Mastering the Defense Travel System: Tips & Tricks

The Defense Travel System (DTS) is a fully integrated, automated, end-to-end travel management system that enables Department of Defense (DoD) travelers to create authorizations (TDY travel orders), prepare reservations, receive approvals, generate travel vouchers, and receive a split reimbursement between their bank accounts and the Government Travel Charge Card (GTCC). The system is designed to significantly reduce the cost of processing travel, minimize the potential for travel card abuse, and provide timely reimbursements for travelers.

Understanding DTS

Before delving into tips and tricks for mastering DTS, it's essential to understand what DTS is and what it's designed to do. DTS is used by millions of DoD employees, making it one of the most vital tools for managing official travel. The system is designed to be user-friendly, but like any complex system, it takes time and practice to navigate it efficiently.

Navigating DTS Efficiently

Here are some expert tips for navigating the Defense Travel System efficiently:

Get Proper Training

DTS Training: Take advantage of official DTS training courses available through the Defense Travel Management Office (DTMO). These courses provide a comprehensive understanding of the system.
Local Training: Your unit may offer local DTS training sessions, which are tailored to the specifics of your organization's travel policies.

Preparing Authorizations

Templates: Use templates for routine trips to save time. Once you have a template for a recurring trip, you can copy it and make necessary adjustments for subsequent travels.
Travel Itineraries: Enter accurate travel itineraries to ensure your authorizations properly reflect your travel plans. This will help to avoid discrepancies that can delay approvals or payments.

Managing Reservations

Booking Through DTS: Whenever possible, make reservations for air, hotel, and car rental through DTS. This ensures compliance with travel policies and helps with tracking.
Comparison Shopping: Utilize the system's comparison shopping features to ensure you're getting the best value while remaining in policy compliance.

Securing Approvals

Review and Audit Trails: Review your documents before submission for accuracy. Keep track of your document's audit trail to see who has reviewed it and what actions they've taken.

Generating Vouchers

Receipts: Keep all receipts from your travels. DTS requires you to attach receipts for certain expenses to receive reimbursement.
Prompt Submission: Submit your voucher as soon as you return from your trip. Delays in submission can lead to delays in reimbursement.

Understanding Policies

Know the JTR: The Joint Travel Regulations (JTR) are the guiding policies for travel. Familiarize yourself with the JTR to ensure compliance and avoid out-of-pocket expenses.

Troubleshooting

Help Desks: Use the DTS help desks and support tools if you encounter issues. The help desks are staffed with experts who can guide you through problems.

Continuous Learning

Stay Updated: The DTS is constantly being updated. Stay informed about the latest changes and updates by checking official DoD travel resources.

Time Management

Plan Ahead: Don’t wait until the last minute to create travel authorizations or vouchers. Planning ahead can help prevent rushed entries that may have errors.

Conclusion

Mastering the Defense Travel System is integral to managing military travel efficiently. By taking the time to learn the system, utilizing available resources, and implementing the tips and tricks provided, you can streamline the travel management process, save time, and focus on your mission. The DTS, albeit complex, provides a reliable and effective way to manage official travel, keeping DoD travelers within regulatory compliance while also ensuring prompt reimbursements. With practice and patience, you can become proficient in using DTS for your travel needs.