The Ultimate Glossary of Travel Terms: Lingo, Phrases, Abbreviations & Acronyms You Need to Know

A la carte: A system where individual components of a travel package are priced separately rather than being bundled together at a fixed rate. This allows travellers to customise their trip based on their specific needs and preferences.

Abeam: A term in aviation and shipping referring to something off to the side, like the wings on an aircraft.

Accessible travel: Travel that provides accommodations, services, and attractions accessible to all, including those with disabilities.

Add-collect: Collecting or refunding the difference when a passenger changes their ticket. If the new flight costs more, the passenger pays the extra ("add"). If it costs less, the airline may refund the difference ("collect").

Add-on: An additional service or feature that can be purchased separately.
Adjoining rooms: Rooms located next to each other.

Adoption rate: The percentage of tickets booked online compared to those booked through an agent.

ADR (Average Daily Rate): The average revenue per room per night.

Advance purchase: A discounted rate requiring early booking, often non-refundable.

Adventure tourism: Travel that involves activities such as hiking, trekking, and rafting.

AE (Agent Error): A mistake made by a travel agent when entering information during a booking.

AEA (Association of European Airlines): A trade association representing European airlines.

Affinity card: A credit or debit card issued in partnership with a frequent traveller programme.

After-departure charge: Charges added to a guest’s bill after checkout, such as dining or phone fees.

Aggregator: A platform that compares travel options from multiple sources in one place.

Air taxi: A small aircraft that can be chartered for private travel.

Airlines Reporting Corporation (ARC): A settlement company that processes transactions between airlines and travel agencies.

Airport code: A three-letter code used to identify airports.

Airport security check: The process of screening passengers and their belongings for security threats.

Airport shuttle: A shuttle service that operates between the airport and hotels or other destinations.

Airport tax: A fee charged by airports to passengers.

Airport transfer: A specific type of ground transportation that takes passengers between the airport and their hotel or other destination.

Air-Sea: A travel package that includes both air and sea transportation, often with lodging.

Airside: The area of an airport that is beyond security checkpoints.

Alliance: A partnership between multiple airlines.

All-inclusive resort: A resort that includes accommodation, meals, and activities in one package.

All-inclusive: A package that includes accommodation, meals, and activities.

Amenity: A feature or service offered by a hotel or other accommodation.

AMEX: American Express (AX).

APAC: Asia Pacific.

Apartment hire: Renting an apartment for a vacation.

Applicable fare: The fare that applies to a specific passenger and itinerary.

AR (Accounts Receivable): Money a customer owes a company for goods or services bought on credit.

ARC number: A unique identifier for travel agencies.

Archipelago: A group of islands, like Indonesia or Japan.

ARR (Average Room Rate): A metric used in the hotel industry to measure the average revenue generated per available room. It's calculated by dividing the total room revenue by the total number of available rooms.

Arrival lounge: A lounge where passengers can relax before boarding their flight.

Arrival tax: A tax imposed on travellers arriving in a country.

As-needed basis: A service that is provided only when requested.

ASPAC (Asia Pacific): The geographical region encompassing the countries of Asia and the Pacific Ocean.

Associated carrier: An airline that is affiliated with another airline.

ATB (Automated Ticket & Boarding Pass): A ticket and boarding pass with a magnetic strip storing passenger and travel details.

ATP (Average Ticket Price): The average cost of all tickets purchased.

Authentic experience: A travel experience that is genuine and representative of the local culture.

Availability: The number of rooms, seats, or other travel resources that are available for booking at a given time.

Average daily rate (ADR): The average revenue per room per night.

Average length of stay (ALOS): The average number of nights that guests stay at a hotel.

Aviation fuel: Fuel used by aircraft.

Back-to-back ticketing: A practice where a passenger books two separate one-way tickets instead of a round-trip ticket to exploit fare differences.

Backtracking: The situation where a traveller must return to their original port of entry within a country to complete their departure process. This can be a significant inconvenience and additional expense, especially if the original entry point is far from the traveller's intended exit point.

Baggage carousel: A conveyor belt where baggage is delivered.

Baggage claim: The area of an airport where passengers can collect their baggage.

Baggage trolley: A cart used to transport baggage.

Baggage: Items that a traveller carries with them.

BAR (Best Available Rate): The lowest available rate for a hotel room on a specific date.

Base fare: The basic cost of a ticket, excluding taxes and fees.

Beach tourism: Travel to destinations with beaches.

Bed and breakfast (B&B): A type of accommodation that includes a room and breakfast.

Bed tax: A tax imposed on hotel rooms.

Bedding: The sheets, blankets, and pillows used in a bed.

Bed-nights: The number of nights a room is occupied.

Bellhop: A hotel employee who assists guests with their luggage.

Benelux: Refers to Belgium, the Netherlands, and Luxembourg.

BFOD: Best fare of the day, the lowest fare available at booking time.

Blackout dates: Dates when a fare or promotion is not available.

Blocked space: A specific allocation of inventory (e.g., hotel rooms, airline seats) that a wholesaler or travel agent reserves with a supplier. This reservation is typically made in anticipation of future sales to their clients.

Boarding pass: A document that allows a passenger to board an aircraft.

Booking code: A code used to identify a booking.

Boutique hotel: A small, unique hotel with a distinct personality.

Breakage: Budgeted tour expenses not used, adding to the tour operator's profit.

BSP (Billing Settlement Plan): A system used by airlines and travel agencies to settle financial transactions.

BTA (Business Travel Association): A trade association representing the business travel industry.

BTC (Business Travel Center): A company that specialises in providing business travel services.

BTN (Business Travel News): A publication focused on the business travel industry.

Bucket shop: A travel agency that sells discounted airline tickets.

Budget airline: An airline that offers low fares by reducing costs and services.

Buffer zone (in US Travel Industry): A designated area extending 225 miles north into Canada and 225 miles south into Mexico. This zone is subject to US tax laws, meaning that flights originating or terminating within this zone are taxed at a US domestic rate, even if the flight crosses international borders. This can impact ticket pricing and taxes for travellers in these border regions.

Bulk fare: A discounted fare for a large group of passengers.

Bulkhead: A partition or wall separating different sections of an aircraft.

Bumped: A passenger who is denied boarding due to overbooking.

Bundled pricing: Offering multiple products or services together at a discounted price.

Business center: A place where travellers can use computers, printers, and other office equipment.

Business class: A higher class of service on an aircraft, offering more amenities and comfort.

Business Travel Management: The management of travel arrangements for businesses.

Business traveller: A traveller who is travelling for business purposes.

Cancellation policy: The rules governing the cancellation of a reservation.

Cape: A narrow landform extending into water, like a small peninsula.

Car hire insurance: Insurance that covers damage to a rental car.

Car hire: Renting a car for travel.

Carbon offset: Buying credits to offset travel emissions through environmental projects.

Carrier (CXR): The airline operating a flight.

Carry-on baggage: Baggage that is carried onto an aircraft.

Catamaran: A sailing vessel with two hulls.

CC: Credit Card.

CDW (Collision Damage Waiver): A type of insurance that covers damage to a rental car.

Central reservation system (CRS): A system used by travel agencies to book flights, hotels, and other travel services.

Centralised billing: A system where a single entity, such as a travel management company or a corporate travel department, consolidates all travel-related expenses incurred by different employees or departments into one comprehensive invoice. This simplifies the billing process, reduces administrative overhead, and improves cost control.

Change of equipment: A situation where an airline switches the type of aircraft used for a specific flight, while maintaining the same flight number. This often happens due to operational reasons, such as aircraft maintenance or unexpected changes in passenger demand.

Charter flight: A flight that is rented by a group or individual.

Check-in counter: The counter where passengers check in for their flights.

Check-in: The process of registering for a flight.

Check-out: The process of leaving a hotel or other accommodation.

Child: A traveller who is considered a minor, typically between the ages of 2 and 11 years old. Exact age ranges may vary depending on specific airlines and travel providers.

Churning: The practice of repeatedly booking and canceling the same itinerary, often in different booking classes, across multiple Passenger Name Records (PNRs) or Global Distribution Systems (GDS).

Circle Pacific: A specific type of round-the-world itinerary that involves travel between North America, Asia, and the South Pacific.

Circle Trip (CT): A journey that begins and ends at the same point, involving multiple destinations in a circular route. This type of itinerary often involves multiple flight segments and may include various stopovers or layovers.

City break: A short vacation to a city.

City pair: A specific route between two cities, typically for air or train travel. It's defined by the origin and destination airports or train stations.

City pass: A pass that provides admission to multiple attractions in a city.

City terminal: A facility located in a city center where passengers can check in for flights, receive boarding passes, and board ground transportation (such as buses, trains, or shuttles) to the airport.

Class of service: The different levels of service and amenities offered on an aircraft (e.g. Business, Economy).

CLIA (Cruise Lines International Association): A trade association representing cruise lines.

Club floor: A hotel floor with exclusive amenities for guests staying in club rooms.

Club ticket: A highly flexible business class ticket that allows for changes and redemptions within a specific timeframe, typically one year from the date of issue. This type of ticket offers significant flexibility for business travellers.

Coach: The lowest class of service on an aircraft.

Code share: Airlines sharing flight numbers and routes under one alliance.

Commission: A fee paid to a travel agent for booking a trip.

Commuter flight: A short-haul flight between two cities.

Computerised Reservation System: A system used by travel agencies to book flights and hotels.

Concierge service: A service provided by hotels to assist guests with their needs.

Concierge: A hotel staff member who provides personalised services to guests.

Conjunction ticket: A ticket that is issued to a passenger in conjunction with one or more other tickets, forming a single contract of carriage for a complete journey. These tickets are often used for complex itineraries involving multiple airlines or modes of transport.

Connecting flight: A flight that requires a passenger to change planes at an intermediate airport to reach their final destination.

Connecting rooms: Two adjacent hotel rooms that share a common door, allowing easy access between them.

Connection: A planned stopover at an intermediate airport during a journey. This typically involves changing flights to continue the trip to the final destination.

Consolidation fare: A discounted airfare offered by airlines to travel agents and tour operators. These fares are often part of package deals that include accommodations and other services. While they're typically group fares, individual travellers can also book them through travel agents.

Consolidator: A company that purchases airline tickets in bulk at discounted rates and then resells them to travel agencies or directly to consumers. By buying tickets in large quantities, consolidators can negotiate lower prices with airlines.

Consortium: A group of organizations that work together.

Contact center: A department that handles customer inquiries and complaints.

Continental breakfast: A light breakfast that typically includes coffee, tea, pastries, and fruit.

Continental climate: A dry climate with hot summers and cold winters.

Contract fare: A discounted fare negotiated between a company and an airline.

Control tower: Manages aircraft movements and ground traffic at airports.

Co-pilot: The second-in-command of an aircraft.

Corporate fare: A fare offered to businesses.

Corporate rate: A discounted rate offered to businesses.

Co-terminals: Airports that are considered to be in the same geographic location or market. This means that they are treated as one location for the purpose of air travel, even though they may be physically separate.

Couchette: Train compartment where seats convert into sleeping berths.

Country of commencement (COC): The country where a journey begins.

Country of payment (COP): The country where a ticket payment is made.

CPM: Cost Per Mile.

CPT: Cost Per Transaction.

CRM (Customer Relationship Management): A system for managing customer information.

Cruise itinerary: A plan of a cruise, including the ports of call.

Cruise line: A company that operates cruise ships.

Cruise ship: A large ship that carries passengers on voyages.

CTI: Computer Telephony Integration.

Currency exchange: The process of exchanging one currency for another.

Customs: The government agency responsible for collecting taxes on imported goods and regulating trade.

Day use: The use of a hotel room for a portion of the day.

Days in advance: Days before departure when a booking is made.

Deadheading: A trip segment made without passengers, like an empty bus or plane.

Deck plan: Map of a cruise ship showing its layout.

De-icing: The process of removing ice and snow from an aircraft.

Delegate rate: A discounted rate offered to delegates attending a conference or event.

Denied boarding compensation (DBC): Compensation provided to passengers who are denied boarding due to overbooking.

Departure lounge: A lounge where passengers can relax before boarding their flight.

Destination: The place that a traveller is going to.

Digital nomad: A person who works remotely while travelling, often relying on technology.

Direct flight: A flight with no stopovers or transfers.

Disaster tourism: Visiting areas impacted by disasters or conflict.

Discount airline: An airline that offers low fares by reducing costs and services.

Discount fare: A fare that is lower than the standard fare.

Dive bar: A bar that is often frequented by locals.

Docking fee: A fee charged for docking a boat.

Domestic flight: A flight within a country.

Domestic travel: Travel within a country.

Dormitory: Shared bedroom, often with bunk beds, commonly found in hostels.

Double bed: Larger than a twin bed, often suitable for two people.

Double occupancy: A hotel room occupied by two people.

Double open jaw (DOJ): A ticket with different departure and return cities for each leg of the trip.

Double room: A hotel room with two beds.

Downgrade: Moving to a lower service class or accommodation level.

Drop-off charge: A fee charged for dropping off a rental car at a location different from where it was picked up.

Duty-free shop: A shop that sells goods without taxes or duties.

Early check-in: Checking into a hotel before the usual time, sometimes with a fee.

Economy car: A small, fuel-efficient car.

Economy Class: The most common class of service, offering standard seating and basic amenities.

Ecotourism: Travel that focuses on protecting the environment and supporting local communities.

Electronic ticket (eticket): A ticket that is stored electronically.

Emergency exit: A designated exit on an aircraft that can be used for evacuation during an emergency situation.

English breakfast: A UK-style breakfast with cereal, eggs, meats, juice, and more.

En-suite: A bathroom connected directly to the bedroom.

Equipment: Items used for travel, such as luggage, backpacks, and camping gear.

EST: Eastern Standard Time.

ESTA: Electronic System for Travel Authorization.

Estimated time of arrival (ETA): The expected time of arrival.

Estimated time of departure (ETD): The expected time of departure.

E-ticket: An electronic ticket.

Eurailpass: A ticket for unlimited or specific-day train travel across many parts of Europe.

European Regions Airline Association (ERA): An association of regional airlines, aircraft manufacturers and airports in Europe.

Excess baggage: Baggage that exceeds the allowed weight or quantity.

Exchange rate: The value of one currency relative to another.

Exchange: Reissuing a ticket due to a change in travel plans.

Excursion fare: A round trip fare with conditions, min and max stay requirements and need to purchase in advance.

Excursion: A trip taken as part of a larger journey.

Executive card: Special privilege card offered to frequent flyers of airlines, hotel chains, car rental companies and similar services

Executive lounge: A lounge that offers exclusive amenities to high-status travellers.

Executive room: An executive room is a step above the standard room, with more space and amenities designed for business travellers.

Executive suite: Fully furnished, apartment-style hotel suite.

Expatriate: An expatriate, also known as an expat, is an individual who lives temporarily or permanently outside their home country.

Expedition cruise: A cruise that visits remote or unexplored destinations.

Extra baggage: Baggage that exceeds the allowed weight or quantity.

Familiarisation tour: A free or discounted travel program for travel agents, airline or rail employees. Its purpose is to familiarise participants with a destination.

Family plan: A hotel pricing that allows children to stay for free when sharing a room with adults.

Fare basis: The code that identifies the specific terms and conditions of a fare.

Fast-track: A priority lane for security or immigration.

Final destination: The last point on a travel itinerary or fare segment.

First Class: The highest class of service, offering premium amenities like spacious seating, gourmet meals, and personalised service.

FIT (Fully Independent Traveller): A traveller who arranges their own itinerary and accommodations.

Fjord: A narrow sea inlet bordered by cliffs, found in places like Norway and Alaska.

Flag carrier: An airline that represents a country internationally, often government owned or funded.

Flashpacker: A traveller with a larger budget who prefers more comfort than standard backpacking.

Flight coupon: A document that represents a portion of a flight.

Flight delay: A delay in the departure or arrival of a flight.

Flight itinerary: A plan of a flight, including the departure and arrival times.

Flight manifest: A list of passengers and crew members on a flight.

Flight number: A unique identifier for a flight.

Flight status: Information about the status of a flight.

Flight/time specific: A fare that is valid only for a specific flight or time.

Foodie: A traveller who prioritises trying local food and culinary experiences.

FOP: Form of Payment.

Forex: Foreign exchange.

Fortress hotel: A hotel that is designed to be secure.

Free walking tour: A guided tour that is offered for free.

Frequent flyer number: A number that identifies a member of a frequent flyer programme.

Frequent flyer programme: A programme that rewards frequent travellers with points or miles.

Frequent guest programme: A programme that rewards frequent hotel guests with points or upgrades.

Frequent renter programme: A programme that rewards frequent car rental customers with points or upgrades.

Front desk: The area of a hotel where guests check in and out.

Fuel surcharge: An additional charge added to the base fare to cover fuel costs.

Full board: A meal plan that includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Full house: When a hotel has all rooms occupied.

Fun park: A park with attractions, especially for children.

Funicular: A type of cable car that travels up and down steep slopes.

Fuselage: The main body of an aircraft, housing passengers and cargo.

Galileo: A global distribution system (GDS) used by travel agencies.

GDS (Global Distribution System): A computerised system that allows travel agencies to access airline and hotel inventory.

GEBTA (Guild of European Business Travel Agents): A trade association representing business travel agents in Europe.

Ghost card: A credit card that is not physically present.

Gift shop: A hotel shop selling souvenirs and other items, or a general gift shop.

Global distribution system: See GDS.

Global Positioning System (GPS): A system that can determine a location on Earth.

Globe-trotter: Someone who frequently travels to various countries.

Governing carrier: The airline that issues a ticket for a journey involving multiple airlines.

Green travel: Travel that is environmentally friendly.

Greenwich Mean Time (GMT): The solar-based time standard from Greenwich, UK, for global time zones.

Ground time: The time spent on the ground between flights.

Ground transportation: A general term for transportation between the airport and hotel or other destinations.

Group fare: A discounted fare for a group of passengers.

Guaranteed hotel reservations: A reservation that is confirmed and cannot be canceled without a penalty.

Guest house: A small-scale accommodation that offers basic amenities.

Guided tour: A tour that is led by a guide.

Hailing taxi: A taxi that is stopped by a passenger on the street.

Half board: A meal plan that includes breakfast and dinner.

Hand luggage: Luggage that is carried onto an aircraft.

Hard currency: A currency that is stable and widely accepted.

Head tax: A tax imposed on travellers entering a country.

Hemisphere: Half of the Earth.

Heritage tourism: Travel that focuses on exploring a destination's cultural heritage.

Hostel: A budget-friendly accommodation that often features shared rooms and facilities.

Hotel chain: A group of hotels that is owned or operated by the same company.

Hub: A major airport that serves as a connection point for flights to other destinations.

IATA (International Air Transport Association): An organization that represents the interests of airlines.

IATA Number (ARC Number): A unique identifier for travel agencies.

IATA Rate of Exchange (ROE): The rate of exchange used by IATA for currency conversions.

ICAO (International Civil Aviation Organization): An organization that promotes the development of international civil aviation.

ID card: A document that identifies a person.

IET: Interline Electronic Ticket.

IGK (International Gatekeeper): A system used by airlines to manage passenger information.

Immigration check: The process of checking a person's passport and visa.

Immigration officer: A government official who checks passports and visas.

Immigration: Area where a traveller's documents (such as passport) are checked to confirm they are allowed to enter the country.

Inbound travellers: Travellers who are arriving in a country.

Infant: A child under the age of two.

Infinity pool: Pool with views that blend into the surrounding landscape.

In-flight service: Entertainment, meals, and amenities provided to passengers during a flight.

Interline baggage agreement: An agreement between airlines that allows passengers to check their baggage through to their final destination.

Interline connection: A connection between flights of different airlines.

Interline ticketing agreement: An agreement between airlines that allows passengers to purchase tickets for multiple airlines on a single itinerary.

Interline: An arrangement between airlines that allows passengers to transfer between their flights.

Intermediate point: A stop on a journey between the origin and destination.

Intermediate stop: See intermediate point.

Intermodal tour: A tour using various transport forms like plane, bus, ship, or train.

International Air Transport Association: See IATA.

International airport: An airport that serves international flights.

International Civil Aviation Organization: See ICAO.

International departure taxes: Taxes imposed on travellers leaving a country.

International driving license: A license that allows you to drive in foreign countries.

International flight: A flight between two countries.

International student card: A card that provides discounts for students travelling internationally.

Interrail pass: A pass that allows unlimited travel on trains in Europe.

Interstate highway: A highway that connects multiple states.

Island hopping: Travelling from one island to another.

Itinerary: A plan of a journey, including the route, destinations, and activities.

Jet bridge: An enclosed walkway connecting a terminal to a plane.

Jet lag: Fatigue caused by travelling across multiple time zones.

Joint fare: A fare that is offered by two or more airlines for a journey that includes flights on both airlines.

Journey: A trip from one place to another.

Jump seat: An extra seat on an aircraft for crew or trainees.

King bed: The largest bed size, typically suitable for two people.

Knock-down price: A very low price.

Knot: A nautical speed measure, approximately 1.5 mph.

Land-only: A travel rate that excludes airfare.

Landside: The area of an airport that is before security checkpoints.

Last date of purchase: The final date that a ticket can be purchased.

Layover: The wait time between connecting flights.

LDW (Loss Damage Waiver): A type of insurance that covers damage to a rental car.

Leg: A segment of a journey.

Leisure traveller: A traveller who is travelling for pleasure.

LFR: Lowest Fare Routing.

Local currency fare (LCF): A fare that is priced in the local currency of the country where the ticket is purchased.

Locator reference: A code that identifies a booking.

Lodge card: See Ghost card.

Lodging: A place to stay.

Loss Damage Waiver: See LDW.

Low cost carrier (LCC): An airline that offers low fares by reducing costs and services.

Low season: Period with the lowest demand and prices for a destination.

Lowest combination principle: A method of building a fare by combining different sector fares to get the lowest possible price when no direct fare is available between two locations.

Luggage carousel: A conveyor belt where baggage is delivered.

Luxury hotel: A hotel that offers high-quality amenities and services.

Maiden voyage: The first voyage of a ship.

Maritime tourism: Travel that is related to the sea.

Married segments: A term used when two or more flights are combined into a single itinerary.

Maximum stay: The maximum number of days that a passenger can stay at a destination.

MCT (Minimum Connect Time): The required time between connecting flights, depending on route and airport.

Medical tourism: Travel for the purpose of receiving medical treatment.

MICE: Meetings, Incentives, Corporate Events.

Mid-range hotel: A hotel that is moderately priced.

Mileage fare: A fare that is based on the distance travelled.

Mileage surcharge: An additional charge added to a fare based on the distance travelled.

Minimum connection time: The minimum amount of time required between two connecting flights.

Minimum stay: The minimum time a passenger must stay at a destination.

MST: Mountain Standard Time.

Museum pass: A pass that provides admission to multiple museums.

National Business Travel Association: A trade association representing the business travel industry in the United States.

National tourism board: A government agency that promotes tourism.

Nautical mile: A unit of distance used for navigation.

NBTA: See National Business Travel Association.

NDC (New Distribution Capability): A standard for distributing airline products and services.

Negotiated fare/rate: A fare or rate that has been negotiated between a company and an airline or hotel.

Neutral Units of Construction (NUC): A standard currency created by IATA to combine fares from different currencies, used exclusively for international fare calculations.

NLRA (Non Last Room Availability): In the hotel industry, this means a negotiated rate may be restricted and isn’t guaranteed when occupancy is high.

No-frills: Budget travel with non-essential services eliminated.

NOI (Net Operating Income): The profit remaining after subtracting operating expenses from operating revenue within a set accounting period.

Non-endorsable: A ticket that cannot be endorsed for a different flight.

Non-refundable ticket: A ticket that cannot be refunded.

Non-stop flight: A flight without any stops between the departure and arrival points.

Non-transferable: A ticket only usable by the original passenger.

Normal fares: The standard fares offered by an airline.

Normal Open Jaw (NOJ): Travel that starts in one country and returns to the same country, with an overland (surface) segment either at the starting or turnaround point (Single Open Jaw – SOJ) or at both the starting and turnaround points (Double Open Jaw – DOJ).

Northwest Passage: A sea route that connects the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans.

No-show: A passenger who does not show up for a flight or reservation.

NTSB: National Transportation Safety Board.

OBT and OBLT (Online Booking Tool): Tools that allow travellers to book flights and hotels online.

Off-airport location: A location that is not at the airport.

Off-line connections: Connections between flights that are not operated by the same airline.

Off-line point: A term used by airlines to refer to locations (cities or areas) they do not service.

Off-loading: The process of removing passengers from a flight due to overbooking.

Off-peak season: A time when demand for travel is lower.

Online Booking Tool: See OBT and OBLT.

Online high touch transaction: A transaction that requires significant agent intervention.

Online low touch transaction: A transaction that requires agent intervention after the customer's request.

Online transaction fee: A fee charged for conducting a transaction online.

Online travel agency (OTA): A travel agency that operates online.

Open book: The practice of fully disclosing the entire cash flow process to a client.

Open date sector: A segment of a journey without a confirmed reservation, though the fare has already been paid.

Open jaw ticket: A ticket with different arrival and return cities.

Open skies: An agreement between countries that allows airlines from both countries to operate flights between each other.

Open ticket: A ticket that does not specify the return date.

Operating carrier: The airline that actually operates a flight, even if it is not the airline that issued the ticket.

Originating carrier: The airline that issues a ticket.

OSI: Other Service Information.

Outbound: Departing from a location.

Overbooking: The practice of selling more tickets than there are seats available on a flight.

Overland travel: Travel by land.

Overstay: Staying beyond a visa’s allowed period.

Pacific Asia Travel Association: An organization that promotes tourism in the Asia Pacific region.

Package tour: A tour that includes transportation, accommodation, and activities.

PAR (Passenger Account Record): A record that contains information about a passenger's reservation and travel history.

Passenger account record: See PAR.

Passenger facility charges: Fees charged to passengers to fund airport improvements.

Passport control: The process of checking passports and visas.

Passport stamp: A small, official mark placed in a passport by immigration authorities at a border crossing. It serves as a record of the traveller's entry into and exit from a particular country.

Passport: A document that identifies a person and grants them permission to travel internationally.

PATA: see Pacific Asia Travel Association.

Patio: Paved outdoor area next to a holiday home or hotel room for relaxation.

PAX: Passenger.

PCI: Payment Card Industry.

Peak season: The time of year when demand for travel is highest.

Penalty: A fee charged for changes and/or cancellations to a ticket.

Peninsula: Land surrounded by water on three sides and connected to a larger landmass.

Phonetic alphabet: A standardised code used by aviation for clear communication.

PIR (Property Irregularity Report): A form submitted by passengers to airport ground handling agents in cases of lost or damaged baggage.

Plunge pool: Small, deep pool for cooling off, often after a sauna.

PMS (Property Management System): A system used by hotels to manage reservations, guest information, and other operations.

PNR: A record in a CRS/GDS containing the personal details associated with a specific booking.

PO: Purchase Order.

Point-to-point: Direct service and fare between two locations with no additional segments.

POS: Point of Sale.

Prepaid ticket advice (PTA): A document that confirms the purchase of a ticket.

Pre-trip auditing: A service provided by travel management companies to review travel itineraries before departure, helping to identify cost-saving opportunities.

Primary carrier: The airline that operates the main leg or majority of a journey.

Prime segment: The most significant or profitable portion of a flight itinerary.

Private parking: Parking space reserved exclusively for guests of the accommodation.

Promotional fare: A discounted fare offered for a limited time.

Proof of citizenship: A document that proves a person's citizenship.

Property irregularity report: See PIR.

Property management system: See PMS.

PST: Pacific Standard Time.

PTA: See Prepaid Ticket Advice.

Public fares: Air fares that are available to the general public.

QSI: Quality Service Index.

Quad room: A hotel room with four beds.

Quay: A wharf or dock.

Queen bed: A bed that is larger than a double bed.

Queue group: A queue group is a collection of related queues within a contact center. It allows for efficient routing of incoming interactions to the appropriate group of agents based on their skills, availability, and the nature of the customer's query.

Queue: A virtual waiting line where incoming calls, emails, or chats are held until an available agent can assist the customer.

Quiet time: A time when noise is restricted.

Rack rate: The highest price that a hotel charges for a room.

Rafting: Travelling down a river on a raft for sport.

Rate desk (International Rate Desk): A department that handles pricing and rate negotiations.

Rate of exchange (ROE): See IATA Rate of Exchange.

Reason codes (RC): Codes used to indicate the reason for a change or cancellation.

Record locator: A code that identifies a booking.

Red-eye flight: A flight that departs late at night.

Reissue: The process of issuing a new ticket to replace a lost or damaged ticket.

Res: Short for reservation.

Resort: A hotel that offers a range of amenities and activities.

Responsible tourism: Travel that is environmentally, culturally, and economically conscious.

Return flight: A flight that returns to the original departure point.

Revalidation: If a passenger needs to change their travel date or flight without altering the route, a ticket reissue may not be necessary. Instead, the flight coupon can be revalidated.

RevPAR: Revenue per available room.

ROH (Run of House): A hotel room assigned based on availability, without guest selection.

Rooming list: A list of tour participants' names and special lodging requests.

Round-trip ticket: A ticket that includes both a departure and return journey.

Routing fare: A fare that is based on the specific route taken.

RTW (Round the World): A discounted fare for a global journey, usually by airline alliance.

Rural tourism: Travel to rural areas.

RV park: A place where recreational vehicles can park.

Satellite navigation: A system that uses satellites to determine location.

Schengen Visa: A visa that allows travel within the Schengen Area.

Seat pitch: The distance between two seats on an aircraft.

Secondary carrier: An airline that operates a the non-prime portion of a journey.

Sector: A portion of a journey between two points.

Security surcharge: An additional charge added to a fare to cover security costs.

Segment: A portion of a journey, such as a flight between two cities.

Segway: Two-wheeled transport often used for city tours.

Self-catering apartment: An apartment that is equipped for cooking.

Self-service reservations: Reservations made by passengers using online or mobile channels.

Selling carrier: The airline that sells a ticket.

Service fee: A fee charged by a travel operator for providing a service.

Service Level Agreement: A contract that outlines the level of service that a supplier will provide.

Short-haul flight: Flight covering a distance of up to 4000 kilometres.

Shoulder season: Moderate-demand period between peak and low seasons.

Shuttle: A small vehicle that transports people from the city center to the airport and vice versa.

Single bed: A typically smaller bed, suitable for one person.

Single: A hotel room with one bed.

Ski pass: A pass granting access to ski resorts' facilities and slopes.

Ski piste: Slope designated for skiing and snowboarding.

SLA: See Service Level Agreement.

Sleeper train: A train that has sleeping compartments.

Slots: Allocated times for aircraft to land or take off at an airport.

Slow travel: Travel that is focused on quality over quantity.

Soft opening: A trial period before a hotel or other business officially opens.

Solo traveller: A traveller who is travelling alone.

Sommelier: A wine expert who advises on wine and food pairings, often in upscale dining.

SOP: Standard Operating Procedure.

SOS (Scope of Services): The specific tasks, responsibilities, and deliverables that a service provider agrees to provide to a customer. In the travel industry, an SOS might define the specific services included in a travel package, such as accommodations, transportation, meals, and activities.

Space available: A fare that is subject to availability.

Special needs: Passengers with disabilities or other special requirements.

Split ticket: The practice of purchasing separate tickets for different portions of a journey.

Sports tourism: Travel to watch or participate in sports events away from home.

Spouse fare: A discounted fare for a spouse travelling with their partner.

SSR: See Self Service Reservation.

Standard room: A basic hotel room.

Standby: A passenger who is waiting for a seat on a flight.

Staycation: Staying home to explore local attractions instead of travelling.

Stern: The back of a ship.

Stopover charge: A fee charged for a stopover.

Stopover: A planned stop on a journey, typically lasting for several hours.

Surcharge: An additional charge added to a fare.

Surface sector: A portion of a journey that is traveled by land or sea.

Terminal: A building where passengers check in for train, plane, or other travel.

Terrace: Outdoor area adjacent to or atop accommodation.

Through fare: A fare for a journey with multiple stops or transfers.

Ticket on departure: A ticket that is issued at the airport.

Ticket: A document that entitles a person to travel.

Timeshare: A type of vacation ownership where individuals purchase the right to use a property for specific periods.

TOD: See Ticket on Departure.

Tourist card: A form required by some countries, detailing a traveller’s planned stay.

Tourist trap: A commercialised attraction that caters primarily to tourists and lacks authenticity.

Tourist visa: A visa that allows a person to visit a country for a specific time period.

Transcontinental: Travel that crosses an entire continent.

Transfer: The process of changing from one aircraft to another.

Transit lounge: a designated area within an airport specifically for passengers who are transferring between international flights.

Transit point: A city or airport where a passenger transfers between flights.

Travel agent: A person who helps travellers plan and book their trips.

Travel app: A mobile app that provides travel information and services.

Travel blog: A blog that provides travel tips and information.

Travel insurance: Insurance that covers unexpected events while travelling.

Travel Management Company: A company that provides travel management services.

TSA: Transportation Security Administration.

TTL (Ticketing Time Limit): The deadline for ticket purchase to prevent cancellation.

Twin bed: A bed that is smaller than a double bed.

Twin for sole use: A hotel room with two beds that is occupied by one person.

Two Factor Authentication: A security measure that requires two different forms of identification to access an account.

UNESCO World Heritage Site: A place that is considered to be of exceptional cultural or natural importance.

Unlimited mileage rate: A car hire fare that allows unlimited travel within a specific region.

Upgrade: The process of moving to a higher class of service.

Upscale: A hotel category offering high-end amenities, often with luxury features like premium bedding, dining options, and fitness centers.

Validating carrier: The airline that issues a ticket.

Value-added tax (VAT): A tax that is added to the price of goods and services.

VAT reclaim: The process of claiming a refund of VAT.

VCC: Virtual Call Center.

Venture travel: Travel that involves adventure and exploration.

Villa rental: Renting a villa for a vacation.

Virtual credit card (VCC): A credit card that is non-physical and can be used for online transactions.

Virtual payment: A payment that is made electronically.

Visa: A document that grants permission to enter a country.

Visitor center: A place where visitors can get information.

Void: To cancel or invalidate a ticket or travel document.

Voluntourism: Tourism that combines travel with voluntary work.

Voucher: A document that can be exchanged for goods or services.

Waitlist: A list of passengers who are waiting for a seat on a flight that is fully booked.

Wanderlust: A strong desire to travel and explore.

Wet lease: An arrangement where an airline leases an aircraft, crew, and maintenance from another airline.

Wide-body aircraft: An aircraft with a wide fuselage.

World heritage site: A place that is considered to be of exceptional cultural or natural importance.

X-ray (airport security): A machine that uses electromagnetic radiation to scan baggage, carry-on items, and passengers for hidden objects, such as weapons, explosives, or other contraband.

Yield Management: A pricing strategy used by airlines and hotels to maximise revenue.

Youth hostel: A budget-friendly accommodation that is often designed for young people.

Zipline: A cable that is used for sliding down a slope.