The Golden Rules – Dos and Don’ts of Air Travel Tips

All the stages of the flight that can get you into trouble (check-in, departure, boarding, flight and arrival) and offer opportunities to enhance the journey, but only if you are aware of and follow a few golden rules. This way you can have a less stressful and more enjoyable trip and even a more economical one!

Here are the essential dos and don’ts of flying which will give you a valuable cheat sheet for the traveller and stress-free flying!

DO: Plan and book thoughtfully

Golden rule of all the good travels starts even prior to departure from home.

• Flight comparison and advance booking. Air prices continue to fluctuate. Flights booked a month or sometimes two in advance tend to have the best prices and seating selection.
• Check the visa, passport, and entry requirements. These differ from country to country and even some countries require transit visas, even if you’re not staying there.
• Join airline newsletters. You will be the first to be notified about flash sales, promo codes, and upgraded seating.
• Do download the carrier’s app. It provides live flight delay information and gate numbers and checked-baggage status.

DO NOT: Pack until the last minute.

Rushing through packing often leads to overpacking—or worse, forgetting essentials.

• Don’t forget the checked-baggage allowance. The fee for extra baggage is outrageous. Check the allowance on the airline and weigh the bags before leaving home.
• Don’t transport illegal items in carry-ons. Liquids over 100ml, scissors/knives/sharp objects, and certain electronic equipment might be confiscated from you during security.
• Don’t forget the travel-sized toiletries and power banks. But do make sure they meet airline safety standards.
• Do not overstuff handbags. Easy and light to carry is the solution, particular in the case of crowded airports or cramped plane corridors.

DO Arrive Prepared and on Schedule

Time is in your favour in the airport. Rushing is not.

• Do get there 2-3 hours prior to the flight. Long flight possibly need even more time considering immigration and security.
• Do have all documents in hand. The passport, boarding pass, and insurance and itinerary should be kept in hand.
• Do wear comfortably and layer-up. Airports and aeroplanes can fluctuate in temperature. Comfortable shoes are a plus for long walks through terminals.
• Do pack some small bites and a refillable bottle. Terminal foods run pricey and occasionally mediocre. Fill the bottle after security.

DON’T: Be “That Passenger”

We’ve all run into them—those who converse loudly, recline chairs, and monopolize overhead compartments.

• Be respectful to ground staff and other passengers. Some courtesy never hurt anybody on long-hauls or seat exchanges.
• Do not recline your seat unexpectedly. Especially during meals or if the person behind you has long legs. Always check first.
• Never bring stinky food. What smells nice to someone else will be offensive to others in a cramped-in cabin.
• Do not exit the plane ahead of your group. Hold back and deplane in line. This is not a competition.

DO: Pack the Most Out of Your Carry-On 

Your carry-on is the flight survival kit.

• Do pack entertainment. Books, downloaded movie files, podcasts, and a powerbank will keep everyone busy during long-haul flights.
• Do pack an eye mask and ear-cancelling headphones. Sleep is golden, especially on overnight or long-haul journeys.
• Put the medicine, the valuables, and the second outfit in the carry-on. Lost things do occur more frequently than most would assume.
• Pack sanitizer wipes and wet wipes. Aeroplanes do not have the cleanest environments, so it’s a good idea to do a fast wipe down of the seating.

DON’T: Underestimate Jet Lag

Journeying from time zone to time zone is physically difficult.

• Avoid overindulgence in alcohol or caffeine. These dehydrate the body and also interfere with sleep.
• Don’t immediately crash when you land. Do attempt and adapt to local time and keep going until the evening.
• Stay well-hydrated. Cabin air on planes is dry. Every hour or two on the flight, have some water.
• Never skip breakfast. Having breakfast on time makes the body adapt to the routine quicker.

DO: Be a Responsible Traveller

Travel is a privilege, and the act of respecting the world and its cultures makes everyone a better global citizen.

• Do research local customs and etiquette. What’s acceptable in one culture may be offensive in another.
• Do reduce waste. Utilize virtual boarding passes and do not use disposable plastics.
• Promoting domestic enterprises. Souvenir items to street food buying helps support the local economy of the destination.

DON’T: Don’t Forget to Enjoy the Ride

Lastly, keep in mind that travelling is fun—certainly not a to-do list.

• Don’t be too picky about the little things. There will be hiccups and interventions. Breathe and flow your way through it.
• Don’t be so attached to your social media. Live in the moment, take your pictures mindfully, and put your phone away sometimes.
• Remember why you are travelling; work, adventure or reunion. Embrace the purpose of your trip.

Final Boarding Call 

Flying doesn’t have to be stressful and uncomfortable. With a bit of planning, a little thoughtfulness, and some flexibility, you can be a flying pro. By following these dos and don’ts, you won’t just be a smarter traveller—you’ll be a more pleasant one, too, for everyone travelling around you.