Summer Travel Isn’t What It Used to Be — Here’s How to Outsmart It
A travel check-in from someone who flies often, thinks critically, and always packs snacks.
Summer is usually the season of carefree getaways and out-of-office replies. But if you’ve been watching the travel headlines (or standing in airport security lines lately), you know the energy this year is... different.
I’m a frequent flyer and I do my best to catch flights, not feelings, but this economy has even the most seasoned travelers taking notes. Let’s break down what’s happening, what’s worth your time, and what to skip — so you can keep making power moves, not panic-booked ones.
The Skies Are Still Crowded (Even as Demand Drops)
It may sound counterintuitive, but air travel demand is down while flights are more packed than ever. Airlines have cut back on routes, so fewer flights = more passengers per plane. Add in staffing shortages and tighter schedules, and it’s no wonder delays and cancellations are back in the spotlight.
Even Southwest — once known for its friendly, no-fee structure — is adjusting course. As of May 28, they’re testing baggage and seat selection fees (full pricing info here).
That’s $35 for the first checked bag and $45 for the second. For those of us who built entire loyalty strategies around their “bags fly free” model… it’s giving betrayal.
What does that mean for you? It means leadership — and smart travel — now includes scanning fee structures just as closely as you do flight times. Your team’s Q3 planning trip? That girls’ trip that turned into a strategy session? Build in flexibility and factor in new hidden costs.
CLEAR the Way
If you’re not already using CLEAR, this is your sign. I know, I know — it sounds like one more airport add-on. But when time is money, this one actually earns its keep.
CLEAR uses biometric ID to verify you and get you to the front of the security line, often within minutes. It’s especially useful if you fly out of major hubs (hi ATL, LAX, DEN — I see you). And here’s where it gets really good: pair CLEAR with TSA PreCheck, and you’ve basically unlocked the VIP lane. No removing shoes, laptops stay in bags, and you move through like you own the place.
If leadership is about protecting your energy, CLEAR is a pretty solid boundary in travel form.
Frontier, Surprisingly, Delivered
Budget airlines get a bad rap — often for good reason — but I have to give credit where it’s due. I recently booked two roundtrip flights from ATL to LAX for under $500 total on Frontier, and yes, that includes seats and bags.
Now let’s be honest: $120 of each ticket went to “extras.” But even after all the add-ons, we still came out ahead by several hundred dollars compared to the majors. The flight was on time, the experience was smooth, and I had legroom. Go figure.
The takeaway? With a little planning, even budget carriers can be worth the gamble. But be honest with yourself — if you need to check a bag, pick a seat, or pack snacks, calculate those costs ahead of time. What looks like a steal can quickly turn into a splurge if you’re not strategic.
Whether you’re in the air, on the ground, or just planning your next move, remember this: travel is personal, but it’s also political. Who gets access, who gets delayed, who pays more — it all ties back to the systems we’re navigating.
So let’s fly smart. Let’s stay informed. And let’s keep catching flights and feelings — on our own terms.
Until next takeoff,
Ardenia