Air Travel
AirfareWatchdog is a site that allows you to set up travel alerts for specific destinations. TravelZoo is another site that allows you to set up alerts. It also sends routine emails of bargain deals. It’s not a bad way of following price trends.
Other popular sites are Expedia, Orbitz, Priceline, and Kayak. In my experience with these sites, you will get a decent price but one segment of your trip (either to Prague or home from Prague) will be less than ideal (e.g. bad departure time, super long/short layover, 2+ stops, etc). I found this to be true when booking online directly with airlines as well (Delta, KLM, etc.).
For the past few years I’ve used ASAP Tickets and I’ve been very happy with their service. I’m not impressed with their online user interface so I usually call or email. They are able to find the best value with a good round-trip itinerary and no hidden fees or tricks.
torry.n@asaptickets.com
Travel Agent | International Travel Network
Direct Phone: 844-591-1903 | General Line: 800-677-2943 Ext # 27844
Fax: 800-677-1449 | Email: torry.n@asaptickets.com
Customer Support Hotline: 800-750-2238
Baggage
Be mindful about baggage restrictions and limitations. Airlines have become rather difficult with this service and you don’t want to be caught off guard at the last minute (it can be rather expensive). Find out how many bags you can check for free, what the weight restrictions are, how many personal and carry-on items you can bring on the flight with you and any size requirements.
The TSA decides what you are allowed to bring in your carry-on bag(s) and they are rather inconsistent with enforcement. Be mindful about this and don’t take any short-cuts. If you use expensive hand lotion or carry a nice pocket knife you will want to pack those valuable items in your checked luggage.
Passports
Make sure to review your passport and make sure it meets the 6-month validity rule.
Remember to apply for your passports. Routine processing take 4-6 weeks. Do not delay in starting this b/c it might take you a while to gather all the necessary documents to complete the application. You can use the link below to get started.
https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/apply-renew-passport/form-finder.html
Supporting documents: Birth Certificates, valid Drivers License, passport photos (either get these at Walgreens or have them taken on-site at the post office).
For children under 16, it’s a little more detailed so take a look at this website: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/apply-renew-passport/under-16.html
If this is your first time applying, you must apply in person. This link provides the sites closest to you and includes sites that provide photo services as well.