We've all had that one experience where, the moment we step into the airport, what's supposed to be a relaxing vacation turns out to be the most stressful trip ever. I've made the mistake of wearing lace-up boots to the airport once, and it took forever and a half just to go through airport security! Never again.
There are also tales of having no place to go after a flight's been cancelled, so people would camp at the airport itself—but the airport needs to close for the night! Ugh!
So what do we do so we avoid these hassling and stressful experiences?
1. Wear Slip-ons. Trust me, don't wear shoes that are hard to wear when you're traveling by plane. Airport security will ask you to remove your shoes, put them on a tray, and go through several detectors before you put your shoes back on. Wear comfy shoes that you can just slip on and off easily so you don't inconvenience yourself, and the people behind you in line! And even if you aren’t traveling by plane, wearing comfortable slip-ons means your feet are comfy all throughout your trip.
2. Pack Light. If you can pack everything you need as carry-on, do so! Be sure to separate your laptops from the rest of your things though, since, again, Airport Security will ask you to put them in separate baskets before going through all those hoops and hurdles. Remember not to pack liquid in your bags, too! You can buy toiletries in small sizes when you get to your destination, so don't worry about that! Packing light also means you won’t have to overload your car with unnecessary luggage, or that you would have to lug around one too many bags while moving around!
3. Make Checklists. Checklists are handy, especially if you don't remember everything you packed. Make a checklist of everything you put in your bag and in what pocket, so you won't lose anything! This is especially important if you’re bringing around important documents, or expensive technology with you. Checklists also help with your trip's itinerary, giving you a plan of action, as well as a backup, in case things go awry.
4. Do Your Research. Get to know the airport, train station, or city you’ll be going to. Know what and where their amenities are located, so you won't be holding your pee in while asking multiple security guards where the restrooms are. You also won’t have trouble locating gas stations, clinics, concession stands, or convenience stores if do a little research beforehand.
5. Arrive Early. Make it a point to arrive three hours early for your departure at a train or bus station, or at the airport. If you’re meeting up for a carpool, make sure that your meeting place is easily accessible to all parties. Always anticipate that the worst will happen, so that if it does happen, you have an extended time window so you won’t be lagging behind schedule!
6. Keep Your Travel Documents Secure. It's important that you have your travel documents with you all the time. Also, keep your ID cards and other important documents updated. If you've recently married and changed your last name, be sure to update your passport with the right surname, or to keep your marriage certificate with you when you travel. If you have insurance, make sure you have your travel or car insurance policy with you, in case you need to cash in on your insurance. If you don’t have either, don’t forget to get insurance before you travel. Keep these documents in a pouch you can bring with you all the time, just in case you need to show proof of identification at the airport and wherever you're headed.
7. Convert Currencies. Before leaving the country, exchange some of your money to the local currency where you’ll be going. This saves you the hassle of looking for a money changer in a foreign land! Make sure that you get small bills and some coins as well, so you won’t have to ask a sidewalk vendor to break larger bills.
What other tips do you have for others so they can have a hassle-free travel experience? Share them here!
What other tips do you have for others so they can have a hassle-free travel experience? Share them here!
AUTHOR BIO:
Kyle Kam is an online marketing specialist for Moneymax.ph, the Philippines’ leading financial comparison website. Whenever he’s not working, he’s busy at home watching MMA videos the whole day. You may follow him on Twitter @undisputedkyle.
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