bestillandwrite I recently ran into someone who hadn’t flown in awhile. They were telling me about their trip and I could tell the longer we talked the less prepared they seemed to be. It occurred to me that some people don’t fly more than once every ten years, maybe less. A lot has changed about flying in the last decade, so this blog post is full of our Top Tips for People Who Don’t Travel Often. I hope it will be of help to you on your next journey!
1. Download the App for Your Airline
The most important thing you can do before flying is to download the app for your airline. There you will be able to track your flight status, check into your flight and download your boarding pass. You are able to have a pass printed at the airport, but if you would prefer to stay digital then the boarding pass on the app will do fine.
2. Check Bag Fees
Each airline has their own unique rules for baggage. For example, Southwest currently allows you a free checked bag, carry on and personal item. However, they are planning to charge for bags in the near future. Be sure to check for all those hidden costs so you aren’t surprised at the airport.
3. Don’t Forget to Weigh Your Bag
A checked bag has a weight limit of 50 lbs and a carry on is typically 30lbs. If your bag weighs too much you will need to either reorganize it with your carry on in front of a bunch of strangers in the airport… or pay a hefty fee. So don’t forget to weigh the bag at home and save yourself some stress.
4. Set Alarms to Check into Flight
Twenty-four hours before your flight departs, you are able to check in and confirm your seat. We recommend setting an alarm to remind you to check into your flight exactly on time a day prior to its departure. Checking in early guarantees you an earlier board time.
5. Remember Security Protocol
If you haven’t been through a TSA security line in awhile, we recommend looking up the guidelines for passing through TSA. You will need to remove things like your shoes and belt, as well as any large electronic devices from your bag. You will also not be able to bring liquids larger than 3oz through security, so no water bottles. You can read more about airport security here, but the more prepared you are for TSA, the better.
6. Arrive at the Airport Early
We recommend arriving at the airport two hours before your flight departs. That may seem like a lot of extra time, but depending on the airport it can be vital to a stress-free travel day. Parking may take extra time, or security. Your gate may change or the luggage check line might be exceptionally long. Better early than not on the plane, you know?
Thank you for reading about our Top Tips for People Who Don’t Travel Often. I hope they will help you on your next family vacation. For more helpful tips, be sure to read the additional content below:
The Most Useful Stroller Accessories for a Theme Park
How to Entertain a Preschooler at Hollywood Studios
Helpful Tips for Bringing a Stroller to a Theme Park
If you have any questions feel free to send me an email or message on Instagram. Follow @gentryjourneys on Pinterest for more travel tips and tricks and don’t forget to subscribe below for new content every week!
Safe Travels,
