Sometimes, we feel like circus monkeys because of all the hoops we have to jump through. However, here are some tips for any traveler to make that air trip you've been dreading, not so stressful.
1. When packing, make sure to put all gels and liquids in sealed plastic bags inside your toiletries.
It has happened to everyone at least once. You get to your destination, and suddenly there's a sticky goo on your favorite shirt. Air pressure sometimes causes things to leak. So to be on the safe side; always put them in some sort of plastic bag to avoid ruining any favorite clothing!
2. As you're picking and choosing the outfits for the trip, don't forget to leave a little bit of room for those unexpected presents!
Whether it's a coffee mug for grandma, or that adorable dress that you simply had to have, unexpected items usually find their way to our suitcases. Its always good to be prepared and leave extra room so you don't run the risk of breaking a zipper.
3. The golden rule for air travel is two hours for international flights and one hour for domestic.
Even having this said, it's always better to leave a thirty to forty-five minute window just in case for unexpected traffic, or out of the blue, extremely long security lines.
4. After arriving at the airport, check to see if your airline has mobile boarding passes.
Those boarding passes can be the biggest hassle to keep track of, whether it's making sure you didn't lose it after passing security, or asking whomever you're traveling with if they had it last. Phones are one thing we don't lose, so having it on there makes one less thing to keep track of.
5. When going through security, it's best to keep all your things together and put things away right after you're done using them.
The only two times you really need your boarding pass is to show to security, and then again before getting on the plane. With that said, after showing it to security, put it in a safe place and keep your belongings condensed. Everyone sees those people who have the laptop to the left, the shoes in one bin, jacket in the other -- so it's always best to KISS -- keep it simple, silly!
6. Look for a place to eat, or buy something, to eat close to your gate.
It happens to everyone -- you pass security and stop at the first place that looks good. the only problem with that is you have to make sure your gate isn't too far away. You don't want to start walking to D33 and find out you're only at D5, especially if your flight is boarding in five minutes. Always play it safe with the times and distances, while not depriving yourself of a delicious warm pretzel.
7. Pay attention to the group numbers they call out when boarding.
There is always that confused person who goes up when its not their turn and causes holdups. You don't want to be that person. To avoid this, simply look at the group number on your boarding pass and wait till you are called.
8. When on the plane, scout overhead room for carry on items.
It's always awkward when you realize all the room is taken above your seat and you have to make everyone back up to reach an empty space five rows away. To avoid this mishap, keep a lookout of overhead room before you arrive at your seat.
9. No matter the destination, always bring a jacket or sweater for the flight.
For some strange reason, the temperature changes drastically on planes. One minute you're freezing, and the next you can't get enough air out of the vents above your seat. To avoid freezing the whole three hours, its best to have a jacket handy, and even if you don't need it, it serves as a nice pillow.
10. Once the plane has landed, make sure you're not leaving anything in the pockets.
Either it was the book you were reading for school, or those headphones you put down making a run for the bathroom. Things get left in those pockets and on the seats all the time. You can save yourself from this by putting everything away in the same place some time before you get off the plane.
