Mistake #09: Booking connecting flights back-to-back

Another common mistake we all make is in our haste to avoid long transit time, we book connecting flights that are too close together. Recently a client of mine had to fly from Singapore to Beijing before heading off to Mongolia. Unfortunately the time between the flights was an hour and a half, but the distance from the two terminals was quite far, so although he sprinted, he still missed his flight and an important meeting. Therefore, it is best to ensure that the time between connecting flights are not too close. Worse case, you hang around I transit for several hours. At least you can shop at duty free, which is a much better option than missing your flight!

Bottom line, ensure that the gap between connecting flights gives you enough time to get from one terminal to the next, also factoring in delays in your first flight.

Mistake #10: not making reservations

Always, and I can’t say this enough, always make reservations before your leave for your holiday. Imagine flying several hours to your destination only to be told that the hotel has no rooms available. Thats asking for a coronary! So make your reservations bearing in mind peak times etc. Summer season means that most hotels, B&B’s and guest houses are booked in UK, so if you are flying to UK during this time, it is best to book early to avoid disappointment. On the other hand, if you are traveling to Dubai or Abu Dhabi, most hotels offer discounts during the summer period, often 20%, as its a slack period for them. Bottom line, do some research and make your reservations early.

A great post by Tim Hughes about the Three (actually more) lies the travel industry keeps telling consumers. Many travelers will find them quite familiar:

“Again and again the travel industry thinks that lying to a customer is the best way out of an uncomfortable situation. As a consumer of online travel I have come across three standard lies that the industry keeps telling me. They are:

1. I would like to help you but “the system” wont let me;

2. The flight/hotel/boat/train is fully booked; and

3. The flight/boat/train is on time.”

Read more: Three lies the travel industry keeps telling consumers (with Qantas, Hilton and Virgin Express examples)