Do your own everything. Have an Internet connection? Use it. Many airlines charge a premium any time you interact with an employee, such as booking a reservation over the phone (instead of online). In fact, US Airways now charges $5 extra to passengers who check a bag at the airport (vs. doing it in advance online). And low-cost European carrier Ryanair announced it was mulling a £1 fee to use the aircraft lavatory. If airlines could find a way to make you fly the plane, they would and they'd charge you if you couldn't.
Travel is full of pitfalls. One wrong step and your vacation could be ruined by a seedy hotel room, an overpriced restaurant, a wasted afternoon at a tourist-trap attraction or an overnight flight crammed in the middle seat. So, guarantee a smooth trip by planning thoroughly. Here's how to make all the right moves.