With summer travel on the horizon, University of California Office of the President (UCOP) Central Travel Office is offering tips to help you be a savvier, smarter, and thriftier traveler. 

Smart Travel Strategies

• Fly early in the day to reduce the chance of delays.
• Choose nonstop flights when possible to lower emissions.
• Stick to one airline all the way to your destination as airlines can only commit to their own schedules, and if one cancels, it is not the responsibility of the other to adjust your connecting flight.
• Download airline apps and check-in online ahead of time.
• For international trips, make sure you’ve entered your passport details on the airline site so it goes a little smoother at the check-in counter. Access to the app and its convenience will require you join the loyalty program.
• Ensure your TSA PreCheck/Global Entry number is in your profile for a smoother security experience.
• Arrive early (2 hours for domestic flights, 3 hours for international flights) to navigate longer lines.
• Carry-on only? Save time at check-in and skip baggage claim.
• Snap a photo of checked luggage to assist with claims if it’s lost.
• Board early for overhead bin space.
• Fully charge devices and bring a power bank.
• Photograph travel docs (ID/passport/credit cards) in case of loss.
• Watch for schedule changes and wait before responding unless your flight is within 48 hours. Do not act on them immediately, unless your flight is within a couple of days of the change (our webinar recording found in the travel portal on schedule changes dives into why you should allow yourself time to research your options from full cancellations to destination changes to airline switches). Know your rights during delays/cancellations.

Loyalty Has Its Perks

Enrolling in airline, rental car, and rideshare loyalty programs often unlocks additional savings and faster service. University of California's (UC’s) travel contracts already offer great perks, and combining these with your loyalty program status can mean:

• Free checked bags
• Priority boarding
• Preferred seats
• Expedited car rental pickup
• Upgrades at the airport (if available)

UC Status Match & Program Perks

Already have status with an airline? You may qualify for a UC-specific status match with:

• Alaska
• Delta
• LATAM
• United

Below are programs that allow you to link your personal United, Uber, Hertz, and Enterprise accounts to UC and gain significant benefits. All links can also be found in our Connexxus travel portal:

• United “Break for Business” gives up to 10% discount when booking directly at united.com.
• Hertz and Enterprise allow access to all UC contracted rates when reserving a vehicle on their websites.
• Uber Business provides Priority pickup, where our travelers are prioritized over others, especially at peak/high-demand times or areas (such as conventions or airports).