1. Pack efficiently. Don’t be me. You don't need three pairs of heels for a week!
2. Pack early. You can’t do number one without number two, ladies and gents.
3. Carry on, Carry on, Carry on. If you aren’t going somewhere for more than a week, you don’t need more than a carry-on. This is part of number one, people! Unless you have to check a bag, save your time and money and bring that sucker on the plane.
4. Security Check. My main advice is read the damn rules and follow them! No jewelry on. No shoes on. Everything out of your pockets. Electronics out. Please don’t be the jackass who holds everyone up because you didn’t bother to listen or pay attention.
5. Exit seats are bomb. Snap that shit up. There is more room, and although you have to take on the responsibility of opening the exit, it isn’t likely to happen and the doors aren’t very difficult.
6. Your gate can change people. Be vigilant. Like a Puma. While you’re enjoying a quick lunch during your layover in a place you assume is still close to your gate, it is actually being moved to the other side of the airport. And you need to board. In 20 minutes. Pay attention, people; I’ve been burned more than once!
7. Buy food in the airport. You don’t want the plane food, trust me. It isn’t usually free, and it isn’t very good. Pay less for better food in an airport restaurant and save the bank!
8. Safety Instructions. Don’t be the jerk who doesn’t pay attention during safety explanations. If I see you with your earphones in, I will rip them out.
9. Travel alone at least once. The sense of freedom is infinite, and being alone in these types of places is special. You get to see the world with the most clear perspective, and you get to see a lot of the people in this world doing the same. Learning to enjoy yourself without others around is something many people struggle with, and traveling is a good place to start!
10. Enjoy the atmosphere of travel. There is something wonderful and beautiful in the transitory nature of airports and airplanes. Embrace it, be part of it, enjoy it. These are the times for thoughtful contemplation, self exploration, and an enjoyable sort of solitude.
Take it all in folks, because soon, you’ll be home.
