With the holidays just around the corner, many of us will be traveling to spend time with family. Here’s a few tips for making airline travel a little easier.
Use technology to save time. Most airlines let you check in and pay baggage fees online up to 24 hours before departure. This is a great way to avoid surprises at the airport because you’ll already have tickets in hand, confirmed your seats, and have paid baggage fees in advance.
Some airlines now offer the option to use your phone to display tickets. If you are traveling as a family, I recommend avoiding the mobile phone tickets and stick with the paper copies. Phones often can’t display multiple tickets, which you would need to do for your children. Also, mobile tickets can occasionally have glitches (like your phone battery dying or the scanner can’t read the barcode on your screen). Avoid the potential for any issues and just print your tickets at home.
Plan for transportation to the airport. When traveling during the holidays, make sure to allow extra time for parking, as some lots may be full. If your city has good public transportation options, consider taking the bus or light rail to the airport.
When your family comes to pick you up at the airport, have them meet you on the “Departures” level instead of the typical “Arrivals” level (which is usually more congested). Likewise, when traveling outbound in the busy morning hours you will find less congestion by using the “Arrivals” level for drop-off.
Know when to go — the earlier the better. When you have a large family, it never hurts to allocate extra time. Try to arrive at the airport at least two hours before your flight to allow additional time to check in and pass through security. Most airlines require you to be checked in and at the gate and ready to board at least 30 minutes prior to departure.
Know the baggage and carry-on limits. When checking bags, most airlines require you to check luggage at least 40 minutes prior to departure so there is time to screen it and load it onto the plane. If you happen to sleep in, take your bags with you through security (you’ll have to leave behind any liquids over 3 oz). Often times, airlines will give you a complimentary bag check at the gate in order to reduce the amount of overhead bin space being used. This trick is also a nice way to avoid paying baggage fees.
Of course, you should always carry prescription medications, passports, cameras, film, electronics, cash, jewelry, business papers and other valuables in your carry on bags. Never leave these items in your checked luggage.
Be savvy of security screening: Most people are familiar with the need to limit liquids to 3 oz or smaller and to place these items in a clear, quart-sized bag. There are some lesser known exceptions for those traveling with children. For example, children under age twelve can leave their shoes and jackets on when going through the screening, which makes it much easier for parents. There is also an allowance for bringing formula and bottles through security. The TSA’s guide to traveling with children has the latest info.
Thank you to Alaska Airlines for the inspiration behind these travel tips.
Photo via Disney
