Planning, Packing & Pricing: A guide to worry-free travel.

• Author: Guendner, Monika
• Position: Business Travel

Do you experience a small pang of envy every time the flight attendants usher you through first class on your way to the smaller, tighter seats of business and coach? Did you know that most people sitting in those first-class seats haven't paid first-class prices?

The most common way travelers snag the comforts of first class is by buying a coach or business class ticket and upgrading it by trading in frequent flyer miles, says Sherrie Love, travel consultant for Red Carpet travel agency in Sandy.

Travel agents may also negotiate deals with airlines to allow upgrades from coach to first class, says Debbie Huddleston, corporate manager of Travel Zone in Salt Lake City. While Delta might not be as willing to upgrade for domestic flights out of its hub, other airlines regularly negotiate contracts with, and offer coupons to, travel agencies.

Just knowing a few facts can help you take advantage of such perks as seat upgrades -- they can also help you travel more safely and conveniently. Get the facts by following the travel tidbits found below.

Plan ahead. Plan ahead. Plan ahead

This is the travel industry mantra whether on the road or in the air. According to Dee Norton, emergency assistance case manager for Traveler's Aid in Salt Lake City, planning ahead on the road means having extra money or credit cards for breakdown problems. When responding to a family crisis, leave the kids at home initially until the situation can be assessed. Keep a list of emergency phone numbers with you at all times. Know how far your car or a rental car can go on a full tank of gas.

Planning ahead can also get you the lowest fare on an airline. Add another set of eyes to your search for the lowest airfares by coordinating with a travel agent. Starting early also allows you to shop around for a suitable agent. Since different agencies have different contracts, promotions and experience levels, changing the answer to, the question, "Can I have ...?" can he as easy as talking to a different agency.

The Holiday Season

Flying during the holidays can be hectic, crowded and complicated by delays and cancellations. Requesting a paper ticket when booking your initial reservation may save time later. Huddleston says in the event of being moved to another airline if you have the paper ticket, you can go directly to that airline. Otherwise you will be standing in line to receive a printed version to make the transfer.

Barbara Gann, public relations director for the...