Checking In At The Airport

Arrive early at the airport and allow enough time for security screenings and clearing customs.

Try getting to the airport at least two hours before your flight time on domestic flights and even earlier on international flights.

A favorite or planned book to read or something fun to do will keep you occupied if you do end up having time on your hands. You will be less stressed and rushed and enjoy your getting there part of your journey, starting the fun-part of your travel endeavor early.

A positive travel attitude will focus on the fact that time passes quickly and with most boarding happening early these days due to security concerns it is definitely more crucial to be early rather than risking being refused at the boarding gate due to the new regulations.

Plan for and depart in a timely, orderly fashion, in a more relaxed frame of mind and without incident. Be an empowered, action-oriented, pro-active perceptive traveler and you will be rewarded with a trip characterized by smooth sailing and good memories.

To avoid having to pay more, incurring unplanned, additional costs and penalties for luggage overages pack S-M-A-R-T! In preparing for your trip, after packing your luggage, lift it up, carry it around a block or two or down the stairs and see how it feels.

Remember, you will have to handle these eventually! This is a useful technique to re-evaluate and re-pack the amount you are taking with you. You will not be sorry. Also, leave some room for purchases while on your trip, as you would not like to have to buy additional pieces of luggage you do not really need, want, or incur costly shipping charges and or duties or other fees!

If you are in for a long international or domestic flight, there are several suggestions for seeing it through. Enduring long hauls and not getting uncomfortable or bored is the key here. A good night's sleep the night before, wearing comfortable, non-confining, wrinkle resistant clothes, and shoes that are fully broken in are all advisable.

Getting up regularly and walking around, making several trips to the washroom to wash your face and brush your teeth will keep you refreshed.

Taking a casual stroll up and down the aisles of an airplane is a real lifesaver and keeps the circulation going. Avoid costly in-air, shopping catalogues, costly phone calls and frequent alcoholic drinks from the bar as all are prices at premium and will add up! Take along lots of water, snacks and reading materials. If you are traveling with kids, ensure toys, activities, and a cooled snack-pack for them too.

Travel package deals always sound like such a bargain. They mostly are priced better and lower, BUT before congratulating yourself though with a well-deserved pat on the back for a job well done and money saved, check the cancellation and refund policy. You need to know what happens when the inevitable occurs. Say you change your mind or a trip is canceled. Scrutinize the fine print and calculate what the financial impact would be. How much money will you likely lose or forfeit?

Worried about the appearance of your luggage? Cannot afford new suitcases? Does your travel-tools and luggage look worn, stained and on its last legs? Inspect your existing luggage, including zippers, wheels, handles and identification tags. Clean the exterior of leather luggage with a good liquid saddle soap and conditioner.

All canvas luggage can easily be cleaned using a small amount of detergent, 1 cup of water, and a scrub brush. Nylon and vinyl luggage takes mild detergent and a small amount of water to be wiped down.

It is never a good idea to soak or immerse your suitcase in water. If this is still not enough and they are not salvageable, watch for retail sales, consider borrowing from a friend or relative or do the outlet, clearance and closeout circuits for bargains.