Every day, there are approximately 100,000 flights worldwide, carrying millions of passengers. However, traveling by plane requires special preparation. Find out how to make your next flight as comfortable as possible

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Most amazing vacations, joyful family reunions, and productive business trips begin at the airport. However, a flight can bring not only positive emotions, but also become a rather exhausting experience, especially for unprepared travelers.

To make your trip as comfortable as possible, we have prepared 13 useful tips. From buying tickets to getting on the plane, every step of the journey can be made much easier, so let's get started.

13 life hacks for comfortable air travel

✅ Book your flight in advance

If you book your ticket in advance, you will have a better chance of choosing the ideal departure date, time and place.

✅ To save money, buy tickets at the right time

The closer to the departure date, the more expensive the tickets become, while booking too early (more than five months in advance) can also cost you extra money. As a rule, the lowest prices for air tickets are observed in the period from three weeks to 2.5 months before the departure date (21 - 74 days).

✅ Find the most comfortable seat on the plane for you

Choosing the right seat can change your flight experience:

— If your priority is more legroom and easy access to the toilet, then choose aisle seats.

— Many passengers who are afraid of flying worry about the turbulence in the air or the feeling when the plane turns after takeoff or before landing. In these cases, sitting in the middle aisle above the wing may seem the most stable, especially during turns.

— If you are flying with a child, it is a good idea to choose seats in the first row, right behind the wall that separates business class. Many airlines offer to attach a bassinet to the bulkhead wall free of charge, which will add comfort. Window seats can also be a good idea if you choose not to buy a separate seat for your child.

— Those who plan to sleep a little during the flight should avoid the last row of economy class seats, because the backs do not recline there.

— For travelers who have limited time between transfers, it is better to choose seats in the front part of the cabin or near the aisle in order to get out as quickly as possible after boarding.

✅ Use online registration

One of the easiest and most effective ways to make your stay at the airport more comfortable is to check in online. Most airlines allow you to do this up to 24 hours before departure, saving you time at the airport (especially if you don't have checked baggage). Also note that many airlines (Ryanair, Wizz Air, etc.) charge an airport check-in fee, so be sure to check this information before you travel.

✅ Study the airport before traveling

If this is your first departure from the airport, read a little about it before you go. Find out where the terminal, check-in desk, checkpoints, toilets and restaurants are - so you can easily find your way around. This is especially useful if you have a connecting flight and need to change terminals. All this information can be found on the airport's website.

✅ Choose the most comfortable clothes

Before heading to the airport, it's important to consider your clothing choices. On a long flight, it's a good idea to dress in layers to prepare for the temperature changes that can occur on the plane. Wear comfortable, stretchy clothing, such as yoga pants or athletic joggers, and a loose-fitting t-shirt. Always bring a comfortable sweater that's easy to put on and take off in case the temperature fluctuates on the plane. Don't forget to also wear comfortable shoes that can be easily removed during the flight.

✅ Take these few things to make your time on the plane as comfortable as possible

A comfortable travel blanket and a good neck pillow will add comfort to your flight. An eye mask and a pair of noise-canceling headphones will help block out excess light and noise that can keep you from falling asleep. Also keep a pair of thick socks in your bag to put on when you take off your shoes.

Charge your gadgets and download an interesting movie or podcast to it so you don't get bored on the road.

✅ Make your luggage easily identifiable

In order not to waste time looking for luggage, make your suitcase visible by attaching a bright ribbon or sticker to the handle.

✅ Arrive at the airport early

Arriving late at the airport is the most common mistake made by tourists. In order to go through all the procedures as comfortably as possible (check-in, drop off luggage, etc.), it is necessary to be in the terminal at least two hours before the departure of a domestic flight and three hours before the departure of international flights.

However, keep in mind that each airline for each airport sets its check-in opening times for the flight, so it is better to check this information on the airport's official website before your trip.

✅ Follow the flight information screen

Flight information screens are usually located around the airport and display relevant information about your flight, such as the gate number, boarding time and any delays.

Even if you have already checked in, we advise you to keep an eye on the screen as your flight information or status may change.

✅ Find out where the halls of increased level of comfort and relaxation rooms are located

If you have a long layover and don't want to spend hours in an airport chair, you might consider taking a break in an airport lounge. Most of them offer comfortable seating, free food and drinks, fast Wi-Fi and other amenities.

✅ Skip the queues

Many airports have the Fast Track service, which allows you to quickly pass passport control or security checks. Also, some airlines offer travelers to purchase priority boarding service when booking tickets in order to be one of the first to board the plane. Such additional services will make your trip more comfortable.

✅ Get even more comfort from flights with the Travel Care service

Even if you are as prepared as possible for travel, it is simply impossible to avoid certain risks, such as, for example, a flight delay. Therefore, when planning a trip, we advise you to consider purchasing a special package of travel protection services, which includes:

— Free lounge access at airports around the world to relax during long flight delays.

— 100% compensation for problem flights - get full compensation for a disrupted flight without commission, regardless of the number of flights.

— Priority in processing the application for compensation.

— Personal expert assistance.

— Compensation for lost luggage and additional costs.

— Special offers and privileges.

Also, don't forget about a positive attitude and be more patient with people and then nothing can spoil your travel experience.

We hope these tips have been useful to you and will make your trip even more enjoyable.

We remind you! In the conditions of closed airspace over Ukraine, passengers use the services of European air carriers. Most travelers are unaware that they are entitled to certain compensation in the event of a flight delay or cancellation, and unfortunately, such situations happen often. Read this article to find out what rights passengers have when a flight is delayed and how to get compensation from the carrier.

Photo: Freepik

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