Traveling by plane can be an exciting but also stressful experience if you don’t take certain precautions. After the 20 mistakes on travel planning and the 20 mistakes during your trip, here is a list of the 20 most common mistakes to avoid to make your plane trip more enjoyable and hassle-free.
1. Not checking travel documents
- The mistake : Not checking the validity of your passport and visas in advance, which can lead to complications at the airport or even prevent you from traveling.
- How to avoid it : Make sure your passport is valid for the duration required by your destination. Some destinations require your passport to be valid for a period of six months beyond your intended return date. Also, check the visa requirements for your destination and apply well in advance if necessary. Keep a hard copy of your travel documents in case you lose your phone or original documents. See here the documents required for your trip according to your destination for French people.
2. Ignoring baggage restrictions
- The mistake : Not complying with airline-imposed baggage weight and size limits, which can result in high additional fees and delays.
- How to avoid it : Check your airline’s baggage weight and size limits before you pack. Use a luggage scale to weigh your bags at home and make sure they are within the allowed limits. Also, be aware of restrictions on items prohibited in your hand luggage to avoid problems at security checks. If in doubt, check your airline’s website for detailed information. Consider bringing a travel luggage scale to weigh your bags when you return from your trip, because often the weight of souvenirs is not just in your head! 🙂
3. Not arriving at the airport in advance
- The mistake : Arriving just in time for boarding, which can cause unnecessary stress and even cause you to miss your flight.
- How to avoid it : Arrive at the airport at least two hours before a domestic flight and three hours before an international flight. This will give you enough time to get through security, check your bags, and find your gate. Be prepared for unexpected delays like traffic jams or lines at security. Use real-time traffic apps to plan your route to the airport and avoid delays.
4. Forgetting to check in online
- The mistake : Not checking in online and wasting time at the airport, which can lead to longer lines and increased stress.
- How to avoid it : Checking in online can save you time and allow you to choose your seat in advance. Most airlines allow you to check in online 24 to 48 hours before departure. Some flights also allow you to download your boarding pass to your phone, which can save you from having to print out additional documents. Be sure to complete your online check-in as soon as possible to get the best seat options.
5. Underestimating jet lag
- The mistake : Not taking into account jet lag and suffering from fatigue at your destination, which can affect your productivity and enjoyment of your trip.
- How to avoid it : Try to adjust to the new time zone a few days before your departure. If you are traveling east, go to bed earlier and get up earlier. If you are traveling west, go to bed later and get up later. During the flight, avoid alcohol and caffeine, which can worsen the effects of jet lag. Drink plenty of water and try to sleep according to the new time zone to help you adjust.
6. Not hydrating enough, one of the biggest mistakes when flying!
- The mistake : Not drinking enough water during the flight, which can lead to dehydration and increased discomfort.
- How to avoid it : Drink plenty of water before and during your flight to avoid dehydration. The air in the airplane cabin is often dry, which can contribute to dehydration. Avoid alcoholic and caffeinated beverages, which can further dehydrate you. Carry a water bottle that you can refill after security to ensure you have water on hand during the flight.
7. Wearing uncomfortable clothes
- The mistake : Wearing tight, uncomfortable clothing, which can make the flight even more painful.
- How to avoid it : Wear loose clothing and layers that you can remove or add depending on the temperature. Temperatures can vary greatly on a plane, so it’s a good idea to wear layers that you can adjust as needed. Avoid tight shoes, as your feet can swell at altitude. Opt for comfortable shoes that are easy to remove during security checks.
8. Neglecting safety measures
- The mistake : Not following safety instructions or bringing prohibited items, which can lead to delays and complications.
- How to avoid it : Follow the instructions of security officers and crew members without question. Know the contents of your baggage and make sure it does not contain any prohibited items. Check the security rules of your airline and the airport to avoid any problems during security checks. Store your personal items in a way that they are easily accessible for security checks.
9. Not planning airport transfers
- The mistake : Not planning how to get to your final destination after landing, which can lead to delays and unnecessary stress.
- How to avoid it : Research available transportation options when you arrive. Book a taxi, shuttle, or private transportation service in advance to avoid lines and surprises. Use transportation apps to compare options and choose the one that best suits your needs. If you’re using public transportation, make sure you know the schedule and routes in advance.
10. Forgetting to charge your electronic devices
- The mistake : Having electronic devices that run out of power during the flight, which can make the trip boring and prevent you from using your devices when needed.
- How to avoid it : Make sure your electronics are fully charged before you leave. Bring a power bank to recharge your devices if needed. Many airports and planes have power outlets and USB ports, but it’s always best not to rely solely on these options. Download anything you might need in advance, such as movies, TV shows, e-books, or entertainment apps.
11. Don’t bring snacks
- The mistake : Relying solely on meals provided on board, which can lead to uncomfortable hunger and limited food choices.
- How to avoid it : Pack healthy snacks to avoid buying expensive food at the airport or on board. Consider non-perishable foods like dried fruit, nuts, granola bars, and cookies. Make sure your snacks comply with airport security restrictions. Having snacks on hand can also be helpful in case of a flight delay or extended layover.
12. Neglecting health and safety
- The mistake : Not taking into account health aspects for travel, which can lead to inconvenience and medical complications.
- How to avoid it : Carry a small first aid kit with basic medications, bandages, disinfectants, and any other medical items you may need. Find out about any vaccinations required for your destination and make sure you are up to date. Consult your doctor before traveling if you have any specific medical conditions or are taking any prescription medications.
13. Not reserving your seat in advance
- The mistake : Not reserving your seat in advance, which can result in non-preferred seating or separation from your traveling companions.
- How to avoid it : Reserve your seat as early as possible, either when you buy your ticket or when you check in online. Most airlines allow you to select your seat in advance, sometimes for an additional fee. If you’re traveling in a group, make sure to reserve seats together to avoid being separated.
14. Not planning activities for the flight
- The mistake : Not having something to do during the flight, which can make the trip boring and tiring.
- How to avoid it : Pack books, magazines, portable board games or puzzles to pass the time. Download movies, series, podcasts or audiobooks to your tablet or smartphone before you leave. Make sure your devices are charged and that you have good quality headphones. Having multiple entertainment options can make the flight much more enjoyable and less monotonous.
15. Forgetting comfort accessories
- The mistake : Not thinking about accessories that improve comfort in flight, which can make the trip uncomfortable and tiring.
- How to avoid it : Pack a travel pillow to support your neck and a light blanket to keep you warm. Earplugs and a sleep mask can help you sleep better by blocking out noise and light. Also consider compression socks to improve blood circulation and reduce the risk of deep vein thrombosis.
16. Not providing entertainment for children
- The mistake : Not providing entertainment for children, which can make the flight stressful and uncomfortable for the whole family.
- How to avoid it : Pack toys, books, video games, and snacks to keep kids occupied during the flight. Download age-appropriate movies or TV shows onto a tablet or smartphone. Plan quiet activities like coloring or puzzles to keep them engaged and relaxed. Make sure your kids have comfortable, size-appropriate headphones so they can enjoy the entertainment without disturbing other passengers.
17. Do not ask for compensation in case of flight delay or cancellation
- The mistake : Not claiming compensation for a delayed or cancelled flight, which can cause you to lose benefits and financial compensation to which you are entitled.
- How to avoid it : Learn about your rights as a passenger, including compensation for flight delays and cancellations. In the European Union, for example, EC Regulation 261/2004 provides compensation for flight delays of more than three hours, cancellations and denied boarding. Contact the airline to request compensation and keep all relevant documents such as boarding passes and receipts. Use specialist services or apps to help you claim compensation if necessary.
18. Not allowing enough time between connections
- The mistake : Booking flights with connections that are too close together, which can lead to the risk of missing a connection and delaying your trip.
- How to avoid it : Leave at least two hours between flights to avoid missing a connection. If you’re flying with an airline that offers connections, make sure your ticket includes enough time. Research the layout of the connecting airport to know where you need to go and how long it will take. Use flight tracking apps to stay informed of schedule changes and potential delays.
19. Ignoring the benefits of loyalty programs
- The mistake : Not taking advantage of airline loyalty programs, which can cause you to miss out on perks and potential savings.
- How to avoid it : Sign up for frequent flyer programs at airlines you use frequently to earn miles and enjoy perks like upgrades, airport lounge access, and free extra baggage. Use your miles to book flights, upgrades, or hotel nights. Check back regularly for special offers and promotions to maximize your benefits.
20. Forgetting to check flight times
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- The mistake : Not checking flight times, which can lead to delays and unpleasant surprises at the airport.
- How to avoid it : Check flight schedules a few days before departure to avoid surprises. Sign up for airline notifications to be notified of schedule changes or delays. Use flight tracking apps to stay informed in real time. Arrive at the airport with enough time to deal with possible changes or delays.
By avoiding these common mistakes, you will be better prepared and more relaxed when traveling by plane. Have a good flight and a good trip!
