travel of 7

Expect a record-breaking number of travelers on Fourth of July week: How to avoid traffic

• An estimated 70.9 million people will travel for the Fourth of July holiday, a record-breaking number.
• The most popular domestic destinations are Seattle, Orlando, Anchorage, Honolulu and Miami.
• The worst times to drive for 4th of July week are July 3 and 4 between 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.

If you’re one of the projected record-breaking 70.9 million travelers going on a Fourth of July trip, get ready to pack some patience. 

“With summer vacations in full swing and the flexibility of remote work, more Americans are taking extended trips around Independence Day,” said Paula Twidale, senior vice president of AAA Travel, in a statement. “We anticipate this July 4 week will be the busiest ever with an additional 5.7 million people traveling compared to 2019.”

Whether you’re going by airplane or car, traveler numbers are hitting historic highs. An estimated 5.74 million people will fly to their Independence Day destination, a 7% increase from 2023. (We can thank domestic airfare being slightly cheaper this year for that.)

This year, 2.8 million more people will travel by car than last year, for a total of 60.6 million travelers. According to AAA partner and rental car company Hertz, cities like Dallas, Los Angeles, Denver and San Francisco are showing the highest rental car demand. 

Here’s everything you need to know about Fourth of July travel. 

Learn more: Best travel insurance

Planning your summer trip? Where to go and how to save on summer vacations

What are the most popular destinations for Fourth of July week?

Many travelers are headed to the coast for their Independence Day trip, with states like Hawaii and Florida topping the list. With the best time for Alaskan cruises in full swing, cities like Seattle, Vancouver and Anchorage are popular among travelers. As expected, beloved European destinations like London and Rome earned spots on the list as well. 

Most popular domestic destinations:

• Orlando, Florida
• Anchorage, Alaska

Most popular international destinations:

• Vancouver, British Columbia

What are the best times to drive for Fourth of July week?

As is typical with holiday travel, the early bird will catch the worm, which means encountering the least traffic. Drivers should depart on their Independence Day road trips before noon on July 3 and 4. To return home, drivers should leave before 11 a.m. on July 7 and after 7 p.m. on July 8. 

What are the worst times to drive for Fourth of July week?

“Drivers in large metro areas can expect the worst traffic delays on Wednesday, July 3, as they leave town, and Sunday, July 7, as they return,” Bob Pishue, transportation analyst at INRIX, said in a statement. “Road trips over the holiday week could take up to 67% longer than normal.”

On July 3 and 4, drivers should avoid being on the road between 2 p.m. and 7 p.m., when traffic will be most congested. On Friday, July 5, the worst traffic will be between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. 

On Saturday, July 5, the worst traffic for travelers returning home will be between 10:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. The worst traffic is expected July 7, so drivers should avoid the road between 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. 

“Travelers should monitor 511 services, local news stations, and traffic apps for up-to-the-minute road conditions,” Pishue said.

Peak congestion times in major US cities

• Worst route: Birmingham to Atlanta via I-20 E
• Worst day: July 7
• Worst time: 6:30 p.m. 
• Estimated travel time: 3 hours, 36 minutes
• 42% increased travel time
• Worst route: Boston to Hyannis via Pilgrim Hwy S
• Worst day: July 4
• Worst time: 1:45 p.m.
• Estimated travel time: 1 hour, 51 minutes
• 31% increased travel time
• Worst route: Fort Collins to Denver via I-25 S
• Worst day: July 8
• Worst time: 2:45 p.m. 
• Estimated travel time: 1 hour, 37 minutes
• 56% increased travel time
• Worst route: San Antonio to Houston via I-10 E
• Worst day: July 6
• Worst time: 1:30 p.m. 
• Estimated travel time: 3 hours, 48 minutes
• 41% increased travel time

Los Angeles

• Worst route: Bakersfield to Los Angeles via I-5 S
• Worst time: 2:15 p.m. 
• Estimated travel time: 1 hour, 47 minutes
• 29% increased travel time
• Worst route: Jersey Shore to New York via Garden State Pkwy N
• Estimated travel time: 1 hour, 25 minutes
• 40% increased travel time

San Francisco

• Worst route: San Francisco to Monterey via Santa Cruz Hwy S
• Worst day: July 2
• Worst time: 5:45 p.m. 
• Estimated travel time: 2 hours, 31 minutes
• 19% increased travel time
• Worst route: Ellensburg to Seattle via I-90 E
• Worst time: 4:30 p.m. 
• Estimated travel time: 2 hours, 19 minutes
• 35% increased travel time

Washington, D.C.

• Worst route: Baltimore to Washington via Balt/Wash Pkwy S
• Worst time: 3:15 p.m. 
• Estimated travel time: 1 hours, 1 minute
• 67% increased travel time

Kathleen Wong is a travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Hawaii. You can reach her at [email protected] .

The Key Points at the top of this article were created with the assistance of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and reviewed by a journalist before publication. No other parts of the article were generated using AI. Learn more .

Support our educational content for free when you purchase through links on our site. Learn more

What to Pack for a 7 Day Trip: The Ultimate Packing List [2023]

• June 16, 2023
• Travel Checklists

Welcome to Travel Checklist™, where we make packing for your trips a breeze! We understand that preparing for a 7-day trip can be overwhelming, which is why we've put together this ultimate packing list to help you stay organized and ensure you have everything you need. Whether you're embarking on a beach vacation or exploring a new city, we've got you covered. So grab your suitcase and let's get started!

Table of Contents

• Packing Essentials
• Electronics
• Miscellaneous

What do I need to pack for a one week trip?

How do you pack a 7 day carry on, how many days of clothes can you fit in a carry on, quick tips and facts, final thoughts, 1. packing essentials.

Before we dive into specific items, let's talk about the essentials you should pack for any 7-day trip. These items are a must-have regardless of your destination or travel style:

• Travel documents : Don't forget your passport, ID cards, driver's license, visas, and travel insurance information. Keep them organized in a secure travel wallet.
• Money and cards : Bring enough cash and make sure to have a mix of credit and debit cards. It's always wise to have some local currency on hand.
• Travel adapters : Depending on your destination, you might need an adapter to charge your electronic devices. Research the electrical outlets in the country you're visiting and pack the appropriate adapter.
• Medications : If you take any prescription medication, ensure you have enough for the duration of your trip. It's also a good idea to pack a small first aid kit with essentials like band-aids and pain relievers.
• Reusable water bottle : Stay hydrated during your trip by bringing a refillable water bottle. It's both eco-friendly and cost-effective.
• Travel-sized laundry detergent : If you plan to do laundry during your trip, pack a small container of travel-sized laundry detergent. This will come in handy for hand-washing clothes in a sink or using the hotel's laundry facilities.

2. Clothing

When it comes to packing clothing for a 7-day trip, versatility is key. Aim to pack items that can be mixed and matched to create multiple outfits. Here's a breakdown of what you'll need:

• Tops : Pack a combination of short-sleeve and long-sleeve tops, depending on the weather at your destination. Opt for lightweight, breathable fabrics.
• Bottoms : Include a mix of pants, shorts, and skirts. Choose versatile pieces in neutral colors that can be dressed up or down.
• Dresses : If you prefer dresses, pack a few that can be worn during the day or dressed up for evening activities.
• Outerwear : Depending on the climate, pack a light jacket, sweater, or cardigan for cool evenings or unexpected temperature changes.
• Undergarments : Don't forget essentials like underwear and socks. Pack enough for each day of your trip, plus a couple of extra pairs.
• Shoes : Select comfortable shoes that are suitable for the activities you have planned. A pair of sneakers, sandals, and one dressier option should cover your bases.

Remember, the key to fitting all your clothing in your suitcase is to roll your clothes instead of folding them. This not only saves space but also minimizes wrinkles.

3. Toiletries

Toiletries are a crucial part of any packing list. Here are some essential items you shouldn't forget:

• Travel-sized toiletries : Opt for travel-sized versions of your favorite shampoo, conditioner, body wash, and lotion. These are not only convenient for travel but also meet TSA regulations for carry-on liquids.
• Toothbrush and toothpaste : Don't forget these daily essentials for maintaining good oral hygiene.
• Haircare : Bring a brush or comb, hair ties, and any styling products you use regularly.
• Skincare : Pack your essential skincare products, such as cleansers, moisturizers, and sunscreen.
• Makeup : If you wear makeup, bring your must-have items like foundation, mascara, and lipstick. Remember to pack travel-sized versions or decant your products into smaller containers.
• Personal hygiene items : Don't forget items like deodorant, razors, and feminine hygiene products.

Pro-tip: To save space, consider using solid toiletries, such as shampoo bars and solid deodorant.

4. Electronics

In this digital age, electronics play a crucial role in our day-to-day lives, even while traveling. Here are the electronics you should consider packing for a 7-day trip:

• Phone and charger : Your smartphone will likely be your go-to device for navigation, communication, and entertainment. Don't forget to bring your charger and consider a portable power bank for on-the-go charging.
• Camera : If you're a photography enthusiast, pack your camera and any necessary accessories like extra batteries and memory cards.
• Laptop or tablet : If you need to work or want to enjoy your favorite TV shows during downtime, bring your laptop or tablet along with the necessary chargers.
• E-readers : If you're an avid reader, packing an e-reader can save space and weight compared to bringing physical books.
• Headphones : Noise-canceling headphones are a traveler's best friend. They help drown out background noise during flights or long bus rides.

Pro-tip: Invest in a travel adapter that has USB ports, so you can charge multiple electronic devices simultaneously.

5. Miscellaneous

Now that we've covered the essentials, let's discuss some miscellaneous items that can come in handy during your 7-day trip:

• Daypack or tote bag : A small daypack or tote bag is useful for carrying essentials during day trips or exploring the city.
• Travel pillow and blanket : If you're traveling by plane or train, a travel pillow and blanket can make your journey more comfortable.
• Reusable shopping bag : Having a foldable reusable shopping bag is practical for carrying groceries, souvenirs, or beach essentials.
• Travel locks : Keep your belongings secure with travel locks for your luggage.
• Travel-size laundry bag : Separate dirty clothes from clean ones by packing a travel-size laundry bag.

Now that you have a comprehensive packing list, it's time to answer some common FAQs!

Packing for a one week trip can seem daunting, but with a little planning, it's manageable. Here's a quick checklist to guide you:

• 5-7 tops or blouses
• 3-4 bottoms (pants, skirts, or shorts)
• 1-2 dresses or jumpsuits
• Underwear and socks for each day
• Comfortable shoes
• Toiletries (travel-sized)
• Electronics and chargers
• Travel documents and money
• Medications and first aid kit

Remember to pack versatile items that can be mixed and matched to create different outfits. Keep in mind the climate and activities you'll be participating in during your trip.

Packing a 7-day carry-on requires careful planning and efficient use of space. Here are some tips to make it work:

• Choose a carry-on bag that complies with airline size restrictions.
• Roll your clothes to save space and minimize wrinkles.
• Use packing cubes to keep your items organized and maximize space.
• Wear your bulkiest items (like a jacket or sneakers) during your flight.
• Opt for travel-sized toiletries to comply with TSA regulations.
• Minimize the number of shoes you pack by selecting versatile options.

It's important to pack only what you truly need and avoid overpacking. Embrace a minimalist mindset and focus on essentials.

The number of days of clothes you can fit in a carry-on depends on various factors, including the size of your bag and the type of clothing you pack. However, as a general guideline, you can typically fit enough clothing for a 7-10 day trip in a standard carry-on bag. By focusing on versatile pieces, practicing efficient packing techniques, and utilizing space-saving accessories like packing cubes, you can maximize the amount of clothing you bring.

• Travel-sized toiletries : Opt for travel-sized toiletries to save space and comply with TSA regulations.
• Layering : Choose clothing items that can be layered for versatility and adaptability to changing weather conditions.
• Maximize space : Use packing organizers like packing cubes to make the most of your suitcase's space.
• Roll, don't fold : Rolling clothes instead of folding them helps save space and minimize wrinkles.
• Limit shoe options : Bring only the essential shoes you'll need for your trip to avoid taking up unnecessary space.

And now, here are a couple of lighthearted travel quotes from fellow adventurers:

"To travel is to live a life worth packing for." – Anonymous traveler

"I haven't been everywhere, but it's on my packing list." – Susan Sontag

Packing for a 7-day trip doesn't have to be overwhelming. By following our ultimate packing list and implementing our tips and tricks, you can ensure you have everything you need while still traveling light. Remember, packing is all about finding a balance between being prepared and not overburdening yourself with unnecessary items. Bon voyage!

Reference Links:

• TSA's 3-1-1 Liquids Rule
• Ways to Roll Clothes
• Travel Essential Packing Tips
• 10 Genius Packing Tips
• Top Carry-On Bags

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• Nov 18, 2020

How to fit family of 7 in a travel trailer!

What would posses a family of 7, including 2 teenagers, to make the leap from 10 sprawling acres and a 2300 square foot house into a 36 foot bumper pull travel trailer? Some may say we were crazy. Others that they could never but it's awesome that we could! And still others felt inspired. They saw that it could be done! The desire to see America, to soak up our last year of high school with our oldest daughter and to refuse to live a life of looking back with regret for not taking the chance were just a few reasons we decided that fulltime RV living was the right choice for our family. When we began our hunt for the bumper pull travel trailer that we'd make the transition to we had a few non-negotiables.

+ The trailer had to be able to be pulled by a Nissan NV 3500. The tow capacity on the van is 8700 lbs. + It had to have a bunkroom for the kids with a door- no curtain. + It had to have a living room slide. + Bonus points if the bunkroom had double slides. + No outdoor kitchen because that eats into the bunkroom space.

+ It needed to be within our budget- preferably under $25,000 as we were paying with part of the cash from our house sale.

And that was about it. The most challenging part of the hunt was finding a camper with a large enough bunkroom within the tow capacity of the van. We did a ton of research and utilized several fulltime traveling family Facebook groups to ask and search through questions. Believe it or not we weren't so crazy to want to do this lifestyle with 5 kids! After selling the house our next mission was to buy the van. We searched for a 2018 Black or Blue Nissan NV 3500 with leather and within our budget. It also needed to be located somewhere between North Texas and Austin. We primarily searched Cars.com, Nissan NV 3500 Facebook groups and Craigslist. We ended up finding the perfect van in Temple Texas which worked out perfectly because we were staying in the Waco area with one set of our parents.

After finding the van we were on a hunt for our tiny home on wheels. Our search radius was about the same area as the van. Fortunately, the Dallas, east and central Texas areas have a ton of RV dealerships so we had quite a bit of inventory to search through. Our search perimeters are what narrowed the search and made it more difficult to find the perfect rig. A dealership we were looking at ended up having a 2018 Keystone Passport 3290BH on sale and as we walked into it we realized it felt like the perfect rig for us! It met every need except it was slightly over our budget. At that point we had a choice to make. Be willing to spend more than we planned or continue on the hunt for the unicorn trailer. Because we were in a position after the sale of the house to be able to spend a little more that is what we decided to do. It was only slightly over our budget and it would end our search and we could move onto the next step of making the camper work for our family. This model has 4 bunks in the bunkroom but we have 5 kids. I'll go ahead and focus on the bunkroom aspect for this blog and save the rest of the camper details for another.

Another non-negotiable was that each child had their own bed. We didn't want anyone sleeping on a couch because we felt strongly that if this was going to be our home each child needed a bed that wasn't dual purpose. The first problem to overcome was how we were going to sleep 5 children in the bunkroom. Our wheels started turning and on a trip to Ikea we discovered the Ikea Kritter bed .

The bed is a junior sized bed which means it's longer than a toddler bed but shorter than a twin sized bed. What made it perfect was that our 3 youngest kids were short enough to fit comfortably on a junior bed!

The bed also fit perfectly into the slide. (We also cut out the cute little lambs on the headboard because all of our kids were just a bit old to appreciate that, ha!) The next issue we faced was needing to fit 3 Kritter beds into a bunkroom with two slides. The solution was to fit one horizontally on one side.

On the other side would be two side by side coming out from the slide wall on the other slide.

That still allowed some floor space in the bunkroom and each one of our kids got their own bed! The question your inevitably asking is....what did you do with the beds on moving day when the slides had to come in? Great question! On moving day we turned the two beds horizontally, slid one into the slide and staked the other on tops of it. Then when we got to our next destination we'd unstack them and set up. It was also important that each bed the kids slept on was actually comfortable. We bought mattresses from Ikea for the Kritter beds and then we ran across a RV bunk bed mattress hack that worked perfectly! We bought a full sized memory foam mattresses from Amazon and cut them in half to fit the bunks in the room! Using a bread knife we measured and cut right down the middle. Easy Peasy! It was also extremely important to us that whatever mattress we bought had very minimal off gassing since we were going to be in such a small space without a ton of air circulation. After some research we decided both IKEA mattresses and Lucid brand mattresses met our needs. Lucid is Certi-PUR which means it has no odors and minimal off gassing. The next big issue for a large family, and really any family with children, is where to store clothes! This model actually had pretty great storage in the bunkroom but, again, with 5 children we needed more storage space. The solution to this was buying soft sided, zippered under the bed storage containers from Ikea. The SKUBB storage units worked great! We were able to slide 3 under each Kritter bed. Each child could have enough clothes that would fit into that storage container.

But what about the teen girls?! I hear you saying. Let me say this....this was all a process of working through an addition to things. As a culture we have such a huge problem with wanting more more more of everything when in reality we can very often live with less.

But, I digress, that is another topic for another blog post. Essentially it was a forced conversion to minimalism for all of us. We all had to evaluate each item we brought into the camper and decide whether or not it served us well enough to earn a highly prize place on the road with us. I found plastic storage bins that stacked perfectly into the cabinet storage in the bunkroom and we stored winter hats and gloves, health supplements, hiking socks, art and school supplies, and other various things that needed a home, in those plastic bins. Each child also got to bring one bin worth of personal things with us. Personal art supplies, print pictures with friends, note book and other various things are what they chose. The cabinet space also provided storage for the board games we brought, the small amount of legos and other toys that made the cut. Shoes, coats and jackets are also a pretty big issue for a family of 7! It we all simply have 1 winter coat, a rain jacket and a lightweight jacket we're looking at 21 jackets! Where on earth do all of those go!? We hung a coat rack on the wall of the slide. The lightweight and winter jackets were hung on that.

We headed to our local North Face outlet and found kids rain jackets that could be rolled tightly up for compact storing. This is both excellent for storing in the rig and for throwing in back packs for hikes!

Along with making sure everything and everyone fit into the bunkroom it is also super important to me that our home- no matter the size- be aesthetically pleasing. Since we had kids ranging in ages 7-17 at the time the decor in the room needed to be neutral for both boys and girls. We landed on a sort of adventure theme with neutrals colors that also matched with the cabinetry because weren't painting that! I found the comforters on Amazon. They were pretty light weight so we also added fleece blankets for colder nights. We added a rug, some pillows and wall decor was Hobby Lobby and the space felt cozy! I also hung removable shiplap wallpaper on each wall of the camper. That was a solution for updating the space while not having to paint the walls.

Figuring out how to fit a large family into a small space can feel daunting and overwhelming but it doesn't have to be! +Get creative and think outside the box. +Evaluate what is really necessary vs simply wanted. +Make the space work for you. Then enjoy the new memories being made!

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• FTLO Travel
• Jul 22, 2019

The best 7 day vacation ideas around the world

Some ideas are just a tad more brilliant than others when it comes to 7-day vacation planning.

These tend to be destinations that offer a good mix of activities, food, and fun, and places that have lots of good day trip options so that you’re not confined to one city.

Luckily, FTLO is in the business of searching far and wide so that travelers like you can make the most of your PTO and fill up your week-long itinerary with lots of memorable activities.

Read on to find out which travel destinations make for the best one week vacations (or join the FTLO Community   for even more inside info) .

The Best One Week Vacation Ideas in the World

Florence, italy, barcelona, spain, the basque country, crete, greece, cartagena, colombia, mexico city, mexico, hanoi, vietnam.

The best One Week vacations in Europe

A magical city to visit, Florence (Firenze) is an absolute dream for those who love art, history, and Italian cuisine. Wander the charming cobblestone streets of this city alongside vespas that zoom up and down. Make your way to some of the most renowned historical structures and artistic masterpieces in the world, and along the way, stumble into lovely boutiques and leather shops, run by the artists themselves. Get your city fix, with a side of charm. Day trips are available to the beautiful countryside and wine center.

Browse the itinerary and check upcoming trip dates to Tuscany & Rome .

Barcelona is arguably one of the best cities to visit in Spain if you’re looking for a fun, dynamic vacation spot. Foodies, art lovers and beach babes alike will love visiting, getting their fix of tapas and local drinks, architecture and history, and of course, beach picnics, all day every day. From day time to night time, Barcelona is alive and vibrant with young travelers from all over the world who are ready to have a good time. Take day trips to less populated beaches and towns, or catch a short flight to the very South of France.

Browse the itinerary and check upcoming trip dates to Barcelona & South of France .

The Basque country is a spectacular region for a week-long trip. It's home to amazing coastal vistas, mouth watering cuisine, and lively culture. Oh yeah, did we mention it's also got the most Michelin-starred restaurants per capita. That means any traveler hitting up this region (which consists of parts of Spain and France) will be chowing down on world-famous dishes right off the bat. Discover absurdly tasty pintxos, swim it up in San Sebastian, and fall in love with this less visited and it's friendly culture.

Home to everything from Bronze Age Minoan ruins to delicious wine and sun-kissed beaches, this Greek island offers up the total travel experience. With a vast landscape made up of mountains and miles of coast, it's also home to some of Europe's true beauty. And with homemade goat cheese and olive oils, it's a foodie destination in its own right. After the FTLO Crete t rip you’ll be sure to leave in awe and planning your next visit back.

The best One Week Vacations in Latin America

Here's a vacation idea: A beautiful colonial town located on the Caribbean coast of Colombia, colorful buildings, incredible churches, local markets, and perfect weather. Not bed, eh? Cartagena is not only an ideal vacation destination for those who only have a few days to spare, it's one of our picks for best places to travel anywhere. The town itself is breathtaking, and there’s loads to see and do. Stroll the streets and try delicious Colombian foods, and admire the beautiful architecture and culture. Take a day trip to the gorgeous remote Rosario Islands, stay in adorable colorful cabins if you wish, try amazing seafood, and snorkel in turquoise waters to view the amazing coral reef.

Browse past itineraries and stay tuned for upcoming trips to Colombia .

A significant and fascinating cultural center, Mexico City is definitely a must-visit for anyone who loves art, history, and amazing Mexican cuisine. FTLO in, fact, hosts a trip to Mexico City for anyone who considers themselves a foodie because street tacos and mezcal are definitely worth their own trip! From locally grown food to imported ingredients from all around the world, Mexico’s unique cuisine integrates creative and delicious ingredients in masterful dishes. Of course, there’s lots of beautiful art, culture, and concerts to enjoy during your visit, and a one-week vaca will leave you wanting more.

Browse the itinerary and check upcoming trip dates to Mexico City .

The best One Week Vacations in Asia

Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, is an ancient city home to temples, art, and a delicious fusion cuisine. This is certainly one our best 7 day vacation ideas. Captivating for its artisans, fascinating for its culture, and exciting for its buzzy local scene, Hanoi is a must-see for anyone traveling through Vietnam. There are a number of easy day trips from Hanoi to the countryside or to Ha Long Bay for some mesmerizing views.

Browse the itinerary and check upcoming trip dates to Vietnam .

Didn't quite find what you're looking for? Check out our upcoming trips to Scandinavia, Morocco, South Africa and more for some of the best 7 day vacation ideas or   join our community by filling out a profile,  and one of our Community Managers will help find the best destinations for you!

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geometry dash online offers a special blend of challenging courses, an innovative community, and rhythm-based gameplay. With its distinctive fusion of music and platforming, it offers players of all skill levels a demanding and never-endingly amusing experience.

Watch CBS News

Are you traveling for July Fourth? Here's how to beat the travel rush.

Updated on: June 27, 2024 / 6:15 PM EDT / AP

The Fourth of July is right around the corner, and the travel rush is already heating up.

Millions of Americans are preparing to get out of town sometime in the coming holiday week. That will likely mean busy roads, as well as packed airports and train stations.

Motor club AAA projects that some 70.9 million travelers will head 50 miles (80 kilometers) or more from their homes over a nine-day Independence Day travel period — surpassing pre-pandemic numbers for the U.S. holiday. And the Transportation Security Administration expects to screen over 32 million individuals in airports from this Thursday through July 8, up 5.4% from last year's numbers.

Here's how to save money on your Fourth of July barbecue

Are you traveling for the Fourth? Here's a rundown of what you need to know.

Smooth sailing for travel around any holiday is never a given. But avoiding the most hectic times, when others are rushing out of town, is a good way to start.

If you're traveling by car for the Fourth of July, it's best to hit the road in the morning, according to transportation data and insights provider INRIX. Peak traffic congestion varies by location, INRIX data published by AAA shows, but the worst times to drive on, or leading up to, the holiday are generally between 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. Either way, be prepared for the roads to be jammed.

"Road trips over the holiday week could take up to 67% longer than normal," Bob Pishue, transportation analyst at INRIX, said in a prepared statement.

July Fourth falls on a Thursday this year, and many travelers will likely take Friday July 5th off to extend their trip into a four-day weekend. Drivers in large metro areas can expect the biggest delays on Wednesday July 3 and Sunday July 7 — as travelers leave and return to town, Pishue added.

And if you're renting a car ahead of July Fourth, the busiest pickup days will be Friday, Saturday and Wednesday before the holiday, AAA notes.

Airports will also likely be packed all week long — but the TSA expects most people will take to the skies on Friday.

It anticipates that it will screen more than 3 million individuals Friday. That would surpass the agency's current record for most people screened on a single day, which reached just under 3 million last Sunday.

"We expect this summer to be our busiest ever," TSA Administrator David Pekoske said, adding that travel typical peaks around Independence Day.

Last year, the busiest day for Fourth of July air travel was also the Friday ahead of the holiday, TSA data shows. If past trends hold, travel will likely be higher on the days before and after the Fourth — particularly closer to the weekend. In 2023, for example, more than 2 million people were screened on the Fourth, which landed on a Tuesday last year, down from 2.88 million the Friday before.

Flights can be delayed or canceled for an array of reasons — from plane-specific mechanical problems to major storms impacting popular travel paths.

If your flight is canceled, airlines are required to provide refunds for customers, even if the cancellation is due to weather. Delays are trickier, because they typically have to meet certain criteria for relief, such as refunds or compensation — but carriers will often give customers to chance to switch to alternative flights, if available, at no cost.

In April, the Biden administration issued final rules that include requiring airlines to provide automatic cash refunds within a few days for canceled flights and "significant" delays. Those rules are set to take effect over the next two years, but the Department of Transportation has a site that lets consumers see the commitments each airline has made for refunds and covering other expenses when flights are canceled or significantly delayed.

It's better to be stuck at home than locked in hourslong traffic or stranded in an airport terminal. Before heading out the door this holiday week, do yourself a favor and check the status of your travel plans.

Was your flight, train or bus ride delayed? Are there are traffic incidents set to disrupt your drive? And what about the weather? A quick look through your itinerary — such as trip updates on a carrier's website — checking weather forecasts and monitoring traffic safety through services like the 511 hotline or your phone's navigation apps can go a long way toward avoiding travel misery.

Here are a few more tips to keep in mind:

— Leave early: There are more people everywhere during a holiday week, so lines will be longer and roads will be busier. Give yourself more time to get to your destination or to make your way through airport security.

— Keep an eye on the weather — and not just for your destination: Look at the weather for your entire travel path. Even if it's sunny skies both at home and the place you're headed, it's important to keep an eye out for any storms in between. You may need to do some rerouting.

— Be kind: A trip delay or cancellation can be really frustrating — but if you're running into disruptions, chances are others are too. Customer service agents have a lot on their plate at this time of year, and it's important to be patient and respectful as they try to help you.

• Transportation Security Administration

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UNCLASSIFIED (U)

OFFICIAL TRAVEL

(CT:LOG-343;   02-11-2022) (Office of Origin:  A/LM)

14 FAM 531  EmploymenT and Assignment Travel

(CT:LOG-343;   02-11-2022) (State/USAGM/USAID/Commerce/Agriculture)

When two or more types of travel are combined, the pertinent provisions apply separately to each segment of the trip.  Types of official travel follow below.

14 FAM 531.1  Appointment Travel

a. Official travel and transportation for U.S. citizen employees, their families, and effects, may be authorized from place or places of residence or other place specifically authorized to official duty station.

b. Effects may be authorized to be shipped at U.S. Government expense from place of storage.  Shipment of effects is authorized for employees whose tour of duty at post is one year or more or who serve less than a year and are transferred or otherwise removed from post for the convenience of the U.S. Government (see 3 FAM 2440 regarding curtailments).

14 FAM 531.2  Alternate-Seat-of-Government Travel

a. Official travel and transportation for U.S. citizen employees, their families, and effects, may be authorized to and from the alternate seat of government.

b. There is no per diem at destination unless specifically authorized. Shipment and storage of effects, and privately owned vehicle, may be authorized.

14 FAM 531.3  Relocation Travel

Official travel and transportation may be authorized for employees to move from one official duty station to another.  This includes permanent change-of-station (PCS) and transfer moves.

14 FAM 531.4  Home Leave Travel

a. Official travel and transportation may be authorized for U.S. citizen employees and their families from post or any place abroad where presence is due to U.S. Government orders to home leave address within the United States (or U.S. commonwealth or possessions) and return to post of assignment or a new official duty station.  Home leave travel is not authorized for family members already on separate maintenance allowance (SMA) authorization (see also 14 FAM 536.1 ).

b. Employees and their families traveling should spend 20 workdays in the United States (see 3 FAM 3434.2 for exceptions).  Except as provided in 14 FAM 532.4 the family may not travel until the employee is eligible for home leave and has been issued home leave orders.

14 FAM 531.5  Rest and Recuperation Travel

a. Travel of an employee and eligible family members may be authorized and performed in accordance with 14 FAM 523.2-1 , subparagraph f(1)(d) and in 3 FAM 3720 .

b. Each post eligible for rest and recuperation (R&R) travel will fund one of the following three travel options to employees and eligible family members:

(1) Round-trip travel to post's designated foreign relief point.  Lists of eligible posts by regional area and their designated relief points are in 3 FAH-1 Exhibit H-3722(1) through 3 FAH-1 Exhibit H-3722(5) ; or

(2)  Round-trip travel to any one city in the United States (the 50 States and the District of Columbia) or one city in its territories including American Samoa, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, Guam, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, and the U.S. Virgin Islands; or

c.  Only the designated foreign relief point, the traveler's selected city in the United States or U.S. territory, or "R&R Cost-Construct Cap" can be shown as the destination on the authorized itinerary of the R&R travel authorization.

e.  Employees authorized premium class travel through MED/DRAD will have a cost-construct cap established on a case-by-case basis using the same methodology used for economy caps outlined in 3 FAH-1 H-3726.3 .

f.  The Department recommends that posts use the lowest cost unrestricted airfares for travel to the designated relief point or U.S. city or U.S territory.  However, funding for R&R travel is a post function and, as such, the final decision whether to use restricted or unrestricted fares for R&R travel is a post responsibility.

14 FAM 531.6  Marine Security Guard

See 12 FAM 435 .

14 FAM 531.7  Military Furlough, Resignation, Retirement, and Other Separation Travel

a. Official travel and transportation may be authorized for U.S. citizen employees, their eligible family members, and effects, from post or any place where presence is due to U.S. Government orders to designated place of residence in the United States (see definition of "United States" in 14 FAM 511.3 ).

b. When a U.S. citizen employee elects to reside at other than the designated place of residence, expenses must be allowed based on constructive cost (for "cost constructed travel," see 14 FAM 511.3 and 14 FAM 612.3 ) to designated place of residence in the United States.  See 3 FAM 2510 on separation of U.S. citizen employees and 3 FAM 2560 on military furlough.

c.  This regulation provides Civil Service employees, who mandatorily converted to Civil Service from Foreign Service under the Foreign Service Act of 1980, those benefits of travel and/or transportation of effects to which they were entitled at the time of such mandatory conversion.

14 FAM 532  Family tRAVEL

14 FAM 532.1  Family Travel for Representational Purposes

14 FAM 532.1-1  Eligibility and Purpose

Travel for representational purposes may be authorized for one family member only.  The authorizing officer is expected to make sparing and judicious use of this authorization.  In all cases, the justification must demonstrate a clear advantage to the United States.

14 FAM 532.1-2  Within Country of Assignment

a. As a general guideline, local travel of a family member should be authorized when:

(1)  Representation by the officer alone could not be accomplished effectively; or

(2)  Protocol or local customs would be served; or

(3)  The travel is necessary in connection with VIP visits or important meetings at which spouses of foreign dignitaries are present.

b. The chief of mission in consultation with heads of other agencies in their country of assignment will develop local rules and practices to promote the maximum degree of uniformity in the exercise of this authority.

14 FAM 532.1-3  Outside Country of Assignment

Representational travel outside the country of assignment is restricted to family members of high-level officers and will be authorized only when a clear need for dual representation exists.  Normally, travel will be restricted to eligible family members of chiefs of mission, deputy chiefs of mission, country public affairs officers, and USAID mission directors or USAID representatives.  However, in exceptional circumstances, the eligible family members of a subordinate officer may be authorized such travel.  Typical of the circumstances warranting representational travel outside the country are the following:

(1)  When an ambassador or USAID mission director accompanies a foreign dignitary to the United States on a state visit or as a presidential guest and the dignitary is accompanied by a spouse or other members of the household;

(2)  When a State, or USAID officer attends an international conference or meeting sponsored by a group or organization of nations, such as the United Nations, and the spouses of participants have also been invited to attend; and

(3)  When the President sends U.S. delegations abroad or congressional or other high-level delegations proceed abroad, accompanied by their spouses.

14 FAM 532.1-4  Domestic-Based Employees

Representational travel by family members of domestically assigned employees is restricted to the Secretary, Deputy Secretary, Deputy Secretary for Management and Resources, and Under Secretaries, unless a waiver is granted by M, and will be authorized only when a clear need for such representation exists.

14 FAM 532.1-5  Authorization and Documentation

a. Department of State : The chief of mission may (subject to the availability of travel funds) authorize representational travel within and/or outside the country of assignment for employees at post.  This authority may be redelegated only to the deputy chief of mission.  The Assistant Secretary of the regional bureau may authorize for the chief of mission.  For representational travel outside the country of assignment, advance approval must also be obtained from the assistant secretary of the regional bureau.  For domestic based employees, the Under Secretary for Management must approve all representational travel for family members.  Representational travel by a family member of M must be approved by D.

b. USAID :  The director of the USAID mission or USAID representative may (subject to the availability of travel funds) authorize representational travel within and/or outside the country of assignment.  This authority may not be redelegated. For representational travel outside the country of assignment, advance approval must also be obtained from the regional bureau Assistant Administrator in Washington.

c. The officials cited above must provide and sign a justification statement.  For control and inspection purposes, the authorizing officer should record and file the justification statement in the Department's eTravel Services (ETS) software (currently E2 Solutions).

14 FAM 532.2  Adding New Eligible Family Members

Employees who wish to add a new eligible family member – EFM - (see 14 FAM 511.3 for the definition of "eligible family member") do so by completing Form OF-126, Foreign Service Residency and Dependent Report, to GTM/EX/IDSD or HCTM/FSC for USAID staff.  Once the new EFM is added to the Form OF-126 then the employee’s travel authorization will be updated to include new EFM and travel expenses may be incurred based on the updated travel authorization, notwithstanding the time limitation specified in 14 FAM 584.2 .  Travel will be authorized from either the location at which the new EFM joined the family (for example, place of birth or adoption) or from the employee’s official home of record.  Shipment and storage of additional effects may be authorized in accordance with 14 FAM 613.2 .

14 FAM 532.3  Advance Return of Family Financed by U.S. Government

14 FAM 532.3-1  General Policy

In certain cases, an employee's family may be authorized, before the employee's eligibility for travel, to return to employee's residence in the United States.

14 FAM 532.3-2  Conditions of Authorization

a. The Department of State, USAGM, Commerce, Agriculture, or the USAID mission director or USAID representative may authorize advance travel of an employee's family members when the chief of mission or the head of the agency establishment abroad determines that the public interest requires the return of a member of the family for compelling personal reasons of a humanitarian or compassionate nature, including but not limited to cases which may involve physical or mental health or death of any member of the immediate family.

b. The Department or Agency in Washington, DC, may authorize advance travel of family members when there is an obligation imposed by an authority or circumstances over which the individual has no control.  Advance travel may be authorized by the Department or Agency in Washington, DC, after family members have been at the post at least 6 months under the following conditions:

(1)  A child who is not eligible for educational travel (see 14 FAM 532.5 ) has been at a post abroad and educational needs (for the equivalent of grades 1 through 8 only) so require; or

(2)  A child 21 years or older, is unmarried, and has traveled to the post before attaining such age (see 14 FAM 532.6 ).

14 FAM 532.3-3  Authorized Costs

Only one-way transportation will be authorized for advance return of family.  If a family member subsequently travels at U.S. Government expense to the same or another post to which the employee is assigned, the total cost of the advance return and subsequent travel may not exceed the cost which would have been incurred had the family member traveled at the same time as the employee.

14 FAM 532.3-4  Repayment Agreement

Before any obligation of U.S. Government funds is incurred, the employee must execute a repayment agreement in accordance with the format in Form DS-4020, Repayment Agreement for Advance Travel of Family.  The original and one copy should be forwarded to:

(1)  State :  GTM/CDA, by memorandum, subject:  APER;

(2)  USAID :  M/PM, USAID/W as an attachment to a memorandum;

(3)  Commerce : USFCS/OIO/OFSP as an attachment to a memorandum;

(4)  USAGM :  E/O, P/N, VOA/X, and D/OHR as an attachment to a memorandum.

(5)  USDA/FAS :  Foreign Agricultural Affairs, International Services Division; and

(6)  APHIS :  International Services/Administrative Services/Personnel.

14 FAM 532.3-5  Repayment Requirements

The conditions under which repayment must be made by the employee for travel expenses borne by the U.S. Government in connection with the advance return of employee's family are as follows:

(1)  The employee fails to complete the service period (see 3 FAH-1 H-2423 , subparagraph c) required to become eligible for travel and transportation at U.S. Government expense; or

(2)  There is a change of dependency status which cancels the eligibility of family member(s) for return travel to the United States (see definition in 14 FAM 511.3 ) at U.S. Government expense.  (A divorce or an annulment prior to the issuance of travel orders no longer cancels eligibility of family members for return travel to the United States.)

14 FAM 532.3-6  Repayment Liquidation or Refund

(CT:LOG-343;   02-11-2022) (State/USAGM/USAID/Commerce/Agriculture)

If the employee is subsequently transferred, assigned, separated, or returned on leave at U.S. Government expense to the United States and the expenses of the advance travel become a proper obligation of the U.S. Government, the employee will be relieved of the obligation set forth in the repayment agreements to the amount of allowable expenses (see 14 FAM 532.3-4 ).  If the employee has previously made repayment, employee may request and receive an appropriate refund.

14 FAM 532.4  Advance Travel of Family Financed by the Employee

a. The employee may arrange for advance travel of family, paying the cost initially and claiming reimbursement after the employee has been issued travel authorization which covers the travel of family and after the employee has reached eligibility date.  Reimbursement is limited to the amounts payable had the family traveled at the same time as the employee.

b. Reimbursement may be made for advance travel or return travel to the United States for a spouse or domestic partner as defined in 3FAM 1610 and/or minor children of an employee who have traveled to the post as eligible family members even if, because of divorce, annulment or dissolution of domestic partnership, such spouse or domestic partner as defined in 3 FAM 1610 and/or minor children have ceased to be eligible family members as of the date the employee becomes eligible for travel.  Reimbursable travel may not be deferred more than 6 months after the employee completes personal travel pursuant to the authorization.

c.  If the advance travel of family was to the employee's temporary duty (TDY) post and the employee was transferred to the post at the end of the employee's TDY, employee may claim reimbursement for expenses of allowable travel and transportation of family and effects which were incurred prior to the effective date of transfer of the employee and the date of employee's transfer travel authorization.

14 FAM 532.5  Educational Travel

a. Travel of a child may be authorized in lieu of an educational allowance, once each way annually between school and the employee's post for secondary education and for college education in accordance with section 280, Standardized Regulations (Government Civilians, Foreign Areas) and the Federal Travel Regulations.

b. Unaccompanied air baggage is allowable in accordance with 14 FAM 613.3-1 .

14 FAM 532.6  Travel of Children 21 Years of Age or Older

a. An employee's child who is unmarried and who is 21 years of age or older may be authorized return travel to the employee's place of residence for separation purposes in the United States (see definition in 14 FAM 511.3 ), provided the child, when attaining the age of 21 was at, or proceeding to, a post abroad to which the employee was assigned.  The first travel authorization that is issued to the employee authorizing travel of the family after a child has reached the age of 21, constitutes authority for such travel.  The return of the child to the United States should be completed within 1 year of the date the employee's travel begins.

b. A child 21 years or older, who proceeds to the employee's post, may not be returned to the United States nor perform any travel at U.S. Government expense, except as provided for educational travel up to the 23rd birthday, plus additional years allowed for any military service, in subchapter 280 of the Standardized Regulations (Government Civilians, Foreign Areas).

c.  Travel of a child who is under 21 will usually be authorized to an employee's next assignment if the employee's transfer is to occur before the child's 21st birthday.  If that child's travel does not commence prior to turning 21, that authorization is no longer valid.

d. If a child commences R&R or home leave/return travel before attaining the age of 21 and turns 21 while in travel status, the child is authorized return to post under the travel authorization that was in effect prior to his turning 21.

14 FAM 532.7  Travel of Family While Employee Is on Temporary Duty (TDY) En Route to or from Post of Assignment

a. Payment of per diem during an employee's period of TDY, which may not exceed 30 calendar days total, is authorized for members of an employee's family accompanying the employee to the post of assignment only under the following conditions:

(1)  When the employee is ordered to stop within the country of destination for orientation, training, or consultation while en route to post of assignment;

(2)  When the employee is ordered to stopover outside the country of destination for orientation, training, or other TDY while en route to the post of assignment, provided that the stopover is in the positive interest of the U.S. Government and is made necessary by a threat to the health, safety, or well-being of the employee’s family if required to continue on to post of assignment other than in the company of the employee;

(3)  In cases where the family member, because of representative responsibility in the U.S. Government's interest, is required to stop at agency headquarters while en route abroad to employee's post of assignment in order to undergo special orientation and/or training designed to ensure the effective discharge of those responsibilities; or

(4)  In any other cases when specifically authorized by the agency in advance in writing in travel orders.

b. When an employee is ordered to stop for TDY in the United States or abroad en route to or from employee's post of assignment, the family does not have to accompany the employee as long as they join the employee at the stopover point.  Per diem at the stopover point may be allowed for members of the family only during the period of TDY of the employee and for the actual time at the TDY location.

c.  Per diem, not to exceed 3 work days, may be authorized when an employee or the employee's family members who are at a constituent post and are traveling on home leave, transfer, or separation orders must stop, at the time of travel, at the Embassy in country or at an embassy in a neighboring country for the purpose of storing or retrieving effects or obtaining passports, visas, or immunizations.

d. Stopovers should generally not be authorized for family members in connection with international, interagency, interregional, or intermission conferences, unless specifically authorized by the agency in advance in writing and reflected in travel orders.

14 FAM 532.8  Return Travel of Spouse, Domestic Partner as Defined in 3 FAM 1610, and/or Dependent Children to the United States in Connection with Marital Separation, or Divorce, or Statement of Dissolution of Domestic Partnership

a. Return travel of an employee's spouse or domestic partner as defined in 3 FAM 1610 may be authorized to the employee's service separation address in the United States (see definition of "United States" in 14 FAM 511.3 ) or any other location on a cost-constructive basis from the employee's post of origin to the employee's separation address when a permanent marital separation or divorce is intended, or a statement of dissolution of domestic partnership has been submitted.  Generally, a separation agreement should exist, but in the absence of an agreement, the chief of mission or head of agency's establishment abroad may determine that such travel is warranted and may initiate authorization action.  The circumstances upon which this determination is based should be summarized in writing and retained at post in accordance with 5 FAH-4, Records Management Handbook.

b. Return travel of spouse or domestic partner as defined in 3 FAM 1610 may be included in the first travel authorization issued to the employee authorizing travel of the family after an agreement to separate, divorce, or dissolve a domestic partnership is reached.  In the circumstances referred to in paragraph a of this section, such travel may also be requested as advance travel in accordance with 14 FAM 532.3 and 14 FAM 532.4 .

c.  Only one-way transportation to the employee's service separation address, or to any other location in the United States on a cost-constructive basis from the employee's post of origin to his or her separation address, will be authorized for return travel of spouse or domestic partner as defined in 3 FAM 1610 .  If the employee subsequently requests travel of the spouse at U.S. Government expense to the same or another post to which the employee is assigned, the total cost of the return and subsequent travel may not exceed the cost which would have been incurred had the spouse or domestic partner as defined in 3 FAM 1610 traveled at the same time as the employee.  In such cases, if the cost of the return and subsequent travel exceeds the employee's authorized travel, the employee will be liable for payment of the excess cost.

d. Before any expenses are incurred for return travel of spouse or domestic partner as defined in 3 FAM 1610 , the spouse or domestic partner as defined in 3 FAM 1610 must execute an agreement in accordance with the format in Form DS-4021, Agreement for Return Travel of Spouse (or domestic partner).  This agreement states that the spouse or domestic partner as defined in 3 FAM 1610 understands that travel back to the same post will not be authorized at U.S. Government expense, and that the agreement is signed voluntarily.

e. Travel of dependent children of an employee may be authorized under this provision only if a legal custody agreement exists or the employee otherwise agrees in writing to permit the children to leave post permanently with the spouse.  The employee must also submit a revised Form OF-126, Foreign Service Residence and Dependency Report, to declare as a loss those children for whom return travel is requested under this provision (see 3 FAH-1 H-2347.8 , subparagraph a).  The employee may also request advance travel of children in accordance with 14 FAM 532.3 , if travel is not intended to be a permanent return to the United States.

14 FAM 532.9  Transfer Travel

(CT:LOG-343;   02-11-2022) (State/USAGM/USAID/Commerce/Agriculture) (Foreign Service)

a. Official travel and transportation may be authorized for U.S. citizen and Foreign Service national employees, their families and effects, from old post, or any place where presence is due to U.S. Government orders, to new post.  Transportation of effects is allowed from old post to new post and/or to point of storage; or to new post from old post, previous posts, and/or points of authorized storage.

b. Effects may be shipped between places other than those authorized subject to provisions in 14 FAM 612.3 .  When emergency conditions exist at the new post, another destination may be designated for travel of the family and transportation and storage of effects and a motor vehicle.  Upon termination of the emergency, travel and transportation to the new post may be authorized.

14 FAM 532.10  Spouse Travel to Obtain a Visa or Reset Residency

Management officials at post may authorize, from post funds, travel expenses when the spouse of an employee assigned to post must travel out of country to obtain appropriate visas or reset residency permissions to remain in-country when the host government will not accredit the spouse.  The travel expenses under this provision may include transportation expenses, per diem, and authorized miscellaneous expenses (e.g., visa fees, where authorized under 14 FAM 562.1 , subparagraphs a(1) through a(4).  Expenses incurred are for the spouse only.  Time in travel status should be minimized to the extent possible to obtain a visa or reset residency permissions at the most cost-effective point to post.  Spouses who are employed on family member appointments (FMA) or personal services agreements (PSA) are not authorized administrative leave for the purpose of the travel.

14 FAM 533  Temporary Duty (tdy) Travel

14 FAM 533.1  General

Official travel and transportation may be authorized for U.S. citizen employees from any place to TDY station or stations and thence to such place or to post (see also 14 FAM 532.7 covering travel of eligible family members). Official travel and transportation may be authorized for Locally Employed (LE) Staff from their post of employment to TDY station or stations and for return to the post of employment.

14 FAM 533.2  Authorizing Temporary Duty (TDY) Travel

a. State only :  Form JF-144, Temporary Duty (TDY) Official Travel Authorization, is used for approving TDY travel.  Approval may cover travel performed for administrative or medical purposes, rest and recuperation, short-term training, attendance at conferences, etc., between the United States and other countries, within the United States, or abroad.  Authorizations issued in the form of telegrams, etc., are confirmed by the subsequent issuance of a Form JF-144, or equivalent official form.

b. USAID only :  See ADS 522, Performance of Temporary Duty travel in the United States and Abroad.

c.  Commerce only :  Form CD-29, Travel Order, is used for authorizing TDY travel when headquarters, Washington, DC, issues the travel orders.  Otherwise, Form JF-144 is used when post issues the travel orders.  Included is travel for administrative purposes, rest and recuperation travel, short-term training, medical purposes, attendance at conferences, etc., performed abroad, within the United States, and between the United States and points abroad.  Authorizations issued in the form of telegrams are confirmed by the subsequent issuance of either a Form CD-29 or a Form JF-144.

d. USDA only :  Form AD-202, Travel Authorization, is used for authorizing TDY travel.

e. USAGM only :  Form IA-34-A is used for authorizing TDY travel; Form JF-144 is used for overseas correspondence travel.

14 FAM 533.3  Training Attendance

Official travel may be authorized for employees to receive training.

14 FAM 533.4  Conference Travel

14 FAM 533.4-1  Attendance

Agencies must select conference sites that minimize conference costs and conference attendees' travel costs.  Agencies must minimize conference attendees' travel costs by authorizing the minimum participation necessary to accomplish agency goals.  The authorizing official must assure that the number of attendees from the Department is necessary and justified.  In addition, the need for conference and meetings for which the total travel and per diem estimate exceeds $5,000 must be authorized by an Assistant Secretary, executive director, or equivalent.

14 FAM 533.4-2  Conference Site

When available, use U.S. Government-owned or U.S. Government-provided conference facilities to the maximum extent possible.  The authorizing officer should avoid conference sites that might appear extravagant to the public.

14 FAM 533.4-3  Conference Site Selection Process

a. Locality selection procedures :

(1)  When arranging to conduct a conference, the authorizing officer must consider at a minimum three alternative conference sites;

(2)  Each considered site must be selected based on the belief that it would result in lower overall conference costs and conference attendees' travel costs.  The sponsoring or co-sponsoring office must survey the cost of conference facilities at each of the considered sites, and must determine the potential cost to the U.S. Government of conducting the conference at each of the alternative sites.

b. Exception :  A conference site may be selected without following the procedures outlined above for the reason of disproportionate participation.  The procedures outlined above do not apply when a majority of the U.S. Government attendees are from the locality proposed as the conference site, or when only one site accomplishes conference goals.  In the latter case, the authorizing officer must certify in writing that the selected locality is the only conference site compatible with accomplishing the sponsoring or co-sponsoring office's objectives.

c.  Documentation :  The authorizing officer must document the cost of each alternative conference site, and must retain a record of the documentation for every conference held.  The authorizing officer must also make the documentation available for inspection by the Office of Inspector General (OIG), or for other interested parties.

14 FAM 533.5  Experts and Consultants Travel

Persons employed intermittently as consultants or experts and persons serving without compensation (including citizens or subjects of other countries) are authorized travel expenses, including per diem, while away from their homes or regular places of business, in accordance with 14 FAM 560 .

14 FAM 533.6  Information Meeting Travel

(CT:LOG-343;   02-11-2022) (State/USAGM/USAID/Commerce/Agriculture) (Foreign Service and Civil Service)

Official travel and transportation may be authorized for employees to attend a meeting to discuss general agency operations, and/or to review status reports or discussion topics of general interest.  If a site visit is conducted as part of the same trip, the entire trip should be considered a site visit (see 14 FAM 533.10 ).

14 FAM 533.7  International Conferences

When travel to, or in connection with, conferences is financed under Department of State appropriations available for international conferences, such travel must be performed in accordance with the provisions of the travel authorization and other appropriate instructions issued by the Department pertaining to the conference.

14 FAM 533.8  Invitational Travel Authorizations Federally Financed

Each invitational travel authorization must specify the purpose of the travel (e.g., conference attendance, information meeting, speech presentation, etc).

14 FAM 533.9  Invitational Travel Authorizations Non-Federally Financed

To defray the cost of air travel, any donations from non-Federal sources must comply with the Department's regulations in accommodations on airplanes ( 14 FAM 567.2 ), including all applicable OMB guidelines (OMB 93-11), as well as the Department’s regulations regarding gifts of invitational travel (see 2 FAM 962.12 ).

14 FAM 533.10  Site Travel

Travel of an employee may be authorized to visit a particular site in order to perform operational or managerial activities; e.g., oversee programs, grant operations, or management activities for internal control purposes; carry out an audit, inspection or repair activity; conduct negotiations; provide instructions; or provide technical assistance.

14 FAM 533.11  Special Mission Travel

Travel of an employee may be authorized to carry out a special agency mission such as involvement in noncombat military unit movements; providing security to a person or a shipment (e.g., diplomatic pouch); moving witnesses from residence to other locations; and covering travel by Federal beneficiaries and other nonemployees.

14 FAM 533.12  Speech or Presentation Travel

Travel of an employee may be authorized to make a speech or a presentation, deliver a paper, or otherwise take part in a formal program other than a training course where the authorizing official makes a specific determination in writing that such activity is related to and in furtherance of the agency’s mission.

14 FAM 534  Medical Travel

a. Official travel and transportation may be authorized for U.S. citizen employees and their eligible family members from any place where presence is due to U.S. Government orders to nearest locality where suitable medical care can be obtained and thence to an official duty station.

b. Travel of attendants may be authorized.  For other special provisions, see 16 FAM 316 and 14 FAM 523.2-1 , paragraph e.

14 fam 535  oTHER TRAVEL

14 FAM 535.1  Directed Departure

14 FAM 535.1-1  General

When, in accordance with 3 FAM 2443 , it is the judgment of a chief of a diplomatic mission that the departure of an employee assigned by the Department or Agency to a post under the chief of mission's jurisdiction would be in the interest of the U.S. Government, the authorizing officer at the post may issue a travel authorization detailing the employee to a nearby country.  For the Department, the post-authorizing officer may issue a travel authorization transferring a State Department employee and that employee's eligible family members to Washington, DC.  For USAID, a travel authorization transferring an employee to Washington, DC, must originate in or have prior approval of Washington, DC headquarters.  For USAGM, a travel authorization transferring an employee to Washington, DC must originate in or have prior approval of Washington, DC headquarters.

14 FAM 535.1-2  Procedures in Connection with Directed Departure

To authorize purchase of transportation permitting the detail of an employee or to transfer an employee and eligible family members in accordance with 3 FAM 2443 , chiefs of mission may allow issuance of Forms OF-1169, U.S. Government Transportation Request (GTRs).  The travel order establishing the official obligation of funds will be issued by the Department or the Agency, after the travel commences, upon receipt of the report required in 3 FAM 2445 .  Travel will be chargeable to the current applicable appropriation.  Other fiscal data will be supplied by Washington, DC.  Movement of household effects and shipment of automobiles must not be authorized until receipt of instructions from the Department or Agency.

14 FAM 535.2  Travel under Authorized/Ordered Emergency Evacuation

14 FAM 535.2-1  General

a. When the Under Secretary for Management (M) makes a determination that an emergency exists at a post requiring the evacuation of official U.S. citizen employees, official travel and transportation may be authorized for the employees, their eligible family members, and effects from post of assignment to place designated in the travel orders, and thence to post.

b. When M makes a determination that an emergency exists at a post requiring the evacuation of Foreign Service national employees, official travel may be authorized for the Foreign Service national employees and their immediate families to the nearest practicable place for the duration of the emergency.

c.  The authorizing officer at post must issue individual or blanket travel authorizations (see 14 FAM 628 for shipment and storage of household effects (HHE)).

14 FAM 535.2-2  Travel Authorizations under Authorized/Ordered Emergency Evacuation

a. State only :  The authorizing officer at post must issue individual or blanket travel authorizations.  Each authorization must cite the names of the persons traveling.  In addition to the usual post distribution of copies, the authorizing officer must furnish information copies of all evacuation travel authorizations to the:

(1)  Bureau of Global Talent Management (GTM/CDA/AD);

(2)  Travel and Transportation Management Division (A/LM/OPS/TTM);

(3)  Appropriate regional bureau; and

(4)  Office of Accounting Operations (CGFS/F/AO).

b. Commerce only :  The authorizing officer must furnish evacuation travel authorization copies to the:

(1)  Office of Foreign Service Human Resources (USFCS/OFSHR);

(2)  State's Travel and Transportation Management Division (A/LM/OPS/TTM); and

(3)  Office of Planning and Management.

c.  USAGM only :  The authorizing officer must furnish evacuation travel authorization copies to the:

(1)  Office of Foreign Service Personnel (D/OHR);

(2)  Office of Administrative Operations Division (M/AO); and

(3)  Appropriate administrative office.

d. USDA/FAS only :  The authorizing officer must furnish evacuation travel authorization copies to the:

(1)  Foreign Agricultural Affairs/International Services Division (USDA/FAS/OFSO/ISD); and

(2)  State's Travel and Transportation Management Division (A/LM/OPS/TTM).

e. APHIS only :  The authorizing officer must furnish evacuation travel authorization copies to the International Services/Administrative Services/Travel Section.

f.  U.S. Despatch Agents :  The Department's or Agency's transportation office will ensure that the appropriate U.S. Despatch Agent receives a copy of the evacuation order or request and authorization for use in clearing the employee's shipment(s) through U.S. Customs.

14 FAM 535.2-3  Prohibitions Against Official and Personal Travel to Posts under Authorized/Ordered Emergency Evacuation

See 3 FAM 3770 regarding requirements and restrictions for official and personal travel to posts under authorized departure, ordered departure, suspended operations, contingency operations, and posts designated partially unaccompanied or unaccompanied.

14 FAM 535.3  Emergency Visitation Travel

The cost of emergency visitation travel in connection with the serious illness, injury, or death of an immediate family member is performed in accordance with the provisions of 3 FAM 3740 .

14 FAM 535.4  Visitation Travel

14 FAM 535.4-1  Authorization

Travel of an employee or eligible family member may be authorized and performed in accordance with regulations in 14 FAM 523.2-1 , subparagraph f(1)(h), and in 3 FAM 3730 .

14 FAM 535.4-2  Travel to Countries With Closed Posts Or No U.S. Diplomatic or Consular Relations

See 3 FAM 3780 regarding requirements for official and personal travel of employees to countries with which the United States has no diplomatic or consular relations or where all U.S. posts have been closed, and where travel may be prohibited or restricted.

14 FAM 536  SPECIAL TRAVEL

14 FAM 536.1  Voluntary Separate Maintenance Allowance (SMA) Travel

14 FAM 536.1-1  Authorization

a. Travel may be authorized for all eligible family members for whom SMA is granted under Section 260 of the Department of State Standardized Regulations (DSSR).

b. Per 3 FAM 3232.3-3 , only one change of status of SMA for each family member will be permitted for a single tour of duty.  See DSSR 264.2(b) regarding change in status in an evacuation.

14 FAM 536.1-2  Authorized SMA Location(s)

a. The following SMA travel at U.S. Government expense may be approved to authorized location(s):

(1)  When the employee's point of origin is in the United States, an employee's family members may remain at the employee's last official duty station in the United States, or travel to the home leave location designated on Form OF-126 or Washington, DC when the employee is transferred to a foreign post of assignment;

(2)  When an employee transfers from one foreign post of assignment to another, an employee's family member(s) may travel to the home leave location designated on Form OF-126, Foreign Service Residence and Dependency Report, or Washington, DC;

(3)  If an SMA is granted during an employee's tour of duty abroad, the employee's family members may be authorized travel to the home leave location designated on Form OF-126, or Washington, DC.

b. For shipment of household effects under SMA Grant, see 14 FAM 613.7 .

14 FAM 536.1-3  Alternate SMA Location

a. U.S. family members traveling to an alternate SMA location in the United States (see definition in 14 FAM 511.3 ) may do so on a cost-constructive basis.  The maximum amount of reimbursement is the cost required to move the family members from the authorized point of origin to the authorized SMA point.

b. Foreign location: An employee's family members traveling to a foreign SMA location may do so on a cost-constructive basis.  The maximum amount of reimbursement is the cost required to move the family members from the authorized point of origin to the authorized SMA point.

c.  Should an employee's SMA grant be terminated due to the employee's subsequent transfer to another post of assignment while the family members are at a foreign location, the employee will be responsible for the payment of excess travel costs involved in relocating the family members to the new post of assignment.  The excess travel costs, if any, must be determined through a constructive cost analysis that compares the travel cost of the employee's eligible family members that would have been authorized from an authorized SMA location to the next post of assignment compared to the amount that is actually incurred.  Any amount in excess of the amount allowable is payable by the employee.

d. Family members in a foreign alternate SMA location have no diplomatic status or privileges.

14 FAM 536.1-4  SMA Travel Financed by Employee

An employee who initially pays the costs of advance travel of family members may subsequently claim reimbursement of travel and transportation expenses if the agency later authorizes an SMA grant for the affected family members.  An employee may not recover a greater amount than would have been incurred had the U.S. Government procured the travel (see 14 FAM 544.2 , paragraph c).

14 FAM 536.2  Death of U.S. Citizen Employee

The following applies to an employee abroad, on domestic assignment, or on TDY.

14 FAM 536.2-1  Expenses in Connection with Remains

a. Following the death of a Foreign Service employee or EFM while in a foreign area, expenses may be authorized for the reasonable cost of preparing remains including the cost of embalming, clothing, cremating, casket, or container suitable for shipment to the place of interment; expenses incurred in complying with local and U.S. laws; and transportation of remains from place of death to the employee's authorized separation address. Transportation of remains to any other place in the United States or its territories as designated by the next-of-kin may be done on a cost-construct basis against the authorized separation address, by surface, or by air.  For shipment of remains to a foreign country, see 14 FAM 536.2-4 .

b. Following the death of a Foreign Service employee or EFM while on assignment in the United States or a non-foreign area, expenses may be authorized for transportation of the remains from place of death to the employee's authorized separation address. Transportation of remains to any other place in the United States or its territories as designated by the next-of-kin may be done on a cost-construct basis against the authorized separation address, by surface, or by air.

c.  For Civil Service employees, refer to FTR, chapter 303.

14 FAM 536.2-2  Family Travel Expenses

Expenses may be authorized for the travel of the family from the last place at which dependents resided and traveled at U.S. Government expense, to any place in the United States designated by the next-of-kin as separation residence or place of interment.  For travel to foreign countries, see 14 FAM 536.2-4 .

14 FAM 536.2-3  Transporting Effects

Expenses may be authorized for the transportation of effects from the last post of assignment, and safe haven if effects are located there, and from any place where effects are stored at U.S. Government expense, to separation residence designated by the next-of-kin.  For transportation to foreign countries, see 14 FAM 536.2-4 .

14 FAM 536.2-4  Foreign Destinations

Actual authorized expenses may be authorized for travel, transportation of effects, and/or shipment of remains to a foreign country and are allowed up to the constructive cost to place last designated by employee as separation residence.  Place of interment may differ from residence for travel and transportation of family.  When one location or the other is in a foreign country, this does not limit the next-of-kin's discretion in designating an authorized location in the United States for either interment or travel and transportation of family.  Authorized expenses may be incurred at any time within 12 months following the date of death, unless the time limitation is waived by the GTM/EX Director or USAID Executive Officer for USAID staff.

14 FAM 536.3  Family Member Death

a. This section applies when the employee is assigned abroad or is on domestic assignment.

b. Actual expenses may be authorized for round-trip travel of a family member and for transportation of remains to the separation address or on a cost-constructive basis to any other point in the U.S. or foreign country.

14 FAM 536.3-1  Expenses in Connection with Remains

See 14 FAM 536.2 .

14 FAM 536.3-2  Family Travel Expenses

Travel expenses are authorized for an employee or an eligible dependent to accompany the remains of a family member to the place of interment in the United States or abroad and return to the duty station (see 3 FAM 2550 ).

14 FAM 536.3-3  Transporting Effects

Transportation of effects is not authorized in connection with a family member death.

14 FAM 536.4  Travel and Transportation Expenses Authorized in Connection with Deaths of Locally Employed (LE) Staff when in Temporary Duty (TDY) Travel Status

Travel and transportation expenses are authorized when a LE Staff dies at a post abroad to which that LE Staff has traveled at U.S. Government expense.  Types of expenses authorized are detailed below.

14 FAM 536.4-1  Expenses in Connection with Remains

Expenses in connection with remains are authorized only as prescribed by 5 U.S.C. 5742, and within made available to the post.  The chief of mission must determine the payments to be made.

14 FAM 536.4-2  Transportation of Effects

Transportation of effects is authorized from the TDY post where death occurred to the LE Staff's post of employment.  Payments are to be made from allotments made available to the post.

14 FAM 537  through 539 unassigned

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Changes to Pittsburgh International Airport checkpoint begin July 8

PITTSBURGH, Pa. – As airline passengers have begun to take to the skies for this summer travel period, the surge in passenger volume at Pittsburgh International Airport (PIT) in the early hours of the morning has started to exceed the capacity of the security checkpoints, particularly during the hours of 4 to 7 a.m. Mondays through Fridays. The increase in passenger volume is a result of additional flights that have been added by airlines to accommodate traveler demand.

Travelers who are booked on early morning flights are advised to get into the airport terminal at least two to three hours prior to their scheduled departure time because the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) checkpoint lanes are the most crowded between 4 and 7 a.m.

In an effort to best meet the increase in early morning travel volume, we are adjusting passenger flow to facilitate checkpoint efficiency and improve the customer experience,” said Karen Keys-Turner, TSA Federal Security Director for the airport. “Starting on July 8, between the hours of 4 and 7 a.m., Mondays through Fridays, the alternate security checkpoint will be dedicated exclusively to travelers enrolled in TSA PreCheck® who are ticketed to fly out of PIT. PreCheck lanes at the main checkpoint will not be open during this time.

The move will expedite the screening process, maximize space and minimize line wait times for all travelers at both checkpoints. TSA piloted this change for a few days last month to determine whether it would improve passenger flow and the agency has decided to move forward with the change in early July.

Travel volume has increased tremendously during the past several months and the change is an effort to improve checkpoint efficiency and streamline passenger flow into the checkpoint during the early morning peak travel period. TSA PreCheck® passengers should proceed directly to the alternate checkpoint on the departures level as opposed to going to the main checkpoint Monday through Friday from 4 a.m. to 7 a.m.

After 7 a.m., a TSA PreCheck lane will be available at the main checkpoint through 8 p.m. The alternate checkpoint may reopen during the day on an as-needed basis, dependent on passenger volume to serve both TSA PreCheck and non-TSA PreCheck travelers.

Signs will be posted in the terminal to inform travelers of this change as they arrive in the terminal and make their way to the TSA checkpoints. TSA PreCheck passengers arriving at the main checkpoint 4 to 7 a.m. will be redirected to the alternate checkpoint. Save time by proceeding directly to the alternate checkpoint.

CLEAR passengers should still proceed to the main checkpoint.

TSA is staffed to screen passengers nationwide, including at PIT, however there are a limited number of checkpoint lanes at Pittsburgh and during the early morning peak period, the number of travelers exceeds the capacity of the checkpoints. PIT’s new terminal, expected to open in 2025, will alleviate checkpoint capacity issues.

The high passenger volume is a nationwide trend. On Sunday, June 23, TSA screened 2.99 million travelers nationwide. It set a record for the most people screened in a single day in TSA’s 22-year history. In fact, seven of TSA’s top 10 busiest days in history have taken place since mid-May.

Nationwide, TSA expects to screen more than 32 million individuals from Thursday, June 27, through Monday, July 8, which is a 5.4% increase over 2023 Independence Day holiday travel volumes.

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7 Day Trip Packing List for 2023: Change Your Life With These Travel Hacks

Packing Tips for a One Week Trip

Before we head on to the checklist, let’s go over some tips that can make packing easy breezy for you! This is going to be quick, so let's start.

Tip #1: Find the Best Suitcase That ‘Suits’ You

Step one before packing is deciding on your main luggage. Are you planning to bring a rolling suitcase or a backpack? It all depends on what kind of trip you are taking.

Are you flying or driving? You may want to take a carry on (if flying) to save the baggage claim annoyance. If you are driving, it’s not such an issue. Once you've decided on a bag, the next thing you want to do is ensure the bag’s warranty.

While traveling, your bag may experience a lot of thumps and bumps so it's not surprising to find a broken zipper, handle or wheel. Find a trusted luggage brand that promises high-quality products. After all, you want to get your money's worth.

✔️ Backpack - If you want a hassle (and hands) free getaway, you may find a travel backpack to be your new BFF. Opt for a bag that reduces the extra weight of wheels so you can walk with one hand for your phone (for selfies, of course) and the other for holding your drink (no, we're not gonna judge). If you know that you'll be carrying your bag around a lot, this kind of bag could be helpful, especially if you’ll be walking around cobbled or uneven streets.

✔️ Rolling Luggage - A 7-day trip is long enough to carry almost one-fourth of your closet and that thought alone is enough to make you feel exhausted. If you're worried about your back and you don't want to put too much pressure on your body, a four-wheeled suitcase may be the choice for you. Effortlessly roll your suitcase around, and save your back the stress.

Pro Tip : Be sure to carry a duffle bag with you for "just in case/emergency" moments. Bring out this baby when your suitcase is overweight at the airport, or you don't have enough space for those souvenirs you brought back for each family member.   

Tip #2 - Plan Activities So You Know How to Pack

The first step to an organized suitcase is proper planning. Where are you exactly going? What activities are you going to do? Are you planning to visit different climates? These questions will help you come up with a list you need. Now, it's time to organize.

As much as you wanted this part to be easy, it will always be chaotic unless you commit to this traveling hack -- packing cube organizers . These travel cubes help to sort your items into categories, such as toiletries, hair accessories, sweater/jackets, pants, shirts/blouses, and more.

Place undergarments in the blue Small Cube , skincare essentials in the pink Extra Small Cube , shirts & blouses in the green Medium Cube , and jackets & jeans in the black Large Cube .

Even more awesome is that EzPacking products are transparent - so you can easily see what's inside every cube, and even without a vacuum sealer, your clothes are carefully compressed. The result? More space for other items.

Tip #3 - Pack Like the #GirlBoss You Are

Bring versatile and lightweight clothes to avoid overpacking or under packing. Roll up your garments inside this Starter Set to save space and reduce wrinkling. Go for a color scheme. Think black and white, or earthy colors like brown and tan, or pastel colors to keep it fun! Sticking to this scheme will help you pack light.

Tip #4 - Get Your Carry-On / Tote Bag Ready

Pack all your airplane essentials and go-to’s in your tote, purse, or backpack. Make sure your personal hygiene kit is in an accessible place. You’ll never know when you’ll need to disinfect a seat or a handle using an alcohol spray before sitting or touching them. Remember to sanitize your hands as often as possible as well.

Tip #5 - Secure Your Home

Whether it's a one-day escape or a 7-day trip, it's important to prepare your home before you leave. Closing up the house should be on your “7-day vacation packing checklist” as the last vital step. Leave extra time for this, so that you’re not flying around the house right before your flight.

Things you should do before leaving the house:

☑ Call the post office and ask them to hold your mail for the meantime

☑ Set up a voice message or email Autoresponder (c'mon, leave your work for a little while!)

☑ Pre-pay your utility bills

☑ Unplug home appliances

☑ Take out the trash

☑ Empty the fridge (of food that will expire)

☑ Close windows and lock all doors

☑ Secure your valuables in your safe (or with family)

☑ Leave your puppy / kitty with family, friends, or a pet hotel

☑ Leave your house key & details of your itinerary with a trusted family member / friend (in case of emergencies)

Week-long Trip Checklist

Here's everything you need for your 7-day trip. Bookmark this page so you can easily access it later!

Before deciding what clothes to wear, check what the weather's like at your destination. Plan your outfits in advance around it so you'll be ready.

For the Ladies

☑ 7 pairs of underwear

☑ 4 pairs of socks

☑ 3 dresses (one little black dress)

☑ 4 casual tops/blouses

☑ 4 tank tops

☑ 3 shorts (warm locations)

☑ 2 pants / jeans

☑ 2 leggings (for airplane)

☑ 1 workout outfit

☑ Bikini / swimsuit

For the Hubby / Partner in Crime:

☑ 6 pairs of socks

☑ 2 button down shirts (short sleeve)

☑ 2 button down shirts (long sleeve)

☑ 4 casual shirts

☑ 1 sport jacket

☑ 1 pair of sneakers

☑ 1 pair of walking shoes

☑ 1 pair of pants / jeans

☑ 2 pair of shorts

☑ 2 pair of beach shorts (if applicable)

☑ Baseball hat

Pro Tip: Wear the heaviest clothing you have in transit. For instance, if you're going to sport a jacket or sweater, or if you would like to bring your favorite pair of boots or sneakers, wear them so you can save yourself a great deal of luggage space.

Don't bring more than what you need (as is true with everything else in this checklist) Trust us, you don't need 5 pairs of boots and high heels. Just bring your comfy ones and you're good to go.

☑ 1 pair of dressy shoes / sandals

☑ 1 pair of sneakers (wear on the plane) 

☑ 1 pair of flip-flops

Pro Tip: Show your shoes some love and pack them in their very own Travel Shoe Bag . 

✅ TOILETRIES / PERSONAL HYGIENE KIT

Avoid packing toiletries and other personal hygiene essentials every single time you go on a trip. Keep a TSA Approved toiletry bag  packed with all your essentials in your cabinet that you can easily grab and go for your next trip. Once an item is already used up, simply replace it with a new one and keep it ready for your next trip.

Friendly Reminder from TSA: Keep your liquids in a 3.4 ounces travel size container (like this extra small cube !)

☑ Mini shampoo / conditioner

☑ Mini soap / facial cleanser

☑ Mini deodorant

☑ Travel size sunblock

☑ Bubble bath (because why not!)

☑ Personal hygiene items

☑ Mini toothbrush / toothpaste

☑ Floss / mouthwash

☑ Tampons / pads

☑ Clear Makeup bag

☑ Makeup remover

☑ Mini toothbrush / toothpaste / mouthwash

☑ Mini sunblock

☑ Shaving supplies

✅ MINI FIRST AID KIT

Take into consideration your health needs and whatever unprecedented events that may happen while traveling. It's always a good idea to bring a first aid kit with you, no matter the length of the trip. You can master a DIY First Aid Kit by reading this article .

☑ Prescription Medicines

☑ Band aids 

☑ Dramamine

☑ Allergy Meds 

☑ Neosporin 

☑ Aloe Vera Gel 

☑ Tylenol / Paracetamol

☑ Insect repellent

☑ Cough and Cold Medicine

✅ ELECTRONICS

Keep your electronics secure by sandwiching them between bulky clothes, like your jacket or sweater. Keep cords and wires from tangling by using velcro ties.

☑ iPad / Tablet

☑ Kindle (Optional)

☑ External Drive

☑ All chargers

☑ Adapters / Converters

✅ CARRY-ON BAG

Pack these essentials in your carry-on bag and make sure to secure those important ones, like your electronics, passport and boarding ticket, in an easy access place for security reasons.

☑ Airline tickets / e-ticket confirmation (if applicable)

☑ Passport / ID (driver’s license)

☑ Copy of hotel / restaurants / reservation confirmations

☑ Copy of trip / medical insurance coverage

☑ Photocopy of prescriptions

☑ Ear plugs / eye mask / neck pillow

☑ Electronics

☑ eBooks / Kindle

☑ Journal / pen

☑ Medicine Kit

☑ Snacks / water bottle (empty before TSA Security)

☑ Important toiletries (birth control / retainer / contacts)

☑ Sunglasses / case

☑ Tissues / wet wipes

☑ Makeup kit (for ladies)

✅ MISCELLANEOUS

Got everything you need? Double check these items to make sure you won't forget them.

☑ Chargers (phones / cameras / iPad)

☑ Universal Adapters (in you’re traveling outside us)

☑ Clear packing cubes (take 1 suitcase & share)

☑ Ziplock / resealable plastic bags

☑ Travel Laundry Bag

☑ Travel Jewelry Roll for accessories

☑ Map / guidebooks

☑ Foldable tote / duffle bag

☑ Travel Documents

☑ Sunglasses

☑ House Keys

Leaving the hustle and the bustle of the city is always a good idea. No matter where you go or what activity you do, have fun and try to be present (aka not thinking about work)! Just make sure to follow these vital tasks before saying YOLO! That way, you're promising yourself a hassle-free, memorable, and exciting 7-day adventure.

We hope you have an awesome trip!

—  The EzPacking Team

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The Seven Joys of Travel, From a Joyful Traveler

By Dave Seminara

• May 7, 2016

Thomas Swick has been a farmhand in Alsace, an English teacher in Poland and a journalist at newspapers like The Sun-Sentinel, in South Florida, where he was travel editor for 19 years. In a genre now saturated with destination marketers masquerading as travel writers, Mr. Swick stands out as a perceptive, old-school travel writer whose prose brings celebrated and obscure destinations to life. In his new book “ The Joys of Travel: And Stories That Illuminate Them” Mr. Swick draws on a lifetime of travel wisdom and experiences in sharing his seven pleasures of travel: anticipation, emotional connection, movement, novelty, discovery, break from routine and heightened appreciation of home. Following are edited excerpts from a conversation with him.

Q. You wrote in the chapter on anticipation, “Long ago I realized that if I was feeling low, as if life no longer held any interest, it was because I had no trips planned.” Do you still need to have a trip on the horizon to be content?

A. I really want to have a trip to look forward to. I live in Florida, and I don’t have to suffer through long winters, but in the summer we yearn to get away from the heat and humidity. I love the idea of getting away from the routine, the sameness of everyday life.

You write that trains are a voyeuristic pleasure — “as close as we get to the fantasy of dying and then looking down on the action,” but on buses, “You can talk to people, but they’re not always the people you want to talk to.’’

There are some countries, like Mexico, that have very luxurious buses. But it’s still not romantic. The train goes its own way, it has its own tracks, it shows you the backs of things in a way that buses don’t. It’s hard to romanticize bus travel. On planes and ships, they take you away from the world, and you’re surrounded by nothingness, sea or sky, but on a train you’re escaping the world, but you’re going through the middle of towns where people have to stop and wait for your passage. Sitting in the dining car, looking up from your breakfast, watching places go by, it’s a wonderful experience.

You’ve been both a traveler and an expatriate. You wrote, “Living abroad is the travel equivalent of monogamy,” but while travelers are rewarded with novelty, do they “miss out on the intimacy and insights” an expatriate gets from a lengthy stay?

I haven’t lived abroad since I left Poland in 1982. But when I travel now, I try to replicate that experience of being an expat, not just seeing the sights but trying to get beneath the surface of a place, figuring out what it’s like to live there. I’ve found that the places that are comfortable to live in aren’t always the most interesting to visit.

One of your joys of travel is making emotional connections with the people we meet on the road. Is there one country in particular where you’ve found it easy to make these kinds of connections?

Brazil stands out. I found the Brazilians to be incredibly open. Brazil is the only place I’ve been to where you call people about getting together, and they say, “Sure, how about tonight?” It’s usually the less visited, less glamorous places where it’s easiest to meet people. Or it could be in an out-of-the-way place in a popular country like France or Italy.

In an era of instant communication, is it harder to experience the heightened appreciation of one’s home, another of your joys?

The distance from home is shorter. I feel sorry for young travelers today who probably won’t experience that feeling of going somewhere and feeling completely cut off from everyone they know and being in a new place where they are on their own and have to fend for themselves. That allows you to understand home better than if you are constantly in touch with it.

Best 7-Seater Vehicles

Do you need transportation roomy enough for a large family? These seven-seater vehicles have what it takes to accommodate all your passengers.

John M. Vincent | U.S. News & World Report

Bigger and Better

Americans like large vehicles, and these days, there are more options than ever if you're looking for roomy transportation that can seat at least seven people.

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The minivan segment has gotten smaller in recent years, but that does not reflect the quality of the models; there are some excellent choices in that category with room for at least seven of your nearest and dearest.

Almost all the growth in the seven-seat vehicle class has occurred in the SUV segment. Recent arrivals like the Kia Telluride and Jeep Wagoneer match spaciousness with well-rounded competence, easily standing out as excellent choices for buyers seeking top-notch solutions for family duties and daily driving.

We've compiled a list of the best seven-seater vehicles. To select our picks, we chose models with the highest U.S. News overall scores among vehicles that seat seven or more. There's something for everyone on our list. Our lineup includes luxury haulers, plug-in hybrids, mainstream midsize SUVs and a comfortable, off-road-friendly electric vehicle (EV).

We've listed our picks based on each model's overall score, from lowest to highest; we've also included each model's base price and U.S. News interior score to let you know how we feel about the cabin. Remember that we frequently update scores in our reviews as new data comes in. For that reason, the scores in this slideshow may differ from those shown elsewhere on our site.

Stellantis |

2024 Chrysler Pacifica

$39,400 | overall score: 8.2/10 | interior score: 8.6/10.

All-wheel drive is a must-have for many drivers who frequently travel in rain and snow; this amenity sends power to all four wheels when needed, improving traction on slick roads. This feature isn’t available in all minivans, but it is available with the Chrysler Pacifica . Additionally, Chrysler’s minivan boasts a long list of standard features and a roomy, serene interior.

All models have a 287-horsepower V6 that facilitates confident acceleration, and the ride quality cushions against bumps and jolts. Seven-passenger seating is standard, and the capacity jumps to eight if you choose the optional second-row middle seat.

More on the 2024 Chrysler Pacifica

• Find the best price on the 2024 Chrysler Pacifica »
• See 2024 Chrysler Pacifica Photos  »
• Read the 2024 Chrysler Pacifica Full Review  »
• See Minivan Rankings  »

General Motors |

2024 Chevrolet Suburban

$59,200 | overall score: 8.2/10 | interior score: 8.6/10.

Full-size SUVs lead the way if you're looking for roomy transportation. The Suburban is one of the best models in that class, with comfortable handling and a cavernous interior. The cabin is flexible, giving buyers a choice of seven-, eight- and nine-seat configurations. All three rows are sized to fit taller adults, and this Chevy is at the front of the pack regarding cargo room.

A 355-horsepower V8 is standard, and optional diesel and V8 powertrains produce up to 420 horsepower. Every engine in the lineup has enough juice to move this large SUV without hesitation, and the ride quality is gentle. However, there's one downside to know about: the Suburban's mammoth dimensions make parking in cramped spaces a chore.

More on the 2024 Chevrolet Suburban

• Find the best price on the 2024 Chevrolet Suburban »
• See 2024 Chevrolet Suburban Photos  »
• Read the 2024 Chevrolet Suburban Full Review  »
• See Large SUV Rankings  »

2024 Rivian R1S

$74,900 | overall score: 8.2/10 | interior score: 7.6/10.

The Rivian R1S sits near the top of our luxury electric SUV rankings. It's available with up to 835 horsepower and can rocket from zero to 60 mph in as little as 3 seconds. The R1S can go up to 400 miles on a full charge.

This seven-seat electric SUV handles well on paved streets and is one of the most capable off-roaders available. It provides up to 14.9 inches of ground clearance and wades through up to 3 feet of water.

The cabin is airy and modern, with supportive seats positioned high for excellent visibility. The first two rows are spacious, but the third row is tight and hard to access.

More on the 2024 Rivian R1S

• See 2024 Rivian R1S Photos  »
• Read the 2024 Rivian R1S Full Review  »
• See Luxury Electric SUV Rankings  »

Kia Motors America |

2024 Kia Carnival

$33,600 | overall score: 8.2/10 | interior score: 8.7/10.

Minivans such as the Kia Carnival offer something SUVs don’t: power-sliding side doors. These doors make entry and exit easy, especially if you have younger kids.

Once inside, you’ll find a cabin you can configure to seat seven or eight people. The third-row seats are mostly adult-friendly, but taller passengers may find the legroom in that row tight.

If you want an extra helping of luxury, the SX Prestige trim can be had with heated and ventilated VIP lounge seats that fully recline. These seats also offer power footrests for optimal passenger comfort.

More on the 2024 Kia Carnival

• Find the best price on the 2024 Kia Carnival »
• See 2024 Kia Carnival Photos  »
• Read the 2024 Kia Carnival Full Review  »

2024 Jeep Grand Wagoneer

$91,945 | overall score: 8.2/10 | interior score: 8.7/10.

The Grand Wagoneer is large and luxurious, seating up to eight people in a deluxe cabin with supple leather and glossy wood. This Jeep coddles occupants with standard features like a heated steering wheel and reclining second-row seats; the front-row seats are heated and ventilated and have a massaging function. The cargo room is generous, and all models have a hands-free power liftgate for easy access to your belongings.

Every Grand Wagoneer has a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six under the hood, generating 510 horsepower and 500 pound-feet of torque. The engine motivates this SUV with authority, and four-wheel drive is standard.

More on the 2024 Jeep Grand Wagoneer

• Find the best price on the 2024 Jeep Grand Wagoneer »
• See 2024 Jeep Grand Wagoneer Photos  »
• Read the 2024 Jeep Grand Wagoneer Full Review  »
• See Luxury Large SUV Rankings  »

2024 Jeep Wagoneer

$62,945 | overall score: 8.2/10 | interior score: 9.1/10.

The Wagoneer is one of the more recent members of the seven-passenger club; Jeep introduced this model in 2022. It’s quickly become the one to beat in our large SUV rankings, sitting in the top spot on the strength of its plush cabin and gentle ride.

Jeep has streamlined the Wagoneer's engine lineup for the 2024 model year, narrowing the range from two to one. All Wagoneer SUVs have a twin-turbocharged six-cylinder with 420 horsepower and 486 pound-feet of torque. The engine is robust, facilitating livelier acceleration than you might expect from such a mammoth hauler

The Wagoneer is able to pull 10,000 pounds and has the highest tow rating among large SUVs. This Jeep seats eight with second-row bench seats. Second-row captain’s chairs are available, and they reduce the capacity to seven.

More on the 2024 Jeep Wagoneer

• Find the best price on the 2024 Jeep Wagoneer »
• See 2024 Jeep Wagoneer Photos  »
• Read the 2024 Jeep Wagoneer Full Review  »

John M. Vincent | U.S. News and World Report

2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV

$49,945 | overall score: 8.3/10 | interior score: 7.2/10.

Mazda introduced the CX-90 PHEV for the 2024 model year. It's a plug-in hybrid version of the brand's flagship CX-90, with 323 horsepower and the ability to travel for 25 miles using just electric power. This SUV accelerates eagerly and has the agile handling typical for vehicles bearing the Mazda badge. Though the ride quality leans toward firmness, it's never harsh.

You can configure the CX-90 PHEV to seat seven or eight people. The first two rows are roomy, but the third row is most suitable for kids. Also, the cargo capacity is below average for a three-row midsize SUV. This Mazda's cabin is stylish and fitted with premium materials.

More on the 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV

• Find the best price on the 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV »
• See 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV Photos  »
• Read the 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV Full Review  »
• See Plug-In Hybrid SUV Rankings  »

2024 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid

$53,620| overall score: 8.3/10 | interior score: 8.7/10.

If you like the Pacifica but want something more fuel-efficient, consider the Pacifica Hybrid , which has a plug-in hybrid powertrain for improved gas mileage. It travels up to 32 miles using all-electric power, returning a combined 82 MPG-equivalent in this mode. This Chrysler returns 30 mpg combined when running on gasoline power.

Every model has a 3.6-liter V6, two electric motors and a 16-kWh battery. This setup produces 260 horsepower, providing solid acceleration. Unfortunately, unlike the nonhybrid Pacifica, the Pacifica Hybrid doesn't offer all-wheel drive. Furthermore, this hybrid costs $14,000 more than its gas-only counterpart.

More on the 2024 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid

• Find the best price on the 2024 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid »
• See 2024 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid Photos  »
• Read the 2024 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid Full Review  »

2024 Mazda CX-90

$37,845 | overall score: 8.4/10 | interior score: 7.3/10.

Mazda's CX-90 is an all-new midsize SUV for 2024 with strengths that place it ahead of the pack. Its entertaining handling makes it a fun choice for daily driving and long commutes.

It also has a stylish cabin with an upscale design and top-notch materials. The first two rows are spacious, but the third row is small. Also, this SUV lags behind its classmates in terms of cargo capacity.

Depending on the configuration, the CX-90 has six, seven or eight seats. You can choose from two mild-hybrid powertrains, one with 280 horsepower and another with 340. All models have all-wheel drive for improved traction on slick roads.

More on the 2024 Mazda CX-90

• Find the best price on the 2024 Mazda CX-90 »
• See 2024 Mazda CX-90 Photos  »
• Read the 2024 Mazda CX-90 Full Review  »
• See Midsize SUV Rankings  »

Zach Doell | U.S. News & World Report

2024 Genesis GV80

$57,700 | overall score: 8.4/10 | interior score: 7.8/10.

The GV80 is a top choice among luxury midsize SUVs. It provides the relaxed ride shoppers in that segment love, with a suspension that capably shields passengers from bumps and jolts.

The cabin has a fashionable design and brims with high-quality materials. Five-person seating is standard; you must add optional third-row seats to accommodate seven people. The first two rows provide comfortable room for adults, but the third row is tight.

This SUV's standard engine is a 300-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder, and you can upgrade to a 375-horsepower turbocharged V6. Both choices are energetic, and the V6 helps this SUV complete the zero-to-60-mph sprint in under 6 seconds.

More on the 2024 Genesis GV80

• Find the best price on the 2024 Genesis GV80 »
• See 2024 Genesis GV80 Photos  »
• Read the 2024 Genesis GV80 Full Review  »
• See Luxury Midsize SUV Rankings  »

2024 Cadillac Escalade

$81,895 | overall score: 8.4/10 | interior score: 8.8/10.

With its boxy lines and assertive stance, the Cadillac Escalade offers a bold take on luxury large SUVs. It has a sprawling cabin that blends modern tech with traditional Cadillac styling cues. Plus, it provides lots of cargo room, as well as an extended-wheelbase version that’s even more spacious.

You can choose from three engines: a 420-horsepower V8, a 277-horsepower turbodiesel inline-six and a supercharged V8 with 682 horses. The Escalade comes standard with seven-passenger seating that’s roomy in all three rows, and you can upgrade to an eight-passenger configuration.

More on the 2024 Cadillac Escalade

• Find the best price on the 2024 Cadillac Escalade »
• See 2024 Cadillac Escalade Photos  »
• Read the 2024 Cadillac Escalade Full Review  »

2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE

$62,650 | overall score: 8.5/10 | interior score: 8.1/10.

The GLE exudes the refinement that the Mercedes-Benz brand is known for. The ride quality is supple and poised, and an optional adaptive air suspension makes things even more agreeable. Four powertrains are available, ranging from a base 255-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder to the range-topping 510-horsepower turbocharged V8.

This Mercedes seats five in its standard layout; the optional third-row seat boosts capacity to seven, although it is tight back there. Standard features include synthetic leather upholstery and heated front seats, and you can upgrade with options like ventilated and massaging front seats and heated seats for second-row passengers.

More on the 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class

• Find the best price on the 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class »
• See 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class Photos  »
• Read the 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class Full Review  »

2024 Lincoln Navigator

$82,765 | overall score: 8.6/10 | interior score: 8.8/10.

Lincoln made four-wheel drive standard in all Navigator SUVs for the 2024 model year. Base models have three rows with second-row captain’s chairs. A second-row bench seat is available, boosting the passenger capacity to eight. Regardless of your layout choice, this Lincoln treats passengers to roomy seating in all three rows.

All models have a stout twin-turbo 3.5-liter V6 that generates 440 horsepower. This V6 is lively and capable, with ample passing power for highway driving. It also helps the Navigator return above-average fuel economy among full-size luxury SUVs.

More on the 2024 Lincoln Navigator

• Find the best price on the 2024 Lincoln Navigator »
• See 2024 Lincoln Navigator Photos  »
• Read the 2024 Lincoln Navigator Full Review  »

American Honda Motor Co., Inc. |

2024 Honda Odyssey

$38,240 | overall score: 8.6/10 | interior score: 8.8/10.

Minivans are the ultimate in family-friendly transportation, and the Honda Odyssey is an all-star in this segment. It holds the top spot in our minivan rankings. In addition, it took home our 2024 Best Minivan for the Money award.

Honda equips every Odyssey with a 3.5-liter V6 that generates 280 horsepower. There’s enough muscle for city driving and stress-free passing maneuvers on the highway. This minivan provides a cushioned ride, and there’s not much body roll during corners.

The Odyssey seats up to eight passengers. The first two rows are supportive and nicely padded, and the third row provides enough room for adults. You can tilt the second-row seats forward, backward or remove them altogether, allowing you to configure the cabin for passengers or cargo easily.

More on the 2024 Honda Odyssey

• Find the best price on the 2024 Honda Odyssey »
• See 2024 Honda Odyssey Photos  »
• Read the 2024 Honda Odyssey Full Review  »

Hyundai Motor America |

2024 Hyundai Palisade

$36,650 | overall score: 8.7/10 | interior score: 8.6/10.

Hyundai made dual-zone automatic climate control standard in all Palisade SUVs for the 2024 model year, improving this hauler's already impressive value proposition. The Palisade has a spacious interior and many standard features. Its winning traits earn it one of the top spots in our ranking of midsize SUVs.

All models have a V6 producing 291 horsepower. The engine is refined and provides respectable acceleration in city and highway driving.

Hyundai’s SUV has a solid predicted reliability score and outstanding warranty coverage. Models with the second-row bench seat accommodate eight people, with a third row roomy enough to fit adults on shorter trips comfortably. The Palisade seats seven passengers when equipped with second-row captain’s chairs.

More on the 2024 Hyundai Palisade

• Find the best price on the 2024 Hyundai Palisade »
• See 2024 Hyundai Palisade Photos  »
• Read the 2024 Hyundai Palisade Full Review  »

2024 Kia Telluride

$36,190 | overall score: 8.7/10 | interior score: 8.7/10.

The Kia Telluride holds the top spot in our ranking of midsize SUVs. It earns those laurels thanks to its poised driving dynamics and upmarket cabin. Plus, its robust and appealing selection of standard features is impressive.

The lineup includes a 12.3-inch touch screen, navigation, a Wi-Fi hot spot, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and dual-zone automatic climate control. Deluxe upgrades such as Nappa leather upholstery and a Harman Kardon audio system are available.

The Telluride seats eight in its standard configuration. You can replace the second-row bench seat with captain’s chairs, reducing the passenger capacity to seven.

More on the 2024 Kia Telluride

• Find the best price on the 2024 Kia Telluride »
• See 2024 Kia Telluride Photos  »
• Read the 2024 Kia Telluride Full Review  »

Which is the best 7-seater car for families?

The 2024 Kia Telluride and Hyundai Palisade tie for having the highest U.S. News overall score on our list, and they're both great vehicles. Both models provide a spacious cabin, and they're practical daily drivers with three rows of seats and a wealth of cargo space.

What is the most reliable 7-person SUV?

The 2024 Kia Telluride has a predicted reliability score of 83 out of 100. A J.D. Power predicted reliability score of 91-100 is considered the Best, 81-90 is Great, 70-80 is Average, and 0-69 is Fair and considered below average.

What is the safest 7-person SUV?

The 2024 Hyundai Palisade has an outstanding 9.8 safety rating.

Which 7-seater has the most room?

The 2024 Chevrolet Suburban features seating for up to nine and has 41.5 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row. This space increases to 93.8 cubic feet when the third row is folded. When both sets of rear seats are folded, the Suburban provides a massive 144.7 cubic feet of cargo space.

What is the cheapest 7-person SUV?

The 2024 Mitsubishi Outlander comes with three rows of seats and starts at $28,395. Keep in mind that this is a compact SUV and isn't as roomy as the choices on our list. That third row is best left for small children.

U.S. News and World Report |

More Shopping Tools From U.S. News & World Report

Want to explore more family-friendly vehicles? Check out our new car rankings . There, you can find the latest scores and information about all the new models, not just those with seating for seven.

When you're ready to start shopping, head to our best car deals page and best lease deals page to find incentives that lower the cost of your next purchase or lease.

The U.S. News Best Price Program is a great way to save money on your next vehicle. Use it to find dealers in your area and secure the lowest, pre-negotiated price. Shoppers who use the program save an average of more than $3,000 off MSRP on their purchase or lease.

• 2024 Chrysler Pacifica: $39,400 | Overall Score: 8.2/10 | Interior Score: 8.6/10
• 2024 Chevrolet Suburban: $59,200 | Overall Score: 8.2/10 | Interior Score: 8.6/10
• 2024 Rivian R1S: $74,900 | Overall Score: 8.2/10 | Interior Score: 7.6/10
• 2024 Kia Carnival: $33,600 | Overall Score: 8.2/10 | Interior Score: 8.7/10
• 2024 Jeep Grand Wagoneer: $91,945 | Overall Score: 8.2/10 | Interior Score: 8.7/10
• 2024 Jeep Wagoneer: $62,945 | Overall Score: 8.2/10 | Interior Score: 9.1/10
• 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV: $49,945 | Overall Score: 8.3/10 | Interior Score: 7.2/10
• 2024 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid: $53,620| Overall Score: 8.3/10 | Interior Score: 8.7/10
• 2024 Mazda CX-90: $37,845 | Overall Score: 8.4/10 | Interior Score: 7.3/10
• 2024 Genesis GV80: $57,700 | Overall Score: 8.4/10 | Interior Score: 7.8/10
• 2024 Cadillac Escalade: $81,895 | Overall Score: 8.4/10 | Interior Score: 8.8/10
• 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE: $62,650 | Overall Score: 8.5/10 | Interior Score: 8.1/10
• 2024 Lincoln Navigator: $82,765 | Overall Score: 8.6/10 | Interior Score: 8.8/10
• 2024 Honda Odyssey: $38,240 | Overall Score: 8.6/10 | Interior Score: 8.8/10
• 2024 Hyundai Palisade: $36,650 | Overall Score: 8.7/10 | Interior Score: 8.6/10
• 2024 Kia Telluride: $36,190 | Overall Score: 8.7/10 | Interior Score: 8.7/10

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Frontier plans 7 new routes, including second-ever nonstop from New York's JFK

Frontier Airlines is showing no signs of letting up on the network shake-up that's helped define the carrier in 2024.

Just days removed from launching its first-ever service from New York's John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), the Denver-based ultra-low-cost carrier is planning a second JFK route that's set to take off later this summer.

The new route from New York's largest airport to Las Vegas' Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) is one of seven new routes the budget carrier announced last week.

Want more airline-specific news? Sign up for TPG's free biweekly Aviation newsletter .

It's also the latest in a prolonged series of network adjustments Frontier has made since the start of 2024.

Continuing with the playbook that's been guiding its 2024 shake-up, Frontier is again bolstering service at some of the largest hubs of its legacy airline competitors.

Among the seven new routes are two new daily nonstops between Delta Air Lines' home base of Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) and a separate Delta hub — including one transcontinental flight.

It's also continuing a rapid 2024 expansion at American Airlines' Sun Belt hubs of Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) and Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (CLT).

The changes all take effect in mid-August, just as the summer air travel peak should be starting to cool off a bit.

Frontier's 7 new routes

Here's the full rundown of Frontier's new routes announced last week:

Six of these seven routes will mark first-ever service for Frontier. The carrier did previously operate a limited number of flights between Atlanta and LAX in 2021, and also prior to the pandemic, as confirmed in data from aviation analytics firm Cirium.

However, that past service pales in comparison with the daily nonstops Frontier now plans to operate on the transcontinental route.

Loyalty basics: Best ways to earn airline miles

Meanwhile, the new Las Vegas route is the carrier's second-ever flight from JFK. The airline made its JFK debut earlier this month with a new nonstop to San Juan, Puerto Rico.

Latest twist in a larger strategy shake-up

It's been an active 2024 at Frontier, which has made both network adjustments and larger strategy shifts amid lagging financial performance of late.

As TPG has reported , the route map shake-up has been part of a well-documented effort to focus a little less heavily on domestic leisure destinations that are popular, but highly competitive with service from so many airlines.

But the carrier has also made numerous other changes, from launching a European business class-style concept called "Upfront Plus" — which entails blocking the middle seat in the first couple rows. More notably, the company recently eliminated change fees for most ticket types and overhauled how it displays fares and add-on charges , offering four choices on a far more concrete menu of pricing options.

Map watching: The award for 'sexiest new route' of the year goes to ...

"During COVID, we spent a lot of time focusing on ancillary [fees]," Frontier CEO Barry Biffle said last month, speaking at the Wolfe Research Global Transportation & Industrials Conference.

"If you look, we got more expensive than the legacies [American, Delta and United Airlines], on many of the itineraries," Biffle explained. "Which is just absurd."

Bottom line

Frontier may not be done with changes as the airline hopes to boost its profitability.

"There's more to come," Biffle teased late last month.

That's certainly true with respect to the airline's route map, which continues to adapt as the airline searches for routes that, it hopes, will allow it to charge higher fares, boosting its bottom line.

It was not immediately clear whether the airline is planning any route eliminations in conjunction with these latest network changes.

Related reading:

• When is the best time to book flights for the cheapest airfare?
• The best airline credit cards
• What exactly are airline miles, anyway?
• 6 real-life strategies you can use when your flight is canceled or delayed
• Maximize your airfare: The best credit cards for booking flights
• The best credit cards to reach elite status
• What are points and miles worth? TPG's monthly valuations

Editorial disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airline or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.

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Increased Risk of Dengue Virus Infections in the United States

Distributed via the CDC Health Alert Network June 25, 2024, 2:30 PM ET CDCHAN-00511

Summary The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is issuing this Health Alert Network (HAN) Health Advisory to notify healthcare providers, public health authorities and the public of an increased risk of dengue virus (DENV) infections in the United States in 2024. Global incidence of dengue in 2024 has been the highest on record for this calendar year; many countries are reporting higher-than-usual dengue case numbers . In 2024, countries in the Americas have reported a record-breaking number of dengue cases, exceeding the highest number ever recorded in a single year. From January 1 – June 24, 2024, countries in the Americas reported more than 9.7 million dengue cases, twice as many as in all of 2023 (4.6 million cases). In the United States, Puerto Rico has declared a public health emergency (1,498 cases) and a higher-than-expected number of dengue cases have been identified among U.S. travelers (745 cases) from January 1 – June 24, 2024. In the setting of increased global and domestic incidence of dengue, healthcare providers should take steps including:

• Have increased suspicion of dengue among people with fever who have been in areas with frequent or continuous dengue transmission within 14 days before illness onset,
• Order appropriate diagnostic tests for acute DENV infection: reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction [RT-PCR] and IgM antibody tests, or non-structural protein 1 [NS1] antigen tests and IgM antibody tests,
• Ensure timely reporting of dengue cases to public health authorities, and
• Promote mosquito bite prevention measures among people living in or visiting areas with frequent or continuous dengue transmission.

Background Dengue is the most common arboviral disease globally. It is caused by four distinct but closely related dengue viruses (DENV-1, -2, -3, and -4). DENVs are transmitted through bites of infected Aedes species mosquito vectors. Infection with one DENV generally induces life-long protection against infection from that specific DENV but only protects against other DENVs for several months to years. Dengue is a nationally notifiable disease in the United States. Six U.S. territories and freely associated states are classified as areas with frequent or continuous dengue transmission : Puerto Rico, American Samoa, the U.S. Virgin Islands, the Federated States of Micronesia, the Republic of Marshall Islands, and the Republic of Palau. In the rest of the United States, local transmission of DENV has been limited, with sporadic cases or small outbreaks in Florida, Hawaii, and Texas. However, confirmed local DENV transmission has also been reported by Arizona and California over the past two years.

Approximately one in four DENV infections are symptomatic and can be mild or severe. Symptoms begin after an incubation period of 5–7 days (range 3–10 days) and present as fever accompanied by non-specific signs and symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, rash, muscle aches, joint pain, bone pain, pain behind the eyes, headache, or low white blood cell counts. Warning signs are specific clinical findings that predict progression to severe disease. Warning signs include abdominal pain or tenderness, persistent vomiting, clinical fluid accumulation (e.g., ascites, pleural effusion), mucosal bleeding, lethargy or restlessness, progressive increase of hematocrit, or liver enlargement >2cm. Severe disease, with associated severe bleeding, shock or respiratory distress caused by plasma leakage, or end-organ impairment, develops in 1 in 20 people with symptomatic dengue. Infants aged ≤1 year, pregnant people, adults aged ≥65 years, and people with certain medical conditions are at increased risk of severe dengue. Although a second DENV infection (i.e., with a different DENV from the first infection) carries a higher risk of severe disease than a first, third, or fourth infection, any infection can lead to severe disease.

Patients with symptoms compatible with dengue can be tested with both molecular and serologic diagnostic tests. All patients with suspected DENV infection should be tested with RT-PCR (i.e., a nucleic acid amplification test (NAAT)) or a NS1 antigen test, and also with IgM antibody test to confirm DENV infection. These tests can be considered regardless of the symptom onset date, although the test sensitivity of RT-PCR and NS1 antigen tests decrease after the first 7 days. IgG detection by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) in a single serum sample should not be used to diagnose a patient with acute dengue because it does not distinguish between current and previous DENV infection. U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved testing is available at public health laboratories and some commercial laboratories. State, tribal, territorial, and local health departments, and CDC can offer additional testing guidance.

There are no antiviral medications approved to treat dengue. Treatment is supportive and requires careful volume management. Appropriate triage, management, and follow-up remain the most effective interventions to reduce dengue morbidity and mortality. Expectant management of patients at high risk for severe disease and rapid initiation of a standardized fluid replacement strategy recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO) can decrease mortality from 13% to <1%. In June 2021, the Advisory Committee of Immunization Practices recommended a dengue vaccine, Dengvaxia , for children aged 9–16 years with laboratory confirmation of previous DENV infection and living in areas with frequent or continuous dengue transmission such as Puerto Rico. While the vaccine is considered safe and effective, the manufacturer (Sanofi Pasteur, Inc., Paris France) has discontinued production citing a lack of demand. Vaccine administration will continue in Puerto Rico until available doses expire in 2026.There are no vaccines recommended for travelers, adults, or persons without a previous DENV infection.

Dengue cases resurged globally after the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2023, more than 4.6 million cases and 4000 deaths were reported in the Americas region. As of June 24, 2024, more than 9.7 million dengue cases have been reported in the Americas, twice as many as in all of 2023 (4.6 million cases). Dengue transmission peaks during the warmer and wetter months in many tropical and subtropical regions. Dengue cases are likely to increase as global temperatures increase. Higher temperatures can expand the range of the mosquitoes that spread dengue, as well as affect other factors that facilitate virus transmission like faster viral amplification in the mosquito, increased vector survival, and changes in reproduction and biting rates. U.S. summer travel often overlaps with the months of increased dengue activity in many countries. Epidemics in the Americas region increase travel-associated cases and limited local transmission in the continental United States. A higher-than-expected number of dengue cases (total of 2,241 cases, including 1,498 in Puerto Rico) were reported in the United States from January 1 – June 24, 2024. Public health authorities in Puerto Rico declared a public health emergency in March 2024 because of the high number of cases reported during the low dengue season. Healthcare providers should be prepared to recognize, diagnose, manage, and report dengue cases to public health authorities; public health partners should investigate cases and disseminate clear prevention messages to the public. The CDC is actively implementing several strategies to address the increase in cases of dengue in the United States, including:

• Launching a program-led emergency response, which was activated on April 8, 2024.
• Providing regularly scheduled monthly situational updates on dengue to partners, stakeholders, and jurisdictions.
• Expanding laboratory capacity to improve laboratory testing approaches.
• Collaborating with State, Tribal, Local, and Territorial Health Departments to strengthen dengue surveillance and recommend prevention strategies.
• Educating the public on dengue prevention.

Recommendations for Healthcare Providers

• Maintain a high suspicion for dengue among patients with fever and recent travel (within 14 days before illness onset) to areas with frequent or continuous dengue transmission .
• Consider locally acquired dengue among patients who have signs and symptoms highly compatible with dengue (e.g., fever, thrombocytopenia, leukopenia, aches, pains, rash) in areas with competent mosquito vectors .
• Order appropriate FDA-approved dengue tests (RT-PCR and IgM antibody tests, or NS1 and IgM antibody tests), and do not delay treatment waiting for test results to confirm dengue.
• Know the warning signs for progression to severe dengue, which include abdominal pain or tenderness, persistent vomiting, clinical fluid accumulation, mucosal bleeding, lethargy or restlessness, and liver enlargement.
• For people with suspected dengue who do not have warning signs and are not part of a population at high risk for severe dengue, consider outpatient management with close follow-up.
• Teach patients about the warning signs that may appear as their fever starts to decline and instruct them to seek care urgently if they experience any warning signs.
• Recognize the critical phase of dengue. The critical phase begins when fever starts to decline and lasts for 24–48 hours. During this phase, some patients require close monitoring and may deteriorate within hours without appropriate intravenous (IV) fluid management.
• Hospitalize patients with severe dengue or any warning sign of progression to severe dengue and follow CDC/WHO protocols for IV fluid management .
• Follow local guidelines to report dengue cases to state, tribal, local, or territorial health departments.

Recommendations for State, Tribal, Local, and Territorial Health Departments

• Use FDA-approved dengue tests. Ensure access to dengue testing for all patients with suspected dengue.
• Remind clinicians of the high risk of dengue among patients with fever who have been in areas with frequent or continuous dengue transmission .
• Remind clinicians that local transmission can occur in areas with competent vectors and to test patients with compatible illnesses even without a history of having been in an area with dengue.
• Inform healthcare providers and the public when locally acquired and travel-associated dengue cases are detected in the area.
• Report dengue cases to CDC via ArboNET , the national arboviral surveillance system managed by CDC and state health departments.
• Take the lead in investigating dengue cases and outbreaks.
• Consider targeted outreach about increasing dengue risk to healthcare providers more likely to identify dengue cases (i.e., travel medicine clinics, infectious disease physicians, or healthcare systems serving highly mobile populations such as migrant and border health clinics, and clinics with frequent travelers to areas with frequent or continuous dengue transmission) and messaging to populations at higher risk for dengue.

Recommendations for the Public

• Use Environmental Protection Agency-approved repellents during travel to and after returning from areas with frequent or continuous dengue transmission.
• Wear loose-fitting, long-sleeved pants and shirts.
• Use air conditioning and window screens when possible, to lower risk for mosquito bites indoors.
• Dump and drain containers that hold water to reduce mosquito egg-laying sites in your home and neighborhood.
• Seek medical care if you have a fever or have dengue symptoms and live in or traveled to an area with dengue outbreaks .
• If you plan international travel to a an area with frequent or continuous dengue transmission , protect yourself from mosquito bites during and after your trip.

For More Information

Healthcare Providers

• Clinical Testing Guidance for Dengue | Dengue | CDC
• Guidelines for Classifying Dengue | Dengue | CDC
• Clinical Features of Dengue | Dengue | CDC
• Dengue Case Management Pocket Guide | CDC
• Dengue During Pregnancy | Dengue | CDC
• Dengue Vaccine | Dengue | CDC
• Dengvaxia: What Healthcare Professionals Need to Know | Dengue | CDC
• Dengue | CDC Yellow Book 2024
• Dengue Clinical Management Course | Dengue | CDC
• Webinar: What Clinicians Need to Know about Dengue in the United States | CDC

Health Departments and Public Health Professionals

• Data and Statistics on Dengue in the United States | Dengue | CDC
• What You Can Do to Control Mosquitoes During an Outbreak | Mosquitoes | CDC
• ArboNET | Mosquitoes | CDC
• Dengue case investigation report | CDC
• Dengue Print Resources | Dengue | CDC
• Communication Resources | Mosquitoes | CDC
• Submitting Specimens for Dengue Virus Tests | Vector-Borne Diseases | CDC
• Preventing Dengue | Dengue | CDC
• Caring for a Family Member with Dengue | CDC
• Mosquito Control at Home | Mosquitoes | CDC
• Get Rid of Mosquitos at Home | CDC
• Your Infant has Dengue | CDC
• Areas with Risk of Dengue | Dengue | CDC
• Travel Health Notices | Travelers’ Health | CDC
• Find a Clinic | Travelers’ Health | CDC
• Pan American Health Organization. Epidemiological Update Increase in dengue cases in the Region of the Americas. https://www.paho.org/en/documents/epidemiological-update-increase-dengue-cases-region-americas-18-june-2024
• Wong JM, Adams LE, Durbin AP, et al. Dengue: a growing problem with new interventions. Pediatrics . 2022;149(6):e2021055522. DOI: 10.1542/peds.2021-055522
• Paz-Bailey G, Adams L, Wong JM, et al. Dengue vaccine: recommendations of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices, United States, 2021. MMWR Recommendations and Reports . 2021;70(6):1–16. DOI: 10.15585/mmwr.rr7006a1 .
• World Health Organization. Disease Outbreak News; Dengue – Global situation. May 30, 2024.   https://www.who.int/emergencies/disease-outbreak-news/item/2024-DON518

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I'm a Travel Writer in Miami, and Everyone's Wearing These 15 Comfy, Resort-ready Summer Styles — From $7

These breezy and stylish picks deserve a spot in your suitcase.

Travel + Leisure / Madison Woiten

Summer is in absolute full swing in Miami — and as a native, I love this time of year. It gets a little quieter (albeit way hotter), but everyone immediately whips out their best go-with-the-flow clothes , shoes, and fun summer-inspired accessories. Knowing very well that you’ll sweat through anything and everything within a few minutes of stepping outside, Miami summer clothes styles are all about breezy, quick-drying materials and lots of bold colors.

I find myself wearing plenty of wide-leg pants and flowy dresses (honestly, that’s me all year long), and if I’m running errands, there’s nothing easier than a comfortable athleisure set paired with an oversized button-down shirt to spruce it up. From retro sunglasses and phone accessories to cute but functional statement bags, the trends Miami locals are following put vibrant, tropical patterns at the forefront while helping them fashionably beat the heat. Here are the 15 styles that everyone’s rocking this summer, and they're all available at Amazon starting at $7. 

Trend: Flowy dresses

Grace karin square neck floral maxi dress.

Ask anyone in my close circle what my go-to “uniform” is and they will say “a sundress and sneakers” — and they would be absolutely right. I love how easy it is to throw on a flowy (and most likely floral-patterned) dress and walk out the door. Fortunately, the Miami girls are all on board this summer, because I've been seeing so many fun, breezy dresses all over town. Right now, I’ve got my eye on this floral one from Grace Karin that comes in a ton of different brightly colored patterns. Not only is it great for running errands or meeting up with friends, but it can easily be packed and worn on my upcoming trips. 

Trend: Athleisure sets

Nova active workout set.

Speaking of easy-to-throw-on-and-go, athleisure sets are also a major Miami vibe when it comes to looking chic and getting out of the house. Yes, the people of The 305 love a workout class and keeping active, but this summer, I promise, you’ll see them sporting just as many activewear sets while running errands and hanging out around town as you would at any Barry’s Bootcamp class. Some of my favorite, super affordable matching sets come from Amazon — like this criss-cross sports bra and shorts duo from Horisun (that’s just $20) or the Nova Active set that’s available in quite a few colorways. 

Trend: Linen button-down shirts

Zoye chen long-sleeve button-down.

There’s something magical about how quickly a linen button-down shirt can quickly pull together an outfit. Often, I've seen it over the aforementioned athleisure set to create a chic look that’s perfect for running errands or taking a walk down South Beach’s Lincoln Road. I love my pink and white boyfriend-fit linen button-down from Old Navy , but I recently realized I don’t have a plain white one — so I’m thinking it’s time to grab this one from Zoye Chen at Amazon, which is on sale for $23. Beyond its wardrobe-enhancing abilities, a quality button-down shirt also comes in handy as a bathing suit cover-up when lounging at my favorite hotel pools and the beach.

Trend: Platform sandals

Reef water vista higher platform slingback sandals.

A little extra height and a lot of comfort? Yes, please! That's why platform sandals are all the rage in Miami this summer. My collection of platform sandals has been steadily growing over the last few months, making me more than ready to jump on the trend. The other day, I spotted a friend in the Reef Water Vista Higher Sandals and now I think I have to have them. EVA foam footbeds give the shoes a cloud-like cushioning that keeps your feet comfy for miles, and their waterproof construction makes them perfect to wear from the beach to lunch. 

Trend: Colorful two-piece sets

Makemechic tropical short-sleeve and shorts two-piece set.

You may have noticed a theme with easy sets, but in heat like this, the less thought you have to put into the outfit the better (and the same goes for getting dressed while traveling, right?), and that’s why we love sets. Add in a bright color or fun print and you'll look like you came straight out of Miami. Currently, I’ve got my eye on this MakeMeChic Two-piece Set at Amazon that comes in a ton of summer-ready colors and patterns. It'll make a great casual outfit and swim cover-up if needed. 

Trend: Wide-legged pants

Funyyzo wide-leg pants.

When we’re aiming for a dressier look here in Miami, we’re still riding that breezy fabric train, but often opt for a pair of wide-legged pants with a bit more structure. The Curve Love A&F Sloane Tailored Linen-blend Pants are unbeatable as they come in several colors and are very curvy girl-friendly. Over at Amazon, these palazzo-style, business casual pants feature elegant front pleating to make them super stylish. If you’re a fan of bold patterns, these Btfbm High-waisted Floral Pants are so cute and come in over a dozen prints. 

Trend: Basic crop tops

Cuts clothing almost friday cropped t-shirt.

Simple and basic, crop tops are well-loved here in Miami. Not only do they show off our tans, but they are perfect for pairing with the above wide-legged pants and platform sandals for a simple, well-put-together look. I’m partial to Cuts Clothing crop tops (and really all of the brand's basic T-shirt styles) as they are hands down the best ones I own. I live in them when I travel and they never stretch out or lose their shape. I think I have at least 10 of them in all sorts of colors and styles at this point, but the Almost Friday style is my absolute favorite.

Trend: Small statement bags

Zlmbagus flap tote top convertible handle clutch.

Is there ever a time when small statement bags aren’t in style? I think they are definitely having a moment this summer. Recently on a trip to Lake Como, I was shopping in Bellagio with a fellow Travel + Leisure writer and scored the cutest hot pink leather and straw bag (which you’ll see me using all season). Though I don’t remember exactly where I got it,  I found a similar version at Amazon from Bagkeak. If you're shopping for a new travel bag, I recommend opting for something like the Zlmbagus Convertible Clutch, which has a delicate gold chain strap so you can wear it on your shoulder or crossbody-style if needed. Similarly, the Freie Liebe Straw Clutch also makes a quality travel purse with its convertible design, and its rattan exterior basically screams summer. 

Trend: White Sneakers with pops of color 

Gola women's tennis-mark cox sneakers.

While Miami isn’t a big walking city, somehow I find myself doing a ton of walking, so just like in my travels, I make sure to always have a pair of comfortable but chic sneakers at all times. But, since it's Miami, there has to be a little pop of color to make them stand out. As expected, I’m seeing a ton of Veja sneakers and Adidas Sambas (especially the Messi ones ) being worn all over the city, but for those looking for something just as stylish but a little different, I'm happy to report that I  just got my first pair of Gola tennis sneakers and I can’t get over how comfortable they are. I’m also a big fan of Kizik sneakers when I’m going for a hands-free, easy-to-slip-on shoe and I love the canvas Irvine style .

Trend: Dressy basic totes

Montana west nylon tote .

When you’ve got too much stuff to fit into a small statement bag, enter: the tote bag. This season, Miamians are loving a classic tote that’s dressed up a bit. This Lands’ End canvas tote is perfect for carting around a beach towel, sunscreen, and bathing suit in style, and I’m really into this straw tote bag from Emgill that has a magnetic closure and leather lining. Then, there’s always the beloved Marc Jacobs tote that’s currently on sale or the Montana West Nylon Tote that doubles as a personal item for flights. 

Trend: Solid bathing suits

Eomenie one-piece swimsuit.

This summer, I’ve noticed fewer prints on the Miami beaches. Instead, it’s all about the simple solid, slightly color-blocked looks. I’ve been rocking this bikini from Old Navy since the spring and I love how flattering, supportive ( especially the top ), and size-inclusive it is. But as a true Miami girl, my bathing suit collection is expansive and I’m always on the hunt for new ones to add to my repertoire. Does anyone else feel like they deserve a new bathing suit every time they go on a beach vacation? Treat yourself to this one-piece from Eomenie that's super flattering on everyone and an Amazon best-seller . 

Trend: Low strappy heels

Dream pairs low kitty strappy heels.

Keeping our feet both cute and comfortable, low strappy heels are where it’s at. Whether walking from bar to bar on South Beach or standing around at a cocktail party or a wedding, these shoes show off our fresh pedicures and keep us from feeling fatigued. So far this summer, I can’t stop wearing these Andre Assous Neveah Metallic Wedges in taupe (which features a shiny gold strap that looks so good with so many outfits), and these Clarks Serina Mule sandals have also been great to me lately with their super cushy soles. I have a few friends who swear by Dream Pairs' Low Kitty Strappy Heels that come in several colors and are currently at their lowest price in the last 30 days.  

Trend: Thin sunglasses

Kuguaok retro rectangle sunglasses.

Big, oversized sunglasses are out and thin, rectangular lenses are in. A forever cat-eye sunglasses girl, I’ve recently transitioned into a whole new shape as I aim to stay on top of trends here in the Magic City. This super affordable set from Amazon brand Kuguaok comes with two pairs of stylish retro-shaped glasses for just $7 and has tons of mix-and-match options. Ray-Ban also has a version that’s currently 35 percent off, and of course, there are the tortoise shell ones from Prada — that are on sale for $260 thanks to a 38 percent discount — if you’re really looking to treat yourself.

Trend: Gold hoop earrings

Besteel 14k gold-filled hoop earrings set.

I’m all about well-curated ear candy. I have six piercings on each ear, and while I keep 10 of them in at all times (to be honest, I don’t know how to take a lot of my earrings out and I leave that to the professionals), I do love switching it up when it comes to my first (and most basic) lobe piercing. This season, it’s all about gold hoops in various sizes. A clean simple look that works with every outfit, the perfect gold hoops can most certainly be found at Amazon. Personally, I like a little sparkle, so I’ve got my eye on this BeSteel set that has a plain pair and a rhinestone-laced one as well.

Trend: Phone accessories 

Miami chains & co. beaded phone wristlet strap.

This is definitely one of my favorite and most underrated trends that I’m seeing all over Miami right now: phone accessories. Do you remember when we all had phone charms back in the early 2000s? I had more than I could count, and now they are back. I’m currently obsessed with a local brand called Miami Chain Co. and have several of its wristlet straps and crossbody chains. They are just so fun and functional, especially since I always have my phone in my hand as I document my travels and adventures on Instagram. This keeps my phone close (remember that time I was pickpocketed abroad ?) at all times, and lets a bit more of my personality shine. 

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Orlando Cepeda dies

TSA says it screened a record of nearly 3 million people Sunday, and bigger crowds are on the way

FILE - Passengers wait in a security line at Denver International Airport on Wednesday, Feb. 22, 2023. The TSA expects to break the 3 million mark on Friday, as many Americans get an early start on their July 4 travel plans. It’s just the start of what promises to be a busy summer. (AP Photo/Thomas Peipert, File)

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The number of air travelers moving through U.S. airports hit a record Sunday, and the new mark might not last through next weekend.

The Transportation Security Administration said it screened nearly 3 million people at airports Sunday, breaking a record set on May 24, the Friday before Memorial Day.

TSA forecasts that it will break the 3-million barrier on Friday, when many people will be getting an early start on their July 4 holiday travel plans.

“We expect this summer to be our busiest ever and summer travel usually peaks over the Independence Day holiday,” TSA Administrator David Pekoske said.

Sunday’s TSA count was 2,996,193, or about 45,000 more than the 2,951,163 who flowed through checkpoints on May 24. Seven of the 10 busiest days in TSA history have occurred this year, as travel continues to roar back from the coronavirus pandemic.

TSA expects to screen more than 32 million people between Thursday and July 8, the Monday after the holiday, for a daily average of 2.67 million. That would be a 5.4% increase over the July 4 period last year.

Airlines for America, a trade group representing the largest U.S. carriers, predicts that air travel this summer will rise 6.3% over last year.

11 Things Learned from Traveling 7 Continents

When I started traveling, I made the same goal as many other people do, to visit all 7 continents.  While this is one of the most popular bucket list items for travelers and non-travelers, many people don’t achieve it.  Knowing this, I gave myself a deadline – of 10 years. At 20, my goal was to do it by 30. If you take out duplicates, I actually did it in 6 years- studying abroad in China in 2011 (my only time to Asia) and Antarctica in 2017.  You learn a lot from traveling, so here are my top 11 things I learned from achieving this goal.

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1. Patience is a necessity, not a virtue.

Traveling brings out the worst in people.   If you can’t handle waiting in line, or dealing with crowds, or things going wrong, then you’re not going to have a good time.  You need to learn how to wait.  Everyone in line is in the same boat as you, so being mad doesn’t help anyone.  To make sure your entire trip isn’t ruined, learn to have some patience. 

​2. Travel is glamorous only in hindsight.

Recycled air, waiting, sketchy motels, sweating, long days, sore feet.  These are things people who travel don’t tell you, and honestly, who wants to hear about the shower that was so small I had to shave my legs on the sink?   But in hindsight, you only remember the laughs, the food, and the experience.  

3. Everyone, literally everyone, is interesting.

Solo travel can be intimidating, but trust me, every person who you come in contact with has a life that’s as complicated and interesting as yours.   Especially if you meet someone on a plane, instant conversation starter is why they’re going where they are. Trust me, you’ll meet some very interesting people, and possibly a new BFF.   ​

4. Dance is more important than the spoken word.

I’ve been places where there is a complete language barrier, I only know a few phrases, and they don’t know any English.   We communicate through hand gestures, food, and most importantly dance. I’ve danced almost everywhere I’ve been to (to the embarrassment of my husband).

5. Do everything you can.

You never know when you’ll be back, if at all, so do what you can.  Even if it scares you, even if it’s expensive, and especially if you’re uncomfortable.  My perspective is that I’ve saved up for this trip so why bother thinking about the cost of something?​

6. If you’re not uncomfortable, you’re not doing it right.

Traveling isn’t meant to be doing the same thing that you do at home.   Step out of your comfort zone. Eat the weird food, dance the dance even if you have no idea how.

7. Your hair won’t look good.

Maybe this is just me.  But I never look like the perfect Instagram person.  Curly, thick, frizzy hair. And bangs. I’m not really sure what I was thinking about the bangs.  But I have bought a portable straightener (yes battery powered) so at least I feel more comfortable. But once I accepted that I’m not looking model-esque, I felt a lot better about my pictures.  Not worth being miserable just to look pretty.​

8.  Being a young adult and traveling is uncommon.

For most of my traveling, I was in that middle ground of not-young-enough to backpack through Europe after high school, but not-old-enough to travel when retired.  So that was unusual. A LOT of people said to me “travel while your young” or “I wish I traveled when I was your age.” This only reiterated that I was doing the right thing.  

9. Take only photographs, leave only footprints.

I can’t stress this enough.  Tourism is great for the economy, but terrible, and I mean TERRIBLE for nature.   So don’t take shells or sand or animals, or leaves, or anything. Take photos.  Take videos.

10. Collect something, anything.

I collect mugs.  I remember 95% of the stories about how I got my mugs.  Each mug brings me back to the trip that I got it on. It’s easy to forget sometimes, so collecting something always gives me that souvenir I have to have, that unique mug that describes the place or vacation.  It’s a great memento to look back on.

11. Remember how you feel.  

You will not remember every place you travel to.  However, there will be moments where your feelings will be overwhelming.  While you can look at photos and remember places, you can’t usually get the feelings back.

12. Keep traveling.

Yes, this was a major goal for me and a lot of people ask “what’s next?”  I don’t want to travel to every country in the world just to say I did, so I don’t have a goal like this one, but I just want to keep going.  Keep traveling, keep experiencing, keep eating, and keep dancing.

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