Flight Attendants Share Their Top Holiday Travel Survival Tips
Take it from the pros before you go.
Subject to delays, cancellations, gnarly weather, and all manner of mishaps that are utterly out of your control, air travel can be a little hectic, and as we head into the holidays, it’s never been more important to come prepared. Coming off a government shutdown, which caused long lines at security checkpoints as TSA agents were forced to work without pay, this holiday season could be one for the record books. Speaking of the TSA, they’ve got some handy hints for traveling with presents, but in order to ensure a smooth departure, we asked the experts: flight attendants.
Ahead of the holidays, we chatted with flight attendants — including some from the Transport Workers Union (TWU) — to learn their top tips for travelers to follow during the busiest time of year. From possible delays or cancellations, to weather disruptions, long lines, and government shutdowns, flight attendants know that while much is out of your control, there’s still plenty of ways to come prepared and mitigate meltdowns. Here are six of the best ways to do just that before you head to the airport.
Save money on the ground
Traveling is unavoidably expensive, but that shouldn’t suggest there aren’t ways to save. According to Carly Chamerlik, a flight attendant-turned-pilot, one of the best travel hacks is to get cheaper — and sometimes faster — rides when leaving the airport. “Rideshare services usually have higher fees and longer wait times if you’re getting picked up on airport property,” she says. “Instead of calling a car from the airport, get on a free hotel shuttle and call your Uber from the hotel instead.” The savings can be substantial: “Once, this saved me nearly $50 by just taking a 10-minute ride. The price for an Uber from the airport would’ve been $75, but from the hotel just a mile or two down the road, it was under $30.” Shuttle drivers, she notes, don’t ask where you’re staying, or particularly care, so just bring a cash tip as a thanks.
Stash some snacks before you go
If you are stuck on the runway, the TWU points out that flight attendants are unable to provide snacks until a flight is in the air. Protein bars are a great, filling option that are easy to transport and don’t take up much space. Cabin air is extremely dry, so make sure to bring a water bottle to stay hydrated — as Kristina Peterson, president of TWU Local 556, explains, once you pass through security, there are several refillable water stations in gate areas. “Also, if the crew has to remain seated due to turbulence, you’ll have something to drink during the flight,” she notes.
Pack any necessities in your carry-on
If you end up spending hours (or even days) delayed at the airport, you want to make sure you can easily access any medication and basic toiletry items like toothbrushes and contact solution. Even if you’re not delayed, Peterson suggests placing medications and electronic devices in small carry-on bags, in case your luggage is gate-checked due to limited overhead bin space. The TWU also suggests stashing an extra jacket or item to keep warm. This is especially important, Peterson notes, if you have to board or exit a plane in an environment that is not the airport terminal (e.g. Air Stairs, or a diversion to another city due to winter weather).
Pack strategically
If you’re trekking someplace cold, it can be tempting to overstuff your suitcases with extra layers, but according to
Ally Case, a flight attendant for a major airline, less is more. “The holidays are when travelers tend to overpack,” she says. “Pack outfits by day, not by category. Use packing cubes to stay organized and fit more into smaller bags. Stick to neutral basics that can mix and match easily. Roll, don’t fold; you’ll save space and reduce wrinkles.” At the end of the day, be strategic about baggage, she explains. “A well-packed personal item can save you checked bag fees.”
Stay plugged in
Unless you’re planning on
rawdogging your next flight, you’d be wise to get your devices in order in advance. As Peterson suggests, ensure your wireless earbuds and electronic devices are fully charged, and carry a portable charging device, as many aircraft don’t have charging outlets. Southwest Airlines, she notes, offers free Wi-Fi for anyone with a Rapid Rewards Account, which is free. Enroll before you arrive if you’re flying Southwest. Also, be sure to download movies and games before you arrive at the airport.
Bring face masks and sanitizer for your flight
Since the mask mandate was lifted, airlines are no longer required to provide face masks to passengers. The last thing anyone wants is being seated next to someone who could be sick or making others ill, whether it be COVID-19 or a common cold or flu. It’s not a bad idea to mask up since no one wants to spend Christmas morning sick. Case suggests wiping down your seat area with disinfecting wipes, including tray table, armrests, screen, and belt buckle. And even before you get to the airport, she recommends boosting your immunity with vitamin C packets and ginger shots.