Spending your vacation in a different city or a tropical location can be invigorating, but getting there is often stressful. Especially when you have to fly to your destination city, you’ll be faced with long lines, deadlines, and other inconveniences. While you can’t do anything to eliminate some of these travel headaches, there are things you can do to make the experience of travel a more positive one.
Consider Booking a Private Flight
The majority of inconveniences that make flying so stressful come from traveling with other passengers. Reserving a private jet rental can address most of those issues. Your private jet will be more secure and there won’t be dozens of other passengers breathing the same air. Many people are surprised to discover that renting a private jet doesn’t cost much more than traveling first class on a commercial jet.
Do Your Research Before You Book
You can fly coach and still have a great experience if you take the time to research your travel options. Some travel sites will give you helpful information in comparing flights, such as legroom dimensions and the availability of charging ports for mobile devices. You can compare the flight’s amenities with the cost of the ticket per person to determine which airline is offering the most value.
Shorten Your Experience With Airport Security
Going through TSA checkpoints has become a common inconvenience. While there’s no getting around it, you can shorten your interactions with TSA officers by using the agency’s Pre-Check program. The $85 fee will cover any traveling you do over a five-year period. For that fee, you can avoid having to remove shoes and belts, and your laptop can stay in its case. You might be surprised by how much faster you’ll go through the checkpoint once you participate in the program.
Know How to Pack Your Carry-On
It’s a good idea to avoid packing your carry-on bag until the night before your flight. Pack two changes of clothes first since you won’t need them right away. On top of your clothes, keep basic hygiene products, such as toothpaste and brushes, a hairbrush, and travel-size deodorant. The last things you pack should be a phone charging cable, a portable charger (if you have one), and snacks. Bring along apple slices, nuts, raisins, and other dry snacks that are easy to carry.
Arrive With Time to Spare
You can make your flight less stressful by checking in via your mobile device the night before your departure. You should also plan to arrive at the airport two to three hours before your flight is scheduled for departure. Traffic near the airport may be heavy and there will likely be long lines in the terminal, but arriving early can help you get to your gate with time to spare.
Wait in a Secluded Area
Once you board your plane, you’ll be surrounded by dozens of other passengers. If you’re taking a smaller plane, the cabin can feel oppressive or claustrophobic. There’s no reason to increase your discomfort by sitting among those same travelers in the waiting area at your gate. Look for a secluded area nearby or make use of a designated quiet room to help you organize your thoughts. Some airports also have yoga or meditation rooms. When it is time to board your flight, you’ll feel more relaxed and less tense about the flight.
Prepare Yourself For Downtime
Be prepared for long periods of waiting and for a flight that won’t offer much stimulation. Rather than running down your phone’s battery, bring a book to read. If you enjoy word puzzles, pick up a book of them for the flight. Make sure your spouse or children are also prepared for long wait times with activities they can do quietly on their own. Having a variety of activities at hand will help you pass the time without letting your mind focus on stressful concerns.
The key to a more positive travel experience is planning. Taking the time to prepare for your flight will help you anticipate any issues that might arise. Once you address the inconveniences that go along with travel, you’ll have less to worry about. Instead, you can relax and enjoy your flight as a part of a relaxing and invigorating getaway.