The International Air Transport Association predicts a significant increase in passenger traffic in 2024, up 200 million passengers from pre-pandemic times. This is great news for airlines, but not as good for passengers who will see fuller flights and less space. Airport delays, long security lines, and baggage issues may add another layer of difficulty to air travel. Fortunately, these airline hacks can improve your flight experience.
Booking your flight
- If your dates aren’t set in stone, use the flexible date search option to see which days offer the cheapest tickets.
- Use points and miles to save money on your ticket or upgrade to a first-class seat. If you’re new to rewards, learn how to get started.
- Carefully select your seat. SeatGuru allows you to view the seat map for your aircraft and read reviews.
- Buy travel insurance to protect the financial investment you’re making in a trip.
Preparing for travel
- Know what’s allowed and what’s prohibited at security by reviewing this checklist. There are also rules about what you can pack in a checked bag verses what’s allowed in a carry-on.
- Measure and weigh luggage before you leave to ensure it adheres to airline regulations.
- Download movies, shows, podcasts, music, or audio books to stay occupied before and during your flight.
- Fully charge your devices before you leave home and keep charging cords in your carry-on. It’s also a good idea to bring a portable charger on board.
- Use the Google Maps offline feature to help you navigate when you arrive. Download a map of where you’ll be visiting ahead of time so you can easily find where you need to go, even if your phone has no connection.
At the airport
- Take a photo of where you parked, including the row letter or number, so you can easily locate your car when you return.
- Breeze through security lines using the Transportation Safety Administration (TSA) PreCheck or CLEAR, which allows an expedited screening process for low-risk travelers.
- With these memberships, you can leave shoes, jackets, and belts on and keep laptops and small liquids inside your bag.
- Have your ID and boarding pass ready to show at security. Also make sure liquids and electronics are bagged together and easily accessible to remove.
- Secure your carry-on in an overhead bin opposite your seat or slightly in front of you. That way you don’t need to wait for others to exit upon landing to reach it.
Now that you have the essential tips to help you travel like a pro, protect your adventure with travel insurance. A Westwood travel policy covers:
- Trip cancellation or interruption
- Lost or damaged luggage
- Emergency medical and dental coverage
- Travel delays
- Rental car protection
- Emergency medical transportation and travel accident coverage
Contact a Westwood agent to learn more about this affordable peace-of-mind protection.
Please Note: This article is for general informational and educational purposes only. It does not represent any specific insurance policy and does not modify any provisions, limitations, or exclusions of any current policy.