Traveling like a pro as actually a lot easier than it sounds. From my own experiences, I’ve compiled the list below that highlights a fewrules I follow when traveling to ensure my trip runs smoothly.
see? the first flight out can have it’s perks
Sign up to accrue airline miles. Even if you don’t exclusively fly the same airline every time, it’s a smart idea to signup every time you take a flight with a new airline. It’s free & a great way to get a free flight/ upgrade your seat.
Pack like a pro. Check out yesterday’s post on packing. No one likes to lug a heavy suitcase around.
First flight out. Many will fight me on this but it is my preference to always take an early flight out. Usually those flights have less of a chance of being delayed and if you happen to have a flight cancellation, it’s likely you’ll be able to jump on another flight later in the day.
Bottle of water + Snack. Whenever I travel, I usually keep at least one energy bar in my purse and one in my suitcase. Once I’m passed security, I always pick up a bottle of water. This stems from those horror stories I’ve heard about planes running out of water. I’ve thankfully never been on a flight like that, but it always eases my nerves knowing I have water & a snack, if needed.
Pre- TSA // Global Entry. If you travel a lot, I cannot express the need to have Pre-TSA & Global Entry enough. You don’t have to take anything out of your bag or remove your shoes to go through security. The application process was fairly simple. Fill out a form online & stop in for a quick interview. Again, American Express offers Pre-TSA as a cardholder perk.
Clean out your purse prior to takeoff. You don’t need those receipts or superfluous items in your bag. No one wants to be the one fishing through their bag at security looking for their ID.
Make yourself comfortable. If you’re gearing up for a long flight, donne a cute pair of leggings & cardigan. I love to swear a scarf or cozy wrap in case I get cold.
Airport Lounges. Check into what your airline or credit card may offer. I’m a Priority Pass holder which grants access to 1000 lounges worldwide. With American Express, I have access to Centurion Lounges, which always makes me get to the airport with plenty of time so I can relax prior to my flight.
via Centurion Lounge
Check your credit cards. As I’ve mentioned, Amex has a ton of great perks that go along with traveling but if you have an airline of preference, check into options with their credit cards. Often times, they’ll run specials such as gaining 60k miles when you spend so much in the first three months. Great option if you need to make a larger purchase, may as well gain those miles to use for flights! The credit card you already use may have great perks you’re unaware of.
Pack thoughtfully. This is a rule I swear by! Have you ever flown somewhere tropical in the dead of winter? When you land, your shorts and sundresses won’t save you from the cold. When I’m packing I’ll put anything I’ll need handy in the very top of my suitcase. Like a jacket or heavy sweater. That way, when I land, I can unzip the top and pull out my jacket or whatever I need. Quick & efficient when you don’t have to stop, unzip your entire suitcase and dig around.
What travel tips do you live by?
Cheers,
I find it funny and very helpful that you included “Clean your purse out.” This is something I often forget and being a young female I carry a small pocket knife on my key chain which I have forgotten to remove. Luckily the detector never picked it up, or if they did, it was too small to count as a “weapon.” For those with bigger knives on them it may be an issue! Great post btw
I’ve had that happen to me before as well. Always a good idea to see what you’ve accumulated in there prior to flying 🙂