Saturday 1 February 2014

Stress Free Air Travel Tips

Stress Free Air Travel Tips

Airports can be stressful at the best of times, especially if you are travelling with young children. We have put together some useful travel tips to make sure that your flight is as relaxing and enjoyable as possible. Read our advice below to ensure you are prepared for all eventualities.



·         Check and double check that you have all your important documentation such as passport, traveller’s cheques, foreign currency, credit card, debit card, boarding pass, hotel reservation details, travel insurance and travel visa before leaving for the airport.
·         Most airlines charge an additional fee if your suitcase exceeds the parameters for on-board baggage or exceeds the max weight. Invest in a suitcase weighing scales, they are relatively cheap and can be purchased in most supermarkets and pharmacies.
·         Plan your trip to the airport, if you are considering taking a taxi, ensure you book the day before you travel.
·         Leave well in advance and arrive early at the airport to avoid missing your flight due to public transport delays, adverse weather conditions, vehicle breakdowns, flat tyres and rush hour traffic.
·         If you are driving to the airport, the long term car park is generally cheaper than the short term car park. Once you have safely parked and unloaded your baggage, save the details of the parking space number and location into your mobile phone.
·         Avoid delays at security, have your boarding pass and passport to hand, empty your pockets off all loose change, mobile phone and keys and put them into your hand luggage or the airport security tray. Take off all metallic items such as jewellery, belts, watches etc. Read the packing guidelines carefully so that you are not delayed or even detained while passing through security.
·         Once you have cleared the check in and security desk, its a good idea to purchase snacks for the flight in advance. Unfortunately on board meals can be limited and quiet expensive.
·         Be prepared for flight delays, bring a book, newspaper or download movies and music on your smart phone before you travel.
·         Once you have located you seat, remove your foot wear to let your feet breath, you’ll be surprised at how much more comfortable you’ll feel.
·         If you wear contacts, consider taking a pair of glasses to wear on the plane, as the air conditioning can dry out your eyes leaving them irritable.
·         Most people find it difficult to sleep on long haul flights; it may be worth your while investing in a comfortable neck rest, ear plugs and an eye mask.
·         Take some time to stretch during your trip, this will improve your circulation and reduce cramps, especially on long haul flights.
·         Wear comfortable clothes such as a t-shirt, light weight trousers or a dress. Bring a jumper or cardigan on board to keep warm in case the air conditioning gets cold.
·         If you are travelling with kids or babies bring some toys and colouring books to keep them occupied, consider reserving seats beside the toilet or baby changing rooms which will come in handy especially for little accidents.
·         Pack a change of clothes and toiletries in your on-board baggage, so that you are prepared in the unfortunate event that the airline temporarily misplaces your suitcases.
·         There is nothing more annoying than waiting for your baggage on the conveyor belt only to discover that somebody else has taken your suitcase by mistake. Make you suitcases stand out by tying a coloured ribbon or a piece of material around the handle and ensure you baggage is secured with a good lock.
·         Travel insurance is essential, always expected the unexpected. Holiday insurance will cover you for missed departures, flights cancellations, lost baggage, and medical expenses. Finally always shop around for cheap flights. See you soon and enjoy your trip!

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