Air travel doesn’t have to be a stressful experience. From the moment you book your Delta Airlines tickets, follow the tips we’ve listed here so you’ll arrive at your destination relaxed, rested and ready for anything.
1. Download Your Airline’s App
Use the app to check-in ahead of time so that when you arrive at the airport, you don’t have to line up at the check-I desk. Plus, you may even get perks. For example, Southwest and Alaska airlines offer onboard flight entertainment for free if you avail of it through their apps.
2. Check Your Seating Situation
Do you like a window seat or would you prefer an aisle seat? Do you want to sit close to the toilet or the door? These things have to be considered before you choose your seats.
3. Be Organized.
Keep all your flight information, passport and other travel documents in one place. There are apps you can use for consolidating all these details like check-in times, gate numbers and flight status.
4. Know TSA Guidelines.
Take a few minutes to go through the TSA rules on liquids here as well as their list of prohibited items. Basically, liquids should be less than 100ml (3.4 ounces) and placed in a clear plastic bag.
5. Sign Up for PreCheck.
This is particularly useful if you travel regularly. A TSA PreCheck costs about $85 to signup and with it there’s no more full body scans, you don’t have to remove your shoes and belt at security check, and you can even leave your laptop in your bag. You can also pay for Global Entry ($100) which ensures expedited immigrations and customs access.
6. Know the Airline’s Size Limits for Carry-Ons and Checked Luggage.
Many airlines have strict guidelines and if your bag exceeds this limit, you could end up paying a sizeable fee for your luggage.
7. Join the Airline’s Frequent Flyer Program
Even if you don’t fly that often, it’s always a smart move to sign up for their frequent flyer program. Those who do are usually given preference over those who aren’t part of the program. And if you do fly with them you will accumulate points or miles, along with other perks.
8. If Your Flight is Cancelled, Call the Airline Right Away
Going to the customer service desk at the airport is going to be a long and tedious process since you’ll be in line with the rest of the passengers for this cancelled flight. Agents on the phone can get you rebooked faster.
9. If Possible, Pack Only a Carry-on
Checked luggage can get delayed or lost. Your bags or its contents may get damaged. Your safe bet is to just travel light and bring only a carry-on. Besides, you can’t fly standby if you have checked luggage. Airline baggage fees are also expensive and you could pay at least $25 per bag per way.
10. Consider Ordering a Special Meal
This is especially true if you have dietary restrictions such as if you require vegetarian, gluten-free or kosher food. Order your meal ahead of your flight (at least 2 days).
11. Know How to Avoid Air Sickness
Air sickness is basically motion sickness and it’s something quite a few people deal with when they fly. You can avoid it by sitting as close to the front of the plane as possible, or as close to the wings since these areas are more stable. Also, avoid eating spicy or greasy foods before your flight, try not to read, and sip ginger ale as it has been found to help combat motion sickness.
12. Dress in a Proper But Comfy Outfit
Dress for contingency by wearing several layers of clothing so you can be comfy during the flight. At the same time, you should still be well-dressed so that you’ll be treated well by airline staff.
LEARN MORE about the TSA Pre-Check here: