So, you’ve booked your flight and you are ready to jet off! Not so fast. There are some essential steps you must take in order to make traveling a little less stressful.
Before you even pack, check the forecast. Florida is relatively warm in the wintertime, but other places might be colder and may require you to do a bit of shopping before leaving (bummer I know). On the other hand, some places don’t have a winter season in November or December, so you want to make sure you know what to expect of the place you are visiting.
Pack a change of clothes in your hand luggage, just in case your luggage is lost or arrives to your destination after you have arrived.
Aside from knowing the weather of your destination, knowing the time difference is important. You might be leaving Florida at 2 p.m., but arriving at your destination at 11 a.m. the next day. Cue the jetlag!
You might also want to create a mock itinerary. This can be a list of things you would like to do while visiting. Including the prices of the activities can also be helpful if you are trying to stick to a budget.
I have also complied a list of pre, during and post-flight tips to provide a safe and enjoyable trip!
Avoiding the pre-flight chaos.
- Knowledge is power, and in this case what will get you on your flight.
Make sure you go over the luggage rules before you arrive at the airport. This may vary depending on if your flight is international or domestic.
- Passport? Check
Ensure that you have all necessary documents to fly and that they are valid.
- The flight will leave with or without you.
Plan to arrive at least two hours before your flight is set to depart.
Up, up and away…
- You found your set. Hooray!
Bring multiple things to keep you busy. Maybe a book you never had time to read during your busy semester, or download some movies you never got around to watching. Sometimes the on board entertainment can be rather boring.
- Keep your bladder in mind.
Drinking too much can cause you to need to use the rest room frequently. Depending on which seat you are in it can get difficult to continue to stand up and leave.
- Pillow and blanket not included.
Many times you will not be provided with these items, bring smaller travel pillows and blankets if this is something you know you will want to have on board.
[Layovers can take forever, but they also give you the chance to explore a new airport! So take advantage of that]
Land!
- Customs, again.
As you wait in line to go through customs, read the signs. Find out what you will be asked to present to the airport security. It will save you time.
- Claiming your luggage.
Be careful not to grab someone else’s luggage on accident. Sometimes tying different colored bows or ties to the luggage will help make the process of picking up your luggage quick and accurate.
- Have additional travel arrangements made.
If you are not being picked up by friends or family members, have your airport to home or hotel travel arrangements set. Airports are packed during the holiday’s and prior preparation is key to getting to your loved ones quicker.
Use these as guidelines and you will be well on your way to a wonderful holiday break!
