New York State Offers Travel Tips for Spring and Summer

Consumers advised to book early, research options, and understand cancellation policies before planning getaways.

Mar. 29, 2026 at 8:03am

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The New York Department of State's Division of Consumer Protection has released a set of tips to help consumers plan and book their spring and summer travel safely and smartly. The tips cover best practices for booking flights, hotels, and other travel arrangements, as well as guidance on understanding consumer rights and protections when it comes to trip cancellations and refunds.

Why it matters

As the weather warms up, many New Yorkers will be eager to plan their next vacation or getaway. These travel tips from the state's consumer protection division aim to empower travelers to make informed decisions, avoid scams, and understand their rights - helping to ensure a smooth and stress-free travel experience.

The details

The travel tips cover a range of best practices, including booking early morning flights, considering larger airports for more direct routes, thoroughly researching trip options and policies, paying with credit cards for added protections, using reputable travel providers, and considering trip insurance. The guidance also explains consumers' rights when it comes to airline, cruise, and hotel cancellations and refunds.

  • The travel tips were released by the New York Department of State's Division of Consumer Protection in March 2026, ahead of the spring and summer travel season.

The players

New York Department of State's Division of Consumer Protection

A state agency that provides consumer protection services and education to New York residents.

Walter T. Mosley

The Secretary of State of New York, who encouraged consumers to review the travel tips before booking their next getaway.

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What they’re saying

“This is a time of year when many New Yorkers, myself included, are eager to get away and escape what feels like a never-ending winter season. But before booking that getaway, I encourage consumers to read these tips from the Division of Consumer Protection.”

— Walter T. Mosley, Secretary of State of New York

The takeaway

These travel tips from New York's consumer protection agency provide a helpful roadmap for residents to plan their spring and summer getaways with confidence, ensuring they understand their rights, avoid potential pitfalls, and have the information needed to book travel arrangements that meet their needs and budget.