The Day you've been waiting for! Time to set off on your adventure. Here are my tips for a smooth day of travel. Ok, I'm going to pause right here. Travel is still messed up. There's no sugar coating it. We have not recovered yet as an industry. There are still massive shortages all over - from resort staff to pilots and flight attendants. There are, however, some things you can do to help.
What Time Should I Arrive at the Airport?
Currently, being on time means arriving at the airport two hours prior to departure time for domestic flights, and 3 hours prior to departure time for international flights. Yes, there is the chance that you may sit and be bored for a bit. But there's also a chance that the massive influx of travelers and fewer airport and airline workers will result in longer lines. I'd rather see you bored than arriving to the gate and being told your plane has already departed. So pack an extra book and get to the airport on time!
How Should I Organize My Travel Docs?
Travel day is often when we're least likely to be organized - so prep beforehand and just double check the morning of. Make sure you have - your trip docs, your two forms of photo ID, and anything else you may need easily accessible to you. (Not buried under the boxes of cereal you're bringing to Iceland in case your kids won't eat the food).
Make sure you know where your VBJ provided documents are, screenshot the most important pages of your itinerary, and be sure to you turn on the option to access your trip offline in my agency provided app. That way if you're out of cell service you still have that copy.
Pack Patience for the Airport
You may be asked for extra luggage or documentation checks. You may have to wait while someone fills out a form. Remember - all of the changing guidelines aren't easy on those who work at the airport or for the airlines.
What Extras Do I Need to Remember for Travel Day?
Think about the little extras - like making sure you have a chapstick and maybe small tube of moisturizer (airplanes can get dry). Bring an extra snack, extra magazine, and one more of whatever your kids' need. Have copies of all important docs - so if something is misplaced you have a backup.
The Most Important Travel Tip You Will Ever Receive If You're a Parent
NEVER EVER EVER PACK YOUR CHILD'S FAVORITE STUFFED ANIMAL IN CHECKED BAGGAGE. Put that in your purse or carryon, or strap it to your body - but DO NOT LOSE THE LOVEY.
Ok - those are my day of. What am I missing? Let me know if there's anything you think I should add to this list!
For more in-travel what to do check out our blog post: "What Should I Do If...?"
In need of some pre-travel tips? Read our to-do list here: What To Do Before Traveling Internationally.
Looking for some pre-travel luggage info? Check out our: What You Should Know About Luggage. blog post.
Noticing all of the flight cancellations and wondering what to do? Read my thoughts here: What You Need to Know If You're Flying Any Time Soon.
Jet lag tips are here: Is There Anything I can Do About Jet Lag?
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