Airline travel is more complicated than it used to be, notes Beverly Berna, Families Specialist with Iowa State University Extension.  However it is still possible to fly the ‘friendly’ skies with a little advance planning.  Before booking any reservation, it is important to do your homework --- especially if you have not traveled for a long time. The Transportation Security Administration Web site, http://www.tsa.gov/311/index.shtm, gives good information about what you can carry onto the airplane.

 

Here are a few suggestions to make travel more enjoyable:

·        Pack lightly --- all those little items add to the weight of your luggage.

·        Plan connecting flights to have some time cushions – or you will be running a marathon at the airport.

·        Choose your seats on the plane carefully.

·        Choose your reservations carefully.  The computer will be a great tool to see if “ocean breeze” might mean no air conditioning or indoor pool.

·        Take the number of your travel agent if you use one.  Or the 800 number of the airline on which you will be traveling.

·        Check and double-check reservations.

·        If traveling with children, check car seats, cribs and other items that you may need or what you need to bring.  Or if you need a wheelchair or other items, call ahead to ask questions and get things lined up.

·        Arrive at the airport early.  Call ahead to see if it is one hour or two hours early.

·        Be courteous to airline staff. You may need a favor from them later.

·        Pay attention to the latest information the airline gives about packing personal items, especially sprays and gels. 

·        Wear slip-on shoes because you may need to take them off to get through security checkpoints.  Wear comfortable clothes, as well.

·        Plan for some delays.  Bring a book or magazine with you in case you need to take them between flights.  This also means making sure you have clothes that serve a dual purpose --- used on your vacation, but also available if you get a layover.

·        Keep your sense of humor.

 

Weather can cause delays as can mechanical concerns so regardless of when you are flying take address book and phone numbers of friends, acquaintances or relatives that could be helpful if you get an unexpected delay while in route.  Traveling by air can be a good experience if you take time to plan ahead and prepare for those unexpected delays.

skb 4/10/2008