Travel Jargon Decoded: Essential Glossary for Every Traveler

Early in my time at Travelzoo, I often heard the phrase inside baseball tossed around. As a Chicagoan with no ties to the Sox or Cubs—and no idea what channel ESPN airs on—I was baffled. A quick Google search revealed it meant ensuring our website content was clear for all travelers, not just seasoned pros.

Use this expert glossary to clarify terms or book your next trip with confidence. Tweet @travelzoo for additional definitions!

Advance purchase:

A requirement from airlines and hotels to buy tickets or rooms a set number of days before departure or arrival.

All-inclusive:

Hotels and resorts covering three meals daily, drinks (often alcoholic), and entertainment. Rates are typically per couple or per person—confirm before booking.

Blackout dates:

Dates when deals or rates are unavailable, due to sellouts or higher pricing.

Code-share:

An airline agreement sharing flight codes, so you might fly on a partner airline's plane. May include shared frequent flyer perks.

Departure tax:

A fee collected by some countries from departing travelers.

Direct flight:

A flight to your destination without changing planes, though it may stop en route. Note: "Nonstop" means no stops at all.

Each way vs. one way:

"One way" fares apply in one direction only; return trips may cost more. "Each way" (less common now) means valid both ways.

Hub:

Major airports in big cities routing most airline flights.

Long haul:

Flights over six hours; smaller planes may need refueling.

Loss damage waiver:

Optional car rental insurance for damage; required in some countries.

Nonstop:

No stops en route to your destination—distinct from direct flights.

Nontransferable:

Tickets that cannot be exchanged.

Off-peak:

Low-demand periods with the lowest tourist prices.

Open jaw:

Fly into one city, depart from another.

Pet-friendly:

Hotels allowing pets (often size-limited), sometimes for a fee. Call ahead to arrange.

Prepaid gratuities:

Cruise packages including staff tips ($12–$15/day) in the upfront price.

Resort fee:

Extra nightly charge beyond room rate for amenities like Wi-Fi, parking, or in-room water.

Shoulder season:

Periods around peak season with good value and appeal.

Single supplement fee:

Extra charge for solo travelers on double-occupancy packages.

Stopover:

Leave the airport during a layover, requiring re-check-in.

Unrestricted fare:

Most flexible (and expensive) tickets, without advance purchase or stay rules. Common in first class.

Upgrade:

Better service class or accommodation than booked.

Value-added tax (VAT):

Sales tax on goods/services; tourists may claim refunds before leaving. Check eligibility.