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Top Air Travel Tips:

Smart Travel Starts Before you Fly

If there’s one thing I know it’s this: air travel can be unpredictable. If there’s one golden rule to follow, it’s this: be prepared for anything. 

Whether it’s a tight connection, a weather delay, or a flight cancellation, thinking ahead can make all the difference in your journey, saving you time, money and lots of headaches.

Ready to make your travel dreams a reality? Reach out here and we’ll create the perfect getaway.

Here are my top tips every traveler should know for flying as stress-free as possible:

photo of a young man in the airport, with his legs resting on his carryon bag, looking out the window as an airplane takes off outside

1. You must have a REAL ID by May 7th, 2025 to travel within the United States.

Starting May 7, 2025, you’ll need a REAL ID (or passport) to fly within the U.S.A. Make sure your driver’s license has that little star on it…if not, head to the DMV right away and update your identification so you can travel. Avoid last-minute stress and get REAL ID ready now.

2. You Are Responsible for Your Own Food

It’s not just about avoiding overpriced airport snacks. In travel, anything can happen: you could get stuck on the tarmac for hours, lose access to hotel services due to a power outage, or simply not have time between tight connections to grab a meal.

Always pack a few essentials:

  • Peanut butter crackers
  • Beef jerky
  • Think! bars or other high-protein snacks
  • Single-serving packets of protein powder (just add water!)
  • Nuts or trail mix

Having your own stash of food isn’t just about hunger — it’s about maintaining your energy and keeping stress levels low.

3. Always Carry a Reusable Water Bottle

A reusable water bottle is a MUST – fill it after security or at a convenient refill station in the terminal. Staying hydrated during travel is crucial, especially when spending a lot of time in the dry airplane cabin air. Plus, having your own bottle saves money and reduces plastic waste.

4. Be Cautious When Booking Low-Cost Carriers

That cheap airfare might not be the deal you think it is. Low-cost carriers often make their profit through extra fees for bags, seat assignments, and even carry-ons. Worse, if your flight is delayed or canceled, they may not have another available flight for days — a nightmare if you’re traveling for a cruise, wedding, or special event.

Pro Tips:

  • Always check the carrier’s full schedule before booking.
  • Make sure there are backup flights close to your travel dates.
  • Consider paying slightly more for peace of mind with a full-service airline, especially for important trips.

5. Download the Airline App (and Enable Notifications)

Even if you booked through a travel agent or a third-party site, having the airline’s app is critical. With it, you’ll receive real-time updates about gate changes, delays, or cancellations.

Pro Tip:

  • Set your preferences to get alerts via both text and app notifications. This simple step can save you major headaches later.

6. Follow Your Departure Airport on Social Media

Many airports do a fantastic job of keeping travelers informed through Instagram or X (formerly Twitter). They post updates about:

  • Weather events that might impact flights
  • Parking lot status and construction alerts
  • New routes or terminal amenities

Knowing what’s happening at your home or departure airport gives you a major advantage and reduces the chance of unpleasant surprises.

7. Always Pack a Pen When Traveling Internationally

It sounds simple, but it’s often forgotten.

Many international destinations still require customs forms, health declarations, or other paperwork that must be filled out by hand. Having your own pen means you’re not scrambling to borrow one mid-flight or at immigration, and you’ll get through the process faster.

8. Use the Airplane Restroom Before You Land

About 30 minutes before landing, make a point to use the restroom.

After you deplane, you could face long lines at terminal bathrooms, or go straight into immigration and customs where restroom access isn’t guaranteed. Taking care of this before landing means one less thing to stress about when you arrive.

There you have it, my top air travel hacks! Travel, especially air travel, demands flexibility, but the more you prepare, the more control you have over your experience. Pack smart, plan wisely, and stay informed so you can focus on the exciting parts of your journey, not the stressful ones.

Ready to jet to your next destination? Reach out here and let’s start dreaming together.

Relax, we’ll take care of everything,

Amy Westerman
President
The Curated Travel Collection