The other day I was watching a rom-com with the inevitable chase through the airport, but instead of focusing on the romantic climax, I found myself studying the extras in the background instead of the lead actors. All those people waiting in line! Not a single mask in sight! A completely packed airport bar with everyone eating and drinking!
Traveling in style is going to be different in a post-COVID world, but as vaccinations continue to roll out, the world is starting to open back up again. We want you to get out there (but do it safely).
Here’s how to crush the Travel Game:
- Map out your trip. Look at your itinerary. Really look. And not just at the departure and arrival times. Clock your layover and scope out the airport terminal ahead of time. Even if you are a member, airline lounges are almost always the same: Dreary waiting rooms with bad upholstery, stale sandwiches, and terrible coffee. On the other hand, there are some first-rate restaurant kiosks in most major airport hubs these days. Take the opportunity to check one out. You may discover a new favorite!
- Yes, We’re Still Masking. Did you know that besides COVID-19, there were record lows of the flu and cold this year? It’s because we were all wearing masks instead of swapping germs. My mask makes me feel safer, and even though I’m excited to get on a plane, I’ll still be wearing a mask when I do. These double-layered masks are as soft and comfy as a vintage t-shirt, which makes it a lot easier. Especially when I use them with our exclusive mask straps. For an extra level of protection, we suggest a face shield. Especially while eating and drinking.
- Travel Safe. Do you remember that video of Naomi Campbell traveling in a hazmat suit and wiping down everything in sight on the plane? We’re going to start doing that! The wiping down, not the hazmat suit. Our Travel-Safe Surface Spray is strong enough to neutralize dirt and grime, TSA-compliant, and the Lemon Myrtle scent is so much nicer than the harsh, chemical-y odor of other surface cleaners.
- Request a special meal. Even if you aren’t a vegetarian, trying to keep Kosher, or are gluten intolerant, try requesting a special meal. They are almost always better than the usual fare. And don’t forget to take a healthy snack, especially if you are flying domestically. Nobody wants a $4 pulpy apple. Or Chex Mix.
- Dress the Part. It is an unwritten but common practice of ticket agents to give better seats to well-dressed (and well-mannered) passengers. You don’t have to wear a suit, but an ironed shirt and tailored jacket will go a long way toward helping you to snag that aisle seat. You can always change once you’re onboard. Score!
- Carpe Diem. Sometimes, a long layover or a delayed flight can be a plus if you are prepared to seize the day! Was your connecting flight out of Austin get canceled? Time to sample some world-famous Tex-Mex or Bar-B-Que while listening to some great music! Endless delays out of JFK? This is the perfect opportunity to indulge in a guilty pleasure: An airport massage and the latest issue of People Magazine. Why not? Attitude is everything
- Be Prepared. This is the part that really counts. We are against dragging overstuffed carry-ons onto planes, but always have a satellite bag or large handbag, packed with everything we need for the flight (and an overnight stay, just in case).
- Healthy, portable snacks (of course). I never travel without this seed mix.
- A TSA-compliant “emergency” kit.
- A Dopp kit with our overnight basics: travel toothbrush, toothpaste, face wash, lip balm, face mist, and face oil.
- Secretly Comfy Pants: We like these joggers. They can almost pass for slim trousers, but made in a heavenly French terry fabric that you could literally sleep in.
- Slip-on shoes or pool slides for trips to that airplane loo. That bathroom floor is unthinkable in bare feet or socks. Don’t go there.
- A practical wrap. A Turkish towel. The perfect multi-tasker. A blanket, beach towel, pillow, sarong, or scarf. It’s whatever you need it to be.
- Your own headphones and an eye mask to escape a bad movie or an overly chatty fellow passenger.
- A good book and diary with a good pen (for those analog moments) .
- Mobile device chargers and extra battery pack.
- A lightweight, foldable tote to hold all above and tuck behind your legs. With a plastic liner for trash.
Bon Voyage!, xx, mlk
