Booking Flights
It is your responsibility to book your flights!
Begin browsing for potential flights early to be aware of price fluctuations.
Be wary of cheap flights - they are usually cheap for a reason!
Read the fine print if you find a deal that seems to good to be true. Check for baggage allowance and extreme layovers.
Layovers
- A layover is the time between flights when you are in an airport.
- Consider layover times when booking flights.
- You need to give yourself time to move gates or terminals, account for delays, and go through international security and processing.
- To be extremely safe, give yourself at least two hours for domestic flights and three hours for international flight layovers.
- Double check that your phone has changed time zones when you land. It doesn't always automatically change and can make you think you have more time than you do!
Booking your Ticket
- Use multiple flight search sites such as Skyscanner and Google Flights.
- Check out Flight Centre and Student Universe for student discounted tickets.
- Use a comparison graph to see if you are paying more for your flights than the average.
- Be wary of time zones and conversions -- you may land a full calendar day after you left without having traveled for over 24 hours.
- Many visas or immigration services require evidence of a return flight.
- Take the time to research prices and flights thoroughly so that you can make an informed decision.
Tips for Finding Cheaper Tickets
- Set up price alerts with websites like Scott's Cheap Flights, Hopper, & Google Flights
- For the best deals book your flights two to three months before travel.
- If it is possible search for your flight using flexible dates it is usually cheaper to fly Tuesday through Thursday.
- Be creative in researching possible flight options. Don't just stick to looking at direct flights. Consider a budget airline or train as your connection.
Always check how much carry-on and checked luggage you can bring on your flight. You do not want to be on an international flight without your bags!
Suitcase, Backpack, or Both?
- Consider the pros and cons of luggage or a backpack.
- A backpack offers more mobility but can get heavy very quickly
- Smaller backpacks are often top-loading, which means you need to completely unpack, then repack, every time you need to get something. Consider packing cubes!
- If using your pack for trekking expeditions, consider the fit. Backpacks are designed to provide comfort and support for different types of people. Try it on before you buy!
- Luggage can be cumbersome to move but offers more room and packing space than a backpack
- Suitcases are more durable and protective for fragile items
- Consider the length and itinerary of your trip. If you are based out of an apartment or dorm for a longer period of time, you will only move your bag to and from the airport.
- Room for souvenirs!
Packing Clothing
- Most airlines have a 50lb weight limit on bags.
- Research where your going. Look at average weather and temperature and be prepared for unique extremes.
- Be respectful! Consider cultural norms and customs - especially when dressing for class. (UNM standards are much more casual than the global norm).
- Bring clothes that are true to yourself - no need to buy a whole new wardrobe.
- Be aware of clothing size variation by country. You may not be able to find your size in your host country.
- Ignore any packing list that tells you not to bring jeans. Everyone wears them all the time all over the world, you don't need hiking pants to go to class.
Packing Tips: Extras & Insights
• Technology: Research if you need an outlet converter and what the electricity voltage is. Don't fry your hairdryer! You can buy simple charging accessories for smaller items after you arrive, but consider buying a converter for your computer if needed.
• Comforts: Consider bringing a few your favorite spices or snacks if you need to eat something that reminds you of home. European peanut butter sucks, but its Nutella is superior. Salsa and canned Green Chile can be brought in your checked luggage ...
• Space is valuable. Bring things you can't live without, and consider picking up commonly found items when you get there. Leave space for souvenirs or be prepared to leave stuff behind!
Remember, anywhere you are going will have anything you need to get by. It's ok if you forget something!
Pack Your Essential and Emergency Items in your Personal Bag
- Passport
- Student Visa
- Round-trip Itinerary (not always required
- Proof of Housing
- Proof of Adequate Finances
- Health Insurance card
- Acceptance Letter to Host University
- Student ID (not required but helps)
- Extra clothes for 1-2 days
- Medication/Prescription(s)
Security
- Arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before domestic flights and 3 for international flights.
- Keep all important documents like your passport and boarding passes easily accessible.
- Ensure that the name on your boarding pass matches exactly the name on your passport.
- Consider printing a paper boarding pass incase your phone battery dies during long travel times
- Wear shoes you can easily take on and off through security check-points
- Have large electronics easily accessible as most security check-points require that they be scanned separately.
- Consider applying for Global Entry. Global Entry costs $100 and allows travelers to be TSA pre-check approved. You will have shorter wait times at TSA checkpoints as well as going through customs when arriving back in the U.S.
- Be aware of the 311 rules for you carry on bag. Liquids, aerosols and gels and not be over 3oz per container. These containers must all fit in one-quart size clear zip top bag and only bag is allowed per traveler.
- The Albuquerque airport has a water fountain just past the TSA checkpoint. Bring an empty water bottle and filing it up once you have passed through security.
During Flight
- During your flight there are some things you can do to stay healthy and comfortable:
- Remember to stay hydrated and have extra snacks with you.
- Consider traveling with a sarong that can be used as a pillow, blanket, or towel.
- Compression socks help improve blood flow on long flights. Wear comfortable clothing and bring a neck pillow for rejuvenating sleep.
- Remember to bring books or videos to help pass the time on long flights.
- Bring your chargers! Most planes are equipped with outlets.
Arrival
- When going through customs keep important documents, passport, and acceptance letter to your host University easily accessible
- Exchange money at the airport if you need to but only what you need immediately because of poor exchange rates.
- You should have a plan on how you will get to where you are staying from the airport.
- Research public transportation ahead of time to save money.
- Know average price of taxi fares to and from airport. Taxi cabs love to overcharge a seemingly naïve tourist!