As a travel agent, I am blessed with the opportunity to travel frequently and you can’t travel as much as I have without learning a few tips to pass along -.
Traveling by air can be tedious these days with heightened security rules and restrictions. Above all, the most important rule to remember is GET TO THE AIRPORT AT LEAST 2 HOURS PRIOR TO YOUR FLIGHT! Yes, you might be early. But wouldn’t you rather be at your gate, reading a book, instead of fretting in the security line? You may have all your travel documents and carry on items in order, but the unprepared person in front of you can bring the security check to a complete halt. Two hours, folks, two hours and a minimum of three hours for International flights!
One of the best travel investments I made in the past couple of years is my rolling carry-on bag. It’s small enough to fit under the seat (I rest my feet on it) but large enough to carry what I need. I always pack a change of clothes suitable to my destination, a night shirt, toiletries and medications in my carryon. Then, if the airline loses my luggage or there is an unexpected delay, I am prepared.
Two more tips – First, no liquids or gels may be in your carryon items unless packed in 3 ounce containers enclosed in a ziplock bag. (For more detailed regulations) Second, buy a rolling carryon with a strap that fits over your big bag so it piggy backs.
Now on to the flight! Most airlines no longer serve meals onboard although they occasionally have sandwiches or snack boxes available for purchase. You may bring your own meal on the flight, whether from home or an airport restaurant, and beverages may be brought on board as long as they are purchased after clearing security. At the moment, U.S. airlines are still serving complimentary soft drinks on board but the coffee is not up to Starbucks standards!
Pillows are also harder to find, so be sure to include one in your carry on. The sundry shops in the airport carry a variety of styles. Airplanes are notorious for icy air conditioning alternating with stifling heat so dress in layers and try to grab a blanket as you board.
I will not fly without earplugs. Again, if you do not have any, the sundry shop will be happy to sell them to you. Earplugs dull the engine noise and there have been studies that indicate less noise equals less jet lag! You can still hear the necessary announcements but as an added benefit, your talkative neighbor will be deterred from talking to you!
If you are on a flight longer than 2 hours, make sure that you get up and move about every hour or so. This will keep your blood from pooling and creating a blood clot. If you are unable to get out of your seat due to turbulence, be sure to move your legs. Stretching, and changing position often will help.
Some folks like to bring slippers to wear on board. I don’t, because my feet swell and I cannot get my shoes back on, so think twice before you take your off!
Traveling is so much fun, and though flying is a bit more trying that prior to 911, it can still be a pleasant part of the trip. If you have other tips that you would like to pass along, please feel free to send me an email at sandi@totemtravel.com or give me a call.