Baggage Charges for Hawaii Travel

With gas prices rising, the cost on airline tickets has risen as well. In an effort to make the prices look affordable, many airlines have tacked on hidden costs by charging extra for baggage. Make sure you include these charges, when you are calculating Hawaii Island Travel costs. Here is a list of airlines that travel to Hawaii and what their checked baggage policy is:

American Airlines - $15.00 for the first bag each way. $25.00 for the 2nd bag each way.
Continental Airlines - $15.00 for the first bag each way. $25.00 for the 2nd bag each way.
Delta Airlines - $15.00 for the first bag each way. $25.00 for the 2nd bag each way.
Go!Airlines - $10.00 for the first bag each way $17.00 for the 2nd bag each way.
Hawaiian Airlines - $15.00 for the first bag each way. $25.00 for the 2nd bag each way for flights between the continental U.S. and Hawaii. $17.00 for inter island flights.
Island Air - first bag is free, $25.00 for the 2nd thru 4th bag each way.
Northwest Airlines - $15.00 for the first bag each way. $25.00 for the 2nd bag each way.
United Airlines - $15.00 for the first bag each way. $25.00 for the 2nd bag each way.
US airways -$15.00 for the first bag each way. $25.00 for the 2nd bag each way.

Exceptions to these policies include First or Business Class and customers who purchase full-fare economy tickets.

Most airlines will charge a fee if the bags weigh more than 50 pounds. If you are planning to bring 3 bags or more per person, additional costs may be as high as $125. Four bags may be $200. Golf clubs or surf boards are considered a second bag.

I recommend packing lightly to have the best Hawaii travel. Take a carry on along with one large suitcase. One bag is allowed so long as it does not exceed 45 inches when you add the length +width + Height so that it fits in an overhead bin or under the seat. Personal items - includes backpack, purse, briefcase, laptop or a similar item such as book bag or tote that does not exceed 36 inches.

Cheap Tickets for Hawaii Travel

"How can I find cheap tickets for Hawaii Island travel?" seems to be a question I get on a regular basis. Even though the closure of ATA and Aloha seem to have made prices skyrocket, there are some hints to assure you of getting cheap tickets for Hawaii travel vacations.

Bulk prices are available to travel agents, so it makes sense to have someone with those resources working on your behalf. In many instances they can beat Internet prices. By combining air, car and condo, you can save much more than purchasing each item separately.

Traveling on week days is generally less expensive than traveling on the week-ends. Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday are usually the cheapest days to fly.

For best Hawaii travel, avoid flying on holidays. The planes fill up quickly and prices rise accordingly. If you do have to travel during the holiday season, the least expensive day is usually the exact holiday. When I searched for my flight to Nashville from Maui at Christmastime, it was cheaper for me to start on Christmas eve and arrive on Christmas morning. I actually got to have Christmas with my family on Maui early and spend Christmas day with my family in Nashville, so it worked out great.

I did a quick study to see which west coast airfare was the cheapest to Maui. In comparing, Seattle, San Franciso, and Los Angeles, San Franciso was the cheapest. This may not be true in every case, so make sure your travel agent checks that our for you if you are coming from further east.

It's hard to say that any one airlines is cheaper than the others at this point. A good agent will look at various options for you to get cheap tickets and assure you of the best Hawaii travel prices.

Canadians Travel to Hawaii

Canadian snowbirds are known to travel long distances in search of warmer climates, but in the past the expense of getting to Hawaii and the high cost of tourism detoured them from Hawaii travel vacations.

Now, Canada's strong oil economy and robust real estate appreciation has increased its citizens discretionary income. And, while Canadians still view Hawaii as a faraway locale, the buying power of their dollar has made Hawaii travel vacations affordable.

While a passport is not needed if you are coming from one of the other 49 states in the US, you will need one if you are coming from Canada. Plan ahead to obtain this to assure yourself of simple Hawaii travel.

You can pick up a passport application at one of 28 regional passport offices or most travel agencies. Canadian children who travel must have their own passports. However, if you hold a valid Canadian passport issued before December 11, 2001, that bears the name of your child, the passport remains valid for you and your child until it expires. Applications are available at travel agencies throughout Canada or from the central Passport Office, Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade, Otttawa, ON K1A 0G3 www.dfait-maeci.gc.ca/passport). (tel 800-567-6868) Processing takes 5 to 10 days if you apply in person, or about 3 weeks by mail.

Airfare from Canada can be obtained for as little as $706 per person which can assist you greatly in obtaining affordable Hawaii islands travel.

Why Travel to Hawaii?

Hawaii is truly "America's Paradise," the favorite destination for Hawaii honeymoon travel, the dream vacation for families, the tropical playground for people nationwide. Home of the beloved "Aloha" spirit, Hawaii is culturally unique and exotically beautiful. The six major islands - Kauai, Oahu, Molokai, Lanai, Maui and Hawaii's Big Island -- were called the "heavenly homeland of the north" by the ancient Polynesians.

OAHU - A vibrant center of international commerce, home to Waikiki, known for its fabulous climate, multi-cultural lifestyles and beautiful beaches. And there's more to Oahu - the vistas from Diamond Head, the military history of Pearl Harbor, the surfing paradise of the North Shore, the beaches and waterfalls throughout the island.

MOLOKAI - True to the traditions of their ancestors, the lifestyles of the people of Molokai is untouched and unspoiled. God has carved a rugged beauty on this island --pristine barrier reefs, soaring sea cliffs, verdant valleys. For outdoor explorers eco-seekers, ocean adventures, welcome to Molokai, an island that is truly "Hawaiian by Nature."

MAUI - Named "Best Island in the World" time and time again, Maui has it all -every land, sea and air activity you can imagine. From heavenly Hana to picturesque Lahaina, from Haleakala Crater, "the house of the Sun" to the marine preserve at Molokini. Every winter, thousands of humpback whales come home to the crystal waters of Maui for breeding. A must for the best Hawaii travel.

LANAI - Once covered in pineapple plantations, Lanai today is a perfect getaway, the ultimate land seclusion. Discover the cultural treasures, enjoy the charm of Lanai's town square, or relax at the world-class resorts on the island. Or enjoy the excitement of the outdoors, with horse back riding, sporting clays, hiking and miles of uncrowded beach.

KAUAI - nicknamed "The Garden Isle" is green and lush from Waimea Canyon, the "Grand Canyon of the Pacific," to the mists of Hanalei Bay. Golding, hiking, kayaking, and snorkeling are just a few of the ways to enjoy Kauai's splendor. Or the island can be explored by walking along a white sand beach or learning about the diverse cultures that contributed to Kauai's history.

HAWAII - The Big Island, twice the size of all the other islands combined, is the newest island in the volcanic chain, and still growing, with the world's most active volcano. Home to world-class sporting and fishing events, the Big Island has room for every kind of activity. This island is home to a wide variety of climatic zones, from lava fields to lush valley's and has many state historical sites and sanctuaries.

Easy presents its own uniquely appealing variety for Hawaii travel vacations.

Hawaii Wedding Tips

If you are planning to get married in Hawaii there are a few things you need to know to help the experience go as smoothly as possible. Here are a few key factors to consider:

• Get married at the beginning of your stay. Why? You don't want to spend your entire stay worrying about your wedding. Get married early, then enjoy your Hawaii honeymoon travel without any stress.

• Hire a wedding planner. As organized and detail oriented as you may be, there are many things that can not be determined long distance. Unless you have been to Hawaii, you don’t know the pro’s and con’s of various beaches. While one may be an awesome snorkeling beach, it may not be the best for a wedding. Your planner will help you choose the best venders, ones who are dependable, affordable and good at what they do. She will know from experience which ones to avoid.

• You’ll need a beach permit unless you are getting married at a private location. This is something your planner can do for you. Cost starts at $20.00

• A wedding license must be obtained in Hawaii. Your wedding planner will set up your license appointment with the nearest agent and give you detailed directions on how to reach her. There is no need for a blood test. Cost is $65.00
  

• Are you bringing your wedding dress? You can ship it ahead of time , and have it pressed. It will be all ready to go when you arrive.
  

• Don't get sunburned before your wedding! Many couples don't realize how quickly they can get burned here. Because you don't want to look like a lobster in your photos, be extra careful about exposure to the sun when you get to Hawaii, even driving around in a convertible can burn you badly. Plan to have fun with your Hawaii island travel, but don’t overdue your time in the sun.
  

How to Make Your Maui Wedding Romantic:

• Keep your wedding small. The bigger the wedding the more likely that you'll be stressed. Couples who come by themselves or with just a few close friends or family seem to enjoy their moment the most.
  

• Pamper yourself by letting a hair and make-up specialist do your hair and make-up. You won't have to go into a parlor, expert beauticians come right to your hotel or condo. Your fiancé will be speechless when he sees how gorgeous you look.
  

• Dress up in full white wedding gown and formal tuxedo. You can't believe how awesome you will look and feel decked out to the nines, in front of a beautiful Hawaii beach sunset. You don't have to dress up... but believe me, it makes the whole occasion so much more special when you do.
  

• Increase the romance by releasing butterflies at your wedding. They won't fly off quickly... they'll stay on your finger and your flowers to add to the enchantment of the moment.
  

• Add to the dreamlike experience by releasing doves. Some companies use an exquisite Victorian cage, and will show you how to release them for incredible photography... which you'll treasure for a lifetime as the two of you begin your own new life together.
  

• Choose a decent size photography package. A larger photography package with digital editing and special effects will enhance your images. Make sure your company will sell you the CD with all the images.
  

• Arrange to have a video shot of your wedding. Capture the wedding and all the magic of your nuptials including a dreamy montage of your favorite love songs that will bring raves from your family and friends.
  

• Pamper yourselves with an elegant dinner overlooking the beach. This is probably the only time in your life when you will ever have a gourmet meal served to you on the grass overlooking the beach lit by tiki torches. What more romantic way is there to begin your new life together?
  

• Have a musician of your choice entertaining at your wedding. You will feel like you stepped right into the lives of the rich and famous.

• Even if you can’t afford to spend the whole time at a resort, book a condo and take two nights at a resort. This can assure you of having the best Hawaii travel possible.
  

These are just some of the many little things that you can do to make your Hawaii wedding oh so romantic and fun.

Hawaiian Island Hopping

When planning your trip of a lifetime, you have some important questions to ask yourself. There are basically 6 islands that can be visited How many of them are you going to visit when you come? The biggest expense is getting to Hawaii, but it's not nearly as cheap as you would think to get from island to island. At the time of this writing, a typical airfare runs from $76.00 to $89.75 per person.

Another possibility is the SuperFerry, but at this time it only runs between Oahu and Maui. It's a three and a half hour trip from Honolulu to Maui and a 3 hours trip from Maui to Honolulu.Cost is currently $39.00 per person, one way. Some rental companies will allow you to drive your car on the ferry, but will charge you an additional fee. If you leave the car on another island, figure at least a $400 drop fee charge. There is a ferry or charters that runs from Maui to Molokai and Lanai as well.

Price is not the only thing to consider. How much time will it take you to explore each island? Depending on how varied your interests are will help determine the answer to this question. The natural scenery is so breathtaking on all the islands and so varied, that you want to allow plenty of time for expeditions.

Determining how much actual time you have for your Hawaii islands travel is the first step. Let's say you have two weeks. I would recommend two, maybe three islands at the most. Five days on each island is minimum. Most people feel like they are rushed to cram everything they want to do into that small amount of time.

If you are going to stay on two, determine which two would be most valuable for you to see. Maui no ka oi is a popular saying, meaning that Maui is the best. I would include this in your Hawaii island vacation especially if it is your first time coming to Hawaii. It has a little bit of everything. From there you need to determine if you want to go more rural or more commercialized.

No matter which island or islands you choose, You can have the time of your life with your Hawaii travel vacation.

Hawaii Vacation Packages

Why choose Hawaii vacation packages? There's one very simple reason: you will save money! Whenever air, accommodations and a rental car are all ordered at the same time, it is considered to be a "package" and the traveler inevitably saves money over booking those three items separately.

The nice thing is that you don't have to find Hawaii vacation packages, you can create your own. Choose which island you want to stay on, which accommodations will work best for you, and choose the type of car you want as well as the exact dates you want to travel. You don't have to fit your schedule into something that is prearranged for you. Hawaii vacation packages can be created to custom fit your needs.

Rental Cars in Hawaii

If you are staying on any island but Oahu, I recommend renting an auto. There are so many incredible natural beauty locations and fun activities on the islands that you will want to have the right vehicle to travel at your own pace. If you want simple Hawaii travel, having a rental car allows you that flexibility.

Should you choose a sedan, compact, van, sports car, convertible, jeep or SUV? Your choices are many. For the most part a 4 wheel drive is not necessary. Rental car companies recommend that you stay on county roads, in case of emergencies. If you do become stuck somewhere remote, your cell phone may not work, and help will be difficult to obtain.

For Oahu, a rental car is not a necessity as traffic volume is quite high and most resorts charge an additional daily fee to park your car. If you are staying in Waikiki, you will be within walking distance from most attractions. Tours are readily available so you can leave the driving to the people who are used to dealing with one way traffic in crowded conditions.

A car can be added to Hawaii vacation packages to help you get the best possible deal. In many cases you can save money by booking a full week, even if you are only staying 6 days. Weekly rates are discounted and you can avoid penalties for returning the car later in the day than when you picked it up. Having breathing space when returning your car is an added plus.

Having a car will assure you of having the best Hawaii inclusive vacation possible.

Hawaii Honeymoon

Hawaii is the perfect place for your romantic getaway. With such varied activities as luaus, helicopter tours, whale-watching, snorkeling, kayaking, fishing, surfing, hiking, golf, guided tours, shopping, just to name a few, you're sure to find an assortment of fun things to do. World class restaurants and romantic dinner cruises only add to the lure.

If you are planning a honeymoon in paradise, or even a Hawaii wedding and honeymoon, there are so many ways to save money and increase the romance of your Hawaii experience. For over ten years I have planned Hawaii honeymoons, weddings, and vow renewals as well as memorable anniversary vacations. I know the "secrets" for putting together an incredible and romantic Hawaii honeymoon travel package. Best of all, my expert help won't cost you anything extra to make your special day and honeymoon the experience of a lifetime.

Many couples who start planning mainland weddings, get frustrated with the the issues that arrive from trying to keep all the family members happy. If you are coming to Hawaii for the honeymoon anyway, why not leave all the cares and frustrations behind (and maybe a few relatives) and have the wedding of a lifetime on a white sandy beach with the ocean as your background. Top that off with a romantic sunset and you can't go wrong!

Contact me so I can show you how to make your Hawaii honeymoon travel, as affordable and romantic as possible.

What to Look for in a Hawaii Travel Agent

You are making a big investment to plan this vacation. You want everything to go smoothly. Planning is everything. You need a travel agent who is flexible and will listen to your requests. You need someone who can offer ongoing customer service. Talking to a live person, not only when you are booking, but especially afterwords gives you the confidence to know that you will receive ongoing support. If there are issues that need to be addressed, you need to know that your travel agent will follow through with those details. If you have a problem with the airline, your hotel or your rental car company, you need someone who can give you support to help you keep your simple Hawaii travel.

You want someone who will help you find the best possible locations and airfare, at the lowest possible price. In this tough economic market, there is no reason to pay higher prices. You want someone who will help you save money and get the best possible deal on your Hawaii islands travel.

You want your travel agent to provide protection in case of emergencies. You usually can't get this from Internet travel sites. Make sure you can obtain low cost cancellation waivers.

You want a travel agent who knows the properties and can give good advice. A person who has lived in Hawaii is going to be far more knowledgeable than a person who has never even visited the islands. Someone who has seen the hotels and condos first hand has a far better awareness of the pros and cons of the various sites. You need someone who can put together Hawaii vacation packages that will provide you with a lifetime of memories.

Which Island is best for Your Hawaii Travel?

Think for a moment about your expectations from your Hawaii travel vacation. You might even want to jot down a quick list of the four or five main things you want to achieve from your Hawaii island travel. Family members often have different ideas about what is important and what they want to enjoy to have the best Hawaii travel possible. Perhaps your goal in coming to paradise is to hike and enjoy the beautiful nature excursions available here in the islands. Your spouse may prefer to shop (or golf), and your kids may only want to swim in the pool. If you know what everyone wants, before your book your trip, it will help you in choosing the right island and the right kind of accommodations for you stay.

Is it the nightlife or historical tours you are looking for? Then you want Oahu. Do you want to see a live volcano? Then the Big Island is the place. Are you looking for lush tropical, remote beauty? Then you want Kauai. Do you want to experience Hawaii in its most remote form. You will probably enjoy either Molokai or Lanai. (No fast food here!)

On my web site I have created a chart to assist you in determining which island is the best for your Hawaii Islands travel.

This will be your trip of a lifetime. You want everything to go smoothly so that you can have the best Hawaii travel possible. You want good service at the lowest possible price, who cares about pointing you to the "right island" and the right lodgings for your stay.

Best time For Hawaii Travel

Of course the "best time" depends on you! The lowest air and hotel rates for the best Hawaii travel usually run from September through mid-December and from April 15 to June 1. High season is from December 15 to April 15 and during the summer months when children are more apt to be out of school. You will find prices are up and accommodations are harder to find during that period. However, if you’re coming the last weekend of April, book your reservations early as that is Japan’s Golden Week (four national holidays in one week), and the islands are very busy with Japanese visitors. If you do want to come during high season, book early to guarantee availability. The last two weeks of December are particularly busy in Hawaii as well.

Whenever possible, book your flight for arrival and departure during the middle of the week (on a Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday). There is less traffic coming to Hawaii on these dates, so the rates are usually better.

Book your airfare as early as possible. The less crowded an airplane is, the more likely you’ll get a good price. Pay for your air tickets quickly. Even if you have a hold on your tickets, the price can still group until you actually pay for those tickets. Remember to purchase the travel insurance in case your Hawaii island travel plans change.

You can have the best Hawaii travel by following the above suggestions.

Condos Versus Resorts For Hawaii Travel

Many times people ask me if it is better to stay at a condo or a resort. My answer is that it all depends on you. If you want lots of service and are willing to pay for it, then a hotel resort is for you. The larger resorts usually have better locations, bellhops to take your bags to your room, valets to park your car, concierges to book your activities, room service for meals and daily maid service and much more. They are usually more luxurious as well with 4 and 5 star restaurants on site. Many have spas as well, to help create that pampered feeling that you may want while on your Hawaii inclusive vacation.

If you are on a tight budget or just know that you won’t be spending much time at your accommodations, you’ll want to go with the condo. Prices there are much less to start with and the savings just keep on going. Most condos do not charge parking fees or daily resort fees which can add up. Some end up being as much as $35.00 a day combined. If you want to save money with your Hawaii vacation package, I would recommend stayng in a condo. While not as luxurious as the resorts, they offer other benefits such as bedrooms that are separate from the living room, and full kitchens. Many of them do have concierges as well. Vacation condos do provide a more homey attmosphere for much less money.

Which ever you choose, you’ll be sure to enjoy your Hawaii Islands Travel.

Excellent Time to Book Hawaii Travel

There is no better time than now to book Hawaii islands travel. The economy as been the driving force behind one of the worst years of travel and tourism. But with every cloudy day comes a silver lining - if you look for it. There is currently an upside to Hawaii travel vacations. Airfare and accommodations are the best they have been in years. Great deals with Hawaii vacation packages are available for travelers to the fiftieth state.

But beware of false advertising on the Internet. A typical advertisement might read something like this: Three days and nights in Hawaii, airfare included, only $299! Don't be fooled. It simply can't be done.

It sounded too good to be true, so I went to a popular travel site that made that claim. I clicked as though a serious customer. Trying a number of different states and dates, not once did the final price come out that low.

I can assist you with Hawaii vacation packages to keep the cost down, and will not give you a "come on" price. I offer quick and simple Hawaii travel advice with competitive price quotes on major airlines along with great accommodations at both quality resorts and less expensive vacation condos. Enjoy the luxury of knowing what's necessary to create a Hawaii vacation package with help from a travel expert - all without paying anything extra or obligation to book any travel using my services.

So, why don't you give me a ring or drop me an e-mail. I would be happy to assist you with the best Hawaii travel possible. Toll free: 888-735-2720

Hawaii Travel Insurance

No matter how much time and energy goes into planning a trip, the unexpected can always happen. Hawaii travel vacations do sometimes encounter changes and this may result in penalties. You can avoid these penalties by purchasing our low cost Change/Cancellation Penalty waiver. When you purchase bulk air, the whole amount (minus the cost of the insurance) will be refunded. You can make changes or cancel for any reason through the last business day before departure without paying penalties. And, you receive a refund for any decrease in the package price. If you make changes after the last business day before departure, you receive a refund of all prearranged travel services not used for your Hawaii vacation packages, except air fare. All this protection is only $41. Per person. Waivers must be purchased with your initial payment and for the entire party.

If we have to use published air, (sometimes it’s the least expensive option... all Canadian flights require this) the money is not refunded on the airfare, but you receive a credit back for purchase within 365 days and full refund on the accomodations and car rental.

This is great peace of mind for Hawaii travel vacations.

Hawaii Island Travel

Did you know that if you book your air tickets directly with an airline or through one of the internet services, you will probably end up paying more than the prices I can get for you? This is because we sell airline tickets as part of a Hawaii island travel package. Whenever airfare, accommodations and rental car are booked at the same time, you will likely earn greater savings than if each service is booked separately.

This doesn't mean that you receive bad seats on an inferior airline. You will be flying on a major carrier and you will be in the same coach section of the airplane. But you won't pay as much for your Hawaii island travel.

To get these great prices for my clients, I have partnered with Blue Sky Tours. Together we offer the best selection of airlines flying to Hawaii. With a wide range of routes, schedules and options, you have the flexibility to plan your trip the way you want, and still get the best possible prices.

Because you want your Hawaii island travel to be simple, talk to me before you book your accommodations or airfare. Remember, my service doesn't cost you anything extra--and it may save you plenty. Call me toll free at 888-735-2720.

Things to Know .. Weather and Time Difference

I'm creating this BLOG to give you help with your Hawaii island travel. Hopefully, you will pick up some pointers to make your trip more enjoyable. Being informed ahead of time of what to expect, can make the difference between an average trip and an extraordinary one!

Weather: From May to October the temperatures range from mid to high 80's during the day and mid 70's at night. It rains more often but it doesn't last very long. October to May the temperatures averages low to mid 80's during the day and mid 60's to 70's at night. Even though it is not extremely hot, the sun is strong. Even if you have a tan, about an hour or so of tanning is plenty. Waterproof sunscreen with protection of at least SPT30 is recommended. Be especially careful if you have a convertible. With the wind blowing through your hair, it's easy to forget how warm the sun actually is. The last thing you want to do is ruin your vacation with a painful burn. In the event that this does happen, you'll want to apply an aloe lotion with Lidocaine. This blue gel by Bana Boat is sold at most convenience stores in Hawaii. The sun is very strong in Hawaii, the strongest between 11:00am and 2:00pm. You may want to consider bringing a light jacket or sweatshirt. Restaurants and stores are often chilly with their air conditioning.

Time difference: One question I get asked all the time is, "What time is it there?" Hawaii does not observe daylight savings time. During the Spring months, Hawaii is 6 hours behind Eastern Standard Time, 3 hours behind Pacific Standard time. In the Fall,when the clocks are turned back Hawaii is 5 hours behind EST and 2 hours behind PST. Don't be surprised if you wake up at the crack of dawn the first day! It will take you a day or two to get used to. Give yourself once day to recuperate form jet lag so that you can be assured of having the best Hawaii travel.

Things to Know -- Wardrobe

You're planning to come to Hawaii and wondering what to pack ... here are a few suggestions. The islands of Hawaii have many diverse ecosystems, each with different climates. For example, the tops of Mauna Kea (Big Island) and Mt. Haleakala (Maui) get snow in the winter while it is in the 70's at beaches around the islands. Consider what activities you plan to enjoy, then pack. If you plan to explore trails through rainforests, bring shoes you don't mind getting really muddy. If you plan to walk the lava fields of Volcano's National Park on the Big Island, keep in mind that some lava is very sharp and proper hiking shoes are necessary. Just be casual. You do not need to bring a suit, dress slacks, or fancy cloths. The attitude and dress code for the islands is "hang loose." Even at the fanciest of restaurants, aloha wear is all you need.

blogcatalog link