Traveling can be a stressful and time-consuming proposition, especially if you are unprepared for the vast lines of fellow travelers, or do not know all the ins and outs of travel prep. Learn how to save time and emotional strain at the airport by following these three simple organizational steps.
1. Check in online. This saves you lots of time at the airport, and sometimes cash too - some airlines now charge a $3 fee or more to check in with an attendant at the airport. Moreover, if you check in online you can see how full your flight is, and change your seat as necessary. You may even be tipped off to possible upgrade options.
Be sure to check your luggage in online as well. Many airlines charge you less per bag by letting them know ahead of time that you have luggage. You can save up to $10 per bag by doing this. That is $20 per bag that you have saved if you check in on your return flight as well. This savings can add up fast for a large family.
2. Make sure your checked bags weigh 50 pounds or less. All airlines charge exorbitant fees for overweight bags, and you do not want to be the person holding up the check-in line by shuffling clothes and cosmetics from one bag to the next. Weigh your bags at home before you leave for the airport. If the weather is cold, wear the bulkiest pants you are bringing onto the airplane. Sometimes even ounces count!
3. Layered clothes drag you down at airport security. Security agents will ask you to remove jackets, coats, and sweaters along with your metal jewelry. This is nonnegotiable. Check these items if you can, or take them off in advance of the security line and stow them in your carry-on bag. If you love your jewelry, stow it in a small plastic bag in your purse, and put it on once you get past security. The airport is also not a great place to wear high boots or shoes with lots of snaps and buckles. Wear slip-on shoes on the plane and save the high fashion for arrival. This is also healthier for you than wearing tight-fitting shoes because you can easily slip off your shoes while sitting in flight to rest your feet.
These three easy tips can save you lots of frustration on your next trip to the airport, and your fellow travelers will thank you for keeping the line moving!
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