BOOKING YOUR TRIP ON-LINE? KEEP THESE THINGS IN MIND

Based on some of my personal experiences and in talking to people, below are some things to keep in mind and to look for before you book your next travel adventure on-line. Some of these tips can also be helpful if booking face to face with a travel agent:

Timing – BEFORE you book, decide if it is the right time to take a trip. Other than emergencies or situations out of your control, make sure that there are no major events occurring around the time you plan your trip.

Cancellation policy – ALWAYS read the cancellation policy for air and hotel before you finalize your booking.

Insurance policy – If you purchase insurance for your trip, ALWAYS read the policy (yes, including the fine print). Sometimes the entire booking may only be partially covered. If you are not satisfied, shop around for other insurance policies or ask friends and acquaintances for recommendations. Don’t assume that your travel agent has offered you the best policy available.

De-Select – LOOK FOR pre-checked boxes that offer additional services you do not wish to include in your purchase. Some on-line sites that offer additional services, sometimes pre-check those boxes. And while you are booking and are excited about your trip, you could miss this. So be sure to de-select the box if you don't want the service.

Itinerary – Once you've finalized your booking, check your itinerary IMMEDIATELY and correct any discrepancies RIGHT AWAY. Make sure what you bought and paid for is reflected on the itinerary.

Representatives – ALWAYS get the names (first and last) of representatives with whom you speak. I've had to learn this lesson the hard way.

Correspondence – If a problem occurs with your booking, document everything by WRITING letters instead of trying to reach someone by phone. Be sure to get the first and last name of the person to whom you need to address the correspondence.

Follow up – If you resolve the situation (either over the phone or in writing) and expect action by a certain time, FOLLOW UP as soon as possible if nothing happens.

I would encourage you to be responsible for your on-line booking from start to finish. Even if you believe the travel agent bears some or all of the responsibility, ultimately it's your trip and your money you are spending. Demand the level of service you want and if you don't get it, book elsewhere.