Flying is becoming an increasingly popular way to travel these days. It is not without it’s set of stress points, problems, and confusions though. Flying is becoming increasingly difficult with new security measures, fees, and policies being put in place every day. It does not have to be so complicated though, and it can even continue to be enjoyable. The following tips can help to improve your next flying experience.
If you are a woman traveling abroad, always make sure that your purse is properly closed or zipped. If it is possible, use a bag that is not easily opened, or one that has a complicated clasp. In foreign countries, many pick-pocketers target unsuspecting tourists that are not careful with their bags. Things can be plucked from your purse in a matter of seconds. Secure your bag to keep your personal items safe.
Packing light is key to making your travels as easy and free of stress as possible. Bring one carry on bag that includes everything you need, not necessarily everything you want. If traveling to cold weather, bring smaller clothes to create layers rather than big, space-consuming coats and sweaters. Your smart packing will pay off when you are happily carrying one bag around on vacation instead of lugging around multiple bags.
Savvy air travelers know not to let delays get to them personally. In modern air travel delays are virtually inevitable. Every frequent flyer will encounter flights that run late, get overbooked, or even get canceled. Passengers can do nothing about these things. What they can do is remember that the airline personnel taking care of them are doing there best to get them to their destinations.
If you are collecting frequent flier miles from your travels, pay attention to the terms of use for those miles. In many cases, the miles expire just twelve to eighteen months after they’ve been earned, or they can only be used on certain dates and to a limited set of locations. Before selecting an airline based on miles, know the restrictions.
Use carry-on luggage. Most airlines now charge extra to check a bag. So, to avoid this cost, try to fit everything into a carry-on bag, if possible. Even if your airline is one of the few that doesn’t charge to check a bag, you may still want to avoid checking a bag. In a move to cut costs, many airlines have reduced the number of employees who handle baggage, making for a much longer wait at the baggage claim.
Traveling with a suitcase that has no dividers or compartments you can split your clothes up in can be tough. A great way to get around this problem is by placing a piece of cardboard between different clothing selections or items. Not only will you be able to separate your items, but you will come out looking more organized.
If you’re going on a cruise, it’s advisable to bring your own alcohol. While food is unlimited on the ship, alcohol is not. They won’t charge you anything right then and there, instead you’ll just swipe your room key. But come check out time, you may find you’ve racked up hundreds if not thousands of dollars worth of alcohol if you and your family like to drink.
Have your airline contact you in the event of any changes to your flight schedules. Most airlines have free programs where you can receive calls or text messages if your flight changes, which will come in handy if you are running late or experiencing difficulties with travel arrangements. Just call and ask them to set it up!
Before you travel it is a good idea to join some online travel forums like TripAdvisor, Fodors, Frommers and LonelyPlanet. These forums are great places to pick up tips and advice from people who have already visited your chosen travel destination. You can also use these forums to find a travelling partner.
A general mistake that many travelers make on vacation is doing too much. Vacations are about relaxing and getting away from the rush of the everyday world. Planning events that encompass most hours of the day will leave you feeling rushed, stressed and tired while on your trip. Stop and relax for a couple of hours everyday to decompress.
If your trip will involve renting a car, check your car insurance coverage before leaving home. Rental agencies want to try to get you to buy additional insurance that you may not even need. Typically, insurance policies cover third party liability, at least in part. Be sure to double-check your policy prior to leaving for your trip.
Before your road trip begins, look into how much money fuel will cost you over the course of your travels. Websites are available that can help you figure out the numbers based on which city you are leaving from, which city you are arriving at and the type of car that you drive. Getting a ballpark figure of the cost involved will help you avoid unexpected costs and make your trip more enjoyable.
Learn a few basic phrases in the local language. While it is impractical to attempt to learn the entire language of every country you visit, you should focus on memorizing some key phrases to make your journey easier. This is especially true if you have dietary restrictions, so you can inform your waiter properly and avoid potential allergies.
When packing for a vacation or business trip, pack a number of both lighter and heavier weight clothing. This is because you do not want to be freezing or overheated in your destination if the weather forecast happens to change. It is also a good idea to pack clothing and accessories that will not weigh down your luggage.
Flying is a popular, yet somewhat complicated way to travel. It is often the fastest and easiest way to reach a destination. It is also often the most confusing and stressful way to travel. As we have discussed however, your next flight doesn’t have to be a “difficult” process. Reviewing the tips we have provided can help to make your next flight easier, and more enjoyable, too.
