Be Prepared Before your Flight
If you are an experienced air traveler, then you already know at least some of this information. If you are new to air travel, you should read on for some valuable tips about how to prepare for your trip.
Be sure that all the travelers have a valid passport. It will need at least six months to go before it expires. This is essential for any foreign flight, of course. However, it is also a good idea for domestic travel. In today’s security conscious world, it is the best way to provide proof of your identity if asked.
Do not forget your tickets. This means more than just remembering to pack them. If you booked online, you may need to print your confirmation paper so that your ticket can be issued at the airport. In some cases, your ticket is entirely paperless and you get it by producing your identification at the airport. Understand in advance just what your ticket status is.
Look into travel insurance. Are you checking anything that is of a higher value than the airlines automatically offer? Also, look into your health insurance. Does it cover you overseas? Perhaps a supplement plan is a good idea.
In most foreign lands, you will need the local currency. It is easier to obtain it well before you leave. This way you avoid possible long lines at both your departure and arrival cities. Be aware though, that exchange rates are often best at a bank at your destination. Perhaps you should consider changing enough to get you through your first day.
Be sure your luggage conforms to the airlines standards for foreign flights, which may not be the same as for domestic flights. Don’t forget locks and don’t forget the keys. Make sure your luggage is easily identifiable by a well-attached ID tag. Be careful of the type of personal address information that you place on the tag. Airports are known to have thieves roaming around, looking for the addresses of people about to embark on a trip, and thus leaving an empty house.
If your flight is long, plan for something to do or read while in route. This is especially true if you are traveling with children. You can obtain these things at your departure airport, but at much greater expense.
Look into airport car parking alternatives. Most major airports are served by off-site parking lots, which are much less expensive than the more convenient on-site ones.
Don’t start your trip off frazzled. Leave for the airport in plenty of time, just in case you encounter traffic delays in route or security delays at the airport. Check traffic reports so you know if you need to allow even more time to get to the airport.
If you anticipate any language problems at your destination, have a few key phases (Where can I find a taxi to this hotel?) written down in advance of your trip.
The list goes on and on. The point is to spend a little time in advance anticipating and planning for your needs. If you do, you are likely to have a much smoother trip.