The Weekly Newsletter: December 8, 2022 Edition

That's the holiday spirit.

With touchdowns, goals, and last-minute gift shopping, there’s plenty to celebrate this month. Check out our top tips for maximizing your holiday car rental and find perfect gifts for the traveler in your life. Keep scrolling for stories that’ll lift your travel spirits.

The Highlights

This week’s latest travel updates and news.

• Seriously though. Remember our discussion last week about the approaching Real ID deadline? Forget that – the DHS has pushed it back to 2025.

• Face the facts. By “it,” we refer to some new technology – TSA has been piloting facial recognition software at 16 US airports to explore its potential for simplifying security procedures.

• Go with the (lava) flow. Hawaii’s slow travel season reignited as the world’s largest volcano in Hilo erupted for the first time in nearly 40 years.

• Do you have service? EU regulators have recently allowed travelers to use their phones in-flight – here’s why the FAA still advocates for airplane mode.

• Trains over planes. France is reducing flight emissions – the EU Commission has approved a ban on domestic flights where train alternatives exist.

Current travel trends

Zooming down the highways Benefit of driving to your holiday spot: avoiding airport hassles. Drawback: figuring out where to rent a car... and actually having to drive it. While we can't assist with the driving, we can help you locate a rental and offer tips to save some cash. According to our recent data, here’s what to anticipate* if you’re renting a vehicle for your holiday festivities:

• Expect lower rates.Whether you’re staying nearby or traveling overseas, rental costs are down compared to last holiday season. Year-over-year, international rentals are 6% cheaper, while domestic prices have dropped by 17%.

• Bottom line: Drivers score bargains. With many travelers choosing to fly this season, interest in driving to holiday destinations has waned. Overall, searches for domestic rentals have decreased by 26%, and international rentals are down by 8% – leading to savings for those who decide to drive.

Insider tips

Gifts for the traveler in your life Do you know someone who’s always “on their way to the airport”? We consulted our team about their favorite items from the past year to help you pick the perfect gift for that traveler. Be sure to check out our 2022 holiday gift guide.

Social highlights

In recognition of International Day of Persons with Disabilities, we recently collaborated with @annieelainey to gather her insights on traveling with a disability – watch her video for all the details.  

The links in this newsletter are provided for informational purposes only, and there is no affiliation, sponsorship, or endorsement by or with Dinogo Software Corporation whatsoever.