Know Before You Go!

Know Before You Go: General Travel Tips

Here are important reminders and tips to help your journey go smoothly from start to finish.
 

Travel Responsibilities & Contact Guidelines

Once you are within 24 hours of your departure, you are considered actively traveling. At this point, you are responsible for managing your trip logistics, including checking into flights, hotel check-ins, transportation coordination, and addressing on-site issues with service providers.

That said, we are always here as a resource. If you experience a travel emergency or are not making progress with onsite staff, don’t hesitate to reach out to your travel advisor and we will assist to the best of our ability.
 

Please note: During travel, any changes or cancellations must be handled directly with the vendors using the contacts in your itinerary. Your hotel concierge is also an excellent local resource. We’ll continue to support you as needed, but some situations are best resolved on-site in the moment.
 

Before You Fly

Here are a few things to know before heading to the airport:

• Review our During - Travel Flying Guide: This guide covers everything you need to know—from using your airline’s app and navigating connections to handling delays and cancellations like a pro. Learn what to expect, how to stay updated, and what to do if plans change mid-trip. A must-read for stress-free travel!  https://www.goodtrip.biz/post/flyingtips 

• Keep your travel documents accessible. Photo IDs and passports easily accessible while flying and when checking in to your resort. You may need to show these when checking in to your flights and hotel.

• Check-In Details: You’ll need your confirmation number, full legal name as listed on your ID or passport, and your travel date to check in online or at the airport.

• Online Check-In: Available with most airlines 24 hours prior to departure. If traveling with carry-on bags only, you can go straight to security after checking in.

• Checked Bags: If you’re checking luggage, stop by the airline counter or self-service kiosk to drop your bags before proceeding through security.

• No Online Check-In Available? Sometimes apps glitch! You can check in at the airport with at your airline counter. 
   

Important Note
Make sure to enter your TSA PreCheck or Global Entry numbers into your flight reservations at least 72 hours before departure so they will be recognized by the airline. You can do this by pulling up your reservation on your airline website using your confirmation number and name and going to passenger details. 
 

Flight Schedule & Seating
 

• Flight times are subject to change, and updates are not always reflected automatically in your itinerary. Check your flight time again within 24 hours of travel.

• Seat selections are never guaranteed and may change due to aircraft adjustments. Double-check your preferences in advance.

• In case of flight delays or cancellations, we recommend working directly with gate agents or the airline's customer service at the airport. They can often assist faster than remote help. We’re always available to support you, but note that on-site staff and travelers have the most power to resolve flight issues quickly.
   

Packing & Luggage Tips
 

• Pack 1–2 extra outfits, travel-size toiletries, and any necessary medications in your carry-on in case your checked luggage is delayed or lost.

• Use a purse with a top zipper and avoid putting valuables in open or unzipped pockets to protect against pickpocketing.

• Keep copies of your passport and driver’s license in both your purse and your suitcase. In the unlikely event that your passport is lost, this will speed up the replacement process.

• Print and pack physical copies of your itinerary and travel documents. A travel folder is a great tool for staying organized.
   

Hotel Tips
 

• Upon check-in, hotels often require a credit card for incidentals, even if your trip is prepaid. Be sure the card you provide has available credit.

• Some destinations collect daily taxes, resort fees, or tourism fees that must be paid directly to the hotel. These cannot be prepaid and are typically minimal but vary by location.

• Check the hotel’s check-in/check-out times and be prepared for possible waits if you arrive early.

• Many hotels offer early check-in or late checkout upon request (subject to availability). Ask the front desk when you arrive.

• Use your safe at your resort! If you leave valuables (money, passports, etc) in your room, put in the locked safe. If your safe isn’t working, take valuables with you!

• Store Your Luggage if Necessary: Ask the Bell desk or front desk at your hotel to hold your luggage if you arrive early and want to explore more after check-out.
   

Prepare Your Phone
 

• Download all relevant travel apps: airlines, hotel, transportation, itinerary, etc.

• Take screenshots of confirmation numbers, addresses, and tickets in case of poor internet service.

• Download a currency converter app like Currency to make shopping and budgeting easier.

• Update your mobile wallet/payment methods (Apple Pay, Google Pay, Venmo, etc.).

• Check with your provider about international data plans or add a short-term travel plan.

• For more recommendations and Mobile App Tips - CLICK HERE
   

Money Tips
 

• Notify your bank and credit card companies of your travel plans via their websites or apps.

• Ask if your debit or credit cards charge foreign transaction fees. If so, consider using a credit card for purchases to avoid unnecessary charges.

• Withdraw local currency before departure to ensure you have cash on hand if you run into any card issues. You can visit your local bank or use an airport currency exchange.

• Don’t carry too much cash, ATM’s are everywhere. We recommend bringing around $300 in cash per person for tips, small purchases, or emergencies.

• Learn more in this article about what to expect to pay in-destination.
   

International Travel Requirements
 

• Make sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your return date.

• Some countries require entry visas, digital forms, health declarations, or proof of onward travel. Requirements change frequently—your itinerary will note specific entry needs, but it is your responsibility to comply with all current rules.

• For the most up-to-date international travel regulations, visit:
  travel.state.gov
   

Required Identification
 

• For domestic travel, all travelers 18 and older must carry a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or a valid passport.

• For international travel, ensure your passport is valid as noted above and double-check entry requirements for your destination.
   

Prep if traveling outside of the country
 

• Enroll in the STEP Program (Smart Traveler Enrollment Program) for free U.S. embassy assistance and safety updates while abroad.
  Enroll at: https://step.state.gov

• Save the contact info for the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in your destination on both your phone and your travel folder.

• Share your itinerary with a close friend or family member so they are aware of your location and plans in case of emergency.
   

Trusted Traveler Programs

To speed up security and customs, consider enrolling in one of these programs:

• TSA PreCheck – Faster domestic security screening.
  Apply at: https://www.tsa.gov/precheck

• Global Entry – Speeds up U.S. re-entry and includes TSA PreCheck.
  Apply at: https://www.cbp.gov/travel/trusted-traveler-programs/global-entry

• CLEAR – Uses biometric ID to skip long lines at TSA or stadiums.
  Learn more: https://www.clearme.com
   

When Things Go Wrong: Travel Troubleshooting Tips

While we hope your trip goes off without a hitch, travel can sometimes come with unexpected bumps in the road. Here’s how to handle common issues quickly and efficiently:
 

Flight Delays or Cancellations

• Work Directly with the Airline: Use your airline’s app or go straight to the gate agents or customer service desk to rebook. They can usually help faster than remote customer service lines.

• Keep an Eye on the App: Most airline apps offer real-time updates and allow you to rebook, change seats, or join standby lists right from your phone.

• Take Screenshots: Save all delay or cancellation alerts as they appear on your phone. These can be helpful for filing any insurance claims or complaints.
   

Hotel Issues

• Speak with On-Site Staff: If something isn’t right with your room or experience, report it immediately to the front desk or resort concierge.

• Document Everything: Take photos of any issues and note the names of the staff you speak with, along with the date and time of your conversations.

• Escalate if Needed: If a problem isn’t resolved, ask to speak with a manager or the guest services department.
   

For All Issues

• Save Everything: Keep emails, receipts, confirmation numbers, and any relevant documents organized and accessible throughout your trip.

• Insurance Support: If you purchased travel insurance, you’ll need documentation of the issue to file a claim. This includes screenshots, receipts, and written communication.
   

And remember—your Good Trip advisor is always here as a backup resource. If you've tried working with local support but aren’t making progress, don’t hesitate to reach out so we can assist or advise further.
 

Final Thoughts

We’ve worked hard to help craft an amazing travel experience for you. While we strive for perfection, remember that travel sometimes comes with surprises or unexpected changes. Embrace the adventure—and know that we are always here to support you if something unexpected arises.