You are sitting in the same place for hours on end, and, at some point, no legroom in the world will be enough. You need to be smart about the way you utilize your space, and that means the personal bag you board the plane with has to be as small and as soft as possible.
Squash the bag and move it around to fit your needs — under the seat, in the pocket of the seat in front of you, or behind your lower back when it starts hurting from sitting down for too long. Versatility is key.
Lay Off the Ice
There’s nothing more refreshing than an ice-cold beverage. More so when you’re stuck on a long flight. However, you might want to avoid requesting any on your next plane ride.
Aside from the fact that the beverage-to-ice ratio in a glass filled with ice can be quite unbalanced, the actual ice cubes are made from the water tank, and the tank might not always be properly cleaned.
Stay Awake and Alert on Takeoff and Landing
It may be tempting to fall asleep as soon as you get on the plane, but you really shouldn’t do that.
Unfortunately, your ears cannot regulate pressure whilst the plane is going up in the air or coming back down to the landing strip at high speeds. Our suggestion? Stay awake and chew gum.
Dress for the Occasion
How you dress at the airport and on the flight is very important. You might want to avoid anything too tight that could potentially squeeze you. Leave the jeans and formal shirts in your luggage even if you’re traveling for business. Clothing is one of the biggest things that can make your flight comfortable, so always be prepared.
Put on some soft and stretchy pants, a baggy t-shirt, a warm sweater because the air conditioning is always on, and a scarf for that added warmth.
The Early Bird Catches the Flight
There’s nothing worse than missing your flight, so skip the traffic and get to the airport early. Although most people already know to do this, there’s no harm in getting another quick reminder. How much time you need to get to the airport before boarding is still debatable.
Some people believe that 3 hours is sufficient and others say you need even more time. Nonetheless, you have to arrive early to steer clear of any unforeseen issues, such as long check-in lines or a slow parking lot trolley.
Lounge Around
If you travel often, you should really consider taking advantage of the lounges at the airport. Some people use their credit cards to do so; others can enjoy the perks through great frequent flyer programs. The most popular card is the American Express Platinum card.
Many airports around North America let you in for free for simply being a cardholder. You might have to pay a small fee at other lounges, but the perks are worth it.
Don't Delay
You can’t always control what happens with your flights, but the data never lies. The reality is, buying an early morning flight means fewer chances of your flight being delayed.
The unspoken rule is that the later you fly, the more likely your flight will be postponed.
Bring on the Layers
This tip emphasizes the value of dressing comfortably for a flight. From the expert’s mouth – layer up. At any given moment, the climate may change, and the temperature in an airplane can go from freezing to scorching hot in a matter of seconds.
That’s why layering is great for travel. So stay prepared. If it gets too hot, you can always use the extra layers as a pillow.
Put Your Best Foot Forward
Your shoes are just as important as the rest of your outfit. You want them to be lightweight and breathable, like a cool breeze on a summer’s day. Stay away from heels or tight formal shoes, as you’ll most likely need to hurry to your gate or through security at some point in time.
You might need to kick off your shoes once you’re on the plane to get more comfortable, so wear a pair that isn’t a hassle to take off and put back on.
Don’t Forget to Check-in
Make your journey as stress-free as possible by getting rid of any check-in stress in advance. Check-in early to avoid any unnecessarily long queues that may be at the airport when you arrive. Simply drop off your luggage at the desk and head straight to security. This gives you more time to do other things, like charging your phone for the last time.
No one wants to be on an 18-hour flight with a dead phone. Make your life even easier by checking in on the airline app. This service is available on most operators.
Stay Away From Fizzy Drinks
Nothing refreshes like a cold Coke or any other soda, for that matter, but if you’re catching a long-haul flight, you might want to steer clear of them. It’s as simple as this; carbonated drinks make you swallow a ton of air.
This is not good for your digestive tract, and the air will come out as a burp or flatulence in the end. Furthermore, when the pilot moves to different altitudes, the air could swell up and cause you pain.
A Simple Trick to Avoid Turbulence
Motion sickness can be a real nightmare, and unfortunately, it impacts a lot more people than you think. While medication can help, you can never take enough precautionary measures. If you have the option of choosing your flight time, do yourself a favor and pick the morning.
Turbulence happens when air rises up, and this will happen as the Earth gets hotter. This also takes place with storms and strong winds. This will usually happen during the day or late in the afternoon.
Pick the Best Seat For You
Picking the right seat on a plane requires a well-thought-out strategy, and everyone’s strategy is different. It all depends on your preference, but there are a few things to remember. For instance, you might like getting up and stretching from time to time, so the aisle seat would be a better option than a window seat.
If you like the view from above or you’d rather sleep most of the flight, then the window seat is perfect. If you want ample space, book a seat in the last row – you’ll be guaranteed a three-seater.
Always Bring Cash
It’s so easy to make payments these days because there are tons of apps and credit cards for everything. Even so, it’s key to always carry small changes in dollars or euros. There are many other services you may need to pay for, such as valet, so physical cash will be useful.
If you want to enjoy some in-flight snacks, you’ll need cash for that. Also, don’t forget to withdraw some local currency at the ATM on your arrival.
Get Your Bag First
One of the worst things about catching a flight is landing and waiting for your bag to appear on the carousel. Nobody wants to do it. It’s difficult to avoid, but we have a simple way of getting around it.
Be one of the last people to check in! That way, your bag is last in, first out. See? Easy.
Don’t Miss Out on Freebies
Everybody knows that being nice will get you better service, but seasoned veterans of travel will tell you to always bring the flight attendants a gift. It doesn’t have to be anything big.
Something as small as a chocolate bar will suffice. Not only will you be getting the best service, but you’ll also enjoy some freebies too.
Baby on Board
Babies are everywhere, and they’re even on flights. Though you can’t avoid having babies on your flight, you can definitely avoid sitting near them. Babies are guaranteed to fuss and cry, and it only gets worse on a long flight.
So you might want to sit far away from the partitions. Parents have no choice but to set their bassinets there, so steer clear of them.
It Doesn’t Hurt to Ask About Seats Again
Sometimes you don’t get the seat you wanted when you check in, but that doesn’t mean there’s no hope. The check-in system might show a full flight, but the agents at the gate will know if there’s absolutely nothing available.
Asking doesn’t hurt. It could be the difference between you getting cramped and you getting an exit seat with plenty of legroom. If you’re lucky, you might even score yourself an empty row.
Leave the Air Turned on
It can be cold on an airplane, but that’s nothing that a few layers can’t help. Though this is the case, it’s important to get the air vents going because it creates a force field around you.
Kind of like Star Trek, but even better. This helps with deflecting diseases from other passengers and helps with dry skin too.
Don’t Travel Without Your Kit
Long-haul flights can be exhausting, so stock up on everything that will make your trip a little more comfortable. A little luxury doesn’t hurt, so be sure to add your favorite things to your onboard kit. Don’t forget the essentials, toothbrush, deodorant, and hairbrush but also pack a sleeping mask and earplugs.
Aromatic pillow mists are great for calming you down. Maybe even spoil yourself with face cream.
Socks Are Essential
If there’s one thing you need to have in your travel kit, it’s socks. The more, the merrier because you will sweat while traveling, and there is nothing worse than having heavy, soggy socks weighing you down.
Bring an extra pair for good measure and put them on as soon as you get on the plane. You will feel fresh and cozy the whole trip.
Bring on the Snacks
There’s never enough food on the plane, and you want to be prepared. Flights can be long and tedious, and sometimes all you want to do is munch on something. Channel your inner Cookie Monster by packing your own snacks. These need to be able to keep you going the whole flight.
If possible, try and keep the snacks as healthy as possible. (Though a cookie or two really won’t hurt.) Keep the snacks small, so they don’t take up too much space in your bag.
Get Some Peace and Quiet
Sometimes flights can get noisy, and the last thing you want to do is spend a 16-hour flight listening to a crying baby. Luckily for you, you do not have to put up with it. Pack a pair of silicone earplugs, and you’re good to go — you’ll sleep all night.
Noise-canceling headphones are a great alternative as well; they’re good for listening to your favorite music.
Quench Your Thirst
Plane air can be a nightmare, and you will become very dehydrated if you don’t watch your water intake. To battle the dry and air-conditioned air, keep taking in fluids as frequently as possible. Water is freely available on long-haul flights, so feel free to ask the flight attendants for water every hour, even if there is no food service going by.
Avoid coffee, alcohol, and anything with a lot of sugar, like the plague. These will dehydrate you even more than the air-conditioned air.
Back Seats Are the Best Seats
If you don’t have a seat preference on a long flight, we suggest booking one at the back. It can be a little noisy when the flight attendants are working, but you’ll get better service.
They might even offer you more things because there’s a rule not to walk around with special things as there isn’t enough for everyone, so they’ll want to get rid of it quickly.
Don’t Go on Family Routes
If you have the option of choosing your own layover or connecting flight, we strongly suggest avoiding any of the usual family routes. For example, flights to Orlando may mean a family trip to Disney World.
You might not always be able to avoid them, but it doesn’t hurt trying, so you can get good sleep and peace of mind on your flight.
Bring Your Own Cup
One of the best things to do when traveling on a plane is to bring your own reusable water bottle or coffee cup. Flight attendants will be more than happy to fill it up with water or coffee and tea if you make a request.
It’s the best thing to bring with you. You won’t need to wait for food service to get drinks, and you can enjoy a warm beverage all flight long.
Catch a Movie
Long-haul flights do have entertainment systems on board, but you can always make your experience better by watching something on your tablet or laptop. The screen quality on flight entertainment can be horrible, and this can ruin the whole movie for you.
Stock up on your favorite movies and TV shows to fully enjoy the experience. You also don’t have to listen to passenger announcements that can break your focus while watching.
A Tip to Finding Cheaper Flights
Cookies on your browser track your internet usage patterns, so they know each and every website that you visit. This can be a massive disadvantage if you continue searching for the same flights.
These cookies let companies know that you’re looking to buy, which makes them mark up the price every time you check again. Private browsing or the Incognito window will be your best friend. Utilize them to avoid high costs.
Fragile: Handle With Care
People who travel often know what bags go through, and they know not to pack any valuables. However, if you must carry something valuable, mark your bag as fragile.
At the very least, this will ensure that your bag is handled with care. If you’re lucky, it might even be on top of the pile.
Dress to Impress and Get an Upgrade
This might not always work, and it’s definitely not a foolproof plan, but if you get to the airport early, in a well-put-together outfit, and with a happy and cheery attitude, you could get some perks.
If you fail, you can just tell the check-in attendant that you’re on honeymoon if you’re traveling with someone. You might just get lucky.
Plan Ahead for Jet Lag
You can try and intercept your jet lag before the flight. You just need to adjust to a new schedule.
Picking flights that arrive in daylight and having an early night before you fly also helps.
Podcast to Last
Worried your battery life won’t last long? No need to be. Videos can consume a lot of your battery life, but there’s a great alternative, podcasts. They hardly use up any battery, and you’ll be enjoying them for hours. Download as many as you’d like to keep you busy during your flight.
Keep your options open by downloading a wide variety of topics. You never know what will pique your interest on the plane.
Make the Load Easier – Carry Less on the Plane
If you’re taking a long flight, you might feel the need to carry more stuff, but the reality is you don’t need it. One carry-on will more than suffice. If you’re a parent, you might get a pass, though.
However, it’s better for you and the plane to carry a light load because planes can get overloaded, which impacts the plane’s ability to maneuver in the air. Figure out what’s important to you and pack light.
Get Some Work Done
Long flights can be boring, but not everyone can sleep through them. There are many ways to entertain yourself, but sometimes being productive and getting some work done is the best thing to do.
If your laptop is already there, why not? Additionally, it’ll make you look really cool on the flight.
Stay Away From Plane Blankets
Long-haul flights will always have blankets and pillows on hand, but if you care about hygiene, don’t accept them. They hardly get washed and they are used by many other passengers.
This is not the best decision for your health, especially if you’re sensitive to skin conditions or any other ailments. It’s simpler and better to just bring your own.
Jog First Thing in the Morning to Avoid Jet Lag
If you’re traveling internationally, you’ll most likely get jet-lagged. Nobody likes it, and everyone thinks there is no escaping it, but that’s false. You can combat it by going for an early jog on the first morning of your trip.
Since the sun will be out, the boost of vitamin D will help your body adjust to the new schedule.
Always Be Kind to the Staff
This should be obvious, but not everyone does this. Always be kind to the flight attendants and all the other people working in the service industry. You can always take this a step further by learning their name.
You’ll probably get preferential treatment, and both of you will be happy.
Have a Heart-to-Heart
Most people would rather keep to themselves on a flight, but people who travel often might like getting to know new people. You might find yourself on a flight with someone who likes to chit-chat, and they could be really interesting, but you’d have to indulge them with a conversation to find out. Getting to know someone new is fun, so make the most of your long-haul flight.
You’ll be stuck next to someone for hours so make it count. But you don’t want to bother anyone, so keep having conversations with those that are keen.
Be Unbothered
Some people can be really friendly on planes, but others not so much. If you’re one of those that doesn’t want to be bothered, get your mean face ready. Most people will stop disturbing you if you give them the “death glare.”
Nobody will want to come near you, but that’s exactly what you want such a good job.
Take It Easy
So many blunders can happen when you travel. Flights get delayed more often than you think; you can be seated next to someone who has no understanding of personal space and even more disastrous things.
But half the time, you cannot change these things, so it’s better to just relax. In situations like these, a good attitude is the best attitude.
Go Against the Grain
As most of us know, the majority of people are right-handed. The world is designed for right-handed people, and people tend to be inclined to move toward their dominant hand.
If you want to avoid long lines, you need to go against the grain and take a left if there’s a fork. Everything will be a lot faster.
Stretch a Little
Regular stretching on a long-haul flight is extremely beneficial to your overall health. Sitting for a long period of time will do some serious damage to your spine, so you want to make sure you’re getting as much movement in your body as possible.
This is also good for your blood flow as the flow of blood to your limbs can be obstructed. A few basic stretches in the aisle every hour can make the world of difference. Be sure to keep it up, and soon others will join you.
Turn on Your Phone Notifications
Apps can help you get a lot of information about an airport and other travel essentials. Applications like Trak-A-Line will help notify you of long lines.
There are a ton of other apps as well that can help you with traffic alerts and getting to the airport on time. This just makes the experience a lot easier and puts your mind at ease.
Be Respectful to Everyone Around You
Though you must know how important it is to be kind to the staff, you should also be aware of and polite to the people you are traveling with on the plane.
You might be going through a tough time, or maybe you’re simply exhausted, but you don’t know what’s happening in other people’s lives. Just be mindful of how you treat the other passengers.
Don't Forget Your Scarf
You can never have too many clothing hacks. You might want to keep the frizz and knots at bay by the time you land, so keep your hair wrapped up in a scarf. Not only is it practical, but it’s also really chic. Long-haul flights can be really stressful and, to some, exhausting, but there are definitely ways to make the journey a lot more comfortable.
Now that you know them, you have no reason to not apply these simple tricks. Less anxiety and more fun – that’s our motto.
Lose the Light
If your plan is to sleep during the flight, be sure to bring a sleep mask with you. Simply putting on a sleep mask and blocking out the light will mentally prepare you for the snooze you’re about to enjoy.
Bring a pair of noise-canceling headphones for an even deeper sleep. That’s what sweet dreams are made of.
Get an Upgrade
If you often travel, stick to the same airline and save miles. Frequent flyers utilize this trick all the time. It’s an easy and cost-effective way to enjoy the finer things in life.
It might start with perks like boarding earlier or enjoying the lounges, and it can lead to you getting the royal treatment.
Use Your Time Wisely
Plan ahead of time what you’ll be doing on the plane. This is one of those things you don’t want to wing because 18 hours in the same place is not the most enjoyable thing. If you get anxious or nauseous during the flight, do something relaxing that’ll get your mind off the fact that you’re thousands of miles up in the air.
Another great way to spend time on a flight is to read. Catch up on your favorite book and be in the moment.
Pamper Yourself
Personal hygiene on a long-haul flight usually goes right out the window about a few hours in. Keeping the essentials like a toothbrush, floss, facial cream, and a sheet mask close by is sure to make the trip a little more comfortable. It’ll also build your confidence.
Put on a sheet mask, close your eyes, and let all your worries melt away.
Pack All Chargers
Before you leave the house, double-check (or even triple-check) you packed all of the chargers for your smartphone, iPad, Kindle, or whatever else you're taking with you that needs to be charged.
Those who forget a charger and have to get one at the airport will pay a lot more than it's worth. Now you won't start wandering around the stores, going off-budget before even leaving the country.
No to Screens, Yes to Paper
The blue light emitting from most standard screens often plays unkind games with our ability to fall asleep.
If you are counting on successfully dozing off for at least some of the duration of the flight, focus your other pastime activities on non-screen activities. A book/magazine and some crossword puzzles are a good place to start.
Pre-Game at the Supermarket
Airport stores are unbelievably pricey, so if you don't feel like paying an arm and a leg for a little bag of trail mix, make sure you visit a regular grocery store before setting foot at the airport.
Stock up on light snacks and bring an empty water bottle or two.
Consider the Lounge
If you know you'll have many dead hours (or even a day) to spend at the airport, an all-day lounge pass could be your best friend. Most airlines sell those passes for about $50, which may not be that expensive when you learn that Americans spend an average of $141 per person whenever they walk into an airport.
Your airline lounge is located away from the flashy stores and temptations around, making it easier for you to hold on to your cash. Plus, it's comfortable and equipped with food, drinks, and wifi.
Look Around for Entertainment
Many airports around the world offer some forms of entertainment or attractions for free. Art exhibitions, play areas for kids, and musical performances.
Do your homework and try to find out what kind of freebies your airport has to offer. You might have some walking to do from one attraction to another, but you have some time to burn until your plane leaves anyway.
Slippers Are Your Friends
The temperature inside an airplane needs doesn't have much wiggle room. There is a lot of physics to it, and we don't know enough about physics to argue with it.
Oftentimes, it means that you'll either be too hot or too cold, or just plain uncomfortable. To that end, a pair of your favorite slippers in your carry-on will help you regulate your body temperature and keep you cozy.
Bring a Small Bag
If you're the kind of person who keeps everything in his/her pockets, this one's for you. Normally, good pockets will help you travel light and avoid carrying a big bag, but planes are a different story.
Since you'll be sitting down most of the time and given that your carry-on is in the overhead compartment, you probably don't feel like getting up whenever you need your wallet, bubblegum, or the USB key on your keychain. Get a little bag to fit all those items in and stick it in the pocket of the seat in front of you as you buckle up.
Plan Your Bathroom Breaks
Waiting in line for the aircraft bathroom is no fun. This is why you want to carefully plan your trips to the toilet when you can. It is less likely to have a long line to the bathroom right after takeoff (of course, only after the seatbelt sign is turned off) and before the crew starts rolling out the drink cart.
Time your visits to the potty palace, and you can do your business in peace. Just know that if you don't leave after 20 minutes, a staff member will have to knock and make sure everything is in order.
Always Sanitize
If you have a fragile immune system, traveling by plane might be your worst nightmare. Being in a confined space with so many strangers means you are hanging out with a lot more bacteria than you like.
Make sure to pack hand sanitizer or alcohol wipes, and wipe down your armrest, folding table, and anything else you might want to touch. You don't know just how many people have touched it before. Or if those people even sneeze into their elbows like responsible adults.
Self Reliance
The staff is busy — mainly busy serving the dozens of other people on the plane. This means they come in contact with loads of other individuals who may have been less than sanitary.
Try being as self-sufficient as possible and bring your own snacks. This way you are the only person handling them, and you also free yourself up from the confines of the crew's service schedule.
Opt for the Smallest Bag
You are sitting in the same place for hours on end, and, at some point, no legroom in the world will be enough. You need to be smart about the way you utilize your space, and that means the personal bag you board the plane with has to be as small and as soft as possible.
Squash the bag and move it around to fit your needs — under the seat, in the pocket of the seat in front of you, or behind your lower back when it starts hurting from sitting down for too long. Versatility is key.
Hack Your Biological Clock
Not everybody has been blessed with the ability to fall asleep on a plane. For some of us, if we aren't lying down on a cushy surface, our bodies just can't nod off. One way to go around that mechanism is to brush your teeth on the plane.
You see, brushing your teeth is part of your pre-bedtime routine anyway (at least we hope it is), so doing it on the plane will send your body the message it's time to catch some Zs.
Mind Your Skin
Taking good care of your skin is essential no matter what altitude you're in. While flying, though, you'll need to consider what all that dry air means for your beauty routine. Sure, we all want to look our best as we venture into new places, but we'd advise against wearing makeup on the flight.
Instead of clogging your pores with cosmetics, invest in keeping your skin hydrated with a serum and moisturizer. A dab of chapstick on your lips will also help.
Eye Hydration Is Totally a Thing
The eyes are the windows to the soul, and it seems like the soul of anyone on a plane is dry. So incredibly dry. The dry air on an aircraft can take a toll on passengers' eyes, leaving them dryer than a month-old cracker.
Our advice? Have some eye drops in your carry-on bag. (As long as it's 100ml or less, airport security shouldn't mind.) Once your eyes start to itch, apply some drops and watch the other dry-eyed passengers wish they were you.
The Blanket Buckle
Throughout the flight, the cabin crew walks around the aisles and checks that everyone has their seatbelts on. If you're sleeping with your blanket over the seatbelt, one of the flight attendants will wake you up to make sure you are, indeed, buckled in, which can really mess up your iffy-already sleep. No fun.
What you can do to avoid that is simple — just cover yourself up with your blanket first, and only then buckle yourself up OVER it. Problem solved.
Make Sure Everything's Charged
People, who rely on the airplane's entertainment system, who are you? Do you have any regrets over any other life decisions? It's no secret that in-flight entertainment isn't exactly prime HBO content and that the screens aren't super HD.
Anyway, if you're anything like us, your own entertainment device would be the first thing you pack. Our advice, though, would be to line up all your chargeable and juice them the night before your flight to ensure they have enough battery to carry you through your air journey.
Opt for Audio Over Video
Looking at screens may be entertaining — there are movies to see, TV shows to watch, and websites to surf. However, looking at screens may also irritate your eyes and make it harder for you to fall asleep if you so desire.
If you can, try to steer clear of flickering screens and consume your entertainment in the form of podcasts. If the podcaster's voice is nice enough, it might even lull you to sleep, making it a win-win.
Watch Out
So yeah, this tip concerns your watch, and we know the title is pretty much the most basic dad joke, but we are only human. We cannot avoid an obvious pun when we get the opportunity.
Anyway, if you're flying across different time zones, in order to better acclimate yourself with your destination, reset your watch to your destination's the second you go on the plane and start adjusting early.
Keep the Kids Entertained
Going on vacation with your little ones? Then you need to prepare yourself for long hours of keeping them nice and busy, so they don't bother you or your fellow passengers.
There is the usual stuff like a phone or an iPad with games or pre-downloaded shows, but we'd also suggest packing some books, coloring books with markers, origami if they're into it, and, of course, some extras of their favorite snacks.
Get on Your Neighbors' Good Side
It's no secret that traveling with little kids can attract some unwanted side glance from displeased fellow passengers.
In order to maintain a good relationship with your in-flight neighbors, little prep packages with a little treat and a note that says you're sorry in advance for any discomfort your little ones might cause throughout the flight. Your neighboring seats would be a lot kinder and more understanding once they realize the parents are doing their best.
No English Please
Not in the mood for striking up a conversation with your neighbor? We can't blame you. Not all people are worth conversing with. In order to make sure each of you keeps to your respective side of the armrest, just pretend not to speak English if they try chatting you up.
Just start by shrugging and saying, "No English." What other language you do pretend to speak is totally up to you. Honestly, gibberish could also work if your accent is convincing enough.
Dental Hygiene Is No Joke
Having some dental floss with you is just a good habit. On a plane, though, a piece of dental floss can make or break your entire air journey experience. After the food has been all served and eaten, some pieces of it might still be stuck in your teeth, making every bit of interaction with the crew or fellow passengers incredibly awkward.
Do yourself a favor and discretely clean your teeth after you're done eating. This tip obviously also applies to your life on the ground.
Seating Arrangements
Going on a trip with a group of friends or family members? Your instinct might be to get seats that are all in the same line so you can be together, but you might want to resist it. We don't mean you should be sitting away from one another; we just mean there is a smarter way of sitting together.
Instead of lining up, which means those sitting at the ends are actually really far apart, try sitting in couples or trios behind one another. Now everyone can talk to everyone, and handing over snacks is a lot easier.
Don't Shy Away From Chemicals
A great deal of the tips on this list is about helping you spend a significant amount of time sleeping on the plane. There are home remedies and hacks around biological mechanisms, but it is now when we state the obvious — there is no shame in taking a sleeping pill.
Just check for dosage and usage to make sure you are taking the amount appropriate for your weight and the duration of your flight, and enjoy some shut-eye.
Active All Day Sleepy All Night
Flying the red-eye? To make absolutely sure you get to sleep after takeoff, plan the 24 hours prior to boarding the plane accordingly. This means you should try to wake up early and make sure to stay active all day.
Those who work hard during the day will be rewarded with sleeping hard during the night no matter what means of transportation they're on.
Manage Your Docs
Flying involves an immense amount of bureaucracy. Other than your passport, there are so many documents you need to keep track of, and demanding a single human brain to do that is just asking for trouble.
To make sure your papers are all in order, start a document checklist. It can be on your phone or in your favorite cloud account. Don't forget to tick items off when the tasks are done and to always keep a printed copy of everything somewhere accessible.
Plan Your Layover
Does your air travel include switching planes? Try to make the most out of your layover, depending on how long you have to spend between flights.
If you don't have much time, look into the kind of services and entertainment the airport has to offer. If you have a few hours to spare, do your homework and check out attractions by the airport in the layover country and go exploring!
Scheduling Business
Going on a business trip? Your time at the destination must be ridden with meetings and appointments. If you have some control over your schedule, try to keep the errands f the first day to a minimum.
The first 24 hours after landing are crucial for adjusting to the new location; plus, you can never know if a flight will get delayed. Just give yourself some buffer time before diving into your important work business.
Never Take Toilet Paper for Granted
Going to the bathroom on an airplane is not always a very pleasant experience, but it is sometimes inevitable. While the cabin crew does whatever it can to make sure the passengers' needs are met, they can't predict everything. Like the time when the toilet paper runs out.
In order to keep yourself covered in that area, put a pack of tissues in your carry-on. You make are in charge of your own destiny.
Hit Refresh
Oh, if only there was a refresh button we could use on ourselves. We would definitely love to have that kind of button with us on long flights. What we can do instead, though, might carry your dignity through to your destination.
In your personal bag, pack some wet wipes, deodorant, mouthwash, and even body spray. A few minutes in the bathroom with these babies, and you'll be fresher than anyone else on the aircraft.
Let It Roll
With the threat of delayed flights or long lines, we can’t always guarantee that you’ll make it to your destination looking or feeling fresh. That said, by rolling your clothes, at least your clothes will arrive at their destination looking their best.
Frequent travelers swear by rolling (instead of folding) to ensure clothes stay wrinkle-free. Not only does rolling packed clothing prevent wrinkles, but rolled-up clothes take up less space, meaning you can pack more in the same luggage — perfect for unexpected outfit changes during your trip!
Members Only
While traveling can be an amazing and life-changing experience, it can also be an expensive one. When it comes to planning a trip, hotels and other costs can quickly add up.
One unexpected way to save money is to research if there are any travel perks with your existing association memberships, such as AAA or AARP. These memberships often offer discounts on hotels, restaurants, and other tourist attractions. These little-known perks can result in big savings on your next trip.
Pockets Full of Storage
When it comes to bringing all of your possessions on a trip, especially when you have a long connecting flight, being smart about storage makes all the difference. One way to ensure that you have room for all your small items is by traveling with cargo pants or a jacket with many pockets.
Cargo pants offer tons of storage for small items like socks or other things, leaving room for other important items in your carry-on or backpack. Scared of looking like a stereotypical tourist? Ditch the traditional khaki cargo and wear a pair of black discrete ones.
Makeup That Won’t Break Mid-Trip
Whether it's wanting to look perfect in your #VacayVibes pictures or looking your best while waiting for four hours between flights, many of us don’t leave the house, let alone for a trip, without our trusty cosmetics bags.
But all that travel and moving around can easily result in a broken powder compact or cracked eyeshadow palette — and that would be a travel nightmare. An easy solution? Place a thin cotton round on top of the powder product to act as a cushion during your travels; just make sure the compact is completely sealed before tossing it into your cosmetics bag!
Waterproof Shoes for Unexpected Rain
Depending on where you’re traveling, the weather can change pretty quickly, leaving you struggling to know what to pack. One good way to avoid having to pack an additional (and might we add, very heavy) pair of rain boots is by packing waterproof shoes.
Though many people buy products specifically designed to waterproof shoes, if you can’t buy or find that product but still need to waterproof your shoes, you can use beeswax. Beeswax provides the perfect protective film that repels water, keeping your feet dry and making traveling and waiting easier.
Candy Containers With Multiple Uses
Besides providing much-needed breath freshening before and after a long flight, that little container of tic-tac mints can actually be really handy during your flights. Many travelers swear by these plastic containers to hold bobby pins, safety pins, or other small items. You never know what you might need.
If you’re not a fan of mints, have no fear; any small container or even an empty medicine bottle can work just as well when it comes to storing travel necessities. Not only are you recycling, but you’ll be thankful for this travel organization hack when you get to your destination.
Stand Out in a Good Way
When it comes to traveling, most people don’t really want to stand out. But one area in which you should go all out is when it comes to putting an identifying item on your luggage.
The similar colors, brands, and styles of luggage can often result in travelers getting lost in a sea of black luggage with tiny identifying tags. Avoid the headache and confusion by buying luggage in a bright color or tying a brightly colored ribbon onto your suitcase to easily identify it when it comes around the luggage carousel.
Always Be Prepared
Even on a good day, travelers always run the risk of their checked luggage not arriving at their final destination. During the holidays or during other peak travel seasons, the likelihood of missing or delayed luggage increases even more.
For this reason, you should always pack a spare change of clothes in your carry-on. Extra pairs of socks and underwear are also a good idea if it takes the airline several days to locate your belongings. Having a spare change of clothes can also be a quick way to freshen up after a long-haul trip.
Packing Lists
When traveling, one of the most common questions travelers ask is, “what do I need to pack?” Well, the days of being clueless when it comes to packing are over, thanks to modern technology.
Frequent travelers have long relied on spreadsheets with a set packing list to stay organized. Going somewhere new or with a different set of customs or religious beliefs? Simply google the recommended packing list for that specific city or country. Fellow travelers usually love to share their packing tips or recommended packing lists based on their experience, so take advantage of their knowledge.
The Multi-Tasking Must-Have
While there are many travel necessities that have multiple uses, one of the best items you can pack for your trip is a light shawl. It is a must when it comes to long-haul flights.
Not only does a light shawl double as a sarong or even towel on a beach trip, but it can make a quick blanket for chilly flights or public transportation with strong air conditioning. Shawls or other coverups are also a necessity when visiting certain religious sites in order to be respectful or gain entry. You can even fold or roll up the shawl to make a simple pillow for some much-needed mid-travel naps.
Ick-Free Travel
Not to scare you, but one of the most germ-ridden items during your trip is your shoes. From maneuvering around airports to running around some less-than-sanitary outdoor markets, your shoes get quite the workout during a trip.
That’s why we suggest storing your shoes in an actual shoe bag or, at the very least, a plastic bag from a grocery store. Separating your shoes from your clothing is a good way to keep your items clean during a trip. Can't find a plastic bag? Some travelers simply use the hotel’s provided shower caps to wrap around their shoes!
Two Is Better Than One
While traveling can be a great experience, there’s also, unfortunately, an experience that many travelers dread — being pickpocketed, not only while wandering the streets but also at the airport.
One way to stop their plans is by using a decoy wallet also known as a mugger’s wallet. Decoy wallets can help in situations where you’re told to hand over your valuables. Many travelers fill their decoy wallets with small amounts of cash, expired bus passes, and even old receipts to make them look more believable.
Keep Clothes Smelling Fresh
Let's be honest; after a few days of traveling, things can get a bit stinky. And when you are traveling back home with a connection flight, things can get extremely stinky. From long hikes to even spending entire days exploring a city, it's only natural that our clothes will pick up some rather unpleasant smells.
To keep things more fresh than funky, a good travel hack is to throw in a couple of fabric softener sheets into your luggage. Not only do these dryer sheets impart a nice fresh scent, but gently rubbing one against your clothes can actually prevent annoying and embarrassing static cling.
Beware of People Being “Too Nice”
Though every country has its own communication styles, it's generally suggested to be suspicious of anyone being TOO nice to you on your travels. When you find yourself in the airport waiting for our next bonding announcement, pay attention to what is happening around you.
People placing bracelets or jewelry on you, stopping you to ask directions, or making small talk often either want you to pay for something or are distracting you while another person pickpockets you. It goes without saying that you should never accept food or beverages from a stranger, as this is also a common tactic to take advantage of tourists. Ultimately, it's better to be considered standoffish but stay safe.
Have a Plan
Having a night out on the town during your trip can be fun, but it can sometimes leave you vulnerable to price gouging. Many tourists don't take the time to learn about a particular airport's public transportation system, which is supposed to take them home.
Finding yourself at the airport after the buses or subway has stopped running can mean that your only option is a pricey taxi cab, and locals are often more than happy to take advantage! Before anything, familiarize yourself with the airports' public transportation.
The Life-Saving Travel Must-Have
As you pack for a trip, it's easy to focus on the stuff you want to take versus the things you "need" to take. And while it’s important to leave room in your luggage for that perfect outfit, flashlights are an invaluable travel necessity in the case of an emergency. At the airport too.
There are many stories of travelers being caught off guard during emergencies in waiting for lounges as fires where the electricity has been cut off, forcing them to navigate their way out in the darkness. When in doubt, pack a small keychain-sized flashlight just in case!
Take the Guesswork Out of Bag Sizes
As airlines get more and more specific, particularly when it comes to luggage dimensions, buying luggage for your trip can quickly become a confusing nightmare. Thankfully, some luggage manufacturers are actually making luggage that corresponds with the unique dimensions required by certain airlines.
Amazon can be a great place to find these bags. Just make sure to check the website before you purchase your bag, as these requirements can sometimes change. Getting the correct size luggage can save you time and money as you won’t have to pay additional fees for oversized bags.
Keep Your Jewelry Detangled With This Tip
After you’ve packed the essentials like your passport and other documents, it’s time to focus on the fun stuff — clothing and accessories. But while it can be nice to bring your favorite jewelry pieces, it’s not fun to spend hours trying to detangle a mess of accessories.
Keep your jewelry organized and tangle-free by fully extending your necklaces or bracelets and then wrapping them in plastic cling wrap. The cling wrap is not only lightweight and bulk-free, but it ensures an extra layer of protection for your special pieces.
Get Two Trips for the Price of One!
When it comes to traveling, many of us are trying to get the most bang for our buck. One clever way to maximize your travel experience is by booking a ticket with a long layover in another city.
Depending on the hours of the layover, you may be able to leave the airport and tour an entirely different city and possibly even stay overnight before reporting back to the airport. Just keep in mind the distance between the airport and your city, and leave enough time for security and other pre-boarding procedures.
Double-Bag and Tape Toiletries
Known as the “mystery leak,” many people open their luggage only to find that their clothes and other belongings are soaked with some strange liquid. The culprit? Usually, a bottle of shampoo or other toiletries exploded or leaks during travel.
Between changes in air pressure and overly rough baggage handlers, the possibilities of a cap unscrewing or bottle breaking are great. Using tape to seal caps and then wrapping those taped-up bottles in large waterproof plastic bags will ensure that your suitcase stays dry and your shampoo lives to see another day.