Go Sunnyland Tours

Do you know which trip is your most important? Your trip to the airport! It may sound crazy, but your airport experience can make or break your entire vacation. Here are a few tips to ensure that you “fly” through the airport without getting your wings clipped.

1. The early bird gets the worm.   When you check in early for a flight you have the opportunity to change seats (can you say exit row?), you have plenty of time to navigate the security lines,  you give the airline time to get your bags on the correct flight, and most importantly, you have the peace of mind that if there is an unscheduled change to your flight you are there to get the information, not on the road or frantically searching for a parking space.

2.To carry or not to carry, that is the question! By now, most of us are aware of the basic baggage restrictions; each passenger is allowed 2 checked bags and 1 carry on plus a small personal item.  While it has been rumored that restrictions will ease sometime in 2009, as of now they are still in place. What does this mean? It means that any liquid or liquid based product (toothpaste, makeup, lotion) you carry on must be in a container that holds 3 ounces or less. It means these small containers must be carried together in a quart sized zip lock bag. It means you can only have one bag of liquids per person and this lonely bag must be removed from your carry on and given to the security person to inspect by hand. So- the answer to the question? Carry only what is necessary. Prescription medicines, valuables, ID and film should still be carried on, everything else can be checked. In a time when most airlines are charging additional fees for checked luggage- trust me when I tell you it is worth the small fee! Checking your bag means you have more flexibility with what you can take with you and more freedom in the airport when you are not hauling that extra, usually overstuffed, suitcase. Boarding and deplaning will be much easier as well. Your back and your fellow passengers will thank you!

3.Dress for success. Airlines are experiencing delays and cancellations in record numbers. Make sure you wear something comfortable and practical. You will be asked to remove your shoes when going through security so slip on footwear is highly recommended. Belt buckles, loose change and excess jewelry should also be avoided. And if you have to make a plane change you don’t want to be tottering on those high heels with the oh, so pointy toes, do you?

4.Speak up!  Don’t be afraid to ask if you have questions or requests. Most all airports have customer service staff-even if the airlines don’t seem to.  If you need assistance making a connection request a cart or ask someone to walk you to the next gate. Airports are busy, loud and confusing there is nothing wrong for asking for help. Don’t forget; we are here to answer any questions you may have before you leave.

Once you make it through the airport -without stress -you know the rest of your vacation will be a jolly holiday indeed!