Tips for Before the Flight
There are a number of things you can do before your plane leaves to ensure a smooth journey:
Before You Arrive at the Airport
- The day before you travel, try to limit your intake of alcohol, tea and coffee.
- Put a tag on the outside of your baggage with your name and mobile number. Only put your address on the label if the tag can be secured so that this information is concealed from passers-by.
- Put the same information inside each bag, and add an address and telephone number where you can be reached at your destination city.
- Dress in layers so that you won't get too cold or warm during your journey. Cabin temperatures fluctuate so you may find that you'll need to put on and take off layers several times during your flight.
- Wear loose, non-constrictive clothing that will give you the most comfort whilst you're travelling.
- Pack some entertainment in your carry-on luggage. Although many long-distance flights provide in-flight movies, music, and a selection of magazines, don't rely on it. It often seems to be the case that the in-flight film is something that you watched only a week ago. Although you can bring CD, MP3 and DVD players, remember that you cannot use electronic devices during takeoff and landing.
- Allow plenty of time to arrive at the airport by the designated check-in time. Add at least 30 minutes on to the suggested time.
TOP 10 AIRPORTS - as voted by our readers.
1. Hong Kong International Airport
2. Singapore Changi Airport
3. Seoul Incheon Airport
4. Munich Airport
5. Kansai International Airport
6. Amsterdam Schiphol Airport
7. Kuala Lumpur International Airport
8. Vancouver International Airport
9. Madrid Barajas Airport
10. Zurich Airport
At the Check-In Desk
- If you're prone to motion sickness, consider asking for a seat over a wing or the wheels, which are the steadiest parts of an aircraft.
- Depending on your preference for more space or better view, you may want to book an aisle or window seat. Window seats are good if you want to sleep during the flight, as they offer you a wall to rest against, and prevents your neighbour from disturbing you when they leave their seats during the flight.
- Ask to sit in an emergency aisle or bulkhead seat for extra legroom. However, you should be aware that although bulkhead seats offer more legroom (although actually, some offer less), you may not be able to see the in-flight film. It's also the place where families with young babies are seated. Your seat tray (and in some cases, screen for the film) will normally be situated in your armrest, which may mean that your seat is slightly narrower.
- Avoid the seats in front of an emergency aisle or bulkhead, as they generally don't recline.
- Make sure that the agent checking your bags attaches a destination tag to each one. Check to see that these tags show the three-letter code for your destination airport. Remove any tags from previous trips to avoid confusion.
After you've Checked-In
- Take a walk around the terminal to minimise stress and to reduce the risk of DVT.
- Keep an eye on the flight information monitors to ensure that you arrive at you gate in plenty of time.
- Avoid heavy meals and alcohol.
- Apply a good moisturiser to keep skin feeling fresh.
