Almost everyone will feel a buzz of excitement when they have booked a vacation alone or with their loved ones. However, there could be a pang of dread when you think of the airport experience or a long-haul flight.
With the world still battling the Covid-19 pandemic, it is also natural that you might feel anxious about putting a wrong foot forward during travel. To enjoy your vacation from the moment you arrive at an airport, find out how to prepare for a flight in 2020.
Check Your Passport in Advance
If you are traveling overseas, you must check your passport before you fly to a destination. Many countries will only accept visitors who have a passport that is valid for at least six months. It is also important to be aware that some countries will require passports to have one or more blank pages for a stamp.
Pick the Right Carry-On
No-one wants to drag a heavy carry-on across an airport while waiting for a flight. To make traveling easier, invest in a carry-on that’s durable, lightweight, and multi-functional. It should also be the correct size for an overhead compartment. Plus, you must not overfill it to avoid an expensive charge when checking-in at an airport.
Make a Travel List
The last thing you will want is to arrive at an airport only to realize you have left your passport, travel money, or medication at home. Be sure not to forget one essential item by making a list of all essential items you will need to take with you, such as your credit cards, travel insurance information, passport copies (make sure you don’t need a passport renewal by any means), and boarding passes. Check your list twice before leaving for an airport, which will ensure you have a smooth travel experience.
Organize Airport Parking
Make the travel experience a breeze by organizing airport parking as soon as you have booked your break away. By reserving an airport parking spot many weeks before a flight, you’ll have peace of mind that you can park your car, grab your luggage, and make your way to a terminal with ease. It can take away some of the stress in the runup to a flight, which can get your vacation off to the best possible start.
Understand the New Airport Rules
The travel experience will likely be a little different this year due to the Covid-19 pandemic. It is vital for your own and others’ safety to understand the new rules at each airport you visit.
For example, you must maintain social distancing during check-in, at security, and throughout a terminal. You also must use the airport’s handwashing facilities or hand sanitizer stations. Don’t forget to take a face-covering, as they must be worn throughout the airport terminal.
If you are unsure about the rules at an airport, call their customer service team for advice. It will provide confidence that you won’t make a mistake when you check-in for a flight.
Make Your Flight Comfortable
Limited legroom and uncomfortable seats on a plane can turn a dream vacation into a living nightmare. Unless you are traveling first class, you can’t guarantee a comfy flight. There are, however, ways to make your flight more comfortable, as you could:
- Bring earplugs to block out noise
- Drink water to stay hydrated and prevent jetlag
- Wear layers to warm up or cool down
- Take a snack to avoid a rumbling stomach
- Choose the right seats in advance
- Pack a neck pillow and blanket in your carry-on
Keep Yourself Entertained on a Plane
While many luxurious airlines will provide high-quality TVs to watch movies and shows, budget flights might offer tiny screens. For this reason, you should bring different forms of entertainment with you, especially if you’re jetting off on a long-haul flight.
For example, you could:
- Read a book
- Listen to music
- Download movies or TV shows onto your tablet or computer
- Complete puzzles
- Play a travel game with your family or friends
It could help the hours to pass you by and might prevent you from feeling restless or bored when flying to or from your vacation destination.
If you follow the above tips, you could enjoy a smooth and hassle-free travel experience that won’t detract from a fun-filled vacation.
