15/01/2022
9 Secrets that Will Help Make Air Travel a Little Less Stressful!
If youโve done any traveling at all, you know full well that stress can be an ever-present reality in spite of all of the planning that goes into your trip.
And of course, after all the preparation comes departure day and the rush to get out of the house in order to make it to the airport in plenty of time so as not to miss your flight.
Can all this create stress?
You bet it can and does, but the good news is, there are ways to reduce and even avoid fun-killing stress when preparing for, and while traveling.
By implementing the following tips you can wave goodbye to a lot of tension and replace it with a sense of relaxation before, and after the start of your journey.
Before global pandemics and the lengthy health and security protocols that now exist in airports the world over, if you are like most othersโฆ
The very thought of being at the airport and boarding a plane destined to take you far and wide generated a mountain of excitement and endless smiles.
In fact, walking around an airport taking in all the hustle, bustle and anticipation was almost as exciting as the trip itself.
However, when you fast forward to today, the whole flying experience can be frustrating and emotionally draining, especially if you are not fully prepared.
Find out here what you can do to reduce the aggravation and replace it with peaceful thoughts and feelings of relaxation.
1. Get to the airport early.
Arriving at the last minute most often generates waves of mega stress. By getting to the airport with time to spare will eliminate the feelings of negativity and irritability. At the end of the day, itโs not an ideal way to begin your trip.
Best to not take any risk. Arrive early, relax and enjoy the atmosphere.
2. Use Valet Parking Service
ParknFly is a wonderful and very convenient service, but did you know that for only a few dollars more (online only) you can upgrade to valet parking?
Valet parking gets priority and there are more shuttles from the lot to the airport customers who use this service. Most times you will never have to wait more than eight minutes for a shuttle.
When youโre about to fly home, give them a call from the airport and theyโll have your car warmed up, and waiting for you when you arrive back.
If that wasnโt enough, when you book online you can get discounts for long-term parking.
3. Check-In Online
Instead of waiting until you arrive at the airport, check-in online. This will save you a lot of time by not having to stand in line to check-in at the airport.
4. Carry On Only
Travel light if at all possible and carry-on your bags.
A majority of hotels supply you with shampoo, conditioner as well as soap, and even small tubes of toothpaste. Besides, you can also buy what you need at the gift shop.
5. Packing Your Bags
Think about what you can and canโt bring on the plane with you. The rule to follow isโฆ If you arenโt sure, donโt bring it.
Bear in mind that if you bring any sharp objects, liquids larger than 100ml, or aerosol cans they will be taken away and tossed in the trash by security.
6. Security
When you get to security, have everything you need to show in a plastic bag.
Also, store your computer in a separate canvas shopping bag. This will make it easier for you when going through security and will reduce the weight of your carry-ons.
**NOTE: Beware. Make sure your cell phone, computer, and or iPad are fully charged in the event security asks you to turn them on. If you canโt turn them on, they may not be allowed to come with you.
7. Load Videos, Books, or Music onto Your Phone or IPad
You should never count on the entertainment system working on your flight, therefore itโs a good idea to have your movies, music, and books preloaded on your iPad or phone.
8. Donโt Forget Snacks
Airlines are cutting down on giving passengers complimentary food and drink, so itโs best you bring your own goodies.
This is also a good idea if you have young kids traveling with you.
Children can get grumpy and winey, especially if theyโre hungry and tired. By giving them a favorite treat, you can quickly make them content and relaxed.
9. Cash is King
When you arrive at your destination make your way to the nearest airport ATM and get a couple hundred dollars (or whatever the local currency is) in cash.
Trust me, doing this will make your travels much easier.
When itโs all said and done...
As most seasoned travelers will tell you, do yourself a favor by taking the time you need so you donโt feel pressure at the airport.
Terminals today are getting better with most offering free Wi-Fi, lounge access, and even massages.
So start your vacation off on the right foot by making your time at the airport fun and a stress-free part of your trip.
Until next time, stay safe and have fun.
The Budget Traveler!
P.S. For the lowest airfares and hotel rates available anywhere in the world, contact me.