Frequently Asked Questions

Everything You Need to Know Before You Travel

The Travel Suite FAQS

Flights, Baggage & Check-In

What baggage allowance is included in my booking?

Standard baggage allowance for transatlantic flights is typically 23kg per person, and for European flights it is usually 23kg checked baggage. For other destinations, please check your airline’s website or contact us for confirmation.

My tickets don’t show baggage—are bags included?

Please refer to your booking invoice or itinerary, where your baggage allowance will be clearly outlined.

How early should I check in for my flight?

Long-haul / transatlantic flights: at least 3–3.5 hours before departure
European flights: at least 2–2.5 hours before departure

Do I have to check in online?

Online check-in is not mandatory, but we strongly recommend it. It saves time at the airport and allows you to access boarding passes and select seats (if available).

What seats do I have on my flight?

If seats have been pre-assigned, they will appear on your booking confirmation. Many airlines only allow seat selection at online check-in (24 hours before departure), or earlier for an additional fee via the airline website.

What happens if I miss my connecting flight?

Go to the airline desk at the airport. If the delay was not your fault, the airline is responsible for getting you on the next available flight. Keep receipts for any extra expenses, as you may be able to claim these back.

Will I need to collect my baggage during a connection?

If all flights are booked on one ticket, your luggage is usually checked through to your final destination. If not, we will advise you at the time of booking.

Travel Documents, ESTA & Passport

How long before travel should I apply for an ESTA?

You can apply for an ESTA at least 72 hours before departure, but The Travel Suite strongly recommends applying well in advance to avoid any issues. Approval is required before boarding flights to the United States.

Where do I apply for my ESTA?

Irish citizens travelling to the United States under the Visa Waiver Programme are required to obtain an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) before travel.

ESTA approval is generally valid for 2 years (or until your passport expires)
Applications should be submitted at least 72 hours before departure
The current official ESTA fee is approximately US $40.27 per person
Customers should only apply using the official U.S. government ESTA website:
https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov/

Please note that many third-party websites charge significantly higher administration fees for ESTA applications.

How early should I check in for my flight?

Long-haul / transatlantic flights: at least 3–3.5 hours before departure
European flights: at least 2–2.5 hours before departure

How much does an ESTA cost?

Irish citizens travelling to the United States under the Visa Waiver Programme are required to obtain an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) before travel.

ESTA approval is generally valid for 2 years (or until your passport expires)
Applications should be submitted at least 72 hours before departure
The current official ESTA fee is approximately US $40.27 per person
Customers should only apply using the official U.S. government ESTA website:
https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov/

Please note that many third-party websites charge significantly higher administration fees for ESTA applications.

How much validity do I need on my passport?

For travel booked with The Travel Suite:

USA: passport must be valid for the duration of your stay
Mexico and cruise holidays: minimum 6 months validity required

We recommend always travelling with at least 6 months remaining on your passport to avoid issues.

Do I need a visa for my holiday or cruise?

Visa requirements depend on your destination and itinerary. The Travel Suite will advise you of any visa requirements at the time of booking to ensure you are fully prepared.

Do I need a visa for Dubai?

Irish passport holders do not require a visa for Dubai for stays under 90 days. The Travel Suite will always confirm entry requirements before travel.

Do I need a visa or travel authorisation for my holiday?

Visa and entry requirements vary depending on your destination and nationality. Customers are responsible for ensuring they have the correct travel documentation, visas, vaccinations and passport validity for their trip.

We strongly recommend checking the latest official travel advice before travelling, including entry requirements, safety information, vaccination guidance and health recommendations via the Department of Foreign Affairs website:

https://www.ireland.ie/en/dfa/overseas-travel/advice/

US Travel & Immigration

Will I pre-clear US immigration in Ireland?

If you are flying directly from Ireland to the USA, you will complete US preclearance before departure. If you travel via the UK or Europe, you will go through immigration upon arrival in the United States.

Can I pre-clear US immigration in London Heathrow?

No, London Heathrow Airport does not offer US preclearance. Immigration will be completed upon arrival in the USA.

How long can I stay in the USA with an ESTA?

An approved ESTA generally allows stays of up to 90 days in the United States for tourism or business purposes. The final length of stay is determined by US immigration officials upon arrival.

Do children need an ESTA to travel to the USA?

Yes, all travellers to the USA, including infants and children, must have their own valid passport and approved ESTA before travelling.

Hotels, Rooms & Facilities

What time is hotel check-in?

Your hotel check-in time will be listed on your hotel voucher, which The Travel Suite sends approximately two weeks before departure. Check-in times vary depending on the property.

Is breakfast included in my hotel stay?

Your booking confirmation will clearly state whether your stay is room-only or includes breakfast. The Travel Suite will always outline your board basis in your invoice.

Can I request a specific room location?

Room-only means your booking includes accommodation only, with no meals included. The Travel Suite can arrange meal upgrades where available.

Can I add breakfast after booking?

In most cases, breakfast can be added directly at the hotel upon arrival if it was not included in your original booking.

Will the hotel charge a security deposit?

Most hotels require a security deposit at check-in. This is usually held on a credit or debit card and released after your stay, provided no charges are incurred.

Why do hotels charge resort fees?

Many hotels, particularly in the USA, charge resort or destination fees for amenities such as Wi-Fi, pools, and gym access. These are payable locally and will be outlined in your Travel Suite booking confirmation.

Payments, Deposits & Refunds

Can I pay a deposit or do I need to pay in full?

Most holidays booked with The Travel Suite require a deposit of €150–€250 per person. The exact amount depends on your travel dates and package type.

Is my deposit refundable?

Deposits are non-refundable. The Travel Suite will outline all payment and cancellation terms in your booking documentation.

Can I get a refund if I cancel my holiday?

Refunds depend on the supplier’s terms and conditions. The Travel Suite will guide you through cancellation charges and options based on your booking.

Can I make changes to my holiday?

Yes, changes can be made to your booking, but fees may apply depending on timing and availability. The Travel Suite team will assist you with any amendments.

Can I change a passenger name on a booking?

Full name changes (changing the traveller) are generally not permitted. Cancellation charges will apply, and a new booking may be required.

Cards, Payments Abroad & Car Hire

Are transfers included in my booking?

Transfers are only included if stated on your Travel Suite quote or booking confirmation. If not included, we can arrange private or shared transfers for you.

Are transfers included for cruises?

Cruise transfer inclusion depends on your package. The Travel Suite can tailor your cruise holiday to include transfers where required.

Can I add airport fast track or lounges?

Yes, The Travel Suite can arrange airport fast track and lounge access at Dublin, Shannon, and Cork airports. These should be booked in advance.

Cruises

Are all cruises all-inclusive?

Not all cruises are all-inclusive. Some include drinks, dining, and extras, while others offer these as optional add-ons. The Travel Suite will recommend the best option for you.

Can I add a drinks package to my cruise?

Yes, drinks packages can be added through the cruise line app or onboard using your cruise booking reference provided by The Travel Suite.

Can I get a refund if I cancel my holiday?

An inside cabin is a cruise room without a window or balcony. It is typically the most cost-effective cabin option.

How do I find my cruise booking reference?

Yes, changes can be made to your booking, but fees may apply depending on timing and availability. The Travel Suite team will assist you with any amendments.

Can I change a passenger name on a booking?

Your cruise ID or booking reference is included in your Travel Suite booking confirmation.

Travel Insurance

Why do I need travel insurance?

Travel insurance is essential when booking with The Travel Suite. It covers medical expenses, cancellations, delays, and lost baggage. Medical costs abroad—especially in the USA—can be extremely high.

What does my travel insurance cover?

The Travel Suite offers comprehensive cover through Blue Insurance (Premier Plus). Full policy details will be provided at the time of purchase.

General Travel Advice

When is the cheapest time to travel?

The cheapest time to travel depends on your destination. For Europe and the USA, January to March is often the most affordable period. The Travel Suite can provide tailored pricing.