Air Travel
26. Compare, Reserve, purchase
flight tickets online.
Numerous quality websites give comparative prices and
direct bookings for airlines worldwide.
If you're flexible
with your time there are even cheaper options like : courier
service (this is really cut-rate...on regular flights ) last
minute travel, auction...
27. Verify flight details down to the smallest detail.
Ensure you can answer questions about your trip and are
knowledgeable about the terminology used on your booking
and ticket. For example: What is the difference between
non-stop and direct flights? Yes, the price mostly!
BUT ALSO: Non-stops do not stop while direct flights
may stop several times, but the passengers do not change
planes. Check with your travel agent or airlines if you
have any doubt.
Know how long your stopover will be, which city,
location or airport the connection flights will be
through, how much time in-between and if delayed what your
options are.
28. Arrive early at the airport and allow enough time
for security screenings and clearing customs.
Try getting to the airport at least two hours before
your flight time on domestic flights and even earlier on
international flights. A favorite or planned book to read
or something fun to do will keep you occupied if you do
end up having time on your hands.
You will be less stressed and rushed and enjoy your
getting there part of your journey, starting the fun-part
of your travel endeavor early.
A positive travel attitude will focus on the fact that
time passes quickly and with most boarding happening early
these days due to security concerns it is definitely more
crucial to be early rather than risking being refused at
the boarding gate due to the new regulations.
Plan for and depart in a timely, orderly fashion, in a
more relaxed frame of mind and without incident. Be an
empowered, action-oriented, pro-active perceptive traveler
and you will be rewarded with a trip characterized by
smooth sailing and good memories.
29. If you are in for a long international or domestic
flight, there are several suggestions for seeing it through.
Enduring long hauls and not getting uncomfortable or bored
is the key here. A good night's sleep the night before,
wearing comfortable, non-confining, wrinkle resistant
clothes, and shoes that are fully broken in are all
advisable.
Getting up regularly and walking around, making several
trips to the washroom to wash your face and brush your
teeth will keep you refreshed.
Taking a casual stroll up and down the aisles of an
airplane is a real lifesaver and keeps the circulation
going. Avoid costly in-air, shopping catalogues, costly
phone calls and frequent alcoholic drinks from the bar as
all are prices at premium and will add up!
Take along lots of water, snacks and reading materials.
If you are traveling with kids, ensure toys, activities,
and a cooled snack-pack for them too.
30. Cabin size bags
No waiting, no potential loss, peace of mind. Here's
the regulatory size allowed by airlines for air travel :
How big can a "carry-on bag"
be? (1 inch = 2.5 cm)
The three sides: length + width + height should not total more than 115 centimeters. So,
55cm x 35cm x 25cm is fine.
