Happy New Year Reader!

If you’ve got even a tiny thought floating around about planning a vacation in 2026, now is a really good time to start thinking about one thing in particular.

Not resorts.
Not excursions.
​Flights.

Not because they’re fun to book (they’re not), but because flight schedules, routes, and fare rules tend to shape the entire trip.

Here’s how I’d think about it if I were planning my own travel right now.

Start with routes, not destinations

You might be toying between one or two destinations, but I’d look at routes before deciding on a destination. If you have your heart set on a place only to realize the flights run on specific days, are seasonal, have awkward connections, or just don’t line up with your time off, it can put a damper on the whole trip before it even starts.

It’s often smarter to narrow it down to a few destination options and then choose based on which flight routes make the most sense, so you’re actually maximizing your time away.

Look closely at flight times, not just dates

From there, I’d pay close attention to flight times, not just dates. A late night arrival or a very early departure can easily eat into a full vacation day, especially on shorter trips.

You might not love the idea of an early start on arrival day, but an earlier flight often gets you into vacation mode faster and out of the airport before delays and backups start stacking up later in the day.

ALWAYS consider nonstop routes

If there’s a nonstop option, I’d seriously consider booking it. Yes, it might cost more, but it’s an expense I’d rather take on than dealing with connection headaches.

One missed connection can unravel everything. Delays happen, that’s just the reality of flying now. Sometimes you make the connection but your luggage doesn’t. Sometimes the next available flight isn’t until the next day, or worse, several days later. During busy travel periods or winter months, those domino effects can be even harder to reclaim any part of your vacation.

Do the math between fare prices (and read the fine print)

That “great deal” on the entry-level fare often stops looking so great once you add checked bags and seat selection. For couples and families especially, it’s worth doing the math before booking.

Saving a small amount upfront can end up costing more than simply choosing the next fare level. This is also where it’s important to check whether that basic fare is changeable, refundable, or at least credit refundable. Missing those details can mean losing the full cost of the ticket if plans change.

This is also a good moment to think about travel insurance with flight protection. Especially for bigger trips, it can add an extra layer of peace of mind.

Booking early gives you options

Booking earlier usually means more fare categories to choose from, better seat availability, and more flexibility if plans need to shift. Waiting tends to limit choices rather than protect you.

And let’s be honest, that little red “3 seats left” message can add unnecessary stress. I much prefer having options than feeling backed into a corner.
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Last reminders to take note of

One thing many travelers don’t realize is that airline policies vary widely. When things go sideways, how an airline handles changes and rebooking matters. You need to know what the airline is responsible for and what you’re responsible for should plans get disrupted.

The same goes for points bookings. Even when using points, always check the fine print. Some award tickets come with redeposit fees, non-refundable taxes, or limited flexibility. Points don’t automatically mean risk-free.

Okay, that was A LOT more than I intended to send you! LOL If you made it this far, I hope it gave you a few tips to help you get started planning!.

We truly hope that travel is part of your 2026 plans and as always, drop us a line if you need any help!.

Here’s to smarter planning and more trips to look forward to this year ✨

Cheers from us🍹
Kerry & Byron
​Corks and Tacos​

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