Nobody’s perfect, especially when it comes to travelling. Regardless of how many flights you take, you’re always making one mistake or another, or forgetting to pack something relatively important.
Don’t worry, we completely understand and have had our share of travel mishaps.
So, to spare you (and ourselves) from any unnecessary stress the next time you travel, we’ve compiled a list of common mistakes to avoid when flying.
Don’t:
1. Forget to check the weather before packing
You may think it’ll be all sunshine with no chance to rain on your next island holiday, but Mother Nature always has other plans. Check your weather app before packing just in case you need to add in some warmer clothes or even an umbrella.
2. Overpack
Do you really need to pack that summer dress that you haven’t fitted into in years? It’s easier said than done but if you can, try to avoid packing items that you’re highly unlikely to use or wear. Save the suitcase space for items you need or downgrade your bag.
3. Pack battery packs in your check-in
In today’s technologically driven world, battery packs are high on the list of travel requirements. If you plan on taking one on your next trip, be sure to pack it in your carry-on because that is where flight safety requires it to be.
4. Pack valuables in your check-in
Also belonging in your carry-in and not your check-in, are your valuables. The safest place for your treasured items are with you and not in the suitcase that could go missing at any point of the air journey.
5. Forget to set multiple alarms
You don’t want to be rushing to the boarding gate like the McCallisters in the popular Christmas movie Home Alone. Set multiple alarms (and at least one that doesn’t require an electrical outlet) to get you out of bed and on time for early morning flights.
6. Forget your passport
Don’t snicker, it could happen to anyone. Even you! Make your passport one of the first items you pack in your carry-on and don’t risk accidentally leaving it behind on the day of your flight.
7. Forget to check the expiry date on your passport
Although one would think the expiry date of a passport would be the actual expiry date, it’s actually six months before. Remember to the details of your passport well ahead of your trip and ensure you won’t get turned away from your flight for having near-expired documentation.
8. Forget to pre-select your seats
If you’re picky about where you sit on a plane (and let’s be real, most of us are), then chat to your Travel Agent during the booking process and pre-select your seat.
9. Arrive at the airport late
Always assume there’s going to be extensive lines at the airport, and get there early. Nobody needs the added stress of potentially missing a flight.
10. Forget to plan for cancellations or delays
Sh#t happens in life and it most certainly happens while travelling. Be prepared for the unexpected by having a Travel Agent on your side. If a flight gets cancelled and you need to rearrange accommodation on the other, they’re there to help. If a storm damages your hotel, your Agent will find you a new one (and figure out how to get insurance to repay you).
11. Overspend at Duty Free
Look, you’re on holidays so it’s okay to spend up a little, but don’t you want to save most of your hard-earned travel money for the actual holiday? Treat yourself at the airport, but try not to overdo it at Duty Free – there are often far better treasures on the other side!
12. Over-eat at the airport
In the same vein, airport food can be expensive and unless you’re flying budget, you’ll receive sufficient amount food and snacks on the plane. And if you’re spending time grazing at a lounge, then be sure to pace yourself so you’re not flying in discomfort.
13. Over-drink at the airport and/or on the plane
Sticking to over-consumption, the last thing you want (or any of your fellow passengers want) is for you to get drunk before or during the flight. It’s a horrible feeling and it could lead to mid-flight hurling – in the tiny, germ-filled aircraft lavatory.
14. Exchange money at the airport
Save your pennies! As mush as possible, avoid exchanging money at the airport to get the best bang for your buck. Instead, try exchanging your money at a local bank or currency exchange office for a better deal. You’ll be surprised at how much you can save – your budget will appreciate it.
15. Forget earphones or entertainment devices for the kids
While there’s plenty of entertainment in the air, there’s also hours of pre-flight time that the kids need distraction. So don’t forget to pack their entertainment devices, and don’t forget your earphones… for your own distraction.
16. Touchdown at the wrong airport
If you needed another reason to use a travel agent, it’s to make sure you’ve booked your flight to the right destination! You don’t want to end up in Austria instead of Australia or vice versa!
17. Forget to pack a spare change of clothes in your carry-on
You may or may not use them, but a spare change of clothes (and underwear) can really save a flight. In the case of an accidental spill or unexpected mid-air sickness, a second outfit will spare you the discomfort of travelling in dirty clothes.
18. Keep your seat reclined during meal times
Don’t be that annoying person that keeps their seat in recline during inflight meals. Have some consideration for your fellow flyers and lift your seat until the trays have been cleared.
19. Keep checking the clock mid-flight
It’s easier said than done but there’s nothing more torturous on a plane than a countdown that starts in the hours. Try to fill your flight time with movies, music or whatever can keep your eyes off the clock.
20. Be rude to the flight attendants
Always be kind and patient to your flight attendant – even if you think they may be giving you attitude. They’re dealing with a lot in the air and a lot of people, so the last thing you want is to end up on their annoying list.
