15 Smart Travel Tips That Will Make Your Trip Smoother

It's prime summer travel time, and that means you're likely already dreading the long security lines and crowds of travelers.

If you’re lucky and can afford it, booking first class is one way to make the trip a better one. But even if you’re stuck in coach with the rest of us, air travel doesn’t have to be so bad.

So if you're stepping up your travel game , here are some simple things you should be doing every time you travel to reduce your stress and make your next flight more enjoyable.

1. Book the seats you know you need

The first step is booking the seats you fare best in, whether that’s snuggled at the window, on the aisle, or in an exit row if you’re tall and just can’t be squeezed into a normal aisle.

That way, you won’t bother anyone when you have to get up, want to gaze out the window at the miniature world below, or snooze against the wall.

2. Download movies/shows to your device

One good way to prepare for a long flight is to download your favorite films or shows onto your device. That way, you won’t be at the mercy of in-flight entertainment options — if there are any.

You also don’t want to rely on the plane’s WiFi since it could be shoddy or cost an arm and a leg.

3. Take a picture of your passport

For those of you traveling internationally, one of the smartest things you can do is take a picture of your passport. That way if anything happens, you have all of the information you’ll need at the consulate if it gets lost.

It’s also wise to make paper copies, giving one to a trusted friend and holding on to the other.

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4. Put an AirTag in your luggage

It happens to the best: You hop off of the plane, head to the baggage claim, and alas, your suitcase has been lost. Then you spend hours trying to track it down with customer service.

Sometimes you get lucky and find it, but others you don’t.

Save yourself the headache and put an Apple AirTag in your luggage beforehand so you can track it yourself.

5. Take a picture of your luggage

Another smart way to protect your suitcase is to take a picture of it before you send it into the baggage chute.

There’s always a risk that your luggage can get lost, and this gives you a record of exactly how it looked before you handed it over.

And if your luggage is damaged or lost, you can claim up to $3,800 from your airline.

6. Dress in comfortable layers

Comfortable clothes on a plane are a must, so leave the tight stuff and bulky accessories at home.

You’ll also want to dress in layers for a few reasons. For example, if the weather at your destination is warmer than where you’re departing from.

Don’t forget that temperatures can fluctuate wildly on a plane from the time you board to the moment you finish taxiing, so be prepared for that.

7. Bring a blanket and travel pillow

Speaking of those fluctuating temperatures, it’s a good idea to bring a light blanket with you.

There’s nothing worse than freezing on a plane and finding out the flight attendant doesn’t have any blankets handy (especially post-COVID).

You also want to have a travel pillow, ideally a compact option that sits around your neck. That way, you can sleep comfortably without straining anything or cramping your neighbor’s style with a bulky pillow.

8. Wear comfortable, close-toed shoes

While some advise you to wear slippers, sandals, or thick socks to keep your feet warm when you kick off your shoes, we suggest wearing comfortable, close-toed shoes throughout the flight.

Why? To put it simply, it’s never water that’s on the bathroom floor.

Aside from hygienic reasons, close-toed shoes are also safer in case there’s an emergency that requires evacuation.

9. Bring wipes and a mask

Another smart hygienic practice is to bring a face mask and wipes.

We all know that masks can protect you from germs, so it’s smart to wear one on a plane. As for wipes, you can use them to clean your seat and tray.

Once the plane ride is over, you can freshen up your hands and face, especially if it’s been a long flight or a red eye.

10. Don’t forget your empty water bottle

Per the TSA, you can’t bring liquids through security unless they are in 3.4-ounce or smaller bottles grouped in a clear plastic bag. Of course, all the beverages on the other side of security are super expensive.

What you can do, however, is bring an empty water bottle and fill it up at the water fountain near your gate. Problem solved!

11. Bring lotion, eye drops, and lip balm

Staying hydrated on a plane is important. In addition to a water bottle, you also want to prepare for the dry air that circulates and can do a number on your skin.

To that end, bring these items so you can lather up as needed during the flight. Your lips, eyes, and hands will thank you.

12. Don't forget the snacks

Let’s face it, in-flight dining is not what it used to be. Fortunately, you can bring solid foods onto a plane.

Keep the munchies at bay by bringing your favorite snacks in your personal item. That will help you save more on travel compared to what you’d spend on an overpriced snack box.

You may need a meal for longer flights, so just be sure to plan accordingly.

13. Bring an eye mask and headphones

If you’re on a long flight and you hope to get some peace and quiet — and maybe even some rejuvenating shut-eye — bring an eye mask that will block out the light.

Headphones are also handy, ideally high-quality, noise-canceling models.

That way, you won’t be disturbed when the captain makes announcements from the cockpit or your neighbor is readying a book with the light on.

14. Take bathroom or walking breaks

If your flight is only an hour or two, you don’t need to worry about this one. But if you’re going to be in the air for three to seven hours, plan to take regular bathroom or walking breaks.

This is especially important if you’re at risk of developing blood clots, so stand up, walk up and down the aisle, and stretch a bit every few hours.

15. Give your ride your flight number

At long last you are ready to land, then meet up with the person picking you up on the ground.

To make this process easier, give them your flight number before you take off. That way, they can track you in the air and adjust accordingly if there are any delays.

This is especially easy to do if you have no WiFi while you’re in the air.

Bottom line

Flying on a plane is not always a pleasant experience, especially if you’re crammed into a middle seat in economy class.

That’s why it’s important to prepare beforehand to make the experience as painless as possible. And remember to book your flight with a top travel credit card to rack up your travel rewards.

Money tips that can work for everyone

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