Flights

Nonstop flight has no stops.

A direct flight keeps the same flight number but may stop en route. If you want the fastest option, filter for “nonstop”.

See also: Nonstop, Direct flight

A personal item is usually free; carry-on and checked bags may have fees, especially on ULCCs. Always check your fare rules.

See also: <a href="/glossary#term-personal-item">Personal item</a>, <a href="/glossary#term-carry-on">Carry-on</a>, <a href="/glossary#term-checked-bag">Checked baggage</a>, <a href="/glossary#term-ulcc">ULCC</a>

US citizens and US lawful permanent residents can apply. Some foreign nationals qualify via trusted traveler programs. Approval is required before use

See also: TSA PreCheck

Global Entry speeds up US immigration and includes PreCheck

TSA PreCheck speeds up TSA security;

CLEAR is a paid ID verification to skip ID lines (not a TSA program).

See also TSA PreCheck, Global Entry, CLEAR

Expect limits on changes, seat selection, boarding group, and sometimes carry-ons. Rules vary by airline—check baggage and change policies carefully.

See also: Basic Economy

Many US airlines removed change fees on standard economy and above for domestic routes; fare differences may apply. Basic Economy usually excluded.

See also: Zero change fee

You may book Airline A but fly Airline B. Baggage rules are often set by the marketing carrier on US itineraries; verify on your ticket.

See also: Codeshare

Arrive in one city and depart from another to avoid backtracking. Use the “Multi-city” search and compare prices with standard roundtrips.

See also: Open-jaw

Prices fluctuate. As a rule of thumb, check several weeks in advance, monitor for drops, and avoid peak holidays when possible.

See also: Tariff

Choose a seat you can sleep in, bring layers, earplugs and an eye mask, hydrate, and keep your arrival morning light to adjust.

See also: Red-eye flight