Weary Travelers Offer 12 Good Lessons

Columnist pumps experts for hard-earned knowledge, tips
By Sophie Goldstein,  Newser Staff
Posted Jan 13, 2008 5:47 PM CST
Weary Travelers Offer 12 Good Lessons
Passengers wait to check in at the Brasilia's international airport in this Wednesday, Dec. 6, 2006, file photo. The Argentine capital's main airport radar hasn't worked properly since being struck by lightning in March, meaning jets must fly under manual control, causing long delays and at least two...   (Associated Press)

MSNBC travel columnist Christopher Elliott asks those sulky veterans of the airways— business travelers—for their best tips on making life on the road tolerable:

  1. Expect nothing, and you won't be disappointed.
  2. Be nice. It can't hurt, and it might even help.
  3. Never pay cash—credit cards offer some protection against scams.

  1. Travel light. The less you have, the less the airline can lose.
  2. Always have a plan B.
  3. Be skeptical. Double-check everything.
  4. Don't trust a verbal reservation. Get it in writing, and always call to confirm.
  5. To snag an upgrade to first call, dress as if you belong there.
  6. Become a member of the airline's loyalty program.
  7. Always keep a photocopy of your passport.
  8. Get enough rest.
  9. Help yourself to soap and shampoo—that's why they're there.
(More airline stories.)

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