2026 AISES National Conference Call for Sessions Ends May 15!

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AISES Travel Guide

Steps for traveling with AISES Programming and Events

  1. Download the airline app that you are flying with.
    • This is easy to use for your boarding passes and connecting to in-flight entertainment such as music, TV shows, games, and movies. This can also give you up-to-date information on your flight such as flight changes, gate changes, and baggage claim carousel information.
  2. Pack your bags before you fly.
    • Check the weather for the time you’re traveling to determine what clothes/shoes to bring.
    • Check TSA regulations for what is allowed in carry-ons to prevent being stopped or having to throw away items.
    • https://www.tsa.gov/travel/security-screening/liquids-aerosols-gels-rule
    • Typically, you are allowed 1 carry-on and 1 personal item (backpack or purse) unless told otherwise to bring a check-in bag.
      • You can always purchase a check-in bag out-of-pocket.
  1. Bring a battery pack or charger for your phone or laptop/tablet.
  2. Bring cash, credit cards, and debit cards.
    • You will need a credit card to check-in your hotel for a hold on incidentals. This can be $100-$200 so make sure you have enough on your card.
  3. Bring an empty water bottle to refill once past the security checkpoint.
    • Make sure that this is empty before you get to the security checkpoint or you will be stopped to empty any fluids.
  4. Bring a book to read.
  5. Bring headphones.
  6. Bring snacks (mini bag of chips or candy).
  7. Wear comfy clothing and comfortable shoes to walk a lot on the day you fly.
    • If you have a gathering to go to after you land, you can always bring a change of clothing if needed.
    • Sometimes planes can be cold so bring a sweater.
  8. Have travel information saved needed prior to flying out like hotel location, transportation information, itinerary, or contacts needed in case of emergency (point-of-contact or parents/guardian phone numbers)
  9. Some participants may receive a per diem which can be used for food, luggage fees, or transportation during your trip.
  10. Keep all receipts.
    • This is a great way to make sure you are not overcharged on your credit statement. This may be needed for per diem information.
  11. You are responsible for checking-in your flight 24hrs before departure
    • You can do this on the airline website or app.
  12. Be prepared and download music, movies, or audiobooks to help the flight go by quicker.
  13. Arrive at the airport 3 hours early to give yourself enough time to get through security
  14. A REAL ID, passport, or tribal ID are all accepted ways of identification.
  15. Be aware that some places you arrive to may have a time change.
    • Normally phones should automatically adjust to this.
    • Make sure you’re going to be early if there is a time change to get adequate sleep.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

I don’t have a REAL ID or a passport; can I still fly?

If you have a tribal ID or passport you can fly with that. If using a tribal ID arrive a little early at the airport since this isn’t a common form of ID used

Typically, you are allowed one carry-on (smaller suitcase) and one personal item (backpack or purse). You’re welcome to purchase this out-of-pocket.

Contact the programs point of contact immediately and we will work to resolve this issue.

No, unless approved by the programs point-of-contact.

Typically to the point-of-contact has shared with you the arrangement of transportation or this is used through your per diem.

Reach out to your point of contact ASAP so you can get this changed.

Most likely you will be given flight credit that you will need to use within a year. You are NOT allowed to use this for non-AISES travel (personal use). If you use this for personal use, you may be subject to pay back AISES for this amount.

Alert the point-of-contact immediately. They will work with you to book a new flight.

If at the airport, do not leave because you may need to talk to the airline to try to get a new flight booked or any accommodation that can be given like a hotel to stay somewhere overnight if needed.

Some flights are purchased without the ability to assign a seat without an additional charge. You are more than welcome to pick a seat, but it would be covered out-of-pocket.

Tell the point-of-contact and we can work with you to partner you with someone to fly with, if possible. Your point-of-contact can also give you tools needed to fly for the first time (do’s & don’ts).

Reach out to your point-of-contact. They have this information saved and can send it to you.

Refer to https://www.tsa.gov/travel/security-screening/liquids-aerosols-gels-rule to make sure you are bringing the right things in your luggage.

Yes, but it should be refillable. Before you go through the security checkpoint it needs to be empty. Once you’re past security, you can refill it at a water station.

  • Tell the program point-of-contact.
  • Work with the airport to get assistance prior to travel.