Here’s what you need to know before leaving home for that dream vacation.
- Check with the airline to ensure that the flight is leaving on time.
- Choose your seats ahead of time.
- Pack light. Experienced travellers take few clothes and make choices that can do double duty.
- Have everything important in your carry-on in case your luggage is lost: makeup, medicines, change of underwear, one change of clothing.
- If you’re staying with friends and bringing gifts, send them ahead.
- Avoid alcoholic beverages when flying. They are dehydrating. Drink lots of water.
- Your skin is asking for moisturizer. Put a small bottle or jar in your handbag and use it hourly.
- If you need more than a carryon and are checking a bag, do something to make it easily identifiable when you line up to collect it. Perhaps tie a big, brightly coloured ribbon on the handle.
- Compare prices in terms of time of year, day of week and time of day. You may save a bundle by booking a special well ahead of time.
- Check with the airline to see if any snacks or meals are provided at no cost.
- Pack snacks if no food is provided. Choose nutritious, filling snacks so you’re not purchasing expensive food aboard the plane. You might enjoy cheddar cheese and crackers and a couple of pieces of fruit.
- Consider wearing a money belt if you’re going sightseeing to safeguard money and your emergency information.
- Make copies of your passport and travel documents. Carry one in your money belt (not in your handbag) and leave one in the hotel safe.
- To get on a plane, expiry needs to be at least six months prior to your travel.
- Use hand sanitizers for hands and for questionable things you touch.
