A comprehensive "to-do" list for every discerning passenger, to know about airline reservations, hotels, car rentals and tour packages.

Airline Reservation Checklist

• What restrictions apply to the tickets? (Example: advance purchase, Saturday night stay requirements).
• Is this a direct flight, or will I have to change planes, terminals, or have a layover?
• How and when do I obtain seat assignments and boarding passes?
• The mode of payment accepted by the agent.
• How and when should I reconfirm my flights?
• When should I arrive at the airport for check-in?
• What are the size and weight restrictions, and number of pieces of luggage allowable?
• What type of insurance should I purchase? (Example: baggage, accident, life, cancellation, trip interruption).
• How do I make special requests for my flight reservations, such as special meals/diet, aisle or window seats, and assistance to the gate?
• Will I get credit for my frequent flyer programme?
• What documentation is necessary for this flight? (Example: proof of citizenship, passport, visa.)

Hotel Reservation Checklist

• Where is the hotel located? Downtown? Near the airport? Near historical sites?
• The type of rooms available in the hotel (Example: single, double, smoking/non-smoking.)
• What are the room rates? Does the hotel offer any special or promotional rates? (Example: advance purchase discounts, weekend specials, rates which include breakfast and/or other amenities, corporate rates.)
• What taxes are involved with my hotel stay? (Example: room occupancy tax; state tax, departure taxes, surcharges.)
• Can my reservations be guaranteed if held with a credit card?
• Does the hotel issue a confirmation number? Can I receive a copy of the hotel confirmation in writing?
• The hotel's address and phone/fax numbers.
• The hotel's parking facilities.
• What are the hotel's cancellation policies? Is there a penalty levied if I cancel?
• What special features does the hotel offer? (Example: restaurants, pools, on-site recreation, etc.)
• Is the hotel accessible to the disabled?
• What are the hotel's check-in and check-out times?

Car Rental Reservation Checklist

• Where is the car rental company located? (Example: airport; downtown; at the hotel.)
• What are its hours of operation?
• Is there a shuttle service available?
• The car categories available (Example: compact, economy, mid-size, full-size, luxury.)
• Will the car rental company honour special requests? (Example: non-smoking, four-door, car phone, particular model.)
• What types of insurance coverages are available for car rental?
• Does my own insurance or credit card cover rental car damage due to vehicle theft or collision?
• What are the different rates offered by the company?
• Are there per mile costs assessed or does the car come with unlimited mileage?
• Are there any additional charges?
• Are there any other requirements or restrictions?
• What are the requirements to rent and operate the rental car?

Tour Package Checklist

• The tour types conducted by the operator (Example: escorted/unescorted, deluxe, moderate, economy.)
• How reliable is the operator?
• What are the different modes of transportation used on this tour?
• What are the additional taxes or surcharges involved?
• Does the tour operator accept credit cards?
• What types of meal plans, accommodations, gratuities does the tour offer?
• Does the tour operator offer any optional pre/post tours?
• What are the tour operator's policies and restrictions?

During Your Trip

Even the most well prepared travellers can encounter some problems during a trip. Experience has shown that it's better to try to resolve any problems you face on the spot, if possible. Even if your complaint does not get resolved right away, you will have registered your dissatisfaction should you decide to pursue your complaint after your return. Here are some other steps to take:

• Check your documents to establish your complaint's validity.
• If you have a problem, speak up! Immediately bring the matter to the attention of those in charge.
• Try and have some kind of knowledge of the language spoken in the place you are visiting. Simple words and choice phrases should do the trick.
• Keep notes which include the names of the people with whom you speak and the date, time and location of your conversations.
• File all receipts of expenses incurred while lodging your complaint.
• If your baggage is lost or delayed, immediately file a claim with the company responsible to protect your rights. Be sure to obtain and keep a copy of the claim.

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