News media is full of predictions that you’ll be packed like sardines on flights for both the Thanksgiving and Christmas travel seasons.  It is enough to make one throw away that non-refundable ticket and stay at home, right?

It shouldn’t.  Read these travel hints and you *will* have a better overall experience no matter how many people are traveling or no matter how much your flights are delayed.

One: If you have traveled at all over the past 2 years, you’ve already experienced  a packed flight.  The reality is that you should fly with the expectation that you will have people seated next to you.  Accept that reality and you’re already on your way to a better experience.

Two:  If you’re flying, choose airlines, if possible that do not have baggage check fees.  Readers here know I”m a big fan of Southwest in this respect.  The nature of their system means they handle baggage reliably and they permit 2 free checked bags up to 50lbs each.  That, alone, can save you money even when Southwest isn’t the absolute cheapest on your route. 

Three:  If overhead bin space is important, pay that fee to get onboard early.  This isn’t just true for Southwest but also for other airlines as well.  Priority boarding is often available and that does increase your chances for overhead bin space.

Four:  Take soft luggage as your carry on.  It’s easier to fit into odd shaped spaces.  Take something that is small enough to fit under the seat in front of you so that if bin space is fully occupied, you still keep it with you instead of having to gate check your bag.  Do you want to be one of the 4 or 5 people who delay a flight for 20 minutes because you had to gate check? 

Five: Wear comfortable clothes but keep the sweats and pajamas at home.  Wear something that is comfortable *and* appropriate to travel so that if you’re stuck someplace, you’ve got something wearable if you have to go to a hotel or restaurant because of a delay without looking and feeling like the idiot.

Six: Get yourself a bottle of water.  Yes, pay the $3 for the bottle at the store in the terminal and take the water.  But even more important, drink the water.  Staying hydrated helps with muscle aches and pains and also leaves you feeling more able to deal with the unexpected.  In my home, we say “Agua es vida” or “Water is Life”.  It helps, use it. 

Seven:  Eat a *good* meal prior to departure.  I am not referring to getting yourself a Big Mac to take on board.  Have a balanced meal and ensure it has some protein.  This will keep you better fueled for your trip that junk will.  Avoid sugar, chocolate, energy drinks and coffee.  THIS GOES DOUBLE FOR YOUR CHILDREN.

Eight:  Build someslack time in your schedule.  If an airline advises arriving at least 60 minutes prior to departure, get there 90 to 105 minutes ahead of departure.  Schedule your connections so that you and your bags can transit the airport to the next flight without panic or urgency. 

Nine:  Early morning flights are far more likely to work than late afternoon and evening flights. 

Ten:  Go to the TSA website and ensure you are packed and dressed in a manner that makes transiting security smooth.  Do NOT be that person who discovers large bottles of liquid in your briefcase or purse as TSA scans it. 

Eleven:  Be kind to those around you.  They’re in the same situation as you.  Show your fellow human beings some courtesy and you’ll get it back as well.  Smile a little and offer a holiday greeting to a fellow traveler or airline employee.  You get what you give.

Filed under: Travel Hints by ajax