Summer 2024 travel already breaking records: Here are some of our top tips
Memorial Day weekend marks the unofficial start of the busy summer travel season — and it was one for the record books. May 24, the Friday before the long holiday weekend, was the busiest ever for the Transportation Security Administration, with the agency screening 2.9 million people. In fact, five of the 10 busiest days on record happened this month alone. According to the TSA, the agency screened nearly 8% more people over this year's holiday weekend versus 2023.
If Memorial Day weekend is any indication, it's going to be a record-breaking summer for both domestic and international travel. That's because the usually busy travel season will also include travel-worthy events like the Summer Olympics in Paris.
Record-breaking summer travel expected
U.S. airlines predict 271 million will travel between June 1 and Aug. 31. That would easily surpass last summer's record of 255 million, according to Airlines for America. U.S. airlines plan to operate over 26,000 flights daily this summer, an increase of nearly 1,400 flights per day from the previous year (or 5.6% over last summer).
Airlines have added flights to accommodate the rush of demand.
“U.S. airlines are excited to fly a record number of travelers this summer,” Rebecca Spicer, A4A's senior vice president of communications, said in a press release. “Our carriers have adjusted their schedules to adapt to current realities of our National Airspace System (NAS), helping to alleviate some of those pressure points and making for a smooth summer travel season.”
Indeed, U.S. airlines performed remarkably well over the long Memorial Day weekend despite a series of thunderstorms that slammed parts of the country. Airlines appear to be recovering more quickly without the cataclysmic failures in the system we saw coming out of the worst of the coronavirus pandemic.
Still, it's better to be prepared for anything. Here are a few of my top tips to help you stay sane this summer.
Reserve parking
As travel demand has increased, so, too, has the need for airport parking. We are increasingly seeing "sold out" signs at airport parking lots.
To ensure you aren't stuck searching for a spot that may or may not exist, lock in that reservation now. Most airport parking lots offer prepaid or reserved parking, making it easy to book in advance. You may even find the rates are cheaper when you book ahead of time.
Related: Don't forget to do this before heading to the airport this summer
Allow extra time
It's going to be busy at the airport this summer, and you should plan accordingly. While we aren't seeing the staffing shortages of a few years ago, there are only so many baggage handlers, ticket counter employees and security screeners.
My mantra for this summer (and the one many of my TPG colleagues share) is that you're "better safe than sorry." That is why we suggest getting to the airport two hours early for domestic flights and three hours in advance for international flights. You just never know these days.
Modern airports have so many conveniences and attractions that it's not the worst thing to have a little extra time at the lounge or even to do some shopping.
Get Global Entry, TSA PreCheck or clear — or a combination of all 3
At TPG, we always recommend using any security shortcuts, including enrolling in a Trusted Traveler Program like TSA PreCheck or Global Entry.
With these programs, the government essentially prescreens you for security, thus saving you a bit of time during your travels. You'll need to apply ahead of time and pay a fee. The great news, though, is that many credit cards will give you a statement credit for these fees.
Related: 7 ways to get free or discounted TSA PreCheck, Global Entry and Clear
TSA PreCheck allows you to speed through airport security without removing your shoes, laptops or liquids. With Global Entry, you can breeze through customs when you return from an international trip.
We recommend getting Global Entry rather than simply TSA PreCheck. Global Entry requires an interview with U.S. Customs and Border Protection ahead of time, but once you're approved, TSA PreCheck will be included.
We also like Clear, another security program that allows you to bypass long security lines.
A Clear membership combined with TSA PreCheck will enable you to go to even shorter lines at some airports with designated Clear/TSA PreCheck lines. Clear isn't always faster, but it will still generally lead to shorter lines.
Related: Why you should get TSA PreCheck and Clear — and how you can save on both
Be smart when you are booking
There is still a shortage of air traffic controllers, and things can and do still go wrong. Travelers these days have to be their own best advocates.
Book better
Think through each booking you make. Try to find a nonstop flight instead of a flight with multiple connections to reduce the risk of missing a flight or being delayed. This will also lessen the chance of having your luggage lost or misplaced.
We also recommend you take one of the first flights of the day, as early flights are less likely to face weather disruptions like afternoon thunderstorms, meaning they're most likely to depart on time.
Related: Flight canceled or delayed? Here's what to do next
Knowledge is power
Make sure you are tracking your flight and the weather.
Download your airline's mobile app to keep track of potential flight delays in real time. Airline apps are a secret weapon in case things go wrong. Not only will you know when boarding starts, but you'll also learn of any delays first. Some airlines even allow you to rebook yourself in the app (or buy yourself an upgrade).
If your flight is canceled, you'll want to beat everyone else on your flight who is also looking to get rebooked.
We recommend heading to the main customer service desk (or the one at a lounge, if you have access). You could also get on the phone with the airline or contact the carrier via social media if there's a delay. Sometimes, an airline's social media representative will help you faster than a phone or in-person agent. You have to use every tool at your disposal when things go wrong.
Many airlines also now have live chat capabilities to help navigate delays and cancellations.
I always have an alternate plan (or two) in the back of my mind in case a flight gets canceled or delayed. I also look to see what other airlines are flying the route I'm taking in case something goes awry. This way, I'll know what to ask for if I need to be rebooked.
I also like using FlightRadar24 to track my flights, plus an app called Flighty. The latter helps me keep an eye on my flights and will often let me know before anyone else (even the airline) if there is a problem with my flight.
You can also use Google to track your flight. Simply put in the airline and flight number to see your flight status.
Know your rights
There's good news regarding passenger rights. The Biden administration is taking a tougher stance when it comes to holding airlines accountable and aiding consumers.
New Department of Transportation rules are more passenger-friendly, requiring airlines to promptly refund passengers if they cancel their flights (or make a significant adjustment to the schedule).
You are entitled to a full refund to your original form of payment within a week if you paid by credit card and within three weeks if you used another payment method. This applies to flights delayed by three or more hours if flying within the U.S. and by at least six hours if flying internationally. Keep in mind, though, that airlines are only required to refund passengers who don't use their tickets.
If you find yourself dealing with a delay or cancellation, remember to save all the receipts for the expenses you incur. You'll want excellent documentation in the case of meltdowns like the one Southwest Airlines passengers experienced during the 2022 winter holidays.
Related reading:
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Rewards
| 4X | Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on purchases at restaurants worldwide, on up to $50,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year. |
| 4X | Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent at US supermarkets, on up to $25,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year. |
| 3X | Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with airlines or on AmexTravel.com. |
| 2X | Earn 2X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels and other eligible purchases booked on AmexTravel.com. |
| 1X | Earn 1X Membership Rewards® point per dollar spent on all other eligible purchases. |
Intro offer
Annual Fee
Recommended Credit
Why We Chose It
There’s a lot to love about the Amex Gold. It’s a fan favorite thanks to its fantastic bonus-earning rates at restaurants worldwide and at U.S. supermarkets. If you’re hitting the skies soon, you’ll also earn bonus Membership Rewards points on travel. Paired with up to $120 in Uber Cash annually (for U.S. Uber rides or Uber Eats orders, card must be added to Uber app and you can redeem with any Amex card), up to $120 in annual dining statement credits to be used with eligible partners, an up to $84 Dunkin’ credit each year at U.S. Dunkin Donuts and an up to $100 Resy credit annually, there’s no reason that foodies shouldn’t add the Amex Gold to their wallet. These benefits alone are worth more than $400, which offsets the $325 annual fee on the Amex Gold card. Enrollment is required for select benefits. (Partner offer)Pros
- 4 points per dollar spent on dining at restaurants worldwide and U.S. supermarkets (on the first $50,000 in purchases per calendar year; then 1 point per dollar spent thereafter and $25,000 in purchases per calendar year; then 1 point per dollar spent thereafter, respectively)
- 3 points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with the airline or with amextravel.com
- Packed with credits foodies will enjoy
- Solid welcome bonus
Cons
- Not as useful for those living outside the U.S.
- Some may have trouble using Uber and other dining credits
- You may be eligible for as high as 100,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $6,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer. Apply to know if you’re approved and find out your exact welcome offer amount – all with no credit score impact. If you’re approved and choose to accept the Card, your score may be impacted.
- Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on purchases at restaurants worldwide, on up to $50,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
- Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent at US supermarkets, on up to $25,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
- Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with airlines or on AmexTravel.com.
- Earn 2X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels and other eligible purchases booked on AmexTravel.com.
- Earn 1X Membership Rewards® point per dollar spent on all other eligible purchases.
- $120 Uber Cash on Gold: Add your Gold Card to your Uber account and get $10 in Uber Cash each month to use on orders and rides in the U.S. when you select an American Express Card for your transaction. That’s up to $120 Uber Cash annually. Plus, after using your Uber Cash, use your Card to earn 4X Membership Rewards® points for Uber Eats purchases made with restaurants or U.S. supermarkets. Point caps and terms apply.
- $84 Dunkin' Credit: With the $84 Dunkin' Credit, you can earn up to $7 in monthly statement credits after you enroll and pay with the American Express® Gold Card at U.S. Dunkin' locations. Enrollment is required to receive this benefit.
- $100 Resy Credit: Get up to $100 in statement credits each calendar year after you pay with the American Express® Gold Card to dine at U.S. Resy restaurants or make other eligible Resy purchases. That's up to $50 in statement credits semi-annually. Enrollment required.
- $120 Dining Credit: Satisfy your cravings, sweet or savory, with the $120 Dining Credit. Earn up to $10 in statement credits monthly when you pay with the American Express® Gold Card at Grubhub, The Cheesecake Factory, Goldbelly, Wine.com, and Five Guys. Enrollment required.
- Explore over 1,000 upscale hotels worldwide with The Hotel Collection and receive a $100 credit towards eligible charges* with every booking of two nights or more through AmexTravel.com. *Eligible charges vary by property.
- No Foreign Transaction Fees.
- Annual Fee is $325.
- Terms Apply.
Rewards Rate
| 4X | Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on purchases at restaurants worldwide, on up to $50,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year. |
| 4X | Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent at US supermarkets, on up to $25,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year. |
| 3X | Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with airlines or on AmexTravel.com. |
| 2X | Earn 2X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels and other eligible purchases booked on AmexTravel.com. |
| 1X | Earn 1X Membership Rewards® point per dollar spent on all other eligible purchases. |
Intro Offer
You may be eligible for as high as 100,000 Membership Rewards® Points after spending $6,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer.As High As 100,000 points. Find Out Your Offer.Annual Fee
$325Recommended Credit
Credit ranges are a variation of FICO® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.Excellent to Good
Why We Chose It
There’s a lot to love about the Amex Gold. It’s a fan favorite thanks to its fantastic bonus-earning rates at restaurants worldwide and at U.S. supermarkets. If you’re hitting the skies soon, you’ll also earn bonus Membership Rewards points on travel. Paired with up to $120 in Uber Cash annually (for U.S. Uber rides or Uber Eats orders, card must be added to Uber app and you can redeem with any Amex card), up to $120 in annual dining statement credits to be used with eligible partners, an up to $84 Dunkin’ credit each year at U.S. Dunkin Donuts and an up to $100 Resy credit annually, there’s no reason that foodies shouldn’t add the Amex Gold to their wallet. These benefits alone are worth more than $400, which offsets the $325 annual fee on the Amex Gold card. Enrollment is required for select benefits. (Partner offer)Pros
- 4 points per dollar spent on dining at restaurants worldwide and U.S. supermarkets (on the first $50,000 in purchases per calendar year; then 1 point per dollar spent thereafter and $25,000 in purchases per calendar year; then 1 point per dollar spent thereafter, respectively)
- 3 points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with the airline or with amextravel.com
- Packed with credits foodies will enjoy
- Solid welcome bonus
Cons
- Not as useful for those living outside the U.S.
- Some may have trouble using Uber and other dining credits
- You may be eligible for as high as 100,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $6,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer. Apply to know if you’re approved and find out your exact welcome offer amount – all with no credit score impact. If you’re approved and choose to accept the Card, your score may be impacted.
- Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on purchases at restaurants worldwide, on up to $50,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
- Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent at US supermarkets, on up to $25,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
- Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with airlines or on AmexTravel.com.
- Earn 2X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels and other eligible purchases booked on AmexTravel.com.
- Earn 1X Membership Rewards® point per dollar spent on all other eligible purchases.
- $120 Uber Cash on Gold: Add your Gold Card to your Uber account and get $10 in Uber Cash each month to use on orders and rides in the U.S. when you select an American Express Card for your transaction. That’s up to $120 Uber Cash annually. Plus, after using your Uber Cash, use your Card to earn 4X Membership Rewards® points for Uber Eats purchases made with restaurants or U.S. supermarkets. Point caps and terms apply.
- $84 Dunkin' Credit: With the $84 Dunkin' Credit, you can earn up to $7 in monthly statement credits after you enroll and pay with the American Express® Gold Card at U.S. Dunkin' locations. Enrollment is required to receive this benefit.
- $100 Resy Credit: Get up to $100 in statement credits each calendar year after you pay with the American Express® Gold Card to dine at U.S. Resy restaurants or make other eligible Resy purchases. That's up to $50 in statement credits semi-annually. Enrollment required.
- $120 Dining Credit: Satisfy your cravings, sweet or savory, with the $120 Dining Credit. Earn up to $10 in statement credits monthly when you pay with the American Express® Gold Card at Grubhub, The Cheesecake Factory, Goldbelly, Wine.com, and Five Guys. Enrollment required.
- Explore over 1,000 upscale hotels worldwide with The Hotel Collection and receive a $100 credit towards eligible charges* with every booking of two nights or more through AmexTravel.com. *Eligible charges vary by property.
- No Foreign Transaction Fees.
- Annual Fee is $325.
- Terms Apply.