THE TEN UNWRITTEN RULES OF TRAVEL
The world of travel entered a new era after it's COVID shutdown in 2020. Things changed rapidly, first with requirements, demands that emptied airports and then a shockwave of revenge travel coming back shortly there after, combined with lifting of restrictions - this created the perfect storm of travel chaos.
Even though things changed, it doesn't mean there's no rules now.
While travellers have no control over the hurricane of travel chaos swirling around them, we do have control over how we react and our own behaviour.
Here's 10 (unwritten) rules, to abide by:
WAIT TIL IT'S YOUR TURN TO DEPLANE
Stay in your seat until the rows in front of you are movinig during deplaning. Don't stand in the aisle like you're about to cut in line, unless you have a tight connection - then announce your urgency to those around you.
DON'T ALLOW MORE OPPORTUNITIES FOR THINGS TO GO WRONG
Never book a connecting flight if a non-stop is available. It's just another opportunity for something to go wrong and it's never worth the small savings.
Check in online, 24 hours prior and arrive at the airport at least 2 hours prior for domestic and 3 hours for international flights.
Security lines are long and airports are crowded and short-staffed.
PACK LIGHT AND ONLY USE A CARRY-ON
Depending on where you're going, this should save you a whole lotta heartache.
Lay out everything you want to pack and then put half of it back. Buy toiletries in destination and leave behind when you're departing. Most hotels provide you with the essentials.
Take twice as much money and half as much luggage. Checking bags was risky before, now it's commonplace.
You'll be happier in the end.
KEEP YOUR FEET OUT OF SITE AND OUT OF MIND
Don't put your bare feet on display. Bring a pair of socks - and for the love of all things in the world, don't put your feet on the bulkhead or seat back in front of you - or worst yet - sticking them through the seats/armrest of the seat in front of you.
Nobody needs to see or smell your nasty toes!
GO STRAIGHT TO YOUR GATE - BUT DON'T CROWD IT
Wait until your boarding group is called - then approach the gate, don't crowd it. Familiarize yourself with where it is, make sure your flight is displayed, then go eat or use the washroom.
DON'T FORGET TO MOVE AROUND
Move, stretch and circulate those feet, ankles and legs as much as possible, to avoid blood clots and cramps. Your body will thank you for it.
USE THE AIRLINE'S APP - ESPECIALLY WHEN DEALING WITH CANCELLATIONS OR DELAYS
When flying, be sure to download the airline app - if your flight's delayed (or worst yet) / cancelled - use the app and type in "representative" in order to get a live person for assistance. As much as I'd like to say I could help you, most times you're way better off talking to an airline agent right in the airport, at the flight desk, to get the most accurate answer - then please call me, if you need more help. Most times, I'm already watching your flight status.
BE PREPARED FOR THINGS TO GO WRONG
Always bring a power bank or jolt charger (fully charged) - you never know how long it'll be before you get to an outlet for your phone or computer.
Always bring sanitizer wipes for the airplane. Tray tables on an airline are listed as the dirtiest area on a plane, so wipe everything down, including the armseats (for those people with the "feet" who aren't reading this), seat belts and head rest.
Have a change of clothes (at least 1 outfit + clean underwear) in your carry-on, in case your checked luggage gets lost.
Purchase travel insurance.
Re-read my blog on BEING PREPARED
RESPECT THE PEOPLE AROUND YOU
Don't lean on the seat in front of you when you stand up - lean on your own seat.
Be aware of fragrances - whether that means perfume or food - they can cause headaches or unpleasant reactions in those around you.
Middle seat gets the armrest - both of them - end of story.
Never recline your airline seat, if you can help it - you're taking up someone else's leg room and space.
Use your inside voice - the rest of the plane doesn't need to hear your conversation.
PACK YOUR PATIENCE AND BE KIND
Be nice to staff and airline / airport crews. Especially when things don't go according to plan or slow service. Treat people the way you'd wnat to be treated.
99% of the time, it's not their fault.
None of this is a life or death situation - relax and let the cards fall how they may.
Relax and chill - you're going to get there one way or another
Kindness gets you everywhere. Please and thank you are important words to use.
Reach out and help a fellow traveller when opportunity presents.
If you have the right attitude, you'll reach the right altitude!
PS: Re-read my blog PACK YOUR PATIENCE
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