In the past, the stress of flying abroad generally involved worrying about the flight itself or whether you had forgotten to pack essential items.
These days, however, people worry more about being chosen for that in-depth baggage search and getting through the airport lines in time to catch a flight. It is a sad but true fact that navigating airport security is more of a test than the flight itself.
So how can you get through the airport quickly and easily? Is it still possible to get to your destination on time and with all your bags? Here are some helpful tips that will hopefully make that dream come true!
Tips for packing
Getting through the airport easily starts with packing. Before folding your first shirt, visit your airline’s website to verify current restrictions. Later abide for them! If it says there is no liquid carry-on, don’t try to sneak in some face cream because it’s not “really” liquid. Also check to make sure your bags are the correct size and weight. Remember to double check a day or two before departure, in case something has changed.
Your next concern will be making sure all your bags reach their destination. Tighter security and more frequent bag checks mean there will be more mistakes: lost luggage or (if you’re lucky) bags that are temporarily lost. More and more travelers are even reporting that they find items in their suitcases that don’t belong to them! Fortunately, there are a few things you can do to increase the chances that all of your bags will arrive at the right place:
1. Make your carry-on luggage as small as possible. In fact, if you can, pack everything in a clear plastic bag. This says “I am not dangerous” loud and clear.
2. Use plastic freezer bags to consolidate smaller items in your checked bags and use a permanent marker to write your name and destination on the outside. This will help baggage finders in case of confusion.
3. Include your itinerary in each checked bag, fill in the names, dates and phone numbers where you will be staying.
4. Mark the outside of each bag with something that identifies it as part of a group. I’ve been with groups that used red pom poms (easy to buy at a craft store), and I’ve used colored canvas straps myself. Think about it: if that baggage handler sees five bags with yellow pompoms going to Rome, and he is holding a bag with a pompom, he probably won’t accidentally toss it on the pile to go to Kathmandu!
Now you’ve done everything you can to make sure your bags reach their destination; but the best laid plans of mice and men are not always foolproof. What if the worst happens and your bags are lost or delayed?
Hand comfort
This is where carry-on luggage comes into play. I realize I only recommended taking as little as possible … But if you are really worried about lost bags, I recommend bringing a change of clothes (don’t forget your socks and underwear!) Along with some essentials . In the past, this was where you would buy some small bottles of toothpaste and shampoo to pack in your carry-on. Sadly, those days are over. The good news is that despite the carry-on restrictions, there are are some viable alternatives!
1. The only thing that nobody wants to do without on a 14 hour flight is toothpaste. You can get pre-glued brushes at http://www.dentakit.com/prdito.html”>Dentakit.com for about 50 cents each and throw them away when you’re done. Powdered toothpaste is a great option too. Http : //toothfresh.com/ “> Toothfresh.com has the product itself and some very interesting information on the health benefits associated with this method. You can end up using it all the time!
2. Did you know that you can get a non-liquid shampoo? Consider yourself informed. http://www.jrliggett.com/ “> JR Liggett’s has been selling organic shampoo bar since 1985. In addition to being very hair-friendly, it can be used on the rest of your body … and even your! Clothes! Best of all, it’s eco-friendly.
3. If you are traveling with children, another important item on your list will be sunscreen. Check “http://www.babiestravellite.com/Merchant2/merchant.mvc?Screen=PROD&Store_Code=BTL&Product_Code=BBSBT”> Sun Blankie Towelette “to make sure neither you nor your baby start your vacation with burned skin. SPF 45+, which offers the maximum protection you will need on that sunny Mediterranean beach!
4. Lastly, if you have any medications that you need to carry with you, make sure they are clearly labeled with your name. Liquid medications are generally limited to 4-5 oz.
Well, your “things” are going to make it … now what about you? Do you have a plan to get through the airport quickly and worry-free?
Airport security label
The key to getting through airport security quickly and without much trouble is to follow the rules. Do not get angry; If you are offended, write a letter to your congressman when you get home. But for now, if a man in uniform asks you to do something, do it. Here are some other tips to make sure you are not the one selected for a pat-down:
1. Get there early. They tell you to arrive about three hours early, so do it!
2. Keep your ticket, ID and passport in one place for quick access. I recommend getting something like a passport wallet or ID carrier around your neck. Remember to keep an eye on him at all times.
3. Wear comfortable shoes that slip on and off easily. You will be asked to remove your shoes at least once at the airport, so I recommend slippers, sandals or flip flops. They will also be more comfortable on the plane.
4. Don’t use too many extras; avoid earrings, watches, belts, and pocket coins if you can. If you can’t, remove them ahead of time and put them in your carry-on until you’ve passed the line. Believe me, everyone else will appreciate it!
5. The last and perhaps most important tip for “flying through the airport” is to dress elegantly and simply. Don’t wear T-shirts with ambiguous messages or anything others might see as “creepy” or “scary.” These days, you are likely to be stopped for a search!
Following these tips can seem a bit tedious and detailed when all you want to do is get to your destination. However, I’m sure you’ll agree that it’s worth a bit of hassle ahead of time to get your vacation off to a quick and anxiety-free start. That way, the only thing you’ll have to worry about when you get there is whether you should spend your time exploring or just laying by the pool.
