Air Travel
Practical advice for flying smarter, not spending more.
The Ultimate Guide to Non-Aiport Lounges
Airport lounge access is no longer limited to first-class passengers—but credit cards, Priority Pass, day passes and independent lounges all work differently. Learn how to find the lounges you can actually use, avoid waitlists and restricted entry, and decide when paying for access is worth it.
American, Delta or United: Start With the Route, Not the Airline
American, Delta and United can each be the right choice—or the wrong one. Learn how to compare the complete itinerary before allowing price, perks or loyalty to decide.
Carry-on only can save time and money, but checking a bag may make a long travel day far easier. Compare the costs, connections, effort and convenience before deciding what works for your trip.
Your Connection Airport May Matter More Than Your Airline
A short connection may look efficient until you factor in deplaning, airport layout and the next flight’s boarding time. Compare the hub, connection time and backup schedule before choosing your itinerary.
EES, ETIAS & UK ETA: What Americans Traveling to Europe Need to Know
Europe's entry rules are changing, but EES, ETIAS and the UK ETA are three very different things. Learn what's already in effect, what's still coming, what Americans actually need to apply for, and why your connection airport can matter just as much as your final destination.
JAL or ANA? Comparing Every Cabin on the Flight to Japan
From 2-4-2 Economy seating to private First Class suites, JAL and ANA take surprisingly different approaches to flying to Japan. We compare the aircraft, seats, cabins and award miles that can make the biggest difference.
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Returning to the U.S.: What to Expect at Customs & Immigration
Landing back in the U.S. is only the beginning. From passport control and Global Entry to declarations, connecting bags and that forgotten apple in your backpack, here’s what to expect before you’re officially home.
Three Economy Seats or Two Premium Economy Seats?
What if two travelers bought three Economy seats instead of upgrading to Premium Economy? We compared real American Airlines fares and found potential savings of hundreds, even thousands, of dollars. But extra space doesn't necessarily mean extra comfort. From legroom and reclining seats to onboard service and clever two-seat Economy rows, we explore the trade-offs to help you decide which option makes the most sense for your next flight.
You don't need a First-Class ticket to make your next flight more enjoyable.
Why Every Traveler Should Join a Loyalty Program
The easiest travel upgrade you'll ever earn could be completely free.
TSA PreCheck, Global Entry or CLEAR+?
These three airport shortcuts solve different problems. Compare the costs, benefits, application process and credit-card reimbursements before choosing the one that fits the way you travel.
Basic Economy vs. Standard Economy
The lowest fare may put you in the same seat while taking away choices involving bags, boarding, seating and flexibility. See what a real $40 fare difference bought—and when keeping the savings may still be the smarter decision.
AAdvantage vs. MileagePlus vs. SkyMiles: Which Program Fits Your Travel?
The airline you fly and the miles you deliberately accumulate do not have to be the same. Compare how your routes, home airport, award goals and flexible points can help determine which program deserves your attention.
Do You Have to Switch Seats on a Flight?
Another passenger wants your window seat. A family wants to sit together. Or the airline tells you that you're moving. Learn when you can say no, when the airline gets the final say, and what happens if you paid for the seat.
When Is a Budget Airline Actually Cheaper?
That low fare can be a great deal, but the price on the search screen is only the beginning. We compare three real trips to see how bags, seats, schedules, nonstop flights, onboard experience and backup options can change the value equation.
TSA Airport Security: What to Expect and How to Be Ready
Airport security has changed, and some of the advice travelers still follow is already outdated. From standard TSA screening to PreCheck, CLEAR+ and even going through security without a plane ticket, here's what to expect and how to arrive at the checkpoint ready.
Plan Your Arrival Day Like You're Going to Be Tired
Tokyo says it's dinner time. Your body says it's 4:45 AM. After 12 hours in economy, airport formalities, and getting to your hotel, sightseeing might be the last thing on your mind. Discover why treating arrival day as recovery day, rather than squeezing in more activities, can give your entire vacation a better start.
Airline Alliances Explained: The Shortcut to Better Award Travel
Your credit-card points don’t always need to transfer to the airline you want to fly. Sometimes another airline’s loyalty program can book the exact same seat. Learn how Star Alliance, oneworld and SkyTeam open up more ways to use your points, why partner award availability matters, and when to transfer.
Includes our free Airline Alliances & Credit Card Transfer Partners Cheat Sheet.