5 Tips for Flying
Pack Light
Although it may be tempting to pack that fifth pair of shoes, packing light is essential to easy maneuvering in the airport, and it may even save you some dollars in baggage fees.
Worried? Packing light may is easier than you think. Begin by taking the time to make a packing list; and, whatever you do, stick to the packing list. It is also helpful to start off with a smaller suitcase and to plan on wearing bulkier items like heavy jackets and hiking boots the day you travel, instead of trying to pack them.
2. Download, Download, Download
Boredom in the airport and on the plane is often the reality for even experienced travelers. That’s why it’s important to take the time to download music and movies to your phone before you get to the airport. If you’re not into movies or music, you can also bring coloring books or reading books to fill your time on the plane.
3. Prepare Ahead of Time
Having your passport, visa, I.D., and boarding pass all prepared right before you enter the airport is essential for a smooth transition from bag check to terminal. Most airlines also have applications that can notify and update you on flight information. Making use of these resources and being prepared can help reduce stress on travel day.
4. Essential Gear: Headphones, Eye Mask, Neck Pillow
If you like to sleep on the plane, bringing headphones to block out the noise of screaming babies and barking dogs is essential. In addition, an eye mask and neck pillow are compact enough to easily bring through the airport and essential to getting comfortable enough in the stiff plane seats.
5. Dress in Layers
Drastic temperature changes can occur from outside to inside the airport; from the terminal to the plane; and, from your departure to your arrival destination. It is, therefore, best to dress in layers so that you can easily take off layers when you’re warm and put on layers when you’re cold.