I don't understand e-tickets; please help

[Bete]

I haven't flown in about 7 years. I'm not sure I'm doing this right; so, I need help from all you savy flyers.

I can print a copy of my itinerary and e-ticket receipts; I did get that far on the websites. I know from reading the websites that I get my boarding passes no sooner then 24 hours before departure. Also, I know to check that there hasn't been any changes to the flights.

What I don't know: How do I get actual copies of my e-ticket reservations? I can't figure this out on AA or UA or NWA. Yes, I have various air tics. Do you get an e-ticket when you check-in at the websites (1 to 24 hours before your flight) and do your boarding passes? Or are the boarding passes all you need and there are no real e- tickets?

I'm not going to have access to a computer within the 24 hour time frame coming home to get boarding passes. One passenger is taking two different airlines for their round-trip. Going there it's AA and coming back is UA. How do you get your boarding pass when you have a different airline for going home? For going home can RAC help me get boarding passes? What do I need to get them to help?

I hope I'm explaining this alright for someone to understand and help me. I'm very lost right now. I don't want to show up at the airport and not have all the right stuff with me.

 

[philaround]

All you need is your boarding pass. It will have you flght #, departure time, gate #, seat assignment, and reservation # on it. Just show up at the airport with your baording pass and a photo I.D. and all will be well.

 

[freckles and boo]

Provided there hasn't been a major computer crash (I have never heard of it happening) at the airline, all you need to do is walk up to the airline check-in counter/ticket agent and tell them your name and destination, then show a valid photo ID. I haven't always made it to the airport with my printed receipt and it has never been a problem. Most airlines also have check-in terminals with touch screens that you can insert either a frequent flyer card or the credit card you used to make the reservations. It will spit out your boarding pass and then you can then procede to a ticket agent who will check your bag. It probably all sounds very daunting but they will be very helpful if you look confused!

The most important thing that has changed since you last flew is the security procedures. Look into what you can and can't carry-on and be aware that it may take extra time to get through security lines.

 

[tjmw2727]

You are all set, don't worry.

Think of an E-ticket as a "virtual ticket" as there is no actual ticket you will get. The itinerary and or receipt is all you need. You can take that to the airport, I do. I like to have a record of flights and times but you don't really need it. When you arrive at the airport all you need is your photo ID to check in and get your boarding pass (or print it online), check your bags and head to the gate.

Check the website for the airport your flying out of as most have a great section from the TSA about carry on restrictions and how best to prepare for and get through security screening.

As far as your return trip, concierge or guest relations at the resort can help you and even print out your boarding pass. (I tipped for this). Also, if your flying a participating airline you can do all your checking in and check your bags at the WDW resort.

Tell your friend it dosen't matter that he/she is flying two separate carriers. It works the same way r/t or one way. You still have to get boarding pass, check luggage and get through security each way separately - even if your ticket is R/T.

I tried to keep it simple - so if I have left anything out ask again.

TJ

 

[Bete]

I feel much better the way everyone has explained this to me.

I'm prepared for it, now.

 

[seashoreCM]

You should bring copies of your itiinerary and passenger receipt with you. When you do this, you are following almost the same procedure you would with non-electronic tickets.

If there are no self service kiosks or terminals at the airport check in area or if you have difficulty using these kiosks, you can go to the ticket counter to get your boarding pass and then it will be almost the same procedure you would use with non-electronic tickets.

If you are able to check in on line before going to the airport, you may be able to make last minute seat changes. Time frame for on-line check in varies with different airlines. On some airlines checking in on line reduces the chance of being bumped because you are checking in sooner.I

If you are randomly selected for extra security screening on line check in will be denied you.

Regardless of whether you fly a different airline, you get your boarding pass for the return trip on the day of travel or for some on-line check ins you can do this the previous day. No airlines nowadays issue boarding passes for both ways when you begin your trip.

Disney hints:
http://members.aol.com/ajaynejr/disney.htm