If you can fly with carry-on only, you’ll not only save money, but you’ll also reduce the risk of lost luggage. Plus, if you have any sort of international connection, you won’t have to claim your luggage before going through customs. Even if you’re flying domestically, carry-on travel means you can skip the baggage check when you arrive at the airport and fly past the baggage claim on the other end of your journey. Another reason to pack light is simply to reduce the wear and tear on your body as you transition from parking shuttles to the airport, baggage carousel, taxis, and hotels. If you can’t fit your goods into one bag, try putting some essentials in a backpack rather than a second suitcase. This keeps a hand free to wrangle kids, open doors, and pay at the coffee shop while keeping one hand on your suitcase. Another way to pack light is to downsize your purse or work bag. Move it into a small travel purse so you can slip it inside a backpack or other ‘personal item’ for the flight. While you're at it, take everything out of your wallet you don’t need. Remove extra credit and membership cards. Do keep your insurance card, ID, and cards from two different banks in case one bank freezes your cards due to suspicious activity while you’re away. Also, keep medications with you instead of inside checked luggage. One additional tip is to pack laundry strips, which are nearly weightless and won’t leave a mess. Then you can do laundry in the sink or at a laundromat.
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Airlines vary when it comes to check-in, but most open up 24 hours before your flight. For some airlines, such as Southwest, it’s essential you’re ready the second check- in counters open up in order to reserve your boarding spot. On other airlines, your boarding position may be based on the type of seat you purchased and if you hold an airline credit card. (For more information, visit: www.islands.com/1579801/how-to-best-airline-make- first-boarding-groups/). Having the ability to choose your seat can keep you from getting stuck in the back row with seats that don’t recline, or being separated from your family. However, airlines are increasingly withdrawing the option to choose your own seat until check-in. If you haven’t been able to choose your seats in advance, it’s another reason to check in as soon as the option is available. CHECK-IN EARLY
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December 2024
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