How to Get Away for a Day

Most cities have hidden treasures unknown to those living elsewhere. From every city there are flights that go to and from a destination repeatedly throughout the day. For example, from New York City, there are numerous non-stop flights to and from Chicago and Washington, DC. To make this a day trip, you will need to leave first thing in the morning and return on one of the last flights later that night. You can find day trips of this sort on almost any airline from any city. Look for flight destinations which have a 2-hour or less scheduled flight time.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Computer
• An idea of where you would like to go

1. Plan a day to get away. Fares are always cheaper when booked at least 3 weeks in advance. The closer to your travel date, the higher the fare will be. Last minute fares are usually the most expensive.

2. Once you have decided on a day to get away, decide where you would like to spend your day. Ask friends about nearby cities and possible activities. Research what you would like to do online and see what locations come up. You may be surprised what you find in your own state.

3. Now it's time to book the flight. Going online is usually cheaper than calling airlines these days. Very often, fares are discounted on airline websites, or additional fees are charged when assisted over the telephone. Choose to leave on one of the first flights of the day, and return late evening, or that night if there are available flights.

4. You are almost ready. As with any airplane trip, you must plan ahead for unforeseen circumstances such as flight delays or cancellations. Even though you are planning a day trip, you should still pack a small bag with a toothbrush and toothpaste, a change of underwear and a different shirt. Backpacks, small tote bags, and for ladies a large purse with sections come in handy for this occasion. You want to carry something that you do not mind dragging around all day whether you check out a show or eat dinner.

Tips & Warnings

• Take local hotel information with you in case you enjoy your day trip so much that you want to spend the night, or if your flight home cancels.
• Changing your flight information on your own, not due to a cancellation, will result in an additional fee--usually $100--charged by the airline.

[mardev]

on 6/2/2009 good article:) 5*s

[Diligent77]

on 1/23/2009 Ahh...I remember the days of jumping in the car or on a plane and getting away. Now I have to pack diaper bags, 4 suitcases and half the house to get a decent trip in but its exciting in a different way these days. Good article. 5*

[Handmadedreams]

on 1/1/2009 Good info. I need to make time to get away for the day. Thanks.

[2besure]

on 1/1/2009 Thanks for the great tips. also a recommendation!

[TeryLynne]

on 6/28/2008 Great article.