Airline tickets for travel to Europe should be purchased by student participants individually. With an International Student ID Card students are eligible for discount airfares at student prices that are typically the most economical and flexible in terms of changing dates or destination details. These can be purchased in Ames at such agencies as STA Travel or Travel and Transport, both very close to campus, or through a travel agency on the Internet. Alternatively, you can reserve and pay for flights on the Web through search engines such as Travelocity or Expedia. If you have any questions concerning the ticket (such as luggage restrictions that might apply, etc.) you should contact your airline or the travel agency directly. To avoid surprises at the airport, it is recommended that you confirm your reservation with your airline at least 72 hours in advance of your departure. This is a standard requirement for international flights. If any serious problems arise (such as they have no record of your reservation, etc.) you will still have time to contact your travel agent and correct the problem.

On the day of travel, it is highly recommended that you get to the airport two to three hours prior to departure (four hours at larger airports such as Chicago O'Hare) for baggage check-in and seat assignments. With the increased security measures that have been introduced since 9/11, it takes much longer to check in and pass through security at all US and many international airports. Additionally, it is likely that you and your fellow travelers will all be carrying lots of luggage, so check-in often takes considerably longer. The same check-in requirements will also apply to the return flight. Be sure you are aware of recent restrictions on the presence of liquids and gels in carry-on baggage.  Following the new rules will make your check-in and security screening go much more smoothly at the airport.