25 Essential Tips for Stress-Free Air Travel

Air travel can sometimes be an overwhelming endeavor, especially for infrequent travelers. The rush to the airport, the fear of losing luggage, or the anxiety of missing the flight can all lead to a stressful experience. Yet, it doesn’t necessarily have to be this way. Through years of experience and countless hours spent in airports and planes, a frequent flyer has developed a list of 25 essential things to do before boarding a plane. Here’s how to make your air travel experience more pleasant and stress-free:

1. Use your Airline’s App:

Airline mobile apps have revolutionized air travel, streamlining processes and saving time in today’s digital age. Downloading your airline’s app allows you to conveniently check in for your flight in advance. This eliminates the need to queue up at the airport and provides a smoother travel experience. This can save you valuable time at the airport, allowing you to bypass the lengthy check-in queues entirely.

Furthermore, using the airline’s app, you can directly receive your electronic boarding pass, eliminating the need for paper tickets. By embracing this green initiative, your travel becomes more eco-friendly and eliminates the worry of losing a physical ticket.

2. Get an Airline Credit Card:

If you’re not a frequent flyer, don’t fret. You can still enjoy the perks of elite status through airline credit cards. These cards offer valuable advantages like complimentary checked bags and priority boarding that can transform your air travel experience from mediocre to comfortable.

The benefits of an airline credit card extend beyond merely saving on luggage fees. With priority boarding, you get the luxury of settling in at your own pace, stowing away your carry-on luggage conveniently, and avoiding the last-minute boarding rush.

3. Have a Status Strategy:

As a frequent flyer, reaching elite status with an airline can provide significant perks like priority boarding, free checked bags, and exclusive lounges. The key to unlocking these benefits is earning miles, often tied to the amount you spend on flights.

If you’re actively aiming for a higher airline status, linking your frequent-flyer number with every booking you make is crucial. This ensures that all your flight miles are credited to your account, helping you reach your status goal faster.

4. Check Aircraft Alternatives:

When booking a flight, it’s not uncommon for travelers to focus primarily on factors such as the ticket price, departure time, and flight duration. However, the aircraft type used for the flight can significantly impact your overall flying experience, from seat comfort and legroom to in-flight entertainment and amenities.

Most airlines operate various aircraft types, each with its unique layout and features. The same airline may offer vastly different experiences depending on whether you fly on a smaller regional jet or a larger long-haul aircraft.

Before confirming your booking, review the aircraft type and seat map on the airline’s website for a few extra minutes. Understanding the aircraft’s layout can help you select the best seats, avoid unpleasant surprises, and ensure that the amenities you value most, such as power outlets or in-seat entertainment systems, are available on your flight.