Traveling can be a lot of fun, but passing through security checkpoints or handling excess luggage can be a bit stressful and tiring.
So, to avoid issues like this dampening your excitement, check out these tips for air travel to help you sail through the airport and enjoy your trip!
1. Check-in Online
Checking in online can help you reduce the stress of navigating through checkpoints at the airport. You can generate your boarding pass easily, save a lot of time at the airport, and easily get information about any flight delays or early arrivals. Usually, online check-ins also allow you to choose the seat you want so that you can be more comfortable as you fly.
2. Keep Your Documents Close
While passing through security checkpoints, you will be asked for your boarding pass and potentially also your passport at different times. So, one of the best tips for flying is to ensure you arrange your important documents in an easily accessible place in your carry-on bag. This will keep them within easy reach so that you can present them when you’re asked.
3. Register for Expedited Screening Programs
If you’re a frequent flyer or you want to become one, you can speed up your security check-ins by signing up for international programs like the Global Entry and TSA PreCheck.
- TSA PreCheck— This program helps you pass through security screenings quickly and easily. It is only open to U.S. citizens and people with permanent residency in the U.S. It costs $85 to get a TSA PreCheck pass for five years. However, you only get this pass when traveling internationally out of the U.S.; you cannot use a TSA PreCheck to pass through checkpoints if you’re at an airport in another country or returning to the U.S.
- Global Entry— This program helps speed up security checks for U.S. citizens returning to the country. It can also be used by citizens from countries like the U.K., Mexico, Germany, Panama, and Taiwan when entering the U.S. If you’re applying to a Global Entry program, you’ll be required to pay $120.
4. Be Organized
Planning ahead is a surefire way to enjoy your journey and have a stress-free experience. Create a list of everything you have to do, from deciding on your airport to booking your flight, and packing. As they say, prevention is better than cure, and one of the most helpful tips for air travel is to tick off everything on your travel checklist before you get on the plane.
5. Comply With Baggage Restrictions
First, make sure any carry-ons are small enough to fit in the carry-on space overhead on the plane (you can find measurement information on your airline’s website). Disallowed luggage can also become a major problem at the airport: to avoid dealing with this kind of hassle at your security screening, check your airline’s app or website for baggage restrictions that apply to carry-on items and checked bags. This will give you information about the weight limit for your bags and the things you can and cannot take with you, and help you pack accordingly. Do your best to avoid lost luggage by labeling your checked bags and removing any old tags.
6. Track Your Flight
We all know how unpredictable flights can be, so, it’s not surprising to sometimes hear that your flight has been delayed. But did you also know that planes can also leave earlier than planned? With this in mind, one of the most useful tips for flying is to use a good flight tracker that will notify you of any sudden changes to your flight schedule. Then, you can make necessary adjustments and board on time or reschedule your flight.
7. Get To the Airport Early
There are many steps to navigate at the airport; from airline checkpoints to security screenings and departure gates. So, another useful tip for air travel is to get to the airport at least three hours early if you’re taking international flights, and at least two hours early if you’re taking domestic flights. This will give you more time to get through checkpoints, avoid long lines, and find your departure gate without worrying about missing your flight.
8. Dress Comfortably
The clothes you wear to the airport can have a big effect on your flight experience. Of course, wearing easy-to-remove shoes is a given, but wearing clothes that aren’t comfortable or are not appropriate for the weather can also make travel feel like a hassle, especially on a long-haul flight. So, if it’s sunny, wear loose-fitting clothes; in cold weather, wear comfortable layers and ensure you take your jacket or coat along as you fly. Make sure to plan for the weather where you’re landing, too!
9. Choose Your Seat
Sometimes, the seat we choose on a plane can influence how convenient our flight will be. If you’re traveling with your family or friends, you can choose seats for all of you together to make it more convenient. If you don’t want to sit at the back and face a long line when leaving the plane when you land, pick a seat at the front. On the other hand, if you don’t mind waiting to disembark and would prefer being alone, choosing a seat at the back will increase your chances of having an empty seat beside you. Meanwhile, a window seat is the best option for catching some awesome views!
10. Relax in an Airport Lounge
Spending time in an airport lounge might cost you a bit more money, but considering the comfy seats, wi-fi connection, power outlets, and food, it can be worth it, especially if you have a long layover between your flights. Staying at an airport lounge can be a more convenient way to relax while waiting to board. You can find out if your airline credit card can grant you access to airport lounges to help you save money.
Make Your Flight a Breeze With Valley International Airport
Traveling should be a breeze, and you deserve a convenient and stress-free experience when flying. To ensure that things go as smoothly as possible, you can follow the tips for travel listed above, and always fly with your Valley International Airport.
At Valley International Airport, we prioritize your comfort and ensure that you experience minimal stress as you prepare to fly to your destination. From our range of flights to our wide selection of restaurants and handy parking lots, VIA guarantees an enjoyable and relaxing experience as you journey to your destination.