1. Check And Double Check All Documents
Ensure you have your boarding pass, passport, and other necessary identification documents. Without these all-important pieces of paper, you won't even make it past the first hurdle, check-in. Pro tip: Take a photograph of your passport and other important documents and email them to yourself. This can be a lifesaver if they get lost or stolen. So, despite being tempted to recreate that Tom Hanks moment in 'Terminal,' do yourself a favor and keep your documents safe and in reach!
2. Make Use Of Airport Facilities
Take some time to explore the airport and its facilities. Many airports have become destinations in their own right, with shopping, dining, and even cultural experiences available. However, it's definitely advisable not to overdo it at duty-free. Nobody wants to be known as the passenger who boarded the plane smelling like a perfume factory.
3. Secure Your Luggage
Check and double-check your luggage. Ensure it’s properly secured, to avoid any 'Meet the Parents' suitcase exploding scenarios. Do not, we repeat, do not forget to remove any sharp objects. Your favorite Swiss Army knife won't make the cut past security.
4. Stay Hydrated
At high altitudes, the air can be drier, which can dehydrate you. The solution? Drink up before you board your flight. It might lead to a few extra bathroom breaks, but it's better than resembling a desiccated mummy at your destination.
5. Carry Snacks
While airline meals have improved over the years, it's always smart to carry something to munch on, especially if you're on a budget or have specific dietary requirements. For some reason, the stress of air travel can make us hunger for snacks; consider it a permission slip to explore the terminal candy shop.
6. Dress Comfortably
Dress for comfort, not fashion. Yes, Victoria Beckham may look glamorous disembarking a red-eye flight, but for us mere mortals, comfort should be the priority. Save your dress-to-impress outfit for your arrival, and remember, the airplane is not a catwalk.
7. Game Plan For Jet Lag
A plan in place to combat jet lag can make your flight, and your first few days at your destination, more comfortable. Consider adjusting your sleep schedule gradually in the days leading up to the flight. Just don't mistake your departure time when you're busy recalibrating your body clock.
8. Have Offline Entertainment
Don't rely solely on the airplane's in-flight entertainment. Bring a book, download music, or movies on your device to keep you entertained during the flight. Keep in mind; WiFi is not yet a universally acknowledged human right at 35,000 feet.
9. Clean Your Area
This heading is not an invitation to a mid-terminal vacuuming session. Wiping down your seat area with antibacterial wipes can help protect you from germs. After all, we don't know when it was last cleaned, or by whom. Word of advice, avoid licking the tray table, even out of boredom. Yes, people have tried that.
10. Have A Stretch
Stretch your limbs before you board. Remember, this could be your last chance for physical freedom for hours. Plus, it will reduce the risk of DVT (Deep Vein Thrombosis) on long-haul flights. Just refrain from any impromptu yoga poses in the boarding queue.
11. Put Essential Items In Carry-On
Keep essential items like medication, personal hygiene products, and headphones in your carry-on luggage. You never want to be stuck on a plane without your essentials, particularly if your hold luggage goes on an unexpected detour.
12. Check In-Flight Baggage Allowance
Check your airline's carry-on luggage allowances before you fly. You don't want to be the person arguing with flight staff about whether your enormous duty-free Toblerone counts as a personal item. It doesn't.
13. Update Family Or Friends About Your Plans
update someone about your travel plans before you board. Besides having a backup contact, it allows your loved ones to virtually travel with you. Just resist the urge to check-in at every airport bar on Facebook.
14. Unwind Before The Flight
Find a way to relax before your flight. If that means sipping on a pre-flight cocktail or treating yourself to a good book, go for it. Just remember that nobody likes a 'mile-high club' wannabe, so don't overindulge in the drinks.
15. Do A Final Phone And Wallet Check
Do a final check for your phone, wallet, and travel documents before boarding begins. The stark terror of discovering these items missing after boarding is something we wouldn't wish on our worst enemies.
16. Download Useful Travel Apps
Navigating flight changes, dealing with foreign languages, or finding the best local hotspots can all be made easier with the right travel app. Yes, there's definitely an app for that! And if there isn't, give us a call; we have a great start-up idea.
17. Check Flight Updates
Keep an eye on the gate announcement and boarding time. These details can change anytime without notice. Jumping up in surprise and sprinting to the gate is not the most graceful start to any journey.
18. Smile And Embrace The Journey
Remember, even though flying can be stressful, it's an enormous privilege. Take a moment to smile and relish the experience. After all, you're about to soar through the sky in a metal tube. Now that's something to tick off your bucket list!
Author: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice regarding health or finances. It is not intended to endorse any individual or company. This article is AI-generated and may contain inaccuracies or unreliable information. Readers should consult a qualified professional for personal advice.
