Are you planning to fly soon? From buying tickets to boarding a plane, it's a new world out there — and it pays to be smart. Increased security, fewer flights, earlier check-ins, luggage limitations: Even if you're not a fearful flyer, getting from point A to point B still can be stressful. Consider taking some of these smart steps the next time you fly.
© Susan Breslow Sardone, licensed to About.com, Inc.Unless you have a complicated itinerary that requires the help of a human travel agent, it couldn't be easier to book a flight online using a major Web travel agent where you can compare prices (e.g.
Kayak, Orbitz). If you have questions or prefer to book offline, choose a Web site that also offers 800-number service (
Expedia,
Travelocity). To save money on a flight when you have a flexible schedule, also check the online discounters (Hotwire,
Priceline.) After you buy, you'll get an eTicket number, which is your purchase confirmation.
When you buy online, it's smart to take the time to click through to a schematic of the interior of the plane with available seats indicated. Click on the one you want, and its location is recorded. That way, you won't arrive at the gate without a seat assignment and end up in the middle seat. Before making a decision, see
choose the best seats when you fly.
3. Print Out Your Boarding Pass Before You Leave Home
Use the check-in page on your airline's Web site, key in your eTicket code, and print a boarding pass from your home computer as long as 24 hours before take-off time. If you're traveling internationally, you will need to enter your passport info as well. The boarding pass bears your name, flight information, and a bar code the flight attendant scans at the gate. If you have luggage, you will still have to stand in line to deposit it before you go through security.4. Hire a Car for Your Trip to the Airport
Parking at an airport can be expensive. And asking someone else to drive you there may be inconvenient. In many cities, mass transit is non-existent or impractical for someone with a suitcase. Although I can hail a taxi on the street where I live, I usually arrange for a private car the day before. The driver arrives a few minutes early in an immaculate black sedan and helps me with my luggage. It doesn't cost much more than a taxi and I am able to put the charge (which includes toll and tip) on my credit card, helpful for record-keeping.5. Bring Something to Eat from Home
With a few first-class exceptions, airline food always has been notoriously bad. Now it's worse. And fewer and fewer airlines are offering sustenance on shorter flights. That means you may get a free beverage and a small bag of pretzels, just a drink, or nothing at all when you fly. If your flight becomes delayed and you haven't eaten, that makes for discomfort. Consequently, airport vendors, from Starbucks to Burger King, are doing tremendous airport business. So much, in fact, that lines can be long and passengers risk missing a flight to acquire victuals, which can be low in nutritional value. The smart solution: Pack your own "care package" before you leave home.One of the stressors of flying -- especially when you must change planes -- is worrying whether your
luggage will arrive the same time you do. If it's a short trip, pare down to the bare essentials and just take a wheeled carry-on that meets your airline's
onboard size and weight requirements.
7. Arrive at the Airport Early
Show up well before your flight departs. For a domestic flight, 75 minutes is recommended. If you're departing from a large airport, add 15 minutes to that. If your flight goes overseas, be at the airport at least two hours in advance. The last thing you want to do is have to find another flight if you can't drop off your luggage in time and can't get to your gate.At check-in, at security, and at the boarding gate you will be asked to show your passport with your boarding pass. Have both pieces handy so that you don't have to dig for them each time. Note: Some countries will not allow you to enter with a passport that has a close expiration date. It's smart to check before you fly, and arrange to get a new passport if necessary.
9. Prepare to Go through Security
If you're carrying a water bottle or other drink, toss it in the trash before you go through security. Your coat, your bag, and in many airports your shoes must be placed in supplied bins that travel on a slow conveyor belt. But that's not all. If you're traveling with a laptop, that will need to be removed from your carry-on and go in its own bin (do keep a close eye on that laptop). And be aware of
TSA liquid restrictions. Keep your boarding pass and your passport in your hand as you walk through the body scanner.
10. Stay Calm
So many people, rushing around. Understaffed bureaus. Long lines. Delayed and cancelled flights. It's a recipe for anxiety, but don't let it get to you. Stay focused on where you need to go, and propel yourselves. Ask questions. And if you're worried you won't get to the gate on time, tell an employee so they can fast-track you. And remind yourselves that you're about to embark on a great trip despite any temporary inconveniences.
