4 Insider Tips to Successful Space Available Travel

Sophie S
Space A (Available) flights allow military personnel, their dependents, retirees and their dependents to travel virtually free of charge within the contiguous United States, as well as abroad. What are some tips that can help you to have a successful Space Available flight?

Have the Right Attitude

Space A flights are a privilege, not a right. The primary purpose of Space Available flights is to take part in military missions, not to carry passengers around the world. Do not get uptight about having to wait for hours to board the plane. Relax, take a deep breath and be patient. If you cannot stand the idea of waiting to find out if there will be capacity on the plane for you and your family to travel, book a commercial flight instead. If you cannot think of Space A flights as an adventure, but must have set plans, you will not benefit at all from your experience.

Search for Bargain Flights

One of the main reasons military personnel or retirees fly Space A is because it saves them a lot of money. However, without an actual ticket in hand and a time of boarding firmly impressed upon you, flying Space A can be risky and there is always the possibility of being "bumped" from the flight. That is why it is worthwhile searching for bargain flights rather than relying exclusively on a Space A flight to get you from point A to point B.

Have a Back-up Plan

No one wants to be stranded with no back-up plan if they have planned on taking a Space A flight to Germany, but end up in England instead. Some Space A flights end up flying to locations that you had not expected. Keep in mind that military flights make several stops between destinations. Conditions can change, which is why you may end up in a different location. Always have a back-up plan in case this happens. Have enough ready cash in case you need to pay for a hotel or a commercial onward flight to your final destination.

Come Prepared

Whenever you fly Space A, always expect the unexpected. Bring along earplugs, plenty of snacks, drinks, and entertainment just in case you are stuck in the terminal overnight as you wait to board a Space A flight. Coming prepared can help to lessen boredom and wile away the hours.

Remember that Space A travel is a privilege, rather than an automatic right. Start out with the right attitude. This can help you to gain the most benefit from your travel experiences. Do not rely solely on Space A flights. Search for bargain flights instead, as a guaranteed ticket offers greater peace of mind rather than the possibility of boarding a Space A flight. Next, have a back-up plan just in case plans change or you end up in the wrong location. Finally, come prepared and expect long delays at the terminal.

Source:

Space Available Flight: Insider Tips

http://www.military.com/Travel/Content1/0,,SAF_tips,00.html

Published by Sophie S - Featured Contributor in Lifestyle

Sophie is a British expat who has been living abroad in the United States for the past 5 years. She writes on a diverse variety of subjects and is particularly interested in sharing her personal knowledge ab...   View profile

  • Start out with the right attitude
  • Always have a back-up plan
  • Come prepared and expect long delays in the terminal

2 Comments

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  • Charlotte Kuchinsky 8/15/2010

    Good to know.

  • Delicia Powers 8/15/2010

    Well done and helpful!

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