We fly home to Australia from Los Angeles about once a year to see family. It is a loooooong and expensive flight. We can’t afford the flat-bed luxury of first or business class, but experience has taught us some valuable hacks for comfortable air travel. We're not going away this year, but many of you are (lucky you!), so I'm sharing my best tips for traveling in style wherever you're seated.
Get TSA Pre-Check. I loathe going barefoot (especially in a public place like the airport). Ugh! That was enough to motivate me to go through the bother of getting a verified Traveler number. The first time you sail past a huge line and walk through check-in with your shoes (and dignity intact), you will be glad you did. #worthit
Use the Apps! I once missed my flight (twice on the same day) because I didn’t bother to download the app to my phone. Gates can change, and if you’re not staring up at the departures board at all times, it’s easy to miss a gate change. Do yourself a favor and download the app, already.
Map out your trip. Look at your itinerary. Really look. And not just at the departure and arrival times. Clock your layover if you have one, and scope out the airport terminal beforehand. Some credit cards (like a Platinum American Express) will give you automatic entry into a pretty good lounge. If you're not a lounge member, there are some first-rate restaurant kiosks in most major airport hubs. Take the opportunity to check one out. You may discover a new favorite!
Request a special meal. Even if you're not 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 remember to take a healthy snack from home, especially if you are flying domestically. Nobody wants a $5 pulpy apple.
Dress the Part. It is an unwritten but common practice of ticket agents to allot better seats to well-dressed (and well-mannered) passengers. You don’t have to wear a suit or heels, but leather shoes, an ironed shirt, and a tailored jacket will go a long way toward helping you snag that rare upgrade or aisle seat. You can always change into sweatpants once you’re onboard. Score!
Go Early. I can’t stress this enough. If you are running late or even cutting it fine, you will likely be more stressed, and that can ruin your trip before it even starts. Allow yourself at least a 90-minute buffer arrival time before boarding to ensure a smooth and civilized departure.
Pack your Manners. Sometimes, a long layover or a delayed flight can be a plus if you have the right attitude. So, your flight was canceled out of Tulsa? Why not leave the airport and check out the great museum there? Endless delays out of Scottsdale? This is the perfect opportunity to indulge in a guilty pleasure: An airport massage and a People Magazine. Why not? Attitude is everything.
My Packing List: This is the part that really counts. A good set of luggage is a game-changer. Next year, I'm swapping out my trusty Rimowa for this chic, carbon-neutral set! I like a rolling carry-on with a matching tote packed with everything I need for the flight (and an overnight stay, just in case).
1. Healthy, portable snacks. Don’t take anything smelly (egg sandwich, I’m looking at you). But cheese and crackers, fresh fruit, and even cured meats can make an elegant, delicious snack that is far nicer than anything onboard. I also take an (empty) water bottle because I don’t like having to wait for the drinks trolly to roll past. Most airports have water filling stations near the bathrooms once you get past security.
2. Neosporin. I use a cotton bud to line each nostril before I board, and I have never gotten sick. It works!
4 & 5. Travel Size Garment Groom and Laundry Sheets. Again, I’m spilly. Enough said.
Let's be real: Air travel is not the charming experience it used to be. But with some forward planning, the right gear, and attitude, you can overcome the most tedious travel hiccups with stylish aplomb!
Bon Voyage, Baby!
xx, mlk
