Monitor Prices

If you want to book a flight or hotel yourself, monitoring the price can help you determine if what you’re seeing is really a deal or not. Have you ever walked into a place to buy something to find it conveniently on sale? Businesses are always running a “sale,” but is that sale really a good deal? The only way to know if you’re getting a good deal is to know your prices. Keep an eye on the average price of hotels and flights to help you realize when costs drop.

Flexible With Your Dates and Destination? Use the Explore Function in Google Flights, Skyscanner, or Momondo

When you’re looking for somewhere to go and just want a deal, you can use the explore function on Google Flights, Skyscanner, or Momondo to find the best prices on airfare. You can search with no destination in mind, or narrow it down to a region like Europe. 

If you can be a little flexible with the time you take your vacation, you’ll be rewarded with very low fares and prices for the travel you want to do. Prices vary widely from day to day and the flexible search on Google Flights allows you to see which days are the cheapest to fly. To use this tool, simply leave the date fields blank after selecting a destination (or leave the destination blank for even more versatility). The search will default to a 1-week trip any time in the next six months. Momondo and Skycanner have similar functions, letting you search for trips within a given month or range of months.

Just be sure the routing you pick works for your schedule and use filters to narrow down your trip based on number of stops, arrival time, or departure time. There’s nothing worse than buying a $300 ticket to Paris that requires multiple transfers and 27 hours of travel time. 

Sign Up for Marketing Materials From Your Favorite Travel Companies

Your favorite travel brands love to advertise to you. Every now and then, they’ll send incredible deals for their email list subscribers. These are different from the run-of-the-mill “We’re having a sale!” emails. You’ll get those, too. But if you’re checking prices to your desired destination often, you’ll know when a sale is much, much better than normal. 

This is how I booked two tickets to Tahiti for a great price. I clicked on an email from United Airlines advertising a fare sale using points. I tried some dates and destinations, and found an incredible points sale to Tahiti at about 40% off. I booked it immediately, knowing I could cancel within 24 hours without penalty. We ended up taking that vacation and saved a lot of money in the process. It never hurts to check prices when you receive those marketing emails!

Getting these promotions is easy. If you love the airline Southwest, for example, you would want to sign up for their email list from a button on their website. When you’re on the email list, you get the information about a sale first. Southwest recently had a 40% off sale and you would know about it sooner than everyone else if you were on their email list. 

Set Fare Alerts

If you’re looking at a particular destination and a specific time, toggling on Google Flights handy track price button is the way to go. If you’re signed into your Google account, you can get these fare alerts automatically when you do this. When the price changes significantly (either up or down), you’ll get an email from Google about the change in price. A flight to Italy I was looking at started around $800. I set my Google alert and got an email when the price dropped to $307. 

You can also sign up to be alerted to the best prices on routes of interest at SmarterTravel’s sister site Airfarewatchdog, which sends out low fare email alerts to subscribers.

Let Someone Else Find the Deals for You

There are countless services that work to find deals for you. They eliminate the need to sit at your computer and see if that email you received has really good deals or is just another marketing tactic you need to wade through. 

Some examples include:

• Travelzoo, an aggregator of travel deals with stellar prices
• NextVacay and Scott’s Cheap Flights, which send out fare drop alerts similar to those listed above
• Facebook groups focused on travel
• Online travel agencies, such as Expedia, Travelocity, Orbitz, Cheap Caribbean, Kayak, or Funjet Vacation. 
• Warehouse travel agencies, such as Costco or Sam’s Club
• Travel agents

The post 5 Secret Tips for Finding Travel Deals appeared first on SmarterTravel.

She said that about five minutes into the flight, there was a “loud bang noise,” and she looked “to the side and [saw] the ceiling hanging down over two passengers. The flight attendants did not notice, and nobody rang the call buttons.” After a few minutes, the flight attendant took a picture and showed it to the pilot, who said it “wasn’t a big deal and they could keep going.” 

O’Malley said it looked like the little air vents fell, but there were “little plastic tubings that definitely looked like they might be part of the oxygen system, too,” hanging down. No announcement was made, and the crew “seemed to not really care.” O’Malley, however, was unsettled and anxious the whole flight. She was surprised they did not turn back to fix it and just took the chance that it “knocked out the emergency oxygen to those seats or that side of the plane.” 

Ceiling Panel Falls During Porter Airlines Flight

O’Malley stated she typically avoids Porter, as the plane interiors “leave a bit to be desired” and remind her of “an old school bus or public transit and are very cramped.” However, she finds Toronto International a tricky airport to navigate, so she chose instead to fly out of Billy Bishop in Toronto, connecting in Ottawa on Porter. She now will take her chances with Toronto International to avoid Porter Air at all costs. 

We contacted Porter Airlines about the incident and were told that the “overhead panel cover needed to be re-secured. This is a minor requirement and not safety-related, so the Captain chose not to make an announcement. When the aircraft landed, the panel was secured, and the aircraft returned to service.” 

What To Do When Part Of the Plane Breaks Mid-Flight

So, what should happen when parts of the plane appear to break mid-flight? We’ve created a step-by-step guide for what to do when something breaks on an airplane. 

1. Don’t Panic

This may seem easier said than done, but try not to panic and worry other passengers. Remain calm and inform those who need to know first, which brings us to number two. 

2. Tell A Flight Attendant

This may seem obvious, but apparently, it isn’t, as no one pressed the call button when part of the ceiling fell. However, flight attendants can quickly assess the situation and determine whether it is an emergency. They can ask the pilot if it is more unusual (like the ceiling falling). 

3. Follow Instructions

The crew will know if something is an emergency or an inconvenience. If they tell you not to worry, don’t. If they ask you to return to your seat, do so. In this situation, the crew will definitely know more than you do, so listen to what they tell you to do. 

4. If Oxygen Masks Deploy, Use Them

Like the crew’s instructions, the oxygen masks deploy for a reason. If something happens on your plane that causes them to drop, utilize them, even if it seems unnecessary. (And, of course, put yours on first before helping others.) 

5. Don’t Try to Fix Whatever Broke

          If it’s a mechanical issue with your seat (like a broken tray table or recline mechanism):

• Return seat to upright position if possible
• Avoid forcing broken components, which could cause further damage
• Ask to be re-seated if the issue affects safety or comfort

For issues with overhead bins or storage compartments:

• Don’t try to force them closed
• Allow crew to secure items properly
• Accept alternative storage solutions offered by the crew. 

Remember that modern aircraft are designed with multiple redundant systems for safety. Most mechanical issues that might occur during flight are not safety-critical, and the crew is well-prepared to handle them.

The post What To Do If Something Breaks On Your Plane Mid-Flight appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Don’t want to be bored on your next vacation? Skip these ten spots (recently deemed the country’s least fun destinations) in favor of the most entertaining cities in the United States. 

Finance site WalletHub ranked the 182 most populated cities in the US to determine the list of the most fun cities. Each city earned points in three categories: entertainment and recreation, nightlife and parties, and costs.

The entertainment category evaluated a diverse group of attractions, including hiking trails per capita, the amount of parkland as a share of the city area, and sports-fan friendliness.

The nightlife category considered factors such as the time of last call, the legality of public drinking, and the presence of music festivals. 

The cost factor was determined by analyzing financial markers such as the average price of beer, the price of a three-star hotel room, and the prevalence of affordable restaurants rated 4.5 stars or higher.

The 10 Least Fun Cities in America

Poor Pearl City, Hawaii, ranked a low 17.17 for overall fun compared to the top score of 73.78 for the most fun city on the list. 

1. Pearl City, Hawaii
2. South Burlington, Vermont
3. Yonkers, New York
4. Lewiston, Maine
5. Oxnard, California
6. Fremont, California
7. Santa Rosa, California
8. Bridgeport, Connecticut
9. Nashua, New Hampshire
10. Chula Vista, California

The 10 Most Fun Cities in America

With a reputation as Sin City and casinos and bars on every corner, it’s unsurprising that Las Vegas came out on the top of the list for the most fun cities in America. 

1. Las Vegas, Nevada
2. Orlando, Florida
3. Miami, Florida
4. Atlanta, Georgia
5. New Orleans, Louisiana
6. Austin, Texas
7. San Francisco, California
8. Chicago, Illinois
9. Houston, Texas
10. New York, New York

The post The 10 Least Fun Cities in America appeared first on SmarterTravel.

In a statement released Monday, Apple explained that those using AirTags in their luggage will get a link generated in the Find My Item app. “Recipients of a link will be able to view a website that shows the location of the item on an interactive map. The website will automatically update when a new location is available and will show a timestamp of the most recent update.” You can then share the location with the airline, allowing them to find your luggage and reunite you with it. Currently, only the traveler can see the location, and Airlines are helpless when it comes to locating it. 

If you’re worried about privacy (and who isn’t these days), you don’t have to. Once passengers are reunited with their item, the shared location will automatically be disabled, and the owner can also disable it at any time. 

The airlines currently participating in include Aer Lingus, Air Canada, Air New Zealand, Austrian Airlines, British Airways, Brussels Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Eurowings, Iberia, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, Lufthansa, Qantas, Singapore Airlines, Swiss International Air Lines, Turkish Airlines, United, Virgin Atlantic, and Vueling. The technology will first work at select airports of the airlines, with system-wide usage in 2025. 

More airlines are also expected to follow. Apple’s statement also said that “additionally, SITA, a leader in air transport technology, will build support for Share Item Location into WorldTracer, the baggage-tracing system used by over 500 airlines and ground handlers at more than 2,800 airports around the world.”

AirTags can be bought in packs of one or four, and are only compatible with iPhones.

The post Apple and Airlines Team Up to Track Lost Luggage appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Start planning well in advance by making a checklist of things you need to do (along with deadlines) so you can make sure they’re done with plenty of time to spare. Some things, like vaccinations or passport renewals can take months to complete, so you’ll want to start early.

Don’t forget to take care of these 11 important things before your next trip abroad. 

Notify Your Bank/Credit Card

Imagine landing at the airport and trying to take local currency out of the ATM, only to get a “card declined notice.” That will quickly put a damper on your trip as you’ll have to spend time calling your bank to get your card functioning.

Many banks and credit card companies will automatically lock your card if you start using it abroad—unless you’ve notified them of your travel plans in advance. You can generally go online and request a travel notification to be added to your account, where you can let the bank know your itinerary so they won’t view your transactions as suspicious.

Some credit card companies, like Capital One, no longer require a notification while traveling due to chip technology—but be sure to check with your specific card provider before you depart so you’re not caught off-guard.

Check Your Cell Phone’s International Plan

Planning on using your phone abroad? Check your plan to see what options are available for international usage so that you’re not surprised with a huge bill for roaming charges when you return. 

If plans are expensive, consider getting a SIM card to swap out at your destination so you can still use your phone. Or, think about switching to a cell phone carrier like T-Mobile, which offers free international roaming on most plans. 

Check the State Department’s Travel Warnings Site

Visit the U.S. State Department’s Country Information website to learn about potential dangers at your destination. Here, you can search by country and see any travel warnings and alerts for your trip. The site will also provide you with the location of any U.S. embassies in the country (worth saving to Google Maps on your phone), important information on local laws and customs, emergency phone numbers (save to your contacts ), and details on road and aviation safety.  

While on the State Department’s website, you should take a few minutes to sign up for the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program. This free service will send you alerts about any safety issues and help the US embassy contact you in case of an emergency while you’re abroad.  

Scan a Copy of Your Passport

It’s important to keep a copy of your passport with you while traveling abroad in case your physical one is lost or stolen. Scan it into your phone so you don’t have to keep track of a paper copy.

It’s easy to create a scanned document on an iPhone. Open the notes app, create a new note, and click the camera icon at the bottom of the screen. This will allow you to scan and save a document to your phone for easy access. 

Check the CDC’s Destinations Page

Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Destinations page well in advance of your trip. You can search by country and view travel health notices for any outbreaks or health issues at your destination. 

This website will also show recommended (and required) vaccinations for your trip. Some vaccinations must be done weeks or months before traveling, so you’ll want to check this page as soon as you book your trip.

The CDC also offers country-specific “healthy travel” packing lists with recommended prescriptions, over-the-counter medications, and other important supplies to bring. 

Confirm Visa/Entry Requirements

You don’t want to find out when you’re checking in for your flight that you need a visa in advance for your destination. Check the State Department’s country-specific pages to find out entry requirements as soon as you book your flight, as some visas can take a long time to process. 

Many countries require travelers’ passports to have at least six months of validity to enter. You may also need a certain number of blank pages for a passport stamp and visa. You’ll find information on both requirements on the country-specific sites from the State Department. 

Get Out Cash

ATM machines can be finicky abroad and could be broken, out of cash, or just won’t accept your debit card. It’s always a good idea to bring some cash to start off your trip so you can exchange it into the local currency if needed. (Generally, you’ll get a better rate if you take cash out of an ATM than if you get currency in advance or through a money exchange at the airport, but cash is good to have for an emergency.)

Make a note of the exchange rate before you travel, so you can recognize a bad rate when you see one. I like to make a quick note in my phone of how much $1, $5, $10, $20, $50, and $100 is in the local currency so I can easily approximate how much something costs without having to do an exact calculation. Or, download a currency conversion app that you can use offline.

Learn Important Local Phrases

Try to learn how to say a few words in phrases in the local language before you go. Knowing how to say “hello,” “please,” and “thank you” can go a long way, even if you’re not fluent. 

It can also be helpful to download the Google Translate app offline and save phrases you’ll need, like “Where is the bathroom” or “How much?” so you can quickly communicate when needed, even if you don’t have an internet connection.

Save Your Trip Information Offline

Before you travel, create a note on your phone with your confirmation numbers (for flights, rental cars, and hotels), your itinerary, and the addresses of your accommodations. If you can’t get online when you arrive, you’ll want to have this information readily available. 

Find Out What Plugs the Destination Uses

Not all hotels will have USB chargers available, so do a quick search to find out what type of plugs are found at your destination. (You can skip this step if you get a universal travel adapter that you can use in any type of outlet.)

Also, look up the voltage used at your destination, although this is less of a concern nowadays, as many electronics (including most smartphones) are automatically dual-voltage.

Create an Airport Transportation Plan

If you walk off the plane and grab the first taxi you see to your hotel, you may wind up overpaying or getting scammed. Do a bit of research before you board the plane to find out what local taxi services are legitimate, if rideshares are legal, and approximately how much a taxi ride from the airport to your hotel should cost.

Also, research alternative (cheaper) modes of transportation, like local buses or trains, and what time transportation stops running at your destination. You don’t want to get off a late-night flight to find out you’re stranded at the airport until the morning.

The post 11 Important Things to Do Before Your Next International Trip appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Taos, New Mexico

This two-bedroom New Mexico home looks very futuristic, with a glass sunroom that juts out into the snowy landscape. You can walk to the slopes at nearby Kachina Lift, or just get warm by the wood-burning fireplace.

Catskill, New York

Take a two-hour drive from New York and you’ll find an outpost of Postcard Cabins (previously known as Getaway), a vacation haven in the Catskill Mountains. The millennial-focused company built a series of tiny cabins equipped with mini-kitchens and a giant window to the great outdoors. Like what you see? Find Postcard Cabins for nature sojurns all throughout the country, located outside of major metropolitan areas from Pittsburgh to Boston.

Twin Lakes, Colorado

With rustic good looks outside and white-washed clapboard inside, this Colorado alpine cabin on the way to Aspen features cathedral-height windows. Take in a great view of snow-topped La Plata mountain, and then head over to the trailhead for a winter hike.

Hood River, Oregon

Mount Hood is a year-round destination for skiing and snowboarding, and you can watch the snow fall from a boxy, streamlined cabin with walls of windows. This architectural gem on Neal Creek will make you feel like you are right in the treetops.

Stowe, Vermont

Three massive walls of glass look out on the ski slopes of Mount Mansfield at this pricey Stowe five-bedroom rental with architecture that blends the indoors and outdoors. Besides incredible views, visitors can enjoy a cedar sauna, ski lockers, and three wood-burning fireplaces.

Woodstock, New York

The owners of this ultra-luxurious modern glass house claim that it’s “one of the most beautiful homes in all upstate New York,” and it’s hard to argue with this cabin’s vistas both inside and out. Floor-to-ceiling windows throughout the home look out into a forested ravine, while radiant heat inside keeps guests toasty warm in the winter.

Livingston, Montana

The Cargill-Earl Guesthouse is designed to make you feel like you are one with the jaw-dropping Montana mountain landscape, with walls of glass throughout the home (check out that bedroom view). You’ll be staying in Livingston, once known as the “Original Gateway City to Yellowstone National Park,” where there are plenty of winter activities to try like dog sledding or cross-country skiing. 

Broken Bow, Oklahoma

The homeowners on VRBO named their three-bedroom forest getaway near Beavers Bend State Park “Through the Looking Glass.” This sprawling setup includes a window-filled soaring main living space—and a game room and bocce court too. 

Tahoe City, California

Located 10 minutes outside of Tahoe City and near great skiing at Squaw Valley, this wood-paneled A-frame cabin is outfitted with a wall of windows. That means great views from the kitchen to the rafters.

Sandusky, Ohio

An associate of Frank Lloyd Wright designed this glass house, and you can see his influence in mahogany wood walls, cedar ceilings, simple finishes, and light streaming in everywhere. Look out over Lake Erie and Sandusky Bay through large picture windows in the main living space. 

Mount Rainier, Washington

Another stylish A-frame option featuring a wall of glass can be found in Washington just 15 minutes from the entrance of snowy Rainier National Park. This cozy two-bedroom spot is situated on four acres of forest. (For singletons or couples, check out a similar glassy one-bedroom A-frame near Mount Rainier).

All of the products featured in this story were hand-selected by our travel editors. Some of the links featured in this story are affiliate links, and SmarterTravel may collect a commission (at no cost to you) if you shop through them. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

The post 11 Glass-Walled Cabins You Can Rent in the U.S. appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Duty-Free Merchandise

Depending on your airport, it may be possible to snag a duty-free deal occasionally. But it’s important to know that duty-free in no way ensures a good buy. Although some items like cigarettes or alcohol might be cheaper if you live in a state with high taxes on these items, duty-free shops are usually more expensive for food items or electronic goods.

The solution? When making duty-free purchases, do a little homework. Go online ahead of time and do some cost comparisons, especially if you’re eyeing a big-ticket buy. 

Foreign Currency

Since currency exchange desks in airports often charge travelers sky-high transaction fees, the airport is probably not the best place to exchange money. 

A good alternative strategy is to get foreign currency by taking out money at an ATM in your destination; this way, you’ll likely get the best interbank exchange rate, which is usually much better than rates offered at airport exchange counters. Contact your bank before your trip for more information on any possible foreign transaction fees.

Bottled Water

Stop wasting $5 on bottled water and instead pack an empty reusable water bottle. Most airports have water bottle refilling stations where travelers can fill their bottles with filtered water after going through security. 

Souvenirs

Plan ahead and buy your souvenirs before you’re at the airport, waiting for your flight home. Airport souvenir stores usually sell severely marked-up merchandise that can be found elsewhere for a lot less. Plus, the wares tend to be quite unoriginal: trite T-shirts, boring mugs, and flimsy key chains that you can find anywhere.

There are exceptions to this rule, as some airports offer unique finds, like gifts crafted by local artisans. Our advice, as always, is to do your research before you get to the terminal so that you can compare prices. You could even take a quick look at what’s on offer when you land and then buy whatever you need when you return to the airport upon departure.

In-Flight Essentials

Trapped in their terminals, travelers are at the mercy of airport prices if they have to replace a forgotten essential like a neck pillow or an eye mask. To prevent paying for a last-minute replacement, keep a packing list on your phone and check off items as you prepare for your trip.

Restaurant Meals

You may have noticed that restaurants commonly charge higher prices for menu items in airport locations than they do elsewhere. There’s a reason for this: Restaurants’ operating expenses are generally higher at airports than at street locations. But food costs can vary even by the terminal, heightening the confusion for travelers who want to compare prices.

Pack your meal from home to sidestep the gouge–it will be tastier, cheaper, and more nutritious. For the return journey, pick up something from a local restaurant that’s easy to transport and can last a few hours without refrigeration or reheating. 

Wi-Fi

Although many airports offer free Wi-Fi, some hubs are still firmly entrenched in the dark ages, charging flyers to search the Web while waiting to depart. Before you enter your credit card number, see if you can get connectivity for free. Some ways to do this: Sit near the entrance of an elite flyer’s lounge or in an airport hotel lobby, both of which might offer free Wi-Fi that’s not password protected.

Or try your terminal’s Starbucks. Although all Starbucks stores offer free Internet, airport locations are sometimes the exception. Some offer free connectivity; some don’t. 

Magazines (While Abroad)

You’re not normally taking a big hit to your budget when you grab the latest copy of National Geographic at the terminal newsstand. But when overseas, watch out. Imported U.S. magazines cost much more than those sold at home and can sell for well over the recommended list price at overseas airports, even if they’re old (primarily due to taxes and shipping costs).

Instead, subscribe to your favorite magazine before heading out for your trip. Some libraries even offer digital access to magazines that you can download on your e-reader for free. 

A Parking Spot

You’ll frequently find a better price at off-site parking lots than at airport lots. Before arriving at the airport, do your research and compare off-airport parking through services like AirportParking.com. Just be sure to leave additional time to take a shuttle to the airport after parking.

The post 9 Things You Should Never Buy at the Airport appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Let Flight Deals Decide Your Destination

If you don’t have your heart set on a specific destination, you can save a ton of money by letting flight deals influence where you travel to. You’ll be able to fly for even cheaper if you can be flexible on the dates you travel as well.

Google Explore is a great tool for finding amazing flight deals across the globe. You can put in your home airport and travel dates (which can be specific dates or as broad as a “one week trip in the next six months”) and you’ll see a map showing cheap flights to a wide range of destinations. 

Explore Alternative Modes of Transportation

Flying may seem like the fastest way to travel between destinations, but when you factor in getting to and from the airport, waiting in security lines, and checking in, sometimes other modes of transportation can turn out to be quicker—and cheaper.

Before you book a flight to get to your next destination, check out Rome2rio. The site will show you all of the available options for transportation between two spots, including buses, ferries, flights, and driving. It’s especially useful if you’re looking to book a multi-destination trip. 

Pick Destinations Where the Dollar Goes Further

It’s easy to spend less when you travel somewhere where the dollar goes further. Fortunately, there’s an easy way to see how pricey a destination is before you travel. Known as the Big Mac Index, this list ranks countries by how cheap a standardized item is to purchase. The list uses McDonald’s Big Mac hamburger as the comparison item, as it’s something that’s available in almost every country in the world. 

Avoid Unnecessary Fees

Inflation is bad enough—don’t make your trip more expensive than it already is by paying foreign transaction fees. These are sneaky fees (up to 5% of the purchase price) that many banks and credit card companies charge consumers for using their credit or debit cards abroad to pay in foreign currency. 

There are plenty of options for cards that don’t charge foreign transaction fees (or even ATM fees), so be sure to use one when you travel—Capital One, for example, doesn’t have foreign transaction fees for any U.S.-issued credit cards.

Price Out the Whole Trip Before You Book

Find an amazing flight deal? Make sure you quickly check prices for your entire trip before you press “buy.” Any savings from the flight could be eaten up by the costs on the ground if you choose an expensive destination.

Price out the cost of a hotel, rental car (if needed), and average cost of meals to get a better idea of how much your trip will cost to be safe before you book anything non-refundable.  

The post 5 Money Saving Secrets for Travel appeared first on SmarterTravel.

To help you avoid these rental car nightmares, J.D. Power conducts an annual North America Rental Car Satisfaction Study. This study surveys over 8,000 travelers who rented cars at airport locations for either business or leisure trips. 

Participants ranked rental car agencies based on seven factors:

1. Ease of rental
2. Pick-up/drop-off experience
3. Level of trust
4. Vehicle
5. Staff
6. Value for price paid
7. Digital tools

The Best Rental Car Companies

A famous name doesn’t guarantee a good rental car experience. “Trust fosters loyalty, enhances the company’s reputation, and differentiates it in a competitive market,” said Azari Jones, rental car practice lead at J.D. Power. “This leads to higher customer retention and positive word-of-mouth. Without this trust, even a well-known brand may struggle to maintain long-term relationships with customers.”

According to the survey, these are the best rental car companies in North America.

1. National
2. Enterprise
3. Sixt
4. Advantage Rent A Car
5. Alamo
6. Hertz
7. ACE Rent A Car

The Worst Rental Car Companies

If you want to avoid a bad experience, you shouldn’t book with the following rental car companies, which were ranked lowest in the customer satisfaction survey.

1. Dollar
2. Budget
3. Thrifty
4. Fox Rent A Car
5. Avis
6. Payless

The post The Best and Worst Rental Car Companies in North America appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Mount Washington, New Hampshire

The octet of villages in New Hampshire’s Mt. Washington Valley would scream “fall in New England” … if screaming weren’t completely out of character for the area’s tranquil spirit. While the region is known for snow sports and world-class skiing later in the season, it’s also brimming with autumnal activities. From leaf peeping along the Appalachian Trail to pick-your-own pumpkin patches and apple orchards, there’s something for everyone along the area’s winding byways. In North Conway, take a ride in historical Pullman cars on the Conway Scenic Railroad before stopping at one of the many nearby outlets … you know, for your new fall wardrobe.

Where to Stay: Little inns abound in this region, but The Wentworth (with its AAA Four-Diamond dining room) is a particularly polished but cozy option in Jackson Village that offers several packages for fall getaways, with low off-season rates.

Nashville, Tennessee

Stumbling upon a musical performance in Nashville is as inevitable as the changing of the seasons. Artists and travelers alike flock to Music City each fall for a slate of festivals, headliner shows, and the opening of the theater and opera seasons. Take your pick of the area’s many pumpkin patches, corn mazes, and farmers’ markets for a seasonal Tennessee bounty, or embark on the Tennessee Central Railway Museum’s 4.5-hour Oktoberfest Excursion for live music, beer, and food throughout the highlands of Tennessee. If you want to sneak in some leaf peeping, peak colors occur around the third and fourth weeks of October.

Where to Stay: Most major hotel chains have outposts in Nashville; check out seasonal deals from Hilton and Loews. Also be sure to dig through the offerings from VisitMusicCity.com, where seasonal hotel packages can be music to your ears.

Santa Fe, New Mexico

Santa Fe continually ranks among Travel + Leisure‘s top places to catch some peace and quiet, and natives contend that September is the best time to visit this southwestern city. That’s when the crowds have thinned but the weather remains warm and welcoming. Catch a little R & R yourself this fall, Santa Fe-style. Witness the aspen leaves turning a brilliant gold as you stop at roadside stands brimming with late-harvest corn and roasted green chiles. (Try the region’s signature veggie in all its forms at the Santa Fe Wine & Chile Fiesta or October’s interactive Harvest Festival.) And when too much activity makes you weary and worn, check into one of the area’s many renowned spas for a relaxing and renewing treatment.

Where to Stay: The Sage Hotel has a list of packages for travelers coming to the city, plus complimentary continental breakfast and free Wi-Fi access. The Santa Fe Convention and Visitors Bureau lists more discounts on accommodations, activities, excursions, and dining on their website.

Mackinac Island, Michigan

This historical island is a classic Midwestern destination: a Victorian-era getaway on Lake Huron, replete with gingerbread houses and horse-drawn carriages (and largely without the pesky annoyance of motor vehicles). Mackinac Island has its last hurrah in October, when the days get chilly but the island reveals its more peaceful side: quiet but alive with fall color, festivals, and events. Experience the thrill of Historic Mill Creek Discovery Park, where a zip-line and canopy walk wind through cedars high above the ground. Bike across the famous Mackinac Bridge or picnic on the shores of the Straits of Mackinac, where the Michigan and Huron lakes merge. Or simply stay in and enjoy a slate of activities, from the Mackinac Island Halloween Weekend (October 25-27) to a cozy murder-mystery weekend at the iconic Grand Hotel.

Where to Stay: Fall in Mackinac Island means hotel discounts, generally of around 15 percent or more. The Grand Hotel currently features a Welcome Fall Weekends Package which includes daily breakfast and dinner, complimentary entry to the Richard and Jane Manoogian Mackinac Art Museum, and any additional days added beyond the weekend can be booked for a 50% discount. Find more vacation packages on Mackinac Island’s tourism site, including free admission to local sights and activities, AARP specials and deals for AAA Travel members, and special rates on stays at the island’s many historical inns.

Boston, Massachusetts

Locals maintain that fall is the best time to visit this classic and collegiate New England getaway: Both Boston and its sister city Cambridge are alive with new students, and the heat has dissipated downtown. Visit the scenic Boston Common and the Public Garden, where trees explode in fiery reds, oranges, and yellows; stroll Cambridge’s grassy, tree-lined Harvard Yard; or be gently pushed along the Freedom Trail by autumn breezes while on a tour (complete with a guide in authentic colonial garb). Brisk October brings the iconic two-day Head of the Charles Regatta, when some 11,000 athletes take to the Charles River and more than 400,000 spectators take to its banks. Baseball fans can catch a post-season Red Sox game at historic Fenway Park.

Where to Stay: Accommodations can be pricey in this urban destination, especially during the Head of the Charles and other seasonal events. Check online travel agencies (OTAs) for up-to-date rates and last-minute savings. For a luxe fall-themed stay, check into boutique XV Beacon to take advantage of their Fall Into Fifteen package now through December 21st, where a stay of 2-nights or more earns you a 15% discount on their best available rate per night.

Hudson River Valley, New York

New York’s Hudson River Valley is a picturesque escape 90 minutes from Manhattan, replete with rolling hills, cascading waterfalls, and sleepy Victorian villages occupied by grand manses. The oldest wine-making and grape-growing region in the country is saturated with color every autumn, and its various wine tours welcome those looking for a taste. Sip a few varietals before heading to the Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park to sample dishes at one of the five student-run restaurants on-site; beautiful Valley views complement the meal. Finish with a walk (or bike ride) 212 feet above the Hudson River on the Walkway Over the Hudson state park. Opened in 2009, this pedestrian bridge offers postcard-worthy foliage, plus picnic benches perfect for a lunch of apples and cheese sourced from local farms.

Where to Stay: Mohonk Mountain House in New Paltz has numerous fall-centric specials, including up to 20% off 2-night stays now through the end of October.

Eastern Shore, Maryland

A peninsula buttressed by the Chesapeake Bay, the Eastern Shore has long been a summer favorite for East Coasters who hit the outdoors for world-class boating and bird-watching. But autumn is also a worthy time to visit this seaside region’s small towns for their mild weather and fall festivals. In Cambridge, the Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge (which stretches over 25,000 acres) acts as a sanctuary for endangered waterfowl; the area is best explored from mid-October through mid-March. Along the Choptank River, Cambridge itself is a resurgent small town with a burgeoning artsy vibe; check out its galleries and events here. (Spoiler: Oysters and hot sauce may be involved.) Experience quaint St. Michaels during the Fall Into St. Michaels festival before exploring its quirky gift and antique shops. For some bigger-town excitement, Ocean City beckons with sandy beaches and, during the fall season, a boardwalk largely free of crowds.

Where to Stay: The Eastern Shore has plenty of accommodation options, but bed-and-breakfasts often provide the best value, especially in the off-season. If a larger hotel is more your speed, the Hyatt Regency Chesapeake Bay offers discounts up to 10% for members. Explore the flood of fall freebies and accommodations deals on the Ocean City tourism website as well.

Shenandoah Valley, Virginia

A proper mix of eclectic downtowns, mountain resorts, and natural wonders (think limestone caverns) make Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley a year-round destination. But fall brings out the region’s true colors. Take a spin through the Blue Ridge Parkway on the eastern edge of the valley or motor the 105-mile Skyline Drive, which features 75 scenic outlooks for admiring nature cloaked in its scarlet, maroon, and golden finest. Visit the Marker-Miller Orchards for PYO apples, or browse the market for other fall goodies, from pluots to pears to prunes. Downtown Lexington is brimming with antique shops, galleries, and food purveyors where you can grab Amish goods and local confections.

Where to Stay: In Lexington, the Brierley Hill Bed and Breakfast is a TripAdvisor-approved stunner nestled in the region’s rolling meadows. For those looking to rough it (but not really), the authentic timber-framed cabins at Shadow Mountain Escape are a charming and eco-friendly home base on the border of Shenandoah National Park.

Stowe, Vermont

Stowe may be another one of New England’s winter hot spots—er, cold spots—but fall is chock-full of events that draw tourists to this almost-250-year-old mountain village. The Stowe Foliage Arts Festival (October 11–13) brings together 150 craftspeople, artists, and specialty-food makers—and the usual throngs of fall tourists—under a canopy of colorful leaves. Visit Autumn in Stowe on GoStowe.com for itineraries, kids’ activities, and up-to-the-minute news on the leaf situation.

Where to Stay: The Sun & Ski Inn and Suites features low rates in its guest rooms, suites, and full-sized condos plus a Book Early for Winter Sale for 15% off stays between November and March. Check GoStowe.com for a current list of deals.

Columbia River Gorge, Oregon

This is a nature lover’s state of grace. The mighty Columbia River carves a twisting path through the Cascade Mountains, leading to waterfalls, rocky beaches, and charming cabins along its wide canyon. Take in the stunning 620-foot Multnomah Falls along the Historic Columbia River Highway, or follow the paved ribbons of hiking trails. Explore these geological wonders your way: Trek, bike, windsurf, whitewater raft, or merely sit for a while and soak in the crisp fall air. The weather is brisk, and while the water may be frigid for all but the most adventurous, the area’s countless craft breweries and pubs beg visitors to pop in for a pint and a warm-up with views of the trees’ explosive wardrobe change.

Where to Stay: Statewide, camp in a number of recreation sites and state parks for nominal rates, or rent a cabin via VRBO. Redefine “roughing it” at Carson Ridge Luxury Cabins; look into seasonal, romantic, and adventure-themed specials on the property’s website.

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