Are you a novice at flying? You’ve only perhaps flown a few times, nervous about flying or just are frustrated flying in general? Do you want to Fly like a Pro in the Airports?
Here are some tips that will help you navigate airports better.
NUMBER ONE
ARRIVE EARLY
ARRIVE EARLY
Sounds like a silly tip for flying like a Pro, but you never know when there will be traffic issues, parking issues, TSA back-ups, just the unexpected. You will want a cushion to allow you the time to board your plane. Two hours is the domestic recommendation and four hours for international flights. If you have not picked a seat for your airline, you can do so at the check in counter. Try to get as much done before boarding begins. I’ve seen so many people hold up the lines because of their seat issues. This also applies to those who fly with pets. (This is new for 2023, all the people bringing pets on the plane). This is an allergy issue as well, so be mindful to pre-med, etc. You will have an option to print your boarding pass or you can use the airline APP to scan your boarding pass. Arriving early helps you navigate new airports outside of your home airport. Navigating gates, trams, shuttles, all should be considered.
NUMBER TWO
PACK FOR TSA
PACK FOR TSA
When you fly like a pro you have to be aware of what will pass the TSA rules. Pack for it. Do not bring any liquids with you prior to screening. TSA will force you to through away you unopened bottles of water, drinks, etc. You can bring an empty water container. Pack travel size toiletries. No scissors, plastic utensils, etc. Also, it’s a good idea to pack an extra day’s outfit or two in your carry-on. (If you’re traveling for an extended stay and checking in another suitcase with most of your clothes). This helps in case there is an issue with your checked in luggage getting lost or delayed a few days. If you’re traveling and packing more than just your carry on suitcase, pack your toiletries, in the check-in bag. Only pack shoes, clothes in your carry-on bag. Nothing that will stop the carry-on from a second search through security. All your souvenirs should be packed in your check-in bag unless you have highly valuable items, like luxury handbags, belts, pack those with you in your stow under seat tote.
NUMBER THREE
PERSONAL ITEM
PERSONAL ITEM
Make sure your allowable personal item is a large or expandable type tote that you can stow under the seat. These are helpful for your return purchases that you want to keep close to you and not check in or in your carry-on suitcase. It’s a good idea to keep your valuables like jewelry, high end purchases literally with you at all times. Look for totes or a piece that has outside pockets that are easily accessible. You can store you passport, ID or printed boarding pass for quick access. Note, depending on the airline and the seat type purchased, this may be the “only” allowable item you can bring onboard.
NUMBER FOUR
WHAT TO WEAR
WHAT TO WEAR
Dress for traveling. Comfortable clothing is key and flying like a Pro is in the outfits your choose. First you have to think about TSA, first and foremost your ID and boarding pass should be easily accessible. Wearing leggings with a side pocket really helps with boarding passes in the airline APP. Avoid belts females, it just makes it easier. Slip off shoes or shoes that are easy to remove fast. Dressing layers helps because regardless of your destination the aircraft can get chilly. So it’s good to have options and being able to remove or add layers as needed.
NUMBER FIVE
LUGGAGE
LUGGAGE IS KEY!
If you only travel with a carry-on suitcase make sure it is “not” expandable. Hard shell non-expandable suitcases are made for those who fly like a Pro. You want to be able to move through security, TSA and board without any luggage issues, i.e. too big for the overhead compartment. This holds up the boarding process and can be an unnecessary stress. If your suitcase it not expandable you are pretty much guaranteed to continue on through the boarding line. When you check-in a bag make sure it weighs no more than 50 pounds or the airline will charge you $100 per leg of trip for that bag. Again, be mindful of purchases. If you’re at 45 pounds departing, you’ll more than likely surpass 50 pounds if you buy just a few souvenirs. If you plan on doing shopping and you’re close to the 50 pound weight, it’s just easier to check a third “empty” bag. It’s better to have a cushion than to struggle with packing for your return flight. Fly Pros typically travel with three suitcases for this very reason. Shoes take up space, hats take up space, heavier garments like coats, etc. take up space. If you’re a Fly Pro and you like to take photos you might be traveling with extra props, tripod, selfie-sticks so think about all you will be taking with you.
I’ve done a lot of research on Luggage and my POV Delsey Luggage is the BEST on the market. I’ve never been so impressed by design, durability and functionality of luggage like this brand. I have not been sponsored by the brand, it has been my own research. I can share every flight that I’ve taken this luggage on a flight attendant comments on it. (Now you know they’ve seen every piece made) and my most recent flight, the flight attendant said to me “that’s a cute piece, it looks special, let’s place it here in First Class for you!). Seriously, my luggage flew first class, not me! I’m impressed that flight attendants notice it’s a valuable piece and are eager to help keep it safe and secure. (Much love to all the Flight Attendants out there!)
SUMMARY
NUGGETS
NUGGETS
Fly Pros are prepared. They know what keeps them moving in airports and what holds folks up. You do not want to be that person holding up the flight. Make sure everything is easily accessible, you can manage your luggage yourself, you know your gate, you’ve paid attention to the seat on the flight. Seats are clearly marked above the row, I cannot tell you how many times people sit in the wrong seat and have to move during boarding. Look at the top of the row you will see Row 1 (A, B) isle (C,D). Typically, A is the window, B is the isle, C is the Isle D is the Window. So left to right ABCE, Window, Isle, Isle, Window. Same applies to larger Aircraft’s. Row 5 (A, is window, B center, C Isle), D, E, F, G, H (all isle) J, Isle, K center L Window. Really pay attention and ask to confirm if a person is sitting in the row already, You’re in Row 5 A, right? I’ve had people in my seat in the past and it becomes a proving issue, “let me see your boarding pass…” to see who is incorrect. It’s alphabetic and numerical order, it is not geometry and you don’t want to get into a tiff with a stranger and have to call the flight attendant to intervene.
Also, do not argue with the flight attendants. If they insist you check your bag upon boarding the plane (no charge) because the flight is full, just do it. I’ve been on flight where people have argued that there was room and wanted their bag with them. I’ve seen where they were almost escorted off the flight for pushing back on the issue. There is zero tolerance for passengers who cause problems on a plane. They will easily escort you off the flight. If you want to avoid any of these situations you have options. Fly first class, purchase the pre-boarding or preferred boarding priced ticket and arrive early!!! When they call the groups to board make sure you’re standing there ready to go when they call “Groups 2, 3 and 4 can board now”. Then you’re in line ready to get on the aircraft sooner than others.
Connecting issues can cause massive delays and stress. In these cases, just do whatever the flight attendant tells you to do. If they say the flight is full now, I’ll take your bag, give it to them. You know it’s on the flight, so it won’t get lost, you also know you have your most valuable items in your possession to stow under the seat in front of you.
Feel free to browse my Amazon Travel Tip shopping list. A super easy way to find everything you need or a place for you to get ideas..https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/39OQL7MM4O9T3?ref_=wl_share
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