Travel can be stressful, but with some simple strategies you can make your flight much more pleasant.
Before recliner your seat, always ask first; there may be someone behind who feels trapped by this act and would not appreciate being subjected to this experience. And you can always take advantage of weekly flight offers from Cathay Pacific.
1. Pack smart
Packing like a pro can make travel much simpler, as you’ll avoid incurring any add-on baggage fees and can stay organized while making your way through an airport.
Start by placing heavier items around the edge of your carry-on bag before gradually working towards its center – this strategy saves space while making your suitcase easy to close!
Consider wearing a jacket or coat on your trip; clothing not worn against the body does not count against airline luggage weight limits, plus it will help prevent you from feeling chill while flying! Also bring along a universal power adapter; this will save time by eliminating multiple adapters needed for each country and could prevent pesky power surges that damage electronics.
2. Get an airline status
Establishing airline elite status can bring numerous benefits, including free upgrades and priority seating, but can cost an incredible amount over time.
In order to qualify for airline status, it’s necessary to fly a certain number of qualifying miles or flight segments over time – most airlines keep track of your credits at year end.
One way to obtain elite status with an airline is through frequent flying; however, you may also purchase it using credit cards or other programs.
If you want to maximize your frequent flier status, be sure to do your math before investing. Calculating each benefit’s value and whether or not your airfare costs justify them can help maximize their worth. Also look out for status challenges and matches; often hidden loopholes for quickly attaining elite status are available here.
3. Pack a jacket or sweater
Airplanes can be notoriously cold environments, with temperatures varying throughout a flight. Therefore, if you find that you get cold easily it may be beneficial to pack an additional layer like a jacket or sweater into your carry on bag for use during travel.
For maximum space efficiency, try folding your jacket into a soft roll to save space. This method reduces the number of folds along seams that cause creases; but it may require multiple attempts before you manage to achieve this without wrinkles! Furthermore, try keeping its lining facing outward as this ensures any scuffing or staining won’t show through onto its exterior and help avoid those pesky creases!
4. Pack a toiletries bag
Many travel-friendly toiletries come in liquid form; however, these may present problems when dealing with airport security checks. To make travel simpler and avoid security hassles altogether, consider switching out liquid versions with solid versions like bar shampoo which can serve both as conditioner and shampoo; you might even find one with extra benefits such as body wash or shaving gel!
Investment of a toiletries bag that offers multiple compartments for different products is also recommended, to keep everything organized and prevent leaks and spills during travel. Choose a bag with clear labels for easy organization. Try sharing toothpaste between two people to save space and money; do not forget a travel-sized bottle of hand sanitizer as this will not only come in handy at airports but may help prevent illness during holidays!
5. Don’t accept the first voucher
Airline gate agents often attempt to pressure fliers into accepting vouchers instead of their legally-entitled money, but it is best to insist on taking cash. If an agent tells you you owe $250, say instead you only require $600; often this will have them back down as they realize your commitment and offer accordingly.
If your voucher is about to expire, reach out directly to the airline. Due to pandemic concerns, some airlines are extending voucher expiration dates; but be polite and persistent when approaching them in asking them how they can make things right for you. It may take multiple calls and emails before getting an answer – though it might even lead to better prices than at airport.
6. Don’t accept a seat in the middle of the plane
Airlines often permit travellers with status or the capacity to pay an upcharge to select seats prior to booking their ticket. Otherwise, always consult seatguru.com in advance as this will show the exact seating chart for your plane and identify good and bad seating locations.
If the airline doesn’t allow you to choose your seat, try getting one from an airport service desk instead. Agents there tend to be less busy than gate ones and may be more willing to assist. Just be nice!
Airline staff will also be more willing to assist if they know you are paying customer. Selecting seats when making a reservation can help prevent middle seat dilemmas on longer flights; making the journey much more comfortable. You might also consider flying airlines that provide greater legroom such as Southwest and JetBlue.
7. Don’t accept a seat in the front of the plane
Many people book seats for comfort or convenience, and frequent flyers might prefer sitting near the front of the plane to help get on and off quicker. Unfortunately, such positions could prove hazardous during an emergency situation.
Front rows are close to the cabin entrance, increasing your exposure to germs when using the bathroom or getting up during flight. Furthermore, these seats tend to be high traffic areas where flight attendants often pass with heavy carts.
Many travelers mistakenly believe their seats are secured once booked online or at an airport, however this isn’t necessarily the case; seats can still be altered up until 24 hours prior to departure! So make sure you arrive early for check in and confirm your seat selection!
8. Don’t accept a seat in the back of the plane
Air travel can be an immensely frustrating experience. To ease this burden, there are some things you can do to make it simpler – for instance avoiding seating near the back of the plane is one solution.
Seats at the back of a plane can be noisy and cramped, close to bathrooms that may emit foul odors, with food carts often located nearby creating long lines and crowding seating rows.
To avoid these seats, try buying your ticket early and selecting either window or aisle seating. Or use an app like SeatGuru which lets you view an exact seating chart for your flight; some even highlight seats that airlines don’t advertise as good – particularly helpful at smaller airports.