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How To Travel By Air

By: Bobby Laurie

Break Studios Contributing Writer

Recent changes in the airline industry have many people wondering how to travel by air. Many airlines are charging for checked bags, food, drinks and some even charge for a window or an aisle seat. Being prepared before you get to the airport is now more important than ever.

  1. Shop around if you are going to travel by air. When shopping for travel by air, remember that many airlines usually serve one particular airport. Shop around for the best price rather than settling for the first price and airline you find. Many airlines offer discounts if you purchase your tickets at least 14 days in advance, and prices increase from that point on to your departure date. 
  2. Research your airlines website before you travel by air. Airlines provide passengers with up-to-date information about traveling with them and through their airports on their website. Luggage information such as checked bag fees and carry-on bag restrictions are commonly located here as well as menu's for food available for purchase on board.
  3. Check-in online, it can save you time and money. Some airlines allow passengers who are traveling with checked bags to check-in online from home and pay a lesser checked bag fee. Additionally, checking in online helps to avoid the long check-in lines at the airport and allows you to head straight to the security checkpoint. 
  4. Arrive at least two hours prior to your flight. Security lines are getting longer and longer as more people begin to spend money on traveling by air again. The Transportation Security Administration recommends that you ensure you arrive to the airport at least two hours prior to your flights departure time to allow yourself enough time to go through the security process. Passengers can be selected at random for additional screening which can delay the lines movement or yourself if you are selected.
  5. Remember to have patience. Airlines have scaled back their flight schedules to better fill the flights they are currently operating. This means your flight will probably be full and the amount of anxious travelers will be high. Remember to have patience with the flight crew and your fellow passengers while traveling by air.
Posted on: Apr. 01, 2010