Wednesday, October 12, 2011

A Handful Of Preparations To Reduce Headache Of Air Travel

By Robert Hepburn


Have you heard the stories about air travel these days? If they're to be believed, then the simple act of arriving at an airport and boarding a plane is a nightmare of checkpoints, lines, and wasted time. These stories are extremely common; fortunately for us, though, they're almost always exaggerated.

Airport security has definitely been tightened over the past few years, meaning that you'll have to wait in more lines and go through more checkpoints than before. You also won't be able to have a loved one accompany you to and from the gate. But these are really the only major changes, and delays have been common with commercial flights since the industry's infancy.

Thankfully, there are things you can do to make your flight experience go as smoothly as possible. Here are some tips for getting on your plane and making it to your destination with very little worry.

First, always try to pack light. You may be used of bringing four pairs of shoes for a one-day stay, which will definitely increase your luggage count. Instead of packing so much, try foregoing your checked luggage entirely and bringing just a carry-on bag.

To get by with just a carry-on, bring items of clothing that can be used in multiple outfits, giving you flexibility from a smaller number of items. If you can fit everything in your carry-on, you won't have to waste time in line getting your bag checked.

If you bring a checked bag you'll also have to wait for it at baggage claim after the flight. A carry-on bag is with you and ready to go as soon as you're off the plane. If you don't have a carry-on you may also be able to check in online before you even get to the airport, which will save you from having to wait in yet another line.

Of course, it's best to leave anything that might be considered a threat by the security staff. If you have to ask yourself whether a particular item is safe, it's best to leave it behind and not take the risk.

Sharp and metallic objects such as scissors are not allowed on planes, and neither are incendiaries such as matches and flammable liquids. Liquids are now acceptable for air travel as long as they're in a clear, plastic bag with a zipper and it's a reasonable volume of liquid.




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