BOSTON – Being a savvy traveler can save you time and money. CBS News Travel Editor Peter Greenberg spoke to WBZ about what you need to know as we approach the holiday travel season and the start of 2025.
Will Spirit be alive by next January?
The Wall Street Journal reports Spirit Airlines discusses possible bankruptcy filing. What does this mean for the average traveler?
Greenberg says travelers should continue to book but plan ahead. “The real issue is will Spirit be alive by next January? And right now, it's an existential threat to them. They have $3 billion in long-term debt,” Greenberg said.
Greenberg advises booking Spirit flights with a credit card to easily get your money back in case the airline ceases operations. Second, he urges travelers to develop a backup plan to get to their destination. For extra-cautious travelers, Greenberg suggests booking a flight from another airline that is refundable if you need to reach that original destination.
Southwest seeks to change its business model
Southwest Airlines is looking to change its business model. Greenberg says a group of investors wants the airline to get more revenue through premium seats, assigned seats and increased airfares.
But will the airline's famous non-baggage fees continue to be applied? “It's the third rail for them, are they going to touch the baggage deal? So far they've announced no, but you know what, at some point the accountants are going to take over the asylum, and d “By January or February, you may have to deal with this,” Greenberg said.
Check your passport
Greenberg says now is a good time to check your passport's expiration date. Many countries won't let you in if your passport expires in six months or less. The State Department is reporting faster turnaround times with its new online renewal service, so you can avoid that trip to the post office.
“The only good thing is you can take your own ugly ID photo at home. You don't have to go to Staples or CVS. And you know what they say, when you start to look like your passport photo, it's time to go home,” Greenberg said.
Avoid the queue at customs
Speaking of returning from abroad, Greenberg says not to get stuck in the customs line. Instead, you can download a free app called Mobile Passport Control that helps you process your application electronically and puts you in an expedited line.
The fastest program remains to be Global entry. Its membership process requires an application, background check, interview and a $120 fee. “Who wants to wait in line for two and a half hours when you get off an international flight? No one. Global Entry lets you go straight to a kiosk, it basically reads your eyes, it's all biometric now, and in two minutes you “You are at baggage claim. It's the best thing ever. And if you apply for Global Entry, you also get TSA pre-check,” Greenberg said.
