flying tips

Restaurant in Richmond Hill.


Exactly two weeks until we leave for Vienna! I'm very hyped. I tend to go a bit overboard whenever we make plans to go traveling anywhere overseas. I figure that if we're spending all that money on airfare and traveling for so long to get there, it's worth the time to do a little extra research. Hey, and maybe learn a bit of a language. :-)

I love how the Internet has made it so much easier for travelers, with possibilities of online flight and hotel reservations, a wealth of research information available in private and corporate Web sites as well as online communities. Not all the information is accurate, of course, which is why I've found it essential to never rely solely on one source; this also applies to my online research for articles.

I'm not a hugely experienced traveler, but I'm also aware that I may have more experience than some, especially after my 6 month stint in Philadelphia, flying home every other weekend. I used to love flying; now, I'm somewhat more jaded. Here are a few tips I've picked up over the years:

- Always called ahead to find out if your flight is on time. This will save you from spending money on a taxi or shuttle only to find that your flight has been cancelled and having to turn around and go home again (yes, this happened to me in Philadelphia).

- Sound-blocking headphones are a godsend on long flights, not only allowing you to properly listen to your music as well as pass the time, but also give your ears a break from the incessant roar of the motor.

- I've found that the temperature on most flights tend to be on the cold side once your plane reaches cruising altitude, so I always take a sweater or other extra layer with me.

- If you're taking a laptop, you can charge up the batteries in the waiting area before the flight. Make sure you're plugged into an active outlet.

- Bring an inflatable neck pillow, moisturizer, earplugs, eye mask, travel slippers or warm socks (and take your shoes off during the flight), a bottle of water.

- If you ask for front row seats for more leg room, remember that you won't have any underseat storage space in front of you.

- Ask for a pillow and blanket at the beginning of the flight and then tuck them under the seat in front of you until you need them; supplies may run out later on.

- On longer flights, take short walks around the plane to stretch your muscles.

- Bring your own snacks so you don't have to rely on flight attendants' schedules.

- If you plan to sleep for most of the flight, get a window seat.

- If you find yourself beside and overly talkative neighbor, put on headphones, even if your Walkman or iPod is not turned on.

- Fill out your customs card at the beginning of the flight so you don't have to worry about it later on.

Any other suggestions? Any frequent/seasoned travelers out there?

November/2003 comments: Read | Post | LJ