Navigating the Skies with These Expert Tips!

Are you ready to up your travel game? Whether you’re a seasoned explorer or just catching the travel bug, there’s always room for improvement when it comes to flying. We’ve got the lowdown on everything you need to know to become a pro passenger. From snagging the best deals to breezing through airport security, let’s embark on this adventure together!

## Visa Voyages

First things first, visa requirements! If you’re heading to the USA for work, make sure you’ve got that work visa in your pocket. Even if it’s just a leisurely trip, don’t forget about the ESTA. And if you’re crossing the border into Canada, you’ll need an Eta. Remember, different passports, different rules. So, check before you pack those bags!

## Perfect Timing

Timing is everything when it comes to booking flights. The travel pros suggest booking 40 to 60 days before your departure for the best deals. Plus, it keeps your wallet happy! This timeline allows me not to be out of money for a while so when I am being paid which is usually within a month’s time this flight can be paid for. Smart, right?

## Where to Buy

We all love Google Flights for getting an idea of what’s out there, but sometimes Expedia and Momondo have those secret deals up their sleeves. When it’s time to book, try to go direct with the airline. It can save you time, money, and hassle.

## Credit Card Magic

The right credit card can be your best travel buddy. Consider cards like Barclays Bank Arrival that offer cashback on flights (this is the one I use). Just make sure you’re booking enough flights to justify any annual fees. Some cards even offer miles, hotel stays, and other perks in the hospitality world.

## Economy Class Secrets

For business travelers who can’t afford to miss a flight, steer clear of basic economy tickets. Those last-minute fares will have you reaching deep into your pockets. Go for the main cabin; it’s more flexible. If budget is a concern, consider booking two one-way flights—one in the main cabin, and one in basic economy on the way back. But remember, missing a basic economy flight is on you!

## Layover Lessons

Know your airport! Don’t gamble with 30-45-minute layovers, especially in big airports. For international flights, customs can take up to 1 to 2 hours, so plan accordingly. Toronto Airport might be a challenge, but even Atlanta and JFK can be a maze. We might need a guest poster for an airport survival guide!

## Budget Airline Blues

Be cautious with discount airlines like Spirit and Frontier. The initial price may seem unbeatable, but watch out for added costs like seats and bags. Make sure these airlines have a good track record at your departure airport, or you might be in for a bumpy ride.

## Flight Chronicles

Here’s a recent story: An artist missed a flight with Norse UK because of check-in chaos at London Gatwick. Norse UK doesn’t have a permanent customer service desk at Gatwick and the check-in process is done just by sorting out one massive queue per their policy if you show up an hour and a half before your flight you should be able to check in to your flight and board no problem. Well on this day this was not the case, an artist of mine gave himself over 2 hours and was still in that queue and was unable to check in for his flight so he missed his flight. We were forced to book a new flight as there was no flight to change as his original flight took off. We are still a few weeks out asking for a refund for that original flight or for the new flight booked for their staffing failures. To date, I believe my artist is filing a lawsuit with the airline since the airline’s customer service department is also a huge failure. A good rule of thumb when flying these budget airlines is to be prepared, arrive early, and lower your expectations.

Personally, I give myself 2.5 hours at most airports so I can get to the terminal early to be there in case anything odd goes on. If it is a smaller airport then I’ll get there 1.5 hours before the flight.

When going through the security checkpoints put all of the stuff you have to put in a small bin into a bag, these things are your watch and other jewelry you may have, and everything else in your pocket. Doing this will speed up the process when you need to pick up your items at the end of the security checkpoint and let’s be real, I would rather my Apple Watch and wallet be in my book bag versus just sitting out in a small bin that someone can just snatch up. Shoes on or off? Assume you have to take off your shows if you’re over the age of 12. Laptops, Nintendo Switch, tablets, most airports still need you to put all of these in a separate bin so be prepared so this step goes nice and smooth.

## Plane Etiquette 101

When you’re on board, be a kind passenger. Headphones are a must, but don’t blast your tunes. Sharing is caring, especially with armrests, remember it is public transportation. And if you’re in the aisle or middle seat, be ready to let your neighbors out. If you snagged the window seat, be mindful of the outside light. If there are kids crying on the flight just be happy they aren’t yours, don’t get angry or be stupid, and do note they don’t know how to pop their ears when the pressure builds on the plane. Be compassionate, not only to parents and the kids but also to the elderly. When you land, sit the hell down until it’s your turn. There is nowhere to go stupid! I always laugh at these people getting all hot and heavy standing in the aisle complaining how they don’t understand why it takes so long. Listen I agree but calm down, this is part of the full traveling experience. I do believe they should label seats where people are not at their final destination as I have had to catch another flight with 30 min to spare and running from terminal to terminal is never a fun thing to do. Let those people get off first and then everyone else can have at it.

## Flight Hiccups

Flight canceled or delayed? First, try the airline’s app or website. If that doesn’t work, head to the airport. Customer service can work wonders but not all of them are created equal (looking at you United, your call hold times are stupidly long). The customer service desk employees are the airline’s gatekeepers. They will be able to get you on another flight, they could get you on a standby list, and they can also get you a flight on another airline if nothing works out for the original airline but this must be asked for as not all of them will go out of their way to do this or offer this up. If it’s their fault, they might even hook you up with hotel and food vouchers. Stay polite—it goes a long way!

Remember, travel is an adventure, and every journey comes with its quirks. Use these expert tips to make your next flight smoother and more enjoyable. Bon voyage, jet-setters! 🌍✈️

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Check Out My Substack – a lot of the same, just there