Flight preparation and preventing issues

Feb 10 2025 MFR travel team

Traveling by plane is very exciting, regardless if it’s business or pleasure. But you always have to go well prepared in any case. Sometimes even the carefully planned trips could go through some issues that will lead us to stress and a lot of frustration. Then again, even those small hiccups could be avoided altogether when you plan carefully and pay attention to the details. In this article, we will introduce you to in-dept guide on how to be ready for your flight, without having to worry about any issues on the way.

Book smart and double-check everything

• Choose the right flights: The choice you make for flights will depend on your schedule, layover time, and connections, especially if you're flying to or from places prone to weather-related issues. When flying internationally or to weather-prone areas, it’s better to select flights with longer layovers between connections.
• Stay flexible: Upon booking, make sure that you book with flexible policy. This way you know that regardless of the circumstances that may occur, you won’t be charged with high fees to change your travel plans.
• Monitor flight status: Make sure to download the airline’s app and have their website open on your electronic device. There you will be able to follow real-time flight updates that include delays, gate changes, cancellation and so on. Always track your flight!

Organize and verify travel documents

• Passport and visa requirements: Documents are the most important aspect of your flight! Always before booking a flight, make sure that your passport/ID/visa are up to date. Confirm in time that you meet the visa requirements for your destination. This way you will not have any issue at the airport.
• Digital and physical backups: Always have a few copies of your important travel documents, digital and physical copy are a must. Pack them in your hand luggage. Pro tip: use a USB flash drive that you only have access to and store the digital copies of your documents there.
• Know your destination’s entry rules: This is especially important post-COVID, as many countries enforce strict measures, including health forms, vaccination cards, or COVID-19 test results.

Pack like a pro

Packing is a whole lot of work alone. This is why you should know how to pack your luggage efficiently and save yourself some trouble at the airport.

• Understand airline baggage policies: Now, read carefully the baggage policies of the airline you are travelling with, because this can save you a lot of trouble too.
• Essentials in your carry-on: Every important item that you have and don’t want to lose in any case, pack it in your carry-on. Items such as - medication, documents, electronics, toiletries (always in a sealed plastic bag), and spare clothes for changing, should be in your carry-on luggage at all times.
• Use packing cubes: The packing cubes are a total life saviour! Available in most travel stores, those will help you organize your luggage and make it way easier to find your belongings. Bonus - your clothes will be in place even after security and you will not have to figure out where to put your shirt. Remember, rolling instead of folding is the way to go and save some space in your suitcase.

Prepare for your journey to the airport

• Plan transportation ahead: Now, it’s time to go to the airport, finally! But how will you get there? Make a list with your options - go by car, train, bus or metro. Choose the one that will be most comfortable for your and go for it. Check for any traffic restrictions or closures in advance, this way you will avoid delays on your way to the airport.

Tip: Always leave early, so you can avoid any possible traffic. Bonus - you will have more time to go through security check and might even be in a smaller queues. For international flights, it’s recommended to arrive at least three hours in advance, and for domestic ones, two hours works perfectly fine.

Check-in and manage your reservation early

• Online check-in: This is the best way to save yourself time and avoid waiting at a queues, because your boarding pass will be available on your phone and you can go right away with security check. Online check-in is usually available 24h prior to the flight and you will also be able to choose a seat.
• Seat selection: Choose your seat very carefully. Comfort is most important during flights. The best recommendation for seat selection - for long-haul flights aisle seats are the best, because if you need to use the bathroom often, you just stand up and go right ahead and consider the extra legroom too. For short-haul flights, middle or window seat are good.
• Confirm travel details: Double-check departure and arrival terminals, flight schedules, and gate information.

Be ready for airport security

Security checks can be quite the hassle for every traveller. This is the reason why you have to be very well prepared for it!

• Pack smartly for tsa regulations: Follow TSA rules, such as the 3-1-1 rule for liquids in carry-on bags.
• Wear travel-friendly outfit: It’s best to wear clothes that do not have anything metal on them. Strictly avoid belts since you will have to remove it. If you wear any jewellery, remove it ahead of time, so you can avoid wasting time taking it off at the security check.
• TSA pre-check or global entry: Frequent travelers should consider enrolling in these programs to expedite the security process.

Prepare your body and mind

Long travel days can take a huge toll on your mental and physical health. Take care of yourself well ahead of time.

• Sleep well: Get the recommended amount of sleep, usually between 7 to 9 hours. In any case, do not stay up until late to work. Rest well!
• Eat and hydrate: Heavy food before flight is a big no-no! Eat lighter food and drink plenty of water, to stay hydrated and avoid stomach issues.
• Dress Comfortably: Light and breathable clothes are always the way to go for flying. But also consider some layering too, so you can adjust to the cabin or airport temperatures.

Pro tip for the ladies that are always cold - bodysuit and a baggy t-shirt matching the color of the bodysuit will keep your body warm, comfortable and you will be fashionable too. Trust me on this one!

Account for potential delays

Delays are stressful, aren’t they? Worry not, we will prepare you for those. This will help you have more positive outlook on the situation.

• Entertainment options: Pack an MP3 player, a book or a tablet to keep yourself entertained while waiting. Strongly recommending noise canceling earbuds, those come in handy all the time.
• Snacks and hydration: Pack non-perishable snacks and a refillable water bottle. Most airports have water fountains or filling stations.
• Flexible itinerary: Make sure to not schedule anything important after your flight, since delays happen and you have to be ready for any possible scenario. Allow for possible delays in your plans.

Stay connected

Nowdays information is everything, so stay informed!

• Portable chargers: Powerbank is your best friend during travel! Make sure to have at least one fully charged in your pocket, so you can keep your devices charged at all time.
• Download essential apps: Airline apps, airport maps, and translation apps can be invaluable during your journey. Plus news outlets, they are very helpful to be aware of any potential situation at your destination.
• Share travel plans: Notify a friend or family member of your itinerary in case of an emergency. This way someone would be able to help you if anything happens along the way.

Stay calm and adaptable

We cannot be ready for anything, because things happen left and right. This is why we have to always be calm, not panic and take a nice deep breath!

• Plan for the unexpected: Be prepared for delays, lost luggage, or flight changes. By being aware of what to do in such events, you will be never be worried about the big question “now what?”
• Ask for help: Never be shy to ask the airline staff in case there’s some issue on their end. They will help you to the best of their abilities.
• Keep a positive attitude: Travel can be unpredictable, but maintaining positive attitude helps you a whole lot in your situation.

Bonus tips for frequent flyers

If you’re a frequent traveler, these tips can enhance your flying experience:

• Join loyalty programs: Many airlines offer frequent flyer programs with perks like free checked bags, early boarding, and lounge access.
• Invest in travel gear: High-quality luggage, a comfortable travel pillow, and noise-canceling headphones are worthwhile investments.
• Master the art of light packing: Frequent flyers often recommend traveling with only carry-on bags to avoid checked luggage and the risk of lost items.