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Air travel sounds glamorous and fun to some but stressful and miserable to others. Regardless of which side you fall on, knowing the dos and don’ts will make a huge difference in your experience. This article will go over helpful tips for flying for infrequent air travelers.
Before you go
Making the trip enjoyable starts before you even leave your house. Here are some tips for flying as your prepare.
When booking your flight, be mindful if you have to deal with connecting flights. Make sure you allow enough time, If you are connecting in a large airport, you could be at the opposite end of the airport. If you don’t pay attention, you could be missing your connection and your trip is off to a bad start.
Make sure to download the airline app. on your phone or tablet. On many flights with limited wifi, they will allow you to watch movies or live tv for free on their app. Additionally, the app is also helpful to track your flight status, where your plane is from if it’s running late, confirm that your checked luggage is loaded on the plane, and more.
Save some time and check in online if possible, You can usually do so 24 hours before your departure time. If checking a bag, all you’ll need to do at the airport is to check it because you are already confirmed as a passenger with an assigned seat. Speaking of bags, they are not free with most airlines. Avoid surprises by checking your airline’s website before you go. Also, be aware that there is a surcharge for overweight bags (the limit is usually 50 pounds).
Make sure to only pack allowed items into your carry-on. There are many restrictions around liquid. Sharp objects are also not allowed. Even your late grandfather’s utility knife will be confiscated if you try to bring it through security.
On travel day, wear comfortable clothing. It’s not a fashion show. Planes are not the most comfortable. On top of that, the temperature on the plane tends to be inconsistent. Some planes get hot others cold. It is recommended to wear layers so that you can stay as comfortable as possible.
On travel day – before security
Finally, the day is here and you are off on your adventure. Read these tips for flying to make it as easy as possible for yourself.
The first tip is to arrive at the airport with enough time for everything to go smoothly. There are great reasons why it is recommended that you arrive at the airport early. They need to make sure your bags (if checking them) make their way to your plane. You also never know how busy the security checkpoint will be. Also, it is good to know that most checkpoints won’t allow you to skip the line just because you are late.
Do not stop to buy snacks and drinks to take on the plane before the security checkpoint. You cannot take liquid through security. Wait until you are through security, they are plenty of stores to buy from.
Get yourself ready as you stand in line waiting to go through security. Empty your pockets by putting the content into your carry-on. All you need in your hands is your picture ID (passport if going international) and your boarding pass.
Also, read the signs explaining what is required from you. Each airport can have slight differences. As a general rule, you will need to take off your shoes. Consider wearing slip on shoes so that you can take them off a little quicker. And I highly recommend wearing socks. There is something gross about walking on the airport floor barefoot. Next, laptops need to be taken out of bags and at most airports so do tablets. When it’s your turn, be efficient. You know what’s coming, be prepared, and get through quickly.
On travel day – after security
Once you get through security, locate your gate and double-check that your departure time hasn’t changed. Secondly, get comfy and wait. Alternately, you can walk around for a bit, especially if you will be sitting for a long flight.
Look at your ticket before boarding and understand how boarding works for the airline you are flying with. Some make you stand in line based on the number written on your boarding pass. Others board by boarding groups. Also, there is no need to crowd around the agent’s desk. Unless it’s time for your group to board, you won’t get on the plane faster.
Once again, when it’s time to board the plane, be efficient. Decide ahead of time what you will be putting in the overhead bin versus keeping with you so that you don’t hold up the line. Generally speaking, keep items you plan to use during the flight in a smaller bag under the seat in front of you for easy access. The bag needs to fit completely under the seat or the flight attendant will have you move it.
Lastly, remember that planes are not the most comfortable and everyone is just trying to make the best out of the time they have to spend on the flight. Be polite, be kind and be respectful of other people’s space.
Final tips for flying – things to have with you
To make your trip more enjoyable, consider packing these items in your carry-on:
- lip balm
- eye drops
- small hand lotion
- phone chargers and battery pack
- chewing gum
- water bottle
- snacks
- entertainment: tablet, book, crossword puzzle etc.
- sanitizing wipes
In conclusion..
This article was all about tips for flying for infrequent travelers. I hope you now feel excited and more importantly better prepared for your upcoming trip after reading this article.
Thank you for reading! Safe travel.
Cat xx