2022 has been the year of “revenge travel” (aka: going on all those trips to make up for lost time!) and what better way to get back out there than with another new airline at CVG!Say hello to [Breeze Airways](https://www.flybreeze.com/home).Breeze Airways was started in 2018 by the guy who previously co-founded JetBlue. Much like that airline, Breeze is all about the customer experience and making flying, as they put it, “seriously nice.”Hi there, Huntington Beach!They started flying around the country in May 2021, and beginning in February 2023, they will start up two of the four new routes that you can book right now from CVG.Here’s why you should hop onboard and check out one of these cool cities:Broad St. in Charleston is a perfect place for a quiet stroll.Charleston, SCBegins February 8, 2023Cheapest Round Trip Fare I’ve Seen (So Far): $82The weather’s always pretty nice , and so are the beaches! We visited a few years ago and even in December, expect an average high of around 61 degrees. The summertime warms up with highs in the 80s and perfect evening weather in the low 70s that makes nighttime strolls even better.Historic homes line the waterfront in Charleston.We loved strolling along the water at [Joe Riley Waterfront Park](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g54171-d144260-Reviews-Joe_Riley_Waterfront_Park-Charleston_South_Carolina.html). Just across the [Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Arthur_Ravenel_Jr._Bridge) (which is incredible in itself), we enjoyed [Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum](https://www.patriotspoint.org/), where you can tour multiple ships and even a submarine.Climb aboard an aircraft carrier or head inside a submarine at Patriots Point.Our favorite part of visiting Charleston was just wandering the streets. On many blocks, it feels like you’re transported to a different century as you’re surrounded by impressive homes, parks, and architecture.A comfortable afternoon in Sausalito, CA.San Francisco, CABegins February 8, 2023Cheapest Round-Trip Fare I’ve Seen (So Far): $276First, let’s talk about convenience. Right now, San Francisco requires a connecting flight somewhere along the way. Having twice-weekly non-stop service is a game-changer, and you can be in California in under five hours.Our friends got married in San Francisco a few years ago, and we decided to spend a couple of extra days exploring the city and surrounding areas.Watching the world-famous cable cars zip around the streets is so cool. We stayed near [Fisherman’s Wharf](https://www.fishermanswharf.org/) and had a blast at the [Musee Mecanique](https://museemecanique.com/), featuring one of the largest collections of antique arcade games!Lots of fun at Musee Mecanique including a vintage fun house mirror and arcade Pong!Taking the boat to [Alcatraz Island](https://www.nps.gov/alca/index.htm) offers a beautiful view of the city and Golden Gate Bridge. Touring Alcatraz prison is quite an experience as well. Returning back to the mainland, the restaurant choices are endless.The view of the city from Alcatraz Island is impressive.Driving the famous [Lombard Street](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lombard_Street_(San_Francisco)), with its switchback roads and steep hill is a must. (We did it twice!) Continue driving over the [Golden Gate Bridge](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Golden_Gate_Bridge) and explore the [Marin Headlands](https://www.nps.gov/goga/marin-headlands.htm) and Black Sands Beach. Visit the [Nike Missile Site SF-88L](https://www.nps.gov/goga/nike-missile-site.htm) and see Cold War-era missiles on display. Head over to Sausalito for a breathtaking view and enjoy lunch at one of the restaurants overlooking the bay.Even cloudy days are beautiful in the Marin Headlands.And no trip to SF is complete without going to [Alamo Square](https://sfrecpark.org/facilities/facility/details/Alamo-Square-323) and picnicking on the lawn while singing [the theme song to Full House](https://youtu.be/2EL65KLdEHE?feature=shared).Monarch Beach in Dana Point, CA, is located in the southern part of Orange County.Orange County, CABegins March 30, 2023Cheapest Round Trip Fare I’ve Seen (So Far): $218Speaking of TV show theme songs: Californiaaaaa… [Here we comeeeeeeeee!](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MU1PsRsIWJQ) Non-stop service to Orange County can get you from the airport to the beach in about 15 minutes. It also adds another non-stop way to get to Los Angeles and the rest of Southern California.Downtown Huntington Beach is perfect for an early morning jog or evening walk.We’ve spent a few days over Christmas in Huntington Beach. Walking along the miles of sandy shoreline is an instant stress reliever. We really enjoyed the cool surf shops and unique stores in Downtown Huntington Beach and ventured out onto the pier for a view of the coastline. Visit the [International Surfing Museum](https://www.huntingtonbeachsurfingmuseum.org/) and the [Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve](https://wildlife.ca.gov/Lands/Places-to-Visit/Bolsa-Chica-ER). We also loved a hip sushi spot (for Christmas dinner!) and some of the best tacos we’ve ever had.One of the most pet-friendly towns around!But the top-rated attraction on TripAdvisor? [Huntington Dog Beach](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g32513-d578943-Reviews-Huntington_Dog_Beach-Huntington_Beach_California.html). Yepa beach just for dogs (and their people)!Laguna Beach is incredible!Farther south along the coast lies Laguna Beach, while just a little farther north along the coastline, you’ll find Sunset Beach. Continue along the Pacific Coast Highway, hang a left, and you’ll hit Long Beach. Check out the Queen Mary (currently undergoing renovations, but you can view from afar) and the highly-rated [Aquarium of the Pacific](https://www.aquariumofpacific.org/).Providence is one of America’s oldest cities.Providence, RI / Boston, MABegins March 30, 2023Cheapest Round Trip Fare I’ve Seen (So Far): $118Rhode Island has been on my bucket list for a while. It’s the tiniest state with only 39 cities covering just 1,212 square miles. How small is that? You could fit nearly four, yes four, Rhode Islands into the Cincy region (the Southwest Ohio / Northern Kentucky / Southeast Indiana metro area is 4,808 square miles).Mohegan Bluffs on Block Island offers plenty of space to explore.Despite its small size, there are some big views to be had along [Mohegan Bluffs](https://www.blockislandinfo.com/island-events/mohegan-bluffs), one of the most famous cliffs in the state. Roll down the windows and take in the salt air along Ocean Drive. If you’re a fan of architecture, check out The Breakers, The Marble House, The Elms, and eight other historic homes in the [Newport Mansions](https://www.newportmansions.org/).That's a big house!Set sail on [Rhode Island Bay Cruises](https://www.visitrhodeisland.com/listing/rhode-island-bay-cruises/8714/), or take the [Rhode Island Fast Ferry](https://www.rhodeislandfastferry.com/) to Martha’s Vineyard. There’s also [Fort Adams State Park](https://fortadams.org/) that is full of history and also offers tremendous views. If you like to shop, check out the quaint [Thames Street](https://www.visitrhodeisland.com/things-to-do/trip-ideas-getaways/village-experiences-shops/thames-street-newport/) and grab a bite to eat as well. Rhode Island is also home to the [International Tennis Hall of Fame](https://www.tennisfame.com/).Newport, RI, is a charming waterfront community.You can also visit Boston, just one hour up the road, or pop over to Connecticut. There’s also a ferry from New London, CT, to Long Island, NY.Castle Hill Lighthouse in Newport, RI.Sign up with the free Breeze Airways email [newsletter](https://www.flybreeze.com/newsletter-signup) for the latest deals direct from the airline.Get where you want to go for less, find new destinations, and travel inspiration on the [Jay’s Deals] page!Want to share your favorite stuff to do at these destinations? Find me at @JayKruzOfficial on [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/JayKruzOfficial), [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/jaykruzofficial/), or [Twitter](https://twitter.com/jaykruzofficial), and I’ll share them!I love that new airplane smell!-Jay

Here’s what to pack for your holiday trip… and three things to leave at home!The world continues to open back up, and a new survey from PWC says that 47% of Americans are planning to travel this holiday season. (That’s more people than pre-Covid times in 2019!)As you get ready to pack for your trip, there are some things you should bring along, a few things to leave at home, and a couple of things the TSA would REALLY like you to know!What you should definitely pack:A carry-on… and only a carry-on if you can!If you haven’t tried packing light for your trip, give it a shot! I’ve mentioned before that I used to be the guy who used 49.5 lb. of my 50 lb. limit on a checked bag. Since my wife convinced me to pack fewer clothes and “stuff,” I’ve found trips to be more enjoyable and have saved so much time waiting at baggage claim. You’ll also greatly reduce the possibility that during a busy travel surge, your checked luggage gets delayed or lost. Make sure your carry-on fits the dimensions [allowed by your airline](https://travel.usnews.com/features/carry-on-luggage-sizes-size-restrictions-by-airline), and know that international carry-on sizes are generally smaller than domestic flights.Your medicationMake sure to bring any medication, including prescriptions, along for your trip. I take a few prescriptions daily and always try to bring at least seven days more than the actual trip itself in case I need to stay longer or there’s a flight delay on the way home. I do the same with my daily contacts as well. The TSA has a complete guide [here](https://www.tsa.gov/travel/travel-tips/can-you-pack-your-meds-pill-case-and-more-questions-answered).Earbuds (wired and/or wireless)They don’t have to be expensive, but a decent pair of earphones are your best friend on a plane ride. Not only can you enjoy your favorite tunes and connect to your phone, it’s also a polite way to tell that chatty seatmate, “Hey, I’m going to get some rest now.” Higher-end, noise canceling headphones will allow you to drown out nearby conversations and general aircraft sounds. Cheaper headphones will do fine but may become uncomfortable after wearing them for long flights. The Shure earphones I use are [somewhere in the middle](https://www.shure.com/en-US/products/earphones/se215?variant=SE215-CL). I’ve had them for about five years, and they’re small, sound great, and come with a nice little zippered case with a belt clip. Heads up, if you normally have AirPods or other wireless headphones and your plane is equipped with a seatback entertainment system for movies, be sure to bring along wired headphones, as many systems won’t have a Bluetooth connection.Your airline’s app and a flight tracker appI like to know what’s up with my flight, so make sure you download your airline’s app and are signed in with your itinerary. Most airline apps will give you real-time alerts for gate changes, delays, and cancellations. I also think it’s kind of geeky-cool to watch what’s happening in the skies around you. I use free apps like [FlightAware](https://flightaware.com/), [FlightRadar24](https://www.flightradar24.com/), [FlightView](https://www.flightview.com/), and [FlightStats](https://www.flightstats.com/v2/) to keep tabs on departures, arrivals, delays, and on-time histories for flights I’m looking at booking or am traveling on.Your (100% valid) IDIt seems like a no-brainer, right? I was leaving on an important work trip and nearly had an out-of-body experience at the security checkpoint as the TSA agent reviewed my driver’s license and said, “you know this is expired, right?” Thankfully, the TSA’s current policy accepts “expired driver’s licenses or state-issued ID a year after expiration.” However, beginning May 3, 2023, if you’re going to use your driver’s license or another form of ID for any flight in the US, it will need to be REAL ID compliant. Find out more about REAL ID here. Your passport is a safe bet for any trip, but your roadside assistance, credit card, or discount club card won’t fly. Literally. If flying internationally, be sure to check your destination’s passport and visa requirements as some countries won’t allow passports that expire within three or six months of travel.PatienceI know, it’s easier said than done, right? But the holidays are one of the busiest times for a lot of businesses, including airports. Leave earlier than you normally would for your trip to allow time for additional crowds, parking, and check-in. And leave even earlier than that if you’re traveling with little ones!1. Don’t pack huge bottles of shampoo, conditioner, and soapDo you use really good conditioner on your hair? I totally get it. But, that $70 bottle you got from your salon won’t be able to make the trip in your carry-on, and you’ll be super sad to have it confiscated at security. Instead, follow the TSA’s 3-1-1 rule:Liquids, gels, and aerosols packed in carry-on must be:- 3.4 ounces or less per container- All fit in a 1-quart size clear, plastic, zip top bag (all liquids must fit in bag)- Each passenger gets 1 bag max2. Leave the jewelry, valuables, and irreplaceable stuff at your placeIt’s fun to have nice things but consider leaving them at home. If you are lucky enough to own an expensive wedding ring, consider traveling with a backup ring instead. My wife has done this on a few trips, and it’s a stress saver. Same goes for family heirlooms, rare items, expensive watches, designer garments, etc.3. You don’t need (or want) every key on your keychainI have a daily checklist when I leave the house: wallet, keys, phone. If one of those isn’t there, it feels odd. But when traveling, take only the keys you’ll need on your trip, likely just a house and vehicle key. Put them in a zippered pocket inside a carry-on or in your zippered coat/pants. Nothing is worse than losing your keys.Not sure if you can bring something on board?I wanted to take a fishing rod with me as a carry-on and wasn’t sure if that was allowed. (Fun fact, it is!) If you’re not sure if your deer antlers, Christmas lights, or crochet hook is allowed on board, just use the TSA’s handy [“What Can I Bring?”](https://www.tsa.gov/travel/security-screening/whatcanibring/all) site. It’s a very helpful guide to let you know what’s allowed in your carry-on, what you can put in checked luggage, and what should never be brought to an airport.(Fun fact: all those things are allowed.)Get PreCheck and save time.In September 2022, 93% of [TSA PreCheck ](https://www.tsa.gov/precheck)members waited less than five minutes in line at security.Five. Whole. Minutes. That’s it!More than 200 airports across the country, including CVG, participate in PreCheck. It saves you the hassle of removing your shoes, belt, laptop, liquids, and light jackets at the TSA checkpoint. The [cost is $85](https://www.tsa.gov/precheck) for five years (that’s just $17 per year or $1.42 a month), and enrollment is easy. But it might not cost you anything if you have a credit card that offers this benefit free of charge. The TSA maintains a list of participating cards [here](https://www.tsa.gov/precheck/credit-cards-offer).As an added benefit, kids ages 12 and under traveling with a parent or legal guardian can join them in the PreCheck line.Got a specific question? Just ask the TSA. They’re actually pretty great about providing information for travelers. You can reach them from 8am – 6pm ET on:- @AskTSA on Twitter- Facebook Messenger- Apple MessagesBy the way, the TSA’s Instagram is totally worth a follow! You wouldn’t think a serious government agency has a sense of humor, but some of their posts are genuinely hilarious.In addition to a pretty strong meme game, the TSA also provides helpful travel advice and tips throughout the year. With more than a million followers, you might want to give them a follow as well. Find them @TSA on Instagram.Consider Canada!We’ve taken a few trips with Air Canada and love the flight options they offer. Spend more time experiencing the wonderful city of Toronto, or use it as a quick connection to destinations across Canada and even onto Europe.Want to go somewhere new and save money on your next flight? Check out the Jay’s Deals page to find great prices on flights across the country and around the world!Did I forget to pack something into this blog? Find me at @JayKruzOfficial on Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter, and let me know!Wishing you a very happy holiday season, wherever you might find yourself celebrating this year!-Jay

Cassie Kiser / CVG Airport / December 2022Our Winter Ops team is ready for snow. The team has been practicing winter weather drills since October and will continue to run them until we get our first winter weather event. The drills are practiced every Wednesday morning and night.To start the practice run, the team gathers in a large room and gets briefed on the mock winter weather conditions of the day. The Winter Ops Lead gives the crew ample time to answer any questions before they all head outside and climb into their snow-fighting vehicles. The drills usually run about an hour and a half but the actual shift for a winter weather event can run about 13 hours or more. The operation is very organized, and the Winter Ops team knows the specific roles they have.The Winter Ops Lead drives a pickup truck and goes out of the gate and onto the runway first. That person stays in constant communication with the FAA tower. The Lead is evaluating the conditions of the pavement and gives reports to the team on what to expect.The next in line are the Vammas - CVG’s main snow-fighting piece of equipment. We have nine of these mega-sized machines. The Vammas perform three actions in one: plow, sweep, and blow precipitation. The Vammas crew works like a professional game of follow the leader; whatever the person in the front does, the eight people following will do the same. The group’s goal is to stick together and move like a snake to clear all snow and ice from the runway.Other vitally important pieces of equipment we have on the runway are typically two highspeed blowers, two sanders, one deicer, and one CFME (friction tester). Together, all the people driving the machines push all the snow, slush, and ice off the runway. Without their hard work planes would not be able to land after winter storms. They can typically clear an entire runway in under 20 minutes. That is equivalent to clearing 12 interstate lanes for approximately two miles.The Winter Ops team is fueling performance via operational excellence. The team won an Honorable Mention for the 2021-22 Balchen/Post Awards for their work last winter. The award was announced at the 54th Annual International Aviation Snow Symposium in May 2022. “We had a large ice storm that really impacted our region. At the end of the event the temps dropped well below freezing for several days that made it very difficult to keep surfaces open at CVG. Our team maintained and we never had to close the airfield during that entire weeklong event,” said Matthew Gabbert, Senior Manager, Airfield Maintenance. Gabbert says we have a very good fleet of equipment to make sure CVG stays open during harsh winter weather. He says preparation is key.“We are always training or working on something so that we are not blindsided if a winter event comes our way… (We are) always making sure that we are watching the forecasts, keeping an eye on what is going on around our airport, and making sure that staffing is not forgot about either. Employees are the most important part of Winter Ops. They need to be healthy and prepared before a winter operation is upon us.”We have around 100 crew members on our Winter Ops team. Working on the Winter Ops team is a good way to get started in the aviation industry. If you’d like to join the CVG snow team, job openings are expected to open in fall of 2023.

Why we love Europe in winter (and you probably will too)!You’ve probably seen posts from beautiful Instagrammers blissfully sipping afternoon beverages on a warm June day in an outdoor cafe somewhere in Spain.Looks amazing, right?It is!But…some of our favorite memories of Europe are about six months later when the crowds are smaller, lines are shorter, hotels are half the price, and the flight deals are hot!Here’s why you should pack a jacket, some cozy gloves, and book your flight from CVG right now.Flights cost less… sometimes WAY less!A round-trip flight to Barcelona in June or July averages between $1,037 and $1,137. However, that same flight in November, December, January, February, March, or even late April is about half the price! Round-trip flights to Lisbon, Barcelona, Paris, Rome, and Dublin have been available for $600 or less in that timeframe on the Jay’s Deals page.So… what’s up with that?Mostly cooler temperatures, shorter days, and kids are in school. But just like everywhere else, including Cincinnati, there’s plenty of stuff to see, do, and eat! Since winter means a little less daylight, it’s not a bad idea to plan out your activities for each day using an app like TripAdvisor to ensure you see all the sights.One huge benefit is that you’ll most likely see smaller crowds than in the busy summer tourist season. This makes visiting museums, tours, and attractions a lot more fun because you’ll have more room to enjoy.Experience the magic of Christmas marketsThere are also incredible events in the cooler months. Christmas markets are amazing. These events, often held in town squares, are a perfect way to spend an evening sipping hot cider or spiced wine while you shop and enjoy some music. Markets that had to pause the party during the pandemic are roaring back to life and ready to celebrate!We’ve visited markets in Bratislava, Budapest, Prague, Vienna, Rome, and Barcelona. and each one has a unique flavor. Come hungry as most have a variety of meals and desserts to sample; be sure to leave a little extra room in your luggage to bring home a few gifts.Check the website of the market you’d like to visit for hours of operation and special events, including free concerts and information on vendors.Spend a cozy afternoon in a store, museum, or thrift shopOn any trip, you’re bound to encounter a day or two that’s a little rainy or windy. It’s a great time to take in a museum, some of which are free. Keep an eye on the forecast, and book your ticket for the next day as many people may have the same idea, and tickets could go quickly.Another great rainy-day activity is thrifting. I’ve been able to score some awesome clothing while abroad because there tend to be some unique items that we don’t have in the US. For example, a vintage sportscoat I got from a cool thrift store in Lithuania reminds me of the trip every time I wear it!There are also big brands and unique shops you’ll encounter on your trip, so I like to pack my suitcase about ¾ full to leave room for cool stuff I want to bring home!Your US dollar gets you more right nowFor the first time in 20 years, the US dollar and the euro are at an even exchange rate. If you traveled to Europe 10 years ago, you were getting about .75 euro for every dollar. This means your money will go a little further on your vacation, and you’ll be able to score a good price on pretty much everything from hotel rooms to attraction tickets.Some of our favorite spots in cooler months (and warmer ones too)__The British MuseumLondon, England__Boasting “two million years of history,” this museum has a little bit of everything from around the world. It’s easy to spend more than a day browsing this vast collection. The best part? It’s free! It’s best to claim a free ticket on their [website](https://www.britishmuseum.org/) to ensure you’ll be able to visit on the day and time you’d prefer.__Park GuellBarcelona, Spain__You’ll hear the name Antoni Gaudi a lot during your visit to Barcelona, and one of his most famous creations is Park Guell. One of the most iconic views of the city can be enjoyed here. You can use a book or website like [this](https://www.frommers.com/slideshows/819148-barcelona-walking-tour-gaudi-s-parc-guell) to know what you’re seeing, or do what we do and book a “free” walking tour with a guide. You pay whatever you think the tour was worth as a tip at the end. Well worth it!__Palais des PapesAvignon, France__Just a short train ride from Lyon, France (check [Air Canada](https://www.aircanada.com/us/en/aco/home.html) for good flights), the town of Avignon in southern France is charming and full of history and amazing views. This palace is one of the biggest gothic buildings in Europe and is absolutely jaw dropping. We’ve visited in lateNovember, and the fall colors are amazing with very few crowds. Avignon is also a great starting point for [guided tours](http://www.time4provence.com/home) of Provence.What to packYou’ll need a few more layers for this trip. But it doesn’t mean you need to bring three suitcases along for the journey! A few essentials we like to take along:A “squishable” coat (that doubles as a travel pillow)You’ll want to keep warm but not have a coat so bulky it requires its own piece of luggage. My favorite is a lightweight, down filled, “puffy coat” that packs into a small bag and attaches to my backpack. The best part is that when it’s in the included bag, it makes a really nice pillow for planes and train rides and saves me from having to carry one of those giant donut pillows. Make sure it has zippered pockets to help keep your stuff from sliding out. Bonus points if it’s also waterproof.Travel power adapterMost of your electronics, including your phone, will work across Europe. However, you’ll need to bring along an adapter since the wall plug will be different than the ones we use here. [Here’s a handy guide](https://www.electricalsafetyfirst.org.uk/guidance/advice-for-you/when-travelling/travel-adaptors/) for which ones you’ll need depending on the country you’re visiting. I like to use an adapter that’s small with interchangeable plugs, which is helpful if you have multiple countries on your itinerary.Comfortable shoesYou’ll likely be doing more walking than you would in a typical day at home. Forgo the fashionable kicks and opt for comfy shoes that have been worn and broken in well ahead of your trip. If you’re able, bring an extra pair of shoes in case you encounter rain; you’ll avoid having to slip your feet into soaked soles for your next day of adventures.Google Translate appMost people in major tourist cities speak English. There may be some instances where you see an interesting sign or a menu item, and an English translation isn’t available. Make sure you download the free [Google Translate](https://translate.google.com/) app. It’s pretty powerful and can even translate words that appear in pictures in real-time. It provides instant translations across nearly every language, including an offline option to avoid using data.International data/voice phone planSpeaking of phone data, you’ll probably want to use some while you’re on your trip. Be sure to get with your wireless company either online or on the phone before your trip to add on an international phone plan while you’re away. For a daily or monthly additional fee, you’ll have the ability to send and receive photos, texts, and calls just like you would if you were at home.For the best flights at the lowest price, keep an eye on my Deals page. I’m always searching for low fares to my favorite European cities!Don’t forget, [Delta’s](https://www.delta.com/) non-stop flight to Paris from CVG leaves on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays. It’s a great value, especially when you book in advance, and you can connect to many destinations across Europe through CDG. My favorite part: you can relax and fall asleep on board after leaving Cincinnati and wake up in Paris in the morning!Got a favorite European destination I should check out? I’d love to hear all about it. You can reach me at @JayKruzOfficial on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.I’ll see you on a museum bench in Barcelona this winter!-Jay

Three big reasons you should book your next vacation… yesterday!My wife, bosses, and every teacher I’ve ever had have all politely pointed out one personality trait I possess: If a task is not interesting to me at that very moment, I’m definitely going to put it off.Fellow procrastinators unite! In this edition of Jet with Jay, I want to provide the motivation you need to book your next vacation tonight. (Spoiler alert: it’s going to save you a bunch of money too!)This is especially important since the holidays are coming up fast, and flight prices generally rise around heavier travel times like Thanksgiving, Chanukah, Christmas, Boxing Day, Kwanzaa, and New Year’s Eve.So why should you book early?Reason #1: It’s less stressful.For some people (like us), we have no problem being on vacation in a city in Europe and not having hotel reservations booked in the next city we’re going to until the night before.For others, especially those traveling with families or larger groups, it can cause headaches, arguments, and time wasted when everyone can’t agree on the next place to visit.Planning ahead also allows you to potentially get better seats to events, concerts, and shows. You may be able to tour a castle or ride a zip line that is sold out on the day you decided to make last-minute plans. Advance reservations are often required at high-end or very popular restaurants. It also prevents you from sleeping in your car at a grocery store parking lot for the night because every hotel you called when you arrived in town at the last minute was booked up for an off-road rally. (True story.)Pure and simple, planning ahead is usually a stress-saver.Reason #2: It can save you cash… sometimes a lot of cash!We’ve booked plane tickets nine months ahead of a trip and also locked in a last-minute deal the night before. Is there a right or wrong way? Nope!The reason we booked the tickets nine months out was that we found excellent flight deals for both a Thanksgiving and Christmas trip while searching for flights for a late spring trip. While it’s a little hard to get in the holiday spirit in the hot summer we’ve had, booking November and December travel now can sometimes save your family hundreds or even thousands of dollars.If you’re considering visiting a popular holiday tourist spot like New York City or Florida, you should book sooner than later. Those flights can fill up fast and end up costing you more.Pure and simple, planning ahead is usually a stress-saver.Reason #3: You get 24 hours to change your mindA fellow travel enthusiast named Cameron offered a suggestion a decade ago as I was debating if I should book a trip: “when you see a low fare that you know is a great deal, buy it now!”It’s good advice and so true. It’s easy to spend a lot of time figuring out how to save the most money on flights—or debating if the fare might drop later—or if you can get time off work for that vacation.But here’s something many people don’t know. If you change your mind and don’t want to keep that reservation, [Federal law](https://www.transportation.gov/airconsumer/notice-24hour-reservation) allows you to get a 100% refund as long as you cancel within 24 hours.So how do you find those really great deals?Here are some of the best ways I’ve found low fares.- Some people like to manually check airline websites daily. This is the most basic but can also be the most time consuming method. You may also miss out on hearing about a new deal if you forget to check back often.- Use a booking site that compares multiple airlines on the dates and times you want to travel. Or pick a month or time frame you’d like to travel and find the best price available. [Google Flights](https://www.google.com/travel/flights) is my personal favorite.- Get alerts on your favorite booking site so you know when fares drop. If you have a Google or Gmail account already, [Google Flights](https://www.google.com/travel/flights) has a great fare notification tool.Subscribe to promotional emails from every airline and travel company that departs from CVG. If you find your inbox is getting a bit overwhelmed, create a separate folder in your email box and direct all of the messages to it.- [Alaska Air](https://www.alaskaair.com/) Yes, they fly to Alaska, but their non-stop service to Seattle often goes on sale.- [Air Canada](https://www.aircanada.com/us/en/aco/home.html) Not just for trips to Canada, we’ve also scored great deals for European flights as well.- [Allegiant](https://www.allegiantair.com/) It’s the trusty friend who gets you where you need to go without all the frills.- [American](https://www.aa.com/homePage.do) Their emails will give you heads up about non-airline reward partners as well.- [Delta](https://www.delta.com/) Keep an eye out for flight deals and extra benefits when you join their SkyMiles program.- [Frontier](https://www.flyfrontier.com/) They often have some of the best prices and most fun names for their flash sales.- [Southwest](https://www.southwest.com/) Southwest doesn’t appear in Google Flight searches, so it’s a good way to learn about their deals.- [Sun Country](https://www.suncountry.com/) If you need to get to Minneapolis or surrounding states, keep an eye on them.- [United](https://www.united.com/) It’s great for both domestic and international travel. They also codeshare with many airlines. (We’ve booked with United and had a wonderful codeshare flight on Lufthansa.)- [Viva Aerobus](https://www.vivaaerobus.com/en-us/) Viva is offering awesome deals to Mexico with or without a vacation package!- Don’t forget to keep an eye on [Vacation Express](https://www.vacationexpress.com/) and [Apple Vacations](https://www.applevacations.com/) for really good all-inclusive options.By the way, my absolute favorite flight from CVG is back!Non-stop Delta Air Lines service to Paris lets you depart CVG around 6pm, have a nice dinner on-board, watch a movie, have a quick snooze, and wake up in Paris the next morning! It is currently running three times per week with flights on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays.How do you find great deals on flights? Share your tips! I’m at @JayKruzOfficial on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.I’ll see you in flip-flops… in December!-Jay

My wife and I are pretty seasoned travelers. We could probably pack for a trip in our sleep. But when player three entered the game, packing for us plus a ten-month old has become an adventure in itself!So in this installment of Jet with Jay, I’m looking to parents who have survived (and thrived) while on vacation. These high-flying families have helped us put together the stuff that’ll help save your sanity when traveling with kids.I reached out to travel pro Nedra McDaniel, aka Adventure Mom, who has been traveling with her family for nearly two decades.Jay: As a pretty seasoned traveler, I thought I knew everything I needed for a trip and could pack in my sleep. But as a new dad, it feels a bit stressful to make sure I have everything for a trip with our son. Any advice to make packing easier?Nedra: I would make a list of the essentials that you use everyday. What’s “essential” will change and evolve as your child grows.Use a backpack to keep your hands free. Try to group similar items in smaller bags within the backpack to find them quicker. Baby wipes and hand sanitizer are a must for any age. Snacks and special treats, including lollipops, can help as a reward or to help keep them quiet.Don’t forget your child’s favorite soothing/comfort items. Have backups just in case—multiple pacifiers, stuffed animals, etc.Noise-canceling headphones and a device that already has movies, shows, and games downloaded are also helpful. If your toddler is a wanderer, an anti-lost wrist link is essential.What is the one item every parent should take with them on a trip?Flexibility and realistic expectations.Be prepared to have to adapt when traveling with kids. Some situations with travel are out of your control. (Delayed flight, weather disruptions, someone gets sick, etc.) Also be mentally prepared for meltdowns, sibling bickering, and drama if you are traveling with kids. Sometimes parents need a time out more than their kids.Just remember a vacation is with a spouse; a trip is with your kids. You might not get to do or see everything you originally wanted to during your trip if your itinerary is packed without any wiggle room.Each kid is very different in personality and temperament, which can throw a curveball when one kid wants to do one thing and the other one wants to do something else.Ultimately you are in charge of your attitude and your effort. Your kids will pick up how you respond to disappointments so be flexible and have realistic expectations.That’s great advice! When you’re planning a trip, how do you find the best family-friendly things to do on a vacation?I search on social media and read articles about destinations, then I make notes on my phone to keep it all together.I also look to travel writers and local CVB’s (Convention and Visitors Bureau) as a wealth of information.What’s your favorite destination for families?Our favorite place to visit is one we haven’t been to yet because we like to experience new destinations. We enjoy the outdoors but also love to experience different cities.For example, on one of our trips, we flew to Las Vegas during spring break and enjoyed the city for a few days at the beginning and end of the trip. During the week, we visited three National Parks along with several other outdoor attractions.If you don’t want to rent a car, choose cities with a good public transit system from the airport or a hotel with shuttle service.Your favorite place to vacation may change over the years depending on your vacation style and age of your kids.How do you make plane rides hassle-free when flying with kids?Preparation is key. The more prepared you are with a variety of distractions, the easier it is to pivot when something comes up.The more you travel with your child(ren), the more you’ll learn what works and what doesn’t. Self-awareness is also important. People understand that babies cry and that toddlers wiggle, but be mindful of how they can impact the travelers around you.Don’t let your kid continue to kick the seat in front of them if you see it happening. A smile and apology goes a long way, and most people are empathetic and want to help when they see a parent struggling.Regardless of whether or not everything goes as planned or lives up to your expectations, spending time with the people you love and making memories together at any age is priceless.Well said, Nedra. Thanks so much! We’ll be sure to keep an eye on your Instagram and your website for more travel inspiration!Inspired by Nedra’s pro packing tips and thanks to Jet with Jay readers, we’ve compiled a list of 14 items you might want to consider when packing for your next trip.1. Snacks and GumMuch like adults, there’s no greater way to help ensure a smooth (and silent) flight for your kids like a tasty treat. While it’s always fun to try new things, be sure to pick some familiar snacks that are guaranteed hits with your family. Jenny S. and Carrie M. both suggest lollipops as a way to keep everyone smiling. Multiple moms have stressed the importance of having gum to help little ears adjust during takeoff and landing. When offering your child gum, chew a piece as well, and explain to your child why their ears might have a funny feeling and that it’ll go away pretty quickly. Don’t forget to have a napkin or wrapper on hand when the gum-chewing has finished!2. First Aid KitMom-of-two, Deana S., suggested this, and the experts agree. Having a small kit that includes basics like band-aids, alcohol pads, tweezers, ibuprofen, and Tylenol can help soothe unexpected boo-boos and keep a trip on-track.3. Layered Clothes (and a change of clothes)Kimberly T. says a sweatshirt is a must for any plane ride to make sure your little one is comfortable when the air conditioning kicks in. It’s also great to dress them in layers in case they become too warm during the flight. Mom-of-two, Angie H., suggests a change of clothes for your child and you as well to combat any spills that might happen along the way.4. WipesA number of parents, including Andrea F., say you can never have too many wipes. Sanitizing wipes will help disinfect tray tables and arm rests but shouldn’t be used on skin. Baby wipes will likely be in your carry-on if you have a small child but can be great to have on hand for older kids and even adults to help with in-flight messes.5. In-Flight EntertainmentOn some flights, you may have seat-back entertainment, which will likely include shows tailored for children. Don’t forget to bring along headphones with a ⅛” mini adapter. On flights that do not offer in-flight choices, Sari Z. uses age-appropriate activities to keep her daughter occupied. Coloring books, games, mess-free markers, and small toys are great choices. Dad-of-two, Michael A., suggests downloading plenty of cartoons and games onto a tablet.6. Noise-Canceling HeadphonesMultiple parents shout about the benefits of noise-canceling headphones for kids. These special headphones use tiny microphones to listen to the actual noises around you and pump in frequencies to drown out unwanted sound. They can be a great way to calm down fussy flyers and reduce anxiety in both children and adults. Be sure to look for active noise canceling, or “ANC,” when purchasing headphones.7. Power StripWant to make friends in the terminal? Stacy L. suggests bringing along a small power strip that will allow you to share a plug while waiting for your flight at the gate. This can be useful in airports with limited outlets, as well as ensuring that your own battery-powered devices have enough juice for the entire flight. For international travel, be sure to use a voltage converter that allows you to swap different plug types at the wall.8. Sound MachineSleeping in an unfamiliar surrounding like a hotel or Airbnb can sometimes be a challenge for little travelers. Aubree D. suggests packing the sound machine. We use a small, inexpensive, rechargeable one for our baby, and it really helps keep him relaxed when it’s nap time. If you forget to pack yours, use your phone to play soothing sounds or noise from a free app or music streaming service. (Just watch out if you have a free version; nothing interrupts a peaceful rest like a loud advertisement!)9. Consider NOT Packing the Pack and Play!Pack-and-plays, strollers, and wagons are great for vacations. But they’re bulky and yet another thing to haul along. Check with your hotel to see if they provide cribs and pack-and-plays. Some places, including Disney resorts, offer multi-day stroller rentals. There are also rental services like Babies Getaway and BabyQuip that will deliver items to your rental property.10. Anti-Lost Wrist LinkAdventure Mom Nedra says, “if your toddler is a wanderer, an anti-lost wrist link is essential.” This simple device is under $15 and consists of two bracelets—one for you and one for your child—that are connected via a coiled tether. For a more high-tech version, GPS-enabled clothing tags are another way to keep tabs while on vacation in unfamiliar or crowded environments.11. Digital CameraOffer your child a digital treasure hunt and provide a list of items they have to snap a photo of on the trip. Looking through the photos together can be a great activity for the plane ride home. Try using a quality, inexpensive waterproof camera with a strap instead of worrying about your kid using a $1,000 phone. Consider using an online photo printing service when you return to turn some of their photos into a blanket or wall art for their room.12. Baby MonitorHow accustomed have we become to knowing our baby’s every move? We discovered it quickly on one of our first trips with our newborn when we forgot to pack a baby monitor. Whether a simple audio monitor or a compact video monitor, the peace of mind from being able to watch your child while enjoying some quiet time on the patio outside is priceless. Some video monitors also utilize apps that will alert you when your child wakes up.13. Ear Plugs and Goodie Bags for NeighborsNo matter how much you plan and how well-behaved your child normally is, there’s always the possibility that the experience of flying might become a bit overwhelming for them. Crying happens. So to help make friends with the people around you, consider bringing along some small goodie bags for your seat mates with a note explaining this is their first flight. Include earplugs and some candy as a peace offering.14. PatienceDad-of-one, Kevin G., says that patience is the most important thing you can pack, especially for first-time little flyers. Make sure to arrive at the airport earlier than normal to allow plenty of time for bathroom breaks, unexpected meltdowns, and time to get to the gate. To help alleviate the fears of nervous new travelers, explain what’s happening around them. Talk about where the luggage goes after you drop it off at check-in. Ask them questions about what a pilot does, or, for older kids, use it as an opportunity to teach them about how planes work.So you’ve arrived at the airport early, you’ve checked your bags, and you’ve got plenty of time to relax before boarding. Nice work! Here are a few places to explore with your family at CVG while you wait:Check out the kid’s play area in concourse B. It’s conveniently located right next to the food court, so you can grab a bite while the kids work out some of that excess energy before your flight.Have food and drinks delivered by a robot! Really! Order and pay online using the website orderatcvg.com. Then your four-wheeled robot friend will show up in just a bit right to your gate! It’s a great way to get food without having to round up the whole family to head to the food court.Sometimes mom and dad need a moment to relax before a flight. If someone in your party is able to keep an eye on the kids, slide on over to Cork and Bottle for a bourbon tasting. https://www.cvgairport.com/detail/cork-n-bottle/concourse-b-14Older kids and adults will appreciate the colorful work of Cincinnati artist Charley Harper in a print gallery near the food court in concourse B.Got a travel tip you’d like to share? I’d love to hear it! Find me at @JayKruzOfficial on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.I’ll see you (while balancing a car seat and a carry-on) at the gate!-Jay