As travelers across the nation look forward to warmer temperatures, the Salt Lake City-based travel agency Morris Murdock Travel, an American Express Travel Services Representative, has compiled a list of helpful tips for those planning on vacationing this summer.
“We want our friends and neighbors to make the most of their summer travel and avoid any unnecessary complications,”
Potts said that summer travel plans should include the following:
• Book reservations early. During the summer, popular destinations sell out early. In order to make the most of a vacation in both value and accommodations, make reservations as soon as possible or risk having to compromise on final plans.
• Pack with security in mind. Place your ID tags on the inside of your bag and do not lock it. That will allow airline security to search it if necessary, but it will not advertise the location of your empty home to an unsuspecting perpetrator. Consider labeling a laptop computer as well, as they are the number one forgotten item at airport screening checkpoints.
• Dress for function, not flash. Avoid wearing a lot of jewelry or high-priced clothing that marks you as a wealthy target when traveling. Maintain a low profile while in public and try to blend into your surroundings.
• Make photocopies of all travel documents. Whether your travel destination is considered unpredictable or you are prone to losing things, it’s always a good idea to make photocopies of travel documents such as tickets, passports, itineraries, and credit cards. Carry them separately from the originals in case you have to notify authorities of theft or loss.
• Get street smart. When leaving a hotel for sightseeing, shopping or dining, ask the hotel staff about unsafe streets. Even reputable locations can be targets for pickpockets or muggings. Safety should always come first. For example, a knowledgeable concierge may advise taking a cab to a place within walking distance as a precaution.
• When flying, just to be on the safe side, remember to be at the airport two hours prior to departure. It helps avoid long lines and missing a flight as well as keeps boarding and departures on schedule.
• Morris Murdock Travel advises its travelers to carry a diversified “travel wallet” that includes credit cards, charge cards, a small amount of local currency and prepaid payment methods such as the American Express Travelers Cheque or American Express Travelers Cheque Card, both of which can be refunded or replaced if they are lost or stolen.
“Today’s travelers have an increasing number of worries when it comes to protecting their funds and valuables,” said Potts. “And with identity theft now among the risks of having valuables lost or stolen, the decision becomes even more important. The Travelers Cheque Card takes safe travel to a whole new level, helping to ensure they will have a stress-free trip because it is a prepaid, reloadable card that can be used at merchants and ATMs worldwide that accept American Express.”
“We want everyone to have a fun and relaxing vacation this summer,” Potts commented. “Whether you are planning a cruise to Hawaii, a tour of Peru, a visit to China, a honeymoon to Italy, or a business trip to New York, Morris Murdock Travel has the travel solutions that you need to make your trip as enjoyable as possible.”
For more information on how to make the most of your summer vacation plans, contact Morris Murdock Travel at (800) 999-4646 or visit their website at www.morrismurdock.com.
