We all know our rights as travelers have decreased so much so that soon we'll all be flying naked, strapped to our seats, and paying for recycled oxygen. But unless you plan to subscribe to something someone coined called a staycation (and why would you), you probably have to board a plane whether you want to or not. Don't be that guy while in security or boarding the plane and take these tips with you to the airport next time:
- Pack light. Type how to pack light into google and you are bound to get more responses than you know what to do with, but honestly, it's simple. Pack with layers in mind. You can wear a pair of jeans more than once, and you can pack a top that one day is layered under a jacket and another is by itself. Only the most astute concierges will notice. Two outfits in one. This is just an example but think of creative ways to spare yourself checked luggage and those pesky fees by packing lesser clothing items.
- Wear your heaviest outfit on the plane. Easy if traveling in the winter, harder if your destination climate is warmer than your departure. Either way, wear the heaviest clothing on you so that you don't have to pack it. You can always stuff your jacket or sweater in the overhead once everyone has stowed their luggage.
- Wear your jacket or blazer on the plane. When going through security, we're asked to declare every penny and jewelry item. Why not come prepared and while waiting take everything and stick it in your jacker or blazer pockets? Put your outerwear on the conveyor belt with your shoes and save yourself (and others) time emptying your pockets when it is your turn.
- Don't wear tennies on the plane. Wear slip on shoes and you'll save yourself the time having to re-tie your shoes after TSA Agent Smartypants gives you the go-ahead.
- Get in line at the gate as soon as the last person for the group before you gets there. In other words, if you are labeled in Group 6, watch carefully for Group 5 passengers to finish lining up and then be the first. Or do what I do and just go with Group 5. You'll get to your seat first but won't hold up folks needing to get by - hopefully. This doesn't apply to airlines like Southwest, but then again, I never fly those clowns.
- Please, for the love of god, store your bag closest to your row and wait to put in your jacket. With baggage fees, everyone is bringing their possessions on-board. Be courteous and store your item near your row. Plus, wait until everyone has been seated and their luggage stowed before you put your 15lb down jacket. You can always mold and fold it above your own bag or between two others.
I haven't checked a bag in 5 years and will roll my eyes still at that guy who tries to bring on a 36oz bottle of shampoo or has to take off his jacket, put away his keys and untie his shoes in security. So take this advice and hopefully you can have a more enjoyable, speedy trip!
We just returned from a quick three-day jaunt to sunny southern california. We just had to escape the cold and opted to head out to LA and see some friends. LA is, well, LA. It's big, its obnoxious, it has great weather.
