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 you with significant perks like priority boarding, free checked bags, and access to exclusive lounges. The key to unlocking these benefits is through earning miles, which are often tied to the amount you spend on flights.
If you’re actively aiming for a higher airline status, it’s crucial to link your frequent-flyer number with every booking you make. By doing so, you ensure 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 duration of the flight. However, the type of aircraft 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 a variety of different aircraft types, each with its unique layout and features. The same airline may offer vastly different experiences depending on whether you’re flying on a smaller regional jet or a larger long-haul aircraft.
Before confirming your booking, take a few extra minutes to review the aircraft type and seat map on the airline’s website. 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.
5. Assess Your Seating Situation:
Using tools like SeatGuru can significantly enhance your in-flight experience, helping you avoid noisy and disruptive areas such as the galley or lavatories. This online resource provides detailed seat maps and allows you to determine the best possible seating arrangement on your specific aircraft.
SeatGuru’s comprehensive platform lets you review each seat’s pros and cons, allowing you to make an informed decision. With a keen eye for detail, you can easily avoid seats that are too close to the high-traffic and noisy areas like the galley and lavatories. Furthermore, it can help you evade seats with limited recline or those located near the high-chatter crew seating areas.
6. Stay Organized:
Streamlining your travel information is essential for a stress-free journey, and apps like App in the Air or TripIt make this process effortless. These handy apps consolidate all your flight details, from check-in times and flight statuses to gate numbers, providing them in a simplified and easy-to-access format.
A great advantage of these apps is the real-time updates they provide. Schedule changes, gate alterations, or flight delays are instantly communicated, saving you from unexpected surprises. This feature is particularly useful when you have tight connections, helping you navigate airports quickly and efficiently. Moreover, these apps also provide additional information, such as nearby lounge locations. Knowing where you can relax, enjoy some free Wi-Fi, or grab a quick bite can significantly improve your travel experience, especially during long layovers or unexpected delays.
With everything in one place, these apps make your travel smoother and more efficient. They act as your personal travel assistant, guiding you through every step of your journey, and ensuring you’re always up-to-date and informed.
7. Check Real-time Reports:
In today’s digital age, staying informed and ahead of potential disruptions to your travel plans is easier than ever. Services like FlightStats offer comprehensive, real-time information on flight statuses, weather conditions, and even the flight history of your specific aircraft. This means you can stay ahead of potential issues and make necessary adjustments to your plans.
Instead of relying solely on airline notifications, which may be delayed, utilizing FlightStats allows you to proactively monitor your flight’s status. Should there be a significant delay or cancellation, being the first to know enables you to act promptly, whether it’s rebooking your flight, adjusting your airport arrival time, or notifying someone picking you up.
8. Understand TSA Liquid Regulations:
Adhering to the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) guidelines for packing liquids is essential for a smooth and hassle-free airport security process. This means you must ensure that all your liquids, aerosols, gels, creams, and pastes are packed in containers of 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less. These containers should be comfortably placed inside a single quart-sized, clear, and resealable plastic bag.
Doing so not only speeds up your transit through security checks but also avoids the inconvenience of having to discard any items that don’t meet the guidelines. Moreover, it’s beneficial for other passengers as it helps maintain efficiency in the security process. This small yet significant step in your pre-flight preparation can make a big difference in your travel experience, reducing stress and saving time.
9. Sign Up for PreCheck:
Registering for expedited security programs such as TSA PreCheck or Global Entry is a smart move for frequent flyers. These programs are designed to enhance your air travel experience by reducing wait times at security checkpoints. As a member, you’ll be permitted to keep your shoes, belt, and light jacket on during security screening. Additionally, you won’t need to remove your laptop and compliant liquids from your carry-on, further speeding up the process. By making this strategic investment, you’ll enjoy a smoother, less stressful airport experience, allowing you to focus on your journey ahead.
10. Check Security Wait Times:
To navigate airport security more efficiently, utilize apps like MiFlight, which provide real-time crowd-sourced information on checkpoint wait times at over 200 airports worldwide. By checking the app before you arrive at the airport, you can gain valuable insights and plan accordingly. This allows you to avoid long queues and choose the checkpoint with the shortest wait time, ensuring a smoother and more time-efficient passage through security. Stay ahead of the crowd with real-time information at your fingertips and make your air travel experience as seamless as possible.
11. Check Your Carry-On Size:
To avoid any last-minute surprises at the airport, it’s crucial to be aware of your airline’s carry-on size limits and employ suitcase packing hacks. Take the time to measure your purse or personal item at home, ensuring it meets the specified dimensions. By doing so, you can avoid the hassle and potential additional fees associated with oversized carry-on bags. Being prepared and proactive in adhering to the size restrictions set by your airline will make the check-in and boarding process much smoother, allowing you to focus on enjoying your journey without any unnecessary stress or delays.
12. Organize Your Gadgets:
With the rise of electronic devices in our travel arsenal, it’s essential to stay organized and prepared during security checks. Investing in an organizer case specifically designed for gadgets and cables can be a game-changer. These cases come with multiple compartments and elastic straps, providing a designated place for each device and cable. Not only does this ensure easy accessibility during security screenings, but it also prevents tangles and damage. Organize your electronics separately in your bag to breeze through security, saving time and avoiding the stress of misplaced cords.
13. Remove Batteries from Smart Luggage:
To comply with airline safety regulations, it’s important to be aware that battery packs in smart luggage must be removable. Airlines have implemented this policy due to potential fire hazards associated with lithium-ion batteries. Be ready to show that the battery pack in your smart luggage is removable if asked by airline staff. Familiarize yourself with airline requirements to ensure a smooth boarding process without complications.
14. Use Food Ordering Apps:
Maximize your airport time by utilizing apps like Grab to pre-order meals from airport restaurants for added convenience. By using this service, you can skip the lines and avoid wasting precious minutes waiting for your meal. Simply browse through the available options, place your order, and make your way to the designated pick-up area to collect your pre-ordered food. This time-saving hack ensures that you can enjoy a delicious meal without compromising on your travel schedule. Make the most of your airport dining experience and streamline your journey with the help of food pre-ordering apps.
15. Use a VPN for Wi-Fi:
Be cautious when using free airport Wi-Fi as it may pose security risks due to potential vulnerabilities in the network. To protect your personal information and browsing activities, consider using a Virtual Private Network (VPN). A VPN encrypts your internet connection, ensuring that your data remains secure and protected from potential hackers or malicious actors. By connecting to a VPN before accessing airport Wi-Fi, you can add an extra layer of security and browse the internet with peace of mind, even in public and potentially insecure networks. Safeguard your online privacy by incorporating a VPN into your airport routine.
16. Consider Airport Lounges:
For a more comfortable and enjoyable airport experience, consult LoungeBuddy for reviews on airport lounges worldwide. Additionally, certain credit cards, such as those from Chase and American Express, provide access to Priority Pass lounges as a valuable perk. These lounges offer amenities like free Wi-Fi, snacks, and beverages, creating a tranquil oasis amidst the bustling airport environment. By leveraging the benefits of LoungeBuddy and credit card lounge access, you can relax, recharge, and make the most of your pre-flight time.
17. Wear Comfortable Clothing:
To stay comfortable during your flight, it’s advisable to dress in layers that can be easily added or removed as the cabin temperature fluctuates. Airplanes tend to have varying climate settings, swinging between chilly and warm. By wearing layers, such as a lightweight sweater or cardigan over a t-shirt, you can adapt to the changing temperature and ensure your comfort throughout the journey. This versatile approach allows you to adjust your clothing as needed, whether you’re feeling too warm or too cool. Dressing in layers is a practical and effective strategy to maintain optimal comfort during air travel.
18. Invest in a Good Travel Pillow:
As airlines strive to maximize capacity, comfort on airplanes can often be compromised by crowded seating arrangements. To mitigate the discomfort, investing in a good travel pillow can make a significant difference. A travel pillow provides much-needed support for your neck and helps alleviate strain during long flights. Whether you prefer a memory foam pillow, an inflatable one, or a versatile wrap-around design, finding the right travel pillow can greatly enhance your in-flight comfort and help you arrive at your destination feeling more refreshed. Don’t underestimate the power of a quality travel pillow in ensuring a more comfortable and enjoyable journey.
19. Bring a Reusable Water Bottle:
Save money and reduce plastic waste by bringing an empty water bottle with you when traveling. After passing through security, look for water bottle filling stations or drinking fountains in the airport. These facilities are increasingly available in many airports, making it convenient to refill your bottle with fresh water before boarding your flight. Stay hydrated on your journey by taking this simple step, avoiding costly bottled water purchases post-security. It’s a win-win for both your wallet and the environment.
20. Carry Disinfecting Wipes:
In high-traffic areas like airports and airplanes, it’s wise to take proactive measures to maintain personal hygiene. To minimize the risk of exposure to germs, consider wiping down your seat and any other surfaces you’ll come into contact with during your flight. Using disinfecting wipes can help remove bacteria and viruses from armrests, tray tables, seat belts, and other commonly touched areas. This simple precautionary step adds an extra layer of protection and promotes a cleaner environment for your journey. Prioritizing hygiene practices is essential for your well-being and peace of mind while traveling.
21. Pack a Moisturizer:
Air travel presents unique challenges for skin health due to the extremely dry environment in airplane cabins. The cabin’s humidity levels, often less than 20%, are dramatically lower than what most people are used to, which can quickly dehydrate your skin and leave it feeling uncomfortable.
Carrying a small bottle of moisturizer can be a game-changer. Applying it throughout your flight will keep your skin nourished and hydrated, combatting the dry cabin air effectively. Some travelers even recommend using a rich, overnight moisturizer for longer flights, providing your skin with an extra level of hydration.
22. Use a Jet Lag App:
To combat jet lag and adjust to a new time zone more smoothly, consider using apps like Entrain or Timeshifter. These helpful tools provide personalized schedules and recommendations to gradually shift your sleeping patterns before you travel. By following their guidance, you can align your internal clock with your destination’s time zone, minimizing the effects of jet lag. These apps take into account factors like your specific travel plans, sleep preferences, and desired adjustment period, offering tailored strategies to help you optimize your sleep-wake cycle. Embrace technology to make your transitions across time zones more seamless and enjoy a more refreshed travel experience.
23. Reserve Parking in Advance:
When driving to the airport, it’s a smart move to utilize parking reservation apps like SpotHero. These apps allow you to secure a parking spot in advance, ensuring a hassle-free and convenient parking experience. By reserving your spot ahead of time, you can save valuable time and avoid the stress of searching for parking upon arrival. Simply enter your travel dates and select a preferred parking facility near the airport. With the reservation in hand, you can drive to the airport confidently, knowing that your parking needs are taken care of. Make your journey smoother by planning ahead and reserving your parking spot in advance.
24. Understand Credit Card Protections:
Before embarking on your journey, it’s essential to understand the travel-related benefits offered by your credit card. Many credit cards provide valuable protections, such as compensation for flight delays, cancellations, lost luggage, and more. Familiarize yourself with the specific benefits and coverage details of your card to ensure you know what you’re entitled to and how to make a claim if needed. By leveraging these protections, you can minimize potential financial losses and navigate unexpected situations more confidently. Take the time to review your card’s benefits packet and travel with peace of mind, knowing you have the necessary coverage at your disposal.
25. Consider Travel Insurance:
For comprehensive coverage during your travels, it’s worth considering a travel insurance policy that goes beyond the basic protections offered by credit cards. Look for a policy that includes provisions for emergency medical evacuation and cancellation for any reason. These additional features can provide invaluable peace of mind, especially when embarking on a significant or expensive trip. InsureMyTrip.com is a convenient resource for comparing travel insurance plans from major providers and finding the one that best suits your needs. Investing in comprehensive travel insurance ensures you’re protected against unforeseen circumstances that may disrupt or impact your travel plans.
Air travel doesn’t have to be a stressful experience. By leveraging technology, staying organized, prioritizing comfort, and being savvy about the services available to you, you can make your journey smoother and more enjoyable. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or planning your first flight, implementing these 25 tips can make a significant difference. So, before you board your next flight, take a moment to review these suggestions, and take the stress out of air travel. Happy flying!