Flight Arrangements

Customers and sponsors will be required to book their own air. Please send your flight schedule to MSD Travel Headquarters at MSDconference@itagroup.com by Friday, January 5th, 2018, so we may prepare for your arrival. If you wish to book your air through MSD Travel Headquarters, there is a $55 processing fee.

MSD Travel Headquarters will assist sales reps with their travel plans. The process is simple:

  1. Start your registration for Better Together 2018 by selecting “Register” above; fill in all requested fields.
  2. Enter your preferred airport, dates, times and any other preferences.
  3. Select “Submit Registration,” and you’re registered. You will be contacted via email with a proposed flight itinerary.
  4. Reply within 24 hours to the proposed itinerary with your approval (or request changes). Then, your tickets will be issued.

Note: All airline tickets will be electronic tickets. You’ll receive an airline confirmation in your travel packet, approximately two weeks before you travel. Air travel is based on the lowest fares available at the time of ticketing and subject to airline regulations. Any cancellations or changes after ticketing may result in penalties. All penalties will be your responsibility.

Airport Transfers

MSD Travel Headquarters will arrange for round-trip transfers between the airport and hotel for MSD attendees and customers. MSD customers must send their flight information to MSDconference@itagroup.com to be included on the airport transportation.

Sponsors are responsible for their own transportation to/from the airport and hotel.

Travel Documents

Citizens of the United States must have government-issued photo identification to fly to Miami, FL. Please keep in mind:

  • The name on your identification must exactly match the name on your airline ticket, including any middle name or middle initial.
  • It’s a good idea to take pictures of your identification with your mobile device or make color copies to keep at home and in your luggage. This will expedite the process of getting replacement identification if it is lost or stolen while traveling.

Technology and Travel

Your mobile device can be a handy tool during travel. Check out these tips for using your device during your trip:

  • Download Your Airline’s App: Most allow you to check in 24 hours before your flight, check seat assignments and track your flight. Some apps send flight alerts, such as delays and cancellations.
  • Stay Connected: Internet access is complimentary at the hotel.
  • Take Pictures: It’s a great idea to take pictures of your travel documents (identification, airline confirmation, hotel confirmation, etc.). You may also want to take a picture of the contents of your checked luggage in case it is delayed, lost or damaged.

Attire

Smart casual to business casual will be appropriate for your stay and for conference events.

Attire Men Women
Smart Casual
  • Walking/Bermuda-length shorts, khakis, or jeans
  • Polo-style or button-down cotton shirts
  • Tennis shoes or sandals
  • Shorts, skorts, skirts, cotton dresses, capris, khakis, or jeans
  • Blouses or knit shirts
  • Sandals or flats
Business Casual
  • Slacks or khakis
  • Sport coat with a dress shirt or polo-style shirt
  • Tie optional
  • Loafers with socks
  • Slacks, khakis, skirts, or dresses
  • Blouses, sweaters, or knit shirts
  • Heels, flats, or dressy sandals
Business Formal
(Award Reception and Dinner – MSD Only)
  • Suits with ties
  • Dress shoes with dark socks
  • Suits or business-style dresses
  • Dressy heels or flats

Luggage—Size

Your luggage must meet the size limitations set by your airline. Check your airline’s website for specific details. In general, the following guidelines apply:

Carry-on Allowance Checked Allowance

One piece of luggage and one personal item (purse or briefcase)*:

  • Size: Maximum of 45 linear inches (length + width + height)
  • Weight: Maximum of 40 pounds

Limitations per piece:

  • Size: Maximum of 62 linear inches (length + width + height)
  • Weight: Maximum of 50 pounds

*The airline carry-on restrictions do not apply to medical supplies and equipment. Travelers with disabilities and medical conditions can visit the TSA website to find out what to expect during airport screening and flying.

Luggage—Fees

Most airlines allow you to pay baggage fees when you check in online or at the airport. Here are general guidelines for fees charged by the airlines:

Carry-on Fee Checked Fee
  • Most Airlines: Free
  • Spirit and Frontier Airlines: Fees vary by type of fare purchased; check with the airline directly
  • First Checked Bag: $20-45
  • Second Checked Bag: $30-55
  • Additional Bags: $75-100 each
  • Overweight Bags: Pricey, with fees varying by weight and destination

Luggage—Packing Tips

Follow these tips for packing your carry-on and checked luggage:

Carry-on Checked
  • 3-1-1 Guidelines for Liquids: 3-ounce containers in 1 clear 1-quart zip-top bag.
  • Medication and Valuables: Always carry these with you. Keep medication in its original container and declare it to security officers.
  • Restricted Items: Knives, box cutters, scissors, and lighters are not allowed in carry-on luggage.
  • Just in Case: Pack a change of clothes in your carry-on.
  • Locking Luggage: If you do not use a TSA-approved lock, the TSA has the lawful authority to break it.
  • Contact Info: Leave your name and telephone number in each bag.
  • Finding Your Luggage: Make your bags easily identifiable.
  • Baggage Claim Receipts: Keep these with you.
  • Split It Up: If you have a travel partner, split your items up between luggage. Then, you’ll both have the items you need if a bag is delayed.