Totally agree with Mig... all comes down to how comfortable you are.

I work with a person who never uses her flight benefits. Well at least in the 2 years I have been there she always buys confirmed tickets because she a) can't be bothered, is worried about not making flights, c) doesn't quite understand the staff travel system. If I hear someone at work describe a ZED as an ID90 one more time... Unfortunately that worry has filtered down to our newest employee, but what can you do.

The key is information, a plan and a backup plan. I've been burned before on my first trip, and it cost me dearly - $600 (which AA so nicely later refunded) to get back to work on time. That taught me several lessons that I haven't forgotten to this day. Plan ahead, be ready to change that plan in the last few days or on the day, have backups but don't go overboard, plan a day off before you return to work. I normally plan a day in lieu (don't know if y'all get them in the US) so if i am home in time, I go to work and can save that day to use again later. If i don't make it back - all good.

Anyways... just raised spongebue's 2cents with my 10