Booking a holiday should be exciting, but navigating shifting airline policies, hidden baggage fees, and unpredictable travel rules can turn a dream getaway into an expensive headache.
With fuel prices on the rise and new cabin restrictions rolling out, taking time to do a little homework before hitting "confirm" is essential.
After all, there is a lot to think about before booking a holiday. Is the fare really as cheap as it looks? What happens if your plans change? Is your passport valid for long enough? And, perhaps most importantly, what exactly are you allowed to pack in your hand luggage?
From travel insurance fine print to smart packing hacks, these 15 non-negotiable rules will save you time, money, and unnecessary stress on your next trip.
Buy comprehensive travel insurance
Travel insurance should never be an afterthought. “Honestly, it’s the best booking decision you’ll make,” says Zay Ferguson-Nair, customer experience leader at Flight Centre South Africa.
“Unspecified event cover is often included if you purchase cover within 24-72 hours of your trip being booked.
Talk to your travel advisor about the right cover for your trip at the point of booking, and don’t leave it for later.”
Read the terms and conditions carefully so you know exactly what you are covered for.
Book early
If you know when you want to travel, consider securing your fare sooner rather than later.
“Our advice at the moment is simple: Book early, pay now, stay flexible,” says Ferguson-Nair.
“You can book today’s prices for travel up to 12 months out, which means you can snap up the deals Middle Eastern carriers are offering right now and worry about packing later.”
Check the date-change policy
Plans can change, so find out what an airline will charge if you need to move your flight. In some cases, paying a change fee can be cheaper than buying a fully flexible fare.
Compare the total ticket price
Don’t be seduced by the cheapest headline fare. Check baggage costs, flexibility, seat selection and other extras before comparing airlines.
“In the current climate, we recommend paying a little more for flexibility. It can save you money in the long run,” says Ferguson-Nair.
Quote and ticket on the same day
Airfares can move quickly. If you are happy with a fare, don’t assume the same price will still be available the next morning. If possible, secure the booking while the price is available.
Check your passport first
Before booking flights, check your passport’s expiry date. Many destinations require at least six months’ validity and blank pages. Check visa requirements too, as these can vary by destination.
Consider carry-on only
If your trip allows it, travelling with hand luggage can save money and time. With some airlines increasing baggage fees, avoiding the checked-bag queue can also make your journey considerably easier.
Pack light
Be realistic about what you need. Packing cubes, rolling clothes or simply taking fewer outfits can free up space and make moving between airports and hotels much easier.
Wear your bulky clothes
Boots, heavy jumpers and jackets can take up valuable suitcase space. Wear your bulkiest items on the plane instead – and you may appreciate the extra layers when the cabin gets cold.
Keep an essentials kit in your hand luggage
Pack spare underwear, a toothbrush, a phone charger, a change of clothes and any prescription medication in your cabin bag. If your checked luggage goes missing, you will still have the basics you need.
Carry an empty refillable bottle
An empty reusable water bottle can save you from paying airport prices for bottled water. Fill it at an approved refill station after security and stay hydrated during your journey.
Download the airline app
Do this before leaving home. The airline app can provide updates about delays, cancellations, gate changes and boarding information, making it particularly useful when plans change.
Save your travel support numbers
Save your travel advisor’s 24-hour support number, as well as your travel insurer and hotel’s contact details. Having them readily available can save precious time if something goes wrong.
Know the new power bank rules
Since 27 March 2026, ICAO rules limit passengers to two power banks in the cabin and prohibit charging them during the flight. Some airlines have stricter rules, so check your carrier’s requirements before departure.
Never put a power bank in checked luggage, and follow your airline’s instructions on where it should be stored in the cabin.
Ignore “airport theory”
The TikTok trend encouraging travellers to get from the airport entrance to their gate in 15 minutes or less is not a travel hack worth trying.
Security queues, passport control and long distances between terminals and gates can quickly turn a challenge into a missed flight. Give yourself enough time to get through the airport without having to sprint.
A little preparation goes a long way
The best holiday booking tips are often the simplest. Check your passport, understand your insurance, compare the full cost of your flights and know your airline’s rules before you leave.
A little preparation can save you money, time and a few grey hairs - leaving you to concentrate on the part of travel that actually matters: enjoying your holiday.
zamandosi.cele@nationalmg.co.za