So you’re ready to trade in your armchair for airline seats, your house slippers for hotel slippers and your homemade lasagna for lavish lobsters? Splendid! But just to make sure you don’t bump your head on the overhead compartment of leisure travel, I’m here to share a handful of tips that will smoothen your sojourn. Let’s focus on air travel this time (because discovering that your seat reclines a full two inches should be the only surprise on a flight).
Airline Enlightenments – Making the Friendly Skies Even Friendlier
First things first, know your airline. Not all wings are created equal. Some airlines are friendlier than others when it comes to checked bag policies or legroom, while some might serve you free drinks until the turbulence of tipsiness kicks in. A bit of online research before booking your flight can save you a lot of in-flight discomfort (Subscribe to my airlines review series, yes, that’s a shameless plug).
Bag it Right!
Travel light, travel right! Unless you’re Nicolas Cage trying to steal the Declaration of Independence (please don’t do that), you won’t need those extra five pairs of jeans. Pack what you need, not what your paranoia dictates. Plus, remember the 3-1-1 rule for carry-on luggage: 3.4 ounce (100ml) bottle or less, in 1 quart-sized, clear, plastic, zip-top bag; 1 bag per flyer.
When Should You Wing it?
Timing is everything! Midweek flights are generally cheaper and quieter. Red-eye flights might be tiresome, but leaving you with a full day ahead once you land is an unmistakable silver lining.
The Seat Secret
The debate between aisle seat vs. window seat is older than the chicken and egg conundrum but here’s the deal: choose according to your bladder and curiosity capacity. Frequent restroom visitations? Go for the aisle. Won’t miss the sight of city lights during night flight? Window it is.
Club, Lounges and All That Luxury!
Newsflash! Airline lounges aren’t just for the 1 percent anymore. For a fee, many clubs offer day passes to any travel pleb like you and me. You get access to free Wi-Fi, showers, drinks, and occasionally, heavenly massages. Oh, and the people-watching is first-class too (pun intended).
Frequent Flyer Programs – Are They Worth It?
In a word, yes. They’re free to join and you can gradually build points for perks like free flights, upgrades and access to the aforementioned lounges. However, don’t become a prisoner to one airline for the sake of points. Always prioritize price and convenience.
Insure Your Adventure
Unless you possess the superpowers of foreseeing unfortunate events, travel insurance is a worthwhile investment. It’s not about being pessimistic, it’s about being prepared.
Remember, air travel may have its fair share of turbulence, but with the right approach, it can be a breeze. Until next time, keep your seat belts securely fastened, your seat back and folding trays in their full upright position, and as always, enjoy your flight!
