In 2022, I logged 27 flight segments (mostly for work). When we started planning our travels, I was quite anxious about the current state of air travel. Fortunately, we encountered very few issues and when we did, they were very minor delays (except for that Spring Break fiasco). Here are my top tips for navigating air travel:
1. Download the app for the airline you are flying and turn on notifications. This will keep you up to date on your flight status and any gate changes. Some airlines even let you track your checked luggage.
2. If delays or cancellations occur, use every means available to communicate with the airline (call, wait in line, and use twitter or Facebook).
3. Be prepared with possible alternative flight arrangements. Make sure to consider alternative airports. For example, Louisville International Airport is my home airport. Lexington Bluegrass Field is about an hour away and Cincinnati Northern Kentucky is 1.5 hours away. If absolutely necessary to save a vacation, Indianapolis and Nashville are approximately 2.5 hours away. We had to use this option to save our Disneyland trip over Spring Break.
4. Make sure your electronic devices are charged. Take charging cables and external battery packs with you in your carry-on. Many planes are equipped with charging ports.
5. If you are travelling with children, ALWAYS purchase a fare class that allows you to select your seats in advance. Do not rely on the kindness of strangers to ensure you are sitting next to your child.
6. For longer flights, purchase the highest class cabin that fits in your budget. Most people can tolerate anything for 2 hours, but longer flights sitting in a middle seat in coach can be unbearable. Spring for economy plus on longer domestic flights and consider premium economy for international trips. Your back will thank you for spending the extra money!
7. The dry cabin air on a plane can be very dehydrating to your skin. Make sure you pack your favorite lip balm, hand cream and facial mist in your carry-on luggage.
8. Again, dry cabin air on a plane can be very dehydrating. When the beverage cart passes by, opt for water instead of soda or alcohol. You may even consider bringing a refillable water bottle in your carry-on, unless you enjoy paying $5 for a bottle of water at the airport.
9. Purchase TSA Pre-check or Global Entry. The time you will save in line at security and/or customs is well worth the cost. If you need convincing, I make the argument for purchasing Global Entry in my first blog post.
10. Always pack your medication, car keys and any other important items that you cannot live without for 24-48 hours in your carry-on. In the event your luggage is delayed, you will be glad you have these things with you.
11. Compression socks are not just for the elderly and infirm!
12. Avoid taking over-the-counter or prescription sleep aids to help you get some shut-eye on the plane unless you use them regularly and know how your body will react.
13. Check your credit card benefits. Your credit card company may offer travel insurance for trips booked using the card, reimbursement for TSA Pre-check, or other travel benefits.
14. Always allow extra time – extra time to get to the airport, extra time during a layover, extra time to get from the airport to your destination. Rushing only adds more stress to what is supposed to be a relaxing vacation!
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