Frequently Asked Questions

Thank you for booking your vacation with TravelPerks Dream Vacations! It has been our pleasure to assist you.

If your reservation contains flights, we want to make sure that you are informed of the important information regarding Air Travel.

Seat Assignment

Some airlines will either allow you to pick your seats or change what they have auto-selected for you. Some airlines do not allow seat selection until 24 hours before the flight or at check-in. If the airline with which you are flying allows early seat selection***, you may do so by logging into the airline website using your air confirmation number. With some airlines, an extra charge may be incurred for seat selection. There is no limit on the number of times that you can change or upgrade your seats as long as availability allows. Additionally, it is a good idea to provide your email and other contact information so that the airline may provide updates on your flights. You may also provide your mileage loyalty information, create a loyalty account, and provide any TSA Precheck or Global Entry numbers.

**Some airlines do not have assigned seating, seating is done on a first arrive-first seated basis at the time of boarding; other airlines such as British Airlines and other budget airlines such as Spirit, Frontier, and Allegiant do not allow seat selection until 24 hours before the flight without an extra charge. If you are traveling with minor children, the airlines will ensure at least one parent is seated with each child on the flight.

Code Sharing

Code sharing occurs when one airline sells the flights in partnership with one of their partner brands i.e., “United Airlines operated by British Airlines” or “Alaska Airlines operated by Delta Airlines.” In these cases, early seat selection is more difficult. Seat selection is done through the airline with whom the flight is operated and any rules governing the availability of early seat selection is from the airline the for whom the flight is operated. For example, while United Airlines may allow early seat selection, if a segment of the flights is operated by British Airlines, seat selection will not be available until 24 hours before the flight or at check-in because British Airlines is operating the flight and United simply purchased space from British Airlines and this does not change the way British Airlines operates.

Check In

In most cases, airlines request that you check-in 24 hours prior to your scheduled departure time via their website or through their mobile app. It is recommended that you download the airline mobile app, you will be able to check-in, review and change seats, pay for bags and or meals at this time. Additionally, you may be able to either email the boarding pass electronically or access the boarding pass through the mobile app. Using electronic boarding passes through the mobile app is the best way to stay up to date on any flight time or gate changes.

You still have theoption to check in at the counter on the day of your flight. Some airportswill have Self-Service Kiosks at the airport for check-in. You can use these tocheck in for your flight and pay any baggage fees, as well as print out theairline luggage tags and boarding passes.

For international flights, particularly if you are not a frequent international traveler, once you complete online check-in, you may not able to print or access your boarding passes. This is because the airline needs to verify your passport at the airport before they can provide a boarding pass.

Luggage

Most airlines allow one “personal item” such as a purse, small backpack, or briefcase, and one slightly larger carry on an item so long as one item fits under the seat in front of you and the other item in the overhead bin. In most cases, these items can NOT exceed 18 x 14 x 8 inches.

For domestic flights, you can pay to check one checked bag. These fees range from $15 to $50, with the average being $30/bag each way. In most cases the dimensions of the checked bag can be no more than 62 inches and weigh no more than 50 pounds. If your bag does not meet the airline requirements, extra fees may be charged.

For international flights, the carry-on allowance is the same. For checked luggage, you are generally allowed one bag at no cost (same size and weight)** and additional bags will be subject to fees. Please note that airlines are very strict about the weight of the bags.

*First Class / Business Class ticket holders may be allowed up to three free checked bags at 70 pounds* each.

**Please note that your end destination, time of year, and the airline may impact your baggage allowance. It is imperative that you check with your airline to verify your airline’s baggage allowance. Additionally, if you will be taking any smaller regional flights during your trip, you may be subject to much more restrictive weight allowances which you should consider from the outset of your journey. For instance, most foreign regional airlines have a baggage weight limit of roughly 40 pounds. If your regional flight is attached to your flight that began in the U.S., the international weights apply. If, however, you land in a destination and later fly to another destination, the regional limits will apply to any flight not attached to an outgoing or returning flight to the U.S.

Getting to the Airport

For domestic travel, it is advised that you arrive at the airport at least two hours before your flight is scheduled to depart.

For international travel, you should arrive at least three hours before your flight.

Remember, unless you are a frequent traveler with priority boarding, it takes time to have your passport verified, check bags, get through security, and make your way to the gate. Boarding generally begins 30 minutes before the scheduled departure time.

If you are traveling with small children or those needing extra time to get through an airport, consider allowing up to an additional hour.

Please do not place your passports or other travel documents in any bag to which you will not have easy access as you may need to present it at the gate before boarding.

Below are helpful links:
TSA Travel Tips
TSA - What Can You Bring?
TSA Pre-check Application & Renewals
American Airlines
United Airlines
Alaska / Horizon Airlines
Southwest Airlines
Delta Airlines
Jet Blue Airlines
Sprit Airlines

Traveling to the Dominican Republic? Click Here!

What is the best time to take a cruise?

Any time of year is a great time for a cruise, but it really depends on the destination. The Caribbean is perfect for cruising all year long, but some of the more exotic destinations may only be seasonal. Alaskan Cruises typically take place between May and September and cruises to Europe are usually between April and November.

When are cruises most affordable?

Cruises are typically the least expensive between September and Christmas, but not during Christmas as that is usually more expensive. Most people take vacations during the peak summer months, so if you wait until after summer there are some pretty good deals available.

How long are cruises?

Cruises can be for as long or as short as you would like! Some cruises are as short as three days and some are three months. We can help you create the perfect itinerary based on how much time you would like to spend cruising.

What travel documents do I need?

For information on travel documents, please visit our Travel Documents page.

Do I need cash on board the ship?

Most ships have a no-cash policy during the cruise. During the check-in process, you will be asked to set up an onboard credit account, if you have not already during your pre-cruise paperwork. This is most commonly done with a credit card but you may also use Traveler’s Checks or cash. Most ships will not accept personal checks.

You can charge all drinks and other services to your stateroom and pay at the end of the cruise. On most cruises you can check your balance any time using your room’s television.

What should I pack for a cruise?

Cruise lines allow you to bring as much luggage as you like. Keep in mind that checked luggage can take several hours to get to your stateroom, so it is a good idea to keep a carry-on bag with your travel documents, valuables and any other item you may want in the first few hours of the cruise (camera, medications, etc.)

• Some items you may not want to forget are:
• Sunglasses
• Sunscreen
• Comfortable walking shoes for walking around the ship and in port
• Camera
• Chargers for your electronic devices

Are there dress codes on cruises?

Your ticket package or cruise line brochure will provide specific information on the cruise's dress style. Daytime attire is "resort casual" with shorts and jeans appropriate. There are three main categories for dinner attire in the main restaurants:

• FORMAL: For gentlemen, a tuxedo or suit is appropriate, for ladies, a long or short cocktail dress or dressy pantsuit.
• INFORMAL: Gentlemen will be asked to wear a jacket without tie and for the ladies, a dress or pantsuit is appropriate.
• CASUAL: For gentlemen, an open shirt and slacks are appropriate, for the ladies, casual dresses, or pants. No shorts and on some cruise lines, no jeans are allowed in the dining room for dinner.

Some ships also offer theme nights, so make sure to check your cruise itinerary to pack accordingly!

What will there be to eat on board?

All standard meals are included in the price of your cruise. Most ships will offer several choices for breakfast which may include a buffet and a full breakfast served in the dining room. You may also have the option of having continental or a full breakfast served in your stateroom. There are usually several choices for lunch and dinner: buffet, lighter fare on deck, and/or a full menu selection served to you in the dining room.

Some restaurants on board will offer a variety of different foods, 24-hour pizza, ice cream parlors, coffee and much more.

Soda and alcoholic beverages are not usually included in the price of your cruise.

*** If you are celebrating a special event (anniversary, birthday, etc.) please be sure to let us know. We will notify the cruise line and most will provide you with a complimentary cake. Be sure to reconfirm this request directly with the Maitre d’. If you forget to tell us, don’t worry - just give the Maitre d’ one day’s notice to comply with your wishes.

What if I have dietary restrictions?

All cruise lines are able to accommodate dietary needs and restrictions. If you require kosher, halal, gluten-free or vegetarian meals, please let us know at least 30 days prior to your departure and we will inform the cruise line of your needs. If you forget to do so, you can always see the Maitre d' and they will do their best to accommodate you but there is no guarantee they will have foods on board for every need.

What is the drinking age on a cruise?

You must be 21 years old to legally consume beer, wine and other alcoholic beverages on board.

What are the entertainment options?

From contemporary musical theater to Las Vegas-inspired productions, from live comedy acts to electrifying night clubs and casinos, you'll find an amazing and exciting array of complimentary onboard entertainment that will excite attendees of all ages and desires.

Cruise ships offer an incredible variety of absolutely amazing Broadway, Cirque, skating, or aquatic shows that are sure to wow everyone.

Enjoy an opportunity to dress up and have a "night on the town" with a nice drink at a specialty or piano bar, a terrific meal at the main or specialty dining rooms, and then take in a show. Still not ready to call it a night? There's dancing and late night comedy to keep you going. Don't worry about the kids as they will love taking advantage of the kids' clubs!

Want a quieter evening? Don't want to dress up? No worries--there are plenty of entertainment choices that will please everyone. That's the best part of a cruise ship.

Do I tip on a cruise?

Tipping is a personal matter and the proper way to compensate the staff for the excellent service you receive. Most ship staff work primarily for tips. Tips are generally $14 to $20 a day per person and added to your on board account automatically.

Some cruise lines allow for pre-paying your tips, and some even require it depending on your meal plan choices. If you haven’t pre-paid your tips, and would like to do so, please ask your Vacation Specialist if this is available for your vacation.

While at your discretion, we do recommend tipping room-service $1.00 per person being served. Tips for bar items are included in your charge. Spa and other personal services may have the tip automatically included. Where it isn’t, tipping is appropriate at normal levels for similar services in the US.

What is there to do in port?

There will be so much to choose from that your hardest problem will be figuring out what to do. You can go off on your own or take a guided tour. Every cruise will offer various excursions.

Cruising is a great way to see a number of different destinations -- perhaps ones that you will want to take a vacation to again in the future!

Is motion sickness a problem?

Motion sickness is not typically a problem, as the most popular cruise destinations often have some of the calmest waters in the world. Modern ships have stabilizers and access to accurate weather information. There are also many effective preventative medications, which are always a good thing to pack, just in case.

What if I have to cancel my trip?

TravelPerks offers a very comprehensive and competitive Trip Cancellation/Interruption protection program that is available exclusively to our valued customers. We highly recommend this protection. If you haven't already made the smart choice to protect your vacation investment, contact your Vacation Specialist or the first available agent at 541-349-0036.

Cancellation Penalties vary by supplier. Please see our Cancellation Policies FAQ for links to your supplier's terms and conditions.

Are there military discounts?

To thank you for your service many cruise lines offer special military benefits to you and your family members!

Whether you are a veteran or one of the country's active duty military personnel, National Guard, or reserve member you may be entitled to these special military offers by select cruise lines.

For full offer details please contact your Vacation Specialist. Military ID will be required on the day of cruise embarkation at the pier.

Why book a tour with a travel agent?

We love what we do and we are experts at delivering you the most options of available tours. Our team has many years of experience and knowledge about a variety of destinations worldwide and we are committed to providing you with the best tours within your budget so you will have the experience of a lifetime!

Do you offer the lowest price guaranteed?

Yes—we guarantee that our prices will be the lowest you can find. If you happen to find a lower priced tour we will match the price!

Do you offer tours for groups of all sizes?

Yes—we offer tours for groups of all sizes.

Where do you offer tours?

We offer tours in hundreds of destinations on every continent (except Antarctica—but we hope to add that soon!) Whether you want to explore the ancient ruins in Italy or spend a week on safari in Kenya, we offer tours wherever you want to go!

How long are most tours?

The length of tours varies. Please contact us for more info on specific tours.

What if I need to cancel my tour?

Tours may be cancelled but are subject to the cancellation policy of the individual tour provider. Consult your Vacation Specialist for more information.

Why purchase travel insurance?

We recommend Travel Protection because of common travel problems such as flight delays, injuries/illness, unpredictable weather and/or lost/stolen luggage. Our Travel Insurance Plan provides protection designed just for travelers and can provide coverage for many things that can go wrong before, and during your trip.

Top Ten Reasons to Use Travel Insurance

Read more about our Travel Protection Plans.

• You have to cancel your trip due to an unexpected event such as bad weather or the financial default of your airline, cruise line or tour operator.
• You have to return home early due to an unexpected emergency such as an illness or death in the family.
• Your luggage is lost or delayed, forcing you to purchase necessary essentials, or prescription medications.
• Your luggage or personal effects are damaged or stolen.
• You need an emergency medical evacuation due to an accident or sudden illness.
• You run into flight delays and miss a portion of your trip or cruise.
• Your trip is interrupted due to an unexpected hurricane or storm.
• You lose your passport, leaving you stranded abroad.
• You need assistance with replacing a prescription or an emergency cash transfer.

What is the best way to pay for things while traveling?

Credit Cards

We recommend using a credit card wherever possible because you will get a better exchange rate than at an ATM or exchange bureau. A lot of credit cards still charge a foreign-transaction fee, so make sure to find a credit card that has no fees. Most hotels, restaurants and retailers will accept major credit cards in large cities.

Cash

When you need pocket money, use your debit card at a bank. You will get a much more favorable exchange rate than those offered by foreign-exchange bureaus.

It is also a good idea to have a little cash on you when you arrive to an airport in a foreign country in case you need to pay for a visa or taxi. Unfortunately, ATMs are not always reliable! Try to exchange as little cash as possible at the airport currency exchange bureau, as they often charge hefty fees for foreign travelers.

Obtaining a visa is the sole responsibility of the traveler! TravelPerks Does Not Provide Visas.

Check with your supplier and the consulate of the countries you're visiting for what visas you may need.

Here's a link to a recommended visa service.

What does "all-inclusive" mean?

All-Inclusive means that the resort includes a minimum of three meals daily, non-alcoholic beverages, most alcoholic beverages, gratuities and many other services in the price. Some resorts even offer use of various amenities in their all-inclusive packages.

Each resort is different—contact us to inquire about a specific resort!

What does "European Plan" or "EP" mean?

European Plan (also referred to as EP) usually refers to accommodations only. European Plans do not include meals or drinks, therefore, if you choose this option, you will need to budget in for food, drinks, taxes, and tips at the resort. If the resort you are looking at offers the European Plan and you do not plan to spend a lot on food and drinks within the resort, then this plan is a good option for you. Keep in mind that on the EP you can easily go beyond your anticipated budget once you are at your destination. For this reason, many people choose All-Inclusive packages to avoid "hidden" costs.

What kind of activities do resorts have?

No two resorts are the same, therefore, each resort has different activities available. Many resorts will have various watersport activities (such as kayaking, snorkeling, etc) included in the price. Please make sure to check with each resort to find out what is included and what is not.

Can I purchase travel insurance for resorts?

Yes, in fact, we highly recommend it! Read more about our Travel Protection Plans.

Why book with you and not direct?

We know that the time in port is one of the most important parts of anyone's vacation, so we take our commitment to deliver great shore excursions very seriously. We carefully select only the best tour operators in each port, and, because we are not trying to reserve excursions for thousands of people at a time, in many cases we are able to choose tour providers who carry much smaller groups of travelers on more intimate, personalized experiences. Because we know that it can be confusing to choose the best tour in each port, we have a staff of shore excursion experts available to answer your questions.

Are your prices lower than the cruise lines? 

Our prices are as much as 40% lower than the cruise lines, as well as higher in quality. Unlike the cruise lines' crowded excursions, our average excursion size is only 12 people.

Do you provide guaranteed return to ship? 

We have never had a customer miss their ship. Our team possesses over 80 years of combined cruise line experience and we are not aware of a single case in which a customer on an independent tour missed a ship. In the extremely unlikely event that you miss your ship due to the late arrival of one of our tours, we will arrange and pay for your accommodations, meals, and transportation to the next port of call, and we will pay you an additional $500 USD per customer for the inconvenience.

Do you have a hotline for travelers? 

Yes, we provide 24/7 support for travelers - available any time from any place in the world in the unlikely event that you encounter any difficulties. Simply call 866-999-6590

What are the shore excursion sizes?

Private shore excursions allow you to travel with your party alone, and in many cases, to fully customize your shore tour. For groups of 4 or more, we can usually arrange a private shore excursion for less than the cost of a large cruise line tour.

Small group shore excursions generally range in size from 2-20 people, providing a more personalized experience than the large excursions offered by the cruise lines.

Standard shore excursions typically range from 20-50 people. These tours are similar in size to those of the cruise lines. While these day excursions are larger in size, our focus on quality remains extremely high.

What types of shore excursions do you offer?

Scenic shore excursions provide up-close and personal access to some of the most spectacular natural environments on Earth.

Cultural shore excursions allow you to experience the customs, heritage, and local flavor of the destinations.

Active shore excursions offer a multitude of exciting and adventurous experiences.

Water/Beach shore excursions provide unique ways to enjoy the ocean, beach, and sea life.

Culinary shore excursions allow you to sample the local culinary delights.

Do you do group excursions? 

Yes, we love groups and are great at it! We offer a wide variety of excursions for your group needs - whether you're coordinating a family or school reunion, bachelor/bachelorette party, or planning a professional seminar for an organization, we offer a great variety of amenities to make your group event unique and unforgettable. Since we are not a large cruise line catering to thousands of customers per day, our group excursions allow you to travel in much smaller groups offering a more personalized experience. For groups of four or more, we can usually arrange a private shore excursion for less than the cost of a large cruise line tour.

What is your cancellation policy? 

With very few exceptions, you can cancel a tour up to 14 days in advance of tour departure and receive a full refund. The few exceptions to this rule are clearly noted in the tour description. If you would like to cancel a tour, simply give us a call during regular business hours, and we will be happy to assist you. Once you are within the 14 day tour departure window, the tour becomes non-refundable. This is because our operators have set aside space to accommodate your request and will often not be able to fill that space with another customer so close to departure.