September is here but that doesn’t mean the adventures have to stop! I love September – December as I think it’s a great time to plan a few long weekends to cities you have never been to. I decided it was time to share my Airport Survival Guide with you… Having spent hours on end waiting in airports around the world, missed flights, delays, and other catastrophes, the OnTheQT crew have gathered all their tips to help you survive your airport experience!
Weigh your bag before you leave home: There is simply nothing worse than being told your bag is overweight, having to open your suitcase for the world to see its contents… and put on an extra 10 layers of clothes! We highly advise you to purchase a luggage scales and weigh your bag the night before! It’ll save a lot of unnecessary stress and leave more time for some fun airport shopping!
Always put a luggage tag on your check-in bag, and be sure to keep the luggage sticker they give you at check- in! Did you know the sticker the air hostess puts on your boarding pass is a luggage sticker to track your bag should it go missing? Hopefully your bag wont get lost in transit, but if it does… your luggage sticker/ personal luggage tag will be sure to help the airport staff return it to you as quickly as possible!
Ask for your favourite seat at check-in: Whether you prefer to look out the window and admire the views, seat in the aisle seat so you can get up without bothering your neighbours, or simply want to sit next to your travel pal, be sure to let the air hostess know at check-in as more often than not they will be more than happy to oblige you! (Especially if you check in early).
Keep your laptop at the top of your hand luggage bag: Although you may think you might not need your laptop on the flight and pack it at the end of your carry on luggage… its best to place it at the very top so that when you go through security you don’t have to unpack your entire bag!
Always carry an empty water bottle with you through airports: Although you can’t bring liquids through security, once you get to the other side there are always multiple water fountains where you can fill up your water bottle and stay hydrated for your journey ahead. If not the air-hostess probably wont mind filling it up for you once you hop aboard!
If possible try and carry the currency of the airport with you: There is nothing worse than being stuck in an airport at dinner time and not having the right currency with you. Although most airport shops/restaurants will take card often there may be a minimum send so if possible carry some local currency with you should you wish to pick up a small snack!
Always be prepared for delays: Airports are unpredictable places and unfortunately prone to long delays! Once you arrive prepared you will be able to keep yourself well entertained! Our usual entertainment includes a tablet (which you can usually connect to airport wifi and watch Netflix on), a good book, and playing cards! Don’t forget to sit near your departure gate incase you accidently fall asleep – the other passengers boarding should hopefully wake you up!
Comfort is key! Whether your flight is 2 hours or 13 hours long, it’s always a good idea to get comfy on the plane! Our essential items include slipper socks (or flight socks should your trip be a long one), a travel pillow, an eye mask, and ear plugs! Voila – the perfect night sleep before you wake up in your destination!
Hope these tips help!
Bon Voyage
