Airlines will allow you to book connections for as few as 20-30 minutes. While that might be great for reducing your overall travel time, it’s not ideal for your checked bag(s).  Once you land your bag takes approximately 10 minutes just to get off your first flight. From there, it typically travels to a central airport sorting facility, and then finally gets re-directed to your next flight.  All these steps take time, so to give your bag the best chance I recommend at least a 1 hour connection.

Exapmle of Delta's in-app baggage tracking

4.       Fly airlines that offer in-app bag tracking
Some airlines now allow you to track your checked bags from the app while in transit (I have personally used American and Delta).  While these apps wont make sure your bag gets delivered on time, it does allow you to rest assured that your bag is indeed on the plane at pushback.

Overall losing a checked bag during vacation or work travel can be very stressful, but hopefully my tips can help you prevent this from happening in the first place. If the unfortunate happens and your bags are lost, you are now equipped on how to handle the situation.