The Journey

At the end of the day it's all about "The Journey". This popular topic covers the planning, booking, the flight, and then the arrival at you destination. Dive into this section to explore tips and advice for every step of your journey.

Round-the-World Travel Tips

Flying around the world is certainly an exciting way to travel, and round-the-world flights may cost much less than you think! This week our members explain how to book a cost-effective trip around the world using either money or frequent flyer points. There are numerous ways to book round-the-world travel. The most flexible option using Qantas … Continued

Cheap Business Class Secrets Revealed!

This week our members reveal their strategies to score cheap Business class flights to Europe! Having originally looked at a Qantas fare to London of over $9,000, one member was recently able to save thousands by using our members’ handy tips and suggestions. The first recommendation is to plan ahead and wait for a sale. … Continued

Why Flight Change Fees are so Expensive

If you’ve ever had to change or cancel a flight booking, you’ll probably be aware of just how costly it can be. For domestic bookings, Virgin Australia charges $80 plus any fare difference for booking changes or cancellations made on Saver tickets. Qantas charges an even higher fee of $88. In some cases the cost … Continued

Avoid the One-way Flight “Tax”

If you’ve ever tried to book a one-way international flight, you’re probably aware that these tickets can be very expensive. Airlines often penalise passengers flying one-way in the form of higher prices and in many cases, a one-way international flight is more expensive than a return ticket on the same route! Cruise passengers often face … Continued

Explore “Transit” Cities for Free

Imagine spending a full day or night in an exciting city like Singapore, Hong Kong, Dubai or Tokyo – for no cost at all! By taking advantage of a small but significant loophole, our members have been able to enjoy the sights and sounds of all of these cities, and many more, for free. The … Continued

Singapore Smart Gates Now Available to Australians

Regular visitors to Singapore will be pleased to learn that from 1 October, Australians will be eligible to use the “enhanced-Immigration Automated Clearance System”, or eIACS usually available only to local residents passing through Singapore’s Changi Airport. Unfortunately, travellers will need to register first before they can use these “smart gates” and there are a … Continued

28 Sep 2015 Post Flight

Top Tips for Stress-Free Travel

This week our members reveal their best travel tips and tricks. Countless “gems” have been shared, that will help travellers with everything from charging phones to saving money on hotels. To save luggage space and reduce the number of overseas adaptors needed, one member suggests packing a power board with multiple Australian-style power point connections. … Continued

17 Sep 2015 The Journey

Conquering a fear of flying

For many, flying is a joy and a privilege. But for nervous flyers, the experience could be completely different. Just the thought of stepping foot in a plane can make some travellers very nervous. One AFF member seeks advice on how to overcome their fear of flying ahead of a trip to the United States. … Continued

18 Aug 2015 The Journey

“Automated Passport Control” expedites USA arrivals

Australian travellers to the United States will be pleased to know that “Automated Passport Control” (APC) kiosks can now be used when entering the country. APC machines have now been installed at many major airports in the United States, including Los Angeles, Dallas/Fort Worth, Miami, San Francisco and both of New York’s international airports. This … Continued

20 Jul 2015 Post Flight

Wider middle seats a solution to the seating squeeze?

This week our members debate the pros and cons of making the middle seats on planes wider. Middle seats are usually an unpopular choice for flyers as passengers in middle seats are wedged between two other passengers. Middle seat occupants often complain of having less space and the seats can be particularly uncomfortable for larger … Continued

30 Jun 2015 In Flight

Strategies for sleeping soundly on planes

Our members share their tips and experiences in getting some shut-eye on aircraft. Some lucky members are able to sleep with ease, even in economy. For others, getting some rest at 35,000 feet can be a great challenge. For those who find that sleeping in the air doesn’t come naturally, there are numerous strategies available. … Continued

27 Jun 2015 In Flight

Secretly Scheming a Surprise Holiday

One crafty member hopes to surprise a lucky loved one with an overseas holiday to a secret destination. They know the surprise will be appreciated, but ponder the risk of inadvertently blowing their cover. Countless opportunities exist for the secret to be let out.  Overheard phone calls and misplaced tickets are just the start of … Continued