Has it been a little while since you have boarded a plane? With more travelers taking to the skies again, you will want to keep these 10 tips in mind before your next flight!
1. Do Your Homework
If you are required to present a negative COVID-19 test before you board, ensure that you know exactly when you should take the test for it to be accepted (sometimes within 24 hours) so you can meet the requirements of your home country, destination, or airline. You can stay up to date on the latest developments by reviewing alerts provided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and the World Health Organization (WHO) websites.
2. Check In The Day Before Online or On the Airline’s App
Some airlines allow you to check in online the day before or even on their app. This can save you a little time at the airport. Once you’re there this will usually allow you to head straight to the luggage drop – one less line to wait in. Your Airline’s App can be useful in checking for any updates or gate changes the day you travel too!
3. Get There Early
It may seem like a drag but getting to the airport early allows you plenty of time to navigate longer lines and wait times. Just pack your patience too! You will be happy to have time to get through check in and security without having to run to the gate.
4. Get Comfy
With all the time you’ll be spending at the airport and on the plane, be sure to dress comfortably. You will want to ensure you wear comfy footwear that’s easy to take on and off, and socks so you don’t have to walk through security barefoot. You also never know how cold or warm a plane is going to be, so be sure to dress in layers so you’re prepared for anything. Consider bringing along a light blanket or neck pillow too.
5. Weigh Your Bags
Don’t wait until you get to the airport to find out your checked bag is overweight! Grab a handheld luggage scale so you can check the weight before you depart, and if you have room, pack it so you can check again on your way home!
6. Strategically Pack Your Carry On
Even if you have a large checked bag, you will want to still be strategic in what you pack and how you pack your carry on. Although travel insurance can reimburse you for items you may need to purchase if your luggage is delayed for a specified period of time, your carry on should still include an extra set of clothes, and items you may need while waiting to check into your accommodation, like a bathing suit if you plan on hitting the pool! Consider what you would definitely need if your luggage was delayed and try to pack it in your carry on if it meets the restrictions. Make sure your boarding pass, passport, and any other documents are safe but accessible too! Remember all liquids packed in your carry on need to fit in a quart-sized bag, and the individual container sizes must be 3.4 ounces or less.
7. Stay Hydrated
Not only will you want to keep your skin hydrated with a good moisturizer, and pack a Chapstick, you will want to make sure you stay hydrated with water! Although you cannot bring a full water bottle through security at the airport, you may be able to bring an empty collapsible one. Simply fill once you’re through security, or purchase a bottle of water at the airport.
8. Charge It Up
Be sure your devices are fully charged before you leave for the airport and pack your charger. An external battery can be useful too, just ensure its allowed by your airline. If you need an adapter at your destination, it’s best to pack one of those as well so you have a backup if your accommodations do not provide enough for you.
9. Pack Your Masks and Sanitizer
Airports and airlines still require masks so be sure to pack them and some extras too. It’s a good idea to have a dedicated bag to store any reusable worn masks in until you have the opportunity to wash them. Disinfecting wipes and hand sanitizer (just make sure it’s within the liquid limits!) can be extremely useful too.
10. Find Your Recommended Travel Insurance
You can never be too prepared for your next trip and travel insurance is the ultimate peace of mind! For a small fraction of your travel budget, you can easily protect your investment.
TravelInsuranceMaster.com recommends the best plan and value for your next trip from the world’s leading travel insurance providers in just 3 easy steps. If you’re looking for specific benefits like Cancel for Any Reason, Adventure Sports Coverage, Emergency Medical, Trip Delay, and more, you can choose those filters to narrow down the plans and find the best one for your next trip.
It’s never too early to shop for travel insurance either! Even if you haven’t paid for your trip in full yet, you can request a quote and purchase insurance as soon as you put down your initial trip deposit. TravelInsuranceMaster.com will email you your plan details as soon as you complete your purchase, that way you can get back to the fun part – packing, planning, and preparing for your next plane adventure!
Just make sure you read fine print for this $20 insurance. It may be very limited and does not cover what you expect. Comprehesive travel insurance would cover not only fligtht but land/cruise portion of your trip and lots of extras like your health during the trip, bagage, trip delays, etc.