Re-Learning to Fly
May 10, 2013 11:31 AM Subscribe
I'm going to be flying cross-country at the end of June. I haven't been on an airplane in about 11 years. What should I do to make my trip as comfortable and stress-free as possible, both on the ground and in the air?
It's been forever since I've flown. I haven't been on a plane since 2002. I know I should wear easy-to-remove shoes, show up early, and so forth. This is a business trip, so that affects things. I'll have to pack appropriate business wear, a laptop, and attendant gadgets, and other stuff. It's only for a couple days, so I think I can make this all work via carry-on. That's about it.
So, help me make my first cross-country business trip as sane and comfortable as possible!
It's been forever since I've flown. I haven't been on a plane since 2002. I know I should wear easy-to-remove shoes, show up early, and so forth. This is a business trip, so that affects things. I'll have to pack appropriate business wear, a laptop, and attendant gadgets, and other stuff. It's only for a couple days, so I think I can make this all work via carry-on. That's about it.
So, help me make my first cross-country business trip as sane and comfortable as possible!
Pack a water bottle, empty. Fill it past security.
You'll have to pull out your laptop, but not turn it on.
Pack a very light blanket for the plane or pillow if you generally need them; these can be gotten cheaply at a corner drugstore.
Double check your carry on suit case for the plane meets that airline's requirements for carry on luggage. Don't plan on putting your laptop in there in case you have to gate check your bag.
Generally you can take on your carry on suitcase and a bag like a backpack (for laptop and toiletries, maybe). You can bring lunch and they won't fuss at you, likewise something like a small purse or electronics bag as a third bag is generally okay.
You will not, very likely, be able to use bluetooth keyboards or headphones on the plane. You may, depending on the airline, be able to "plug in" to charge your gear.
Take a small power strip to share with others (power outlets) at the airport. I usually do one that has a three foot cord so I'm not stuck at their uncomfortable little charging stations or on the floor.
Have plastic for purchases on the plane; much less cash flying with the flight attendants these days.
posted by tilde at 11:39 AM on May 10, 2013
You'll have to pull out your laptop, but not turn it on.
Pack a very light blanket for the plane or pillow if you generally need them; these can be gotten cheaply at a corner drugstore.
Double check your carry on suit case for the plane meets that airline's requirements for carry on luggage. Don't plan on putting your laptop in there in case you have to gate check your bag.
Generally you can take on your carry on suitcase and a bag like a backpack (for laptop and toiletries, maybe). You can bring lunch and they won't fuss at you, likewise something like a small purse or electronics bag as a third bag is generally okay.
You will not, very likely, be able to use bluetooth keyboards or headphones on the plane. You may, depending on the airline, be able to "plug in" to charge your gear.
Take a small power strip to share with others (power outlets) at the airport. I usually do one that has a three foot cord so I'm not stuck at their uncomfortable little charging stations or on the floor.
Have plastic for purchases on the plane; much less cash flying with the flight attendants these days.
posted by tilde at 11:39 AM on May 10, 2013
If you're bringing more than one carry-on, consider paying for priority boarding so you won't be hunting for space in the overhead bins.
posted by Holy Zarquon's Singing Fish at 11:40 AM on May 10, 2013
posted by Holy Zarquon's Singing Fish at 11:40 AM on May 10, 2013
Also, speaking of water: You're not allowed to bring even moderate amounts of liquids through security. Solids are fine. Feel free to pack a lunch.
posted by Holy Zarquon's Singing Fish at 11:41 AM on May 10, 2013
posted by Holy Zarquon's Singing Fish at 11:41 AM on May 10, 2013
Going through security, your laptop will have to come out of its carrying bag to go through the x-ray in a bin by itself. Your other electronics, however, are usually fine in your bag.
posted by tomboko at 11:41 AM on May 10, 2013
posted by tomboko at 11:41 AM on May 10, 2013
You're not allowed to bring even moderate amounts of liquids onto a plane
Not true. You can carry liquid in 3 oz bottles or less.
posted by empath at 11:43 AM on May 10, 2013
Not true. You can carry liquid in 3 oz bottles or less.
posted by empath at 11:43 AM on May 10, 2013
1) Make sure your carry-on rolls and is actually a carry-on size and isn't too heavy to lift above your head without sending fear into the hearts of your fellow passengers.
2) Decide what you value and seat yourself accordingly. Personally, I value the ability to pee every fifteen and a half seconds, so I prefer an aisle seat above all else. Some people like to sleep, so they choose the window seat. Others still prefer the quietest ride, and will choose a middle seat in the front half of the plane just to not be behind the wings.
3) Take something to read and music to listen to. You will get bored with one or the other. Maybe take a snack.
4) If you're flying Delta, play the trivia game they have in the head rest. It's fun.
5) If you need to pee while the fasten seatbelt sign is on, or before the flight takes off, or while the plane is just sitting there not doing anything, just get up and go. If you get hassled by a flight attendant, just shrug and be all "nature calls." I have never once had a single problem with that and (see point 2) it comes up a lot.
6) Same goes for the drinks. If you sleep through drink service or are thirsty, just push your little button doodad and say, "could I please get a cup of water?" or whatever. If they say no (they won't, but let's just pretend), tell them you need to take medication.
7) They still have the SkyMall. It is still awful and hilarious. Enjoy it.
posted by phunniemee at 11:44 AM on May 10, 2013 [2 favorites]
2) Decide what you value and seat yourself accordingly. Personally, I value the ability to pee every fifteen and a half seconds, so I prefer an aisle seat above all else. Some people like to sleep, so they choose the window seat. Others still prefer the quietest ride, and will choose a middle seat in the front half of the plane just to not be behind the wings.
3) Take something to read and music to listen to. You will get bored with one or the other. Maybe take a snack.
4) If you're flying Delta, play the trivia game they have in the head rest. It's fun.
5) If you need to pee while the fasten seatbelt sign is on, or before the flight takes off, or while the plane is just sitting there not doing anything, just get up and go. If you get hassled by a flight attendant, just shrug and be all "nature calls." I have never once had a single problem with that and (see point 2) it comes up a lot.
6) Same goes for the drinks. If you sleep through drink service or are thirsty, just push your little button doodad and say, "could I please get a cup of water?" or whatever. If they say no (they won't, but let's just pretend), tell them you need to take medication.
7) They still have the SkyMall. It is still awful and hilarious. Enjoy it.
posted by phunniemee at 11:44 AM on May 10, 2013 [2 favorites]
Not true. You can carry liquid in 3 oz bottles or less.
I would categorize three ounces as a "tiny" amount of liquid, especially if we're talking about beverages.
posted by Holy Zarquon's Singing Fish at 11:45 AM on May 10, 2013
I would categorize three ounces as a "tiny" amount of liquid, especially if we're talking about beverages.
posted by Holy Zarquon's Singing Fish at 11:45 AM on May 10, 2013
Xanax.
posted by elizardbits at 11:50 AM on May 10, 2013 [4 favorites]
posted by elizardbits at 11:50 AM on May 10, 2013 [4 favorites]
Shoes, laptop, and liquids in a freezer bag sized plastic bag have to go through the x-ray. Check the tsa guidelines for exact amounts. The "ugh someone in a room is seeing me naked" machine does not like coats or scarves, they'll make you take those off. Bring more reading/listening material than you think you need, it's easy to forget how terribly boring it is to be stuck in a plane. You can check in online the day before you leave now. If you have a printer when you do this, you can print your boarding pass and not have to mess with the little check-in kiosks. (I don't think you could do that in 02.)
posted by DestinationUnknown at 11:52 AM on May 10, 2013
posted by DestinationUnknown at 11:52 AM on May 10, 2013
Most planes have wifi these days, and it's an awesome distraction on a long flight.
Try to fly Virgin America if possible, it's in every way a more pleasant, humane experience.
posted by jjwiseman at 11:55 AM on May 10, 2013 [2 favorites]
Try to fly Virgin America if possible, it's in every way a more pleasant, humane experience.
posted by jjwiseman at 11:55 AM on May 10, 2013 [2 favorites]
Put up the cash for onboard wifi and a couple of drinks. It's worth it. Staying relaxed during the flight will help you get to bed early and keep a level head during the inevitable complications of travel.
posted by scose at 11:57 AM on May 10, 2013
posted by scose at 11:57 AM on May 10, 2013
If you end up checking a bag, be aware that airlines are more strict about weight limits now. It's typically 23kg/50lbs per bag but make sure to check the airline website or the fine print on your ticket, because sometimes it's less per bag, and sometimes it's 23kg per person without having to pay extra fees. Some tickets don't even include a free checked bag anymore.
There's technically a weight limit for carry on items too, but I've never seen it enforced.
posted by ceribus peribus at 12:02 PM on May 10, 2013
There's technically a weight limit for carry on items too, but I've never seen it enforced.
posted by ceribus peribus at 12:02 PM on May 10, 2013
Put up the *credit* for onboard Wifi and a couple of drinks. Many (most?) airlines do not accept cash on board any more.
posted by scolbath at 12:02 PM on May 10, 2013 [1 favorite]
posted by scolbath at 12:02 PM on May 10, 2013 [1 favorite]
I get headaches on airplanes, stemming from an uncomfortable head position. It helps to bring an inflatable neck-supporting pillow and a couple of painkillers.
posted by springload at 12:06 PM on May 10, 2013
posted by springload at 12:06 PM on May 10, 2013
Do you have a company credit card? That makes life/expense reports easier.
Most airlines are now cashless. You'll need to make food and beverage purchases by credit card.
The seats are much more cramped than you remember. MUCH more. I fly every week and I'm still stunned at how cramped it is.
Don't depend on the plane to provide entertainment. Even if the airline says there will be entertainment sometimes the video systems break, sometimes the airline switches equipment and you end up on a non-wifi plane. Load some videos or bring books.
If you need power on the plane, check seat-guru.com. Also, check to make sure you have an adapter for the plane.
posted by 26.2 at 12:10 PM on May 10, 2013
Most airlines are now cashless. You'll need to make food and beverage purchases by credit card.
The seats are much more cramped than you remember. MUCH more. I fly every week and I'm still stunned at how cramped it is.
Don't depend on the plane to provide entertainment. Even if the airline says there will be entertainment sometimes the video systems break, sometimes the airline switches equipment and you end up on a non-wifi plane. Load some videos or bring books.
If you need power on the plane, check seat-guru.com. Also, check to make sure you have an adapter for the plane.
posted by 26.2 at 12:10 PM on May 10, 2013
Where are you flying from/to? That might help with on-the-ground suggestions.
posted by madcaptenor at 12:14 PM on May 10, 2013
posted by madcaptenor at 12:14 PM on May 10, 2013
I fly far too much, and my number one rule when traveling for business: take it easy and don't feel guilty about not working on the plane! Sometimes I do some meeting prep or reading inflight, but mostly it is a great opportunity to kick back with a trashy book or movie (inflight or iPad).
Take snacks, a neck pillow, a blanket if you get cold, don't rely on there being device power.
posted by wingless_angel at 12:14 PM on May 10, 2013 [2 favorites]
Take snacks, a neck pillow, a blanket if you get cold, don't rely on there being device power.
posted by wingless_angel at 12:14 PM on May 10, 2013 [2 favorites]
Response by poster: madcaptenor New York to San Francisco.
I'm totally keeping my laptop in the bag, and using my iPad on the flight exclusively. No way a 15" MacBook Pro will do well even in first class.
posted by SansPoint at 12:17 PM on May 10, 2013
I'm totally keeping my laptop in the bag, and using my iPad on the flight exclusively. No way a 15" MacBook Pro will do well even in first class.
posted by SansPoint at 12:17 PM on May 10, 2013
Bose noise canceling headphones are expensive but worth every penny. Unbelievable how much stress reduction comes from not having to listen to all the noise on a plane. I aabsolutely wont travel without my headphones.
posted by WalkerWestridge at 12:18 PM on May 10, 2013 [2 favorites]
posted by WalkerWestridge at 12:18 PM on May 10, 2013 [2 favorites]
While in line at security, empty your pockets and put everything inside your carry-on bag. That means phone, wallet, keys, change, belt, etc etc all goes in a front pocket of your bag. Don't put it in the little while bin they keep there, just a target for thieves, and one more thing to forget to grab to recombobulate yourself.
posted by teragram at 12:20 PM on May 10, 2013 [3 favorites]
posted by teragram at 12:20 PM on May 10, 2013 [3 favorites]
Here's my strategy.
Anything you're going to need to take out of your suitcase to get through security needs to be easily accessible.
Laptop
Tablet
1Qt baggie of liquids
Wallet
Keys
Mobile phone
Belt
All go in the bin. In some airports shoes go on the belt, or in the bin. Listen to instructions.
Everything else can stay in the bag. I put my laptop in the front pocket of my wheelie bag, and my baggie at the very top, so I can unzip and grab and cram it back in.
Yeah, a blanket and pillow would be nice, since a lot of airlines don't provide this anymore, but I did this on a flight to London and it was just that much more crap to carry.
If you can upgrade to Economy Comfort, do it. If you can upgrade to Business Class, do it.
If you can't upgrade, just be prepared to be in steerage, it's cramped, smelly and unpleasant. I like an aisle seat so I can move around. To this end, select your seats early. Some are now "premium" seats, like exit rows or behind the bulkhead and the airline will charge more for them. (bastards) Print out your boarding pass at home, skip the counter or the machines at the airport and head straight to security.
On preview, put all the little stuff in your bag.
posted by Ruthless Bunny at 12:20 PM on May 10, 2013 [1 favorite]
Anything you're going to need to take out of your suitcase to get through security needs to be easily accessible.
Laptop
Tablet
1Qt baggie of liquids
Wallet
Keys
Mobile phone
Belt
All go in the bin. In some airports shoes go on the belt, or in the bin. Listen to instructions.
Everything else can stay in the bag. I put my laptop in the front pocket of my wheelie bag, and my baggie at the very top, so I can unzip and grab and cram it back in.
Yeah, a blanket and pillow would be nice, since a lot of airlines don't provide this anymore, but I did this on a flight to London and it was just that much more crap to carry.
If you can upgrade to Economy Comfort, do it. If you can upgrade to Business Class, do it.
If you can't upgrade, just be prepared to be in steerage, it's cramped, smelly and unpleasant. I like an aisle seat so I can move around. To this end, select your seats early. Some are now "premium" seats, like exit rows or behind the bulkhead and the airline will charge more for them. (bastards) Print out your boarding pass at home, skip the counter or the machines at the airport and head straight to security.
On preview, put all the little stuff in your bag.
posted by Ruthless Bunny at 12:20 PM on May 10, 2013 [1 favorite]
If they fly to and from gour destinations take Jet Blue. The service is light years better thsn their competition.
posted by WalkerWestridge at 12:23 PM on May 10, 2013
posted by WalkerWestridge at 12:23 PM on May 10, 2013
For New York to San Francisco you should have no trouble getting a nonstop. Your choices are American, Delta, United, Virgin, and JetBlue. (I'm working off the wikipedia article.) I mention this because I try to avoid the old part of Terminal 1 at SFO, if I can - it's really unpleasant. Fortunately for you none of the airlines flying this route board there!
I'd recommend Virgin, if you can. I really liked JetBlue when they started out but the other airlines seem to have caught up to them.
There is a possiblity that you'll have to check your carry-on bag (at no charge) if the overhead bins fill up - this has become a thing since the airlines started charging for checked baggage back when oil prices spiked. This means that you want to be one of the earlier people on the plane. Virgin boards from back to front, so you actually might want to be in the back of the plane. (Other people here might know something about other airlines' boarding policies, although some of them are quite byzantine and confusing.)
posted by madcaptenor at 12:31 PM on May 10, 2013
I'd recommend Virgin, if you can. I really liked JetBlue when they started out but the other airlines seem to have caught up to them.
There is a possiblity that you'll have to check your carry-on bag (at no charge) if the overhead bins fill up - this has become a thing since the airlines started charging for checked baggage back when oil prices spiked. This means that you want to be one of the earlier people on the plane. Virgin boards from back to front, so you actually might want to be in the back of the plane. (Other people here might know something about other airlines' boarding policies, although some of them are quite byzantine and confusing.)
posted by madcaptenor at 12:31 PM on May 10, 2013
Because airlines have started charging $20 - $50 per checked bag, the competition for overhead space for carryons has become fierce. Passengers will blithely ignore any sort of 'boarding group' calls in order to jam their bags into the overhead nowhere near their seat.
I personally pay the checked bag fee so I don't have to wrestle for space and clog the aisle, and because I typically have heavy and sharp tools I can't carry aboard.
But flying this weekend I saw a middle path: pack your carryon so it meets the size and weight requirements, but wait until the end of the boarding call to approach the door. By midway through boarding, the overheads will be full and they will be offering to 'gate-check' bags... for no charge.
posted by Kakkerlak at 12:32 PM on May 10, 2013
I personally pay the checked bag fee so I don't have to wrestle for space and clog the aisle, and because I typically have heavy and sharp tools I can't carry aboard.
But flying this weekend I saw a middle path: pack your carryon so it meets the size and weight requirements, but wait until the end of the boarding call to approach the door. By midway through boarding, the overheads will be full and they will be offering to 'gate-check' bags... for no charge.
posted by Kakkerlak at 12:32 PM on May 10, 2013
If they fly to and from gour destinations take Jet Blue. The service is light years better thsn their competition.
One of the biggest problems with JetBlue is if they cancel your flight, even if it is their fault, they will just give you $50 and your choice of the next available JetBlue flight (even if it is in a couple of days) or a refund. If it's their fault, other airlines usually try to rebook you on a different carrier if it is possible.
posted by grouse at 12:33 PM on May 10, 2013
One of the biggest problems with JetBlue is if they cancel your flight, even if it is their fault, they will just give you $50 and your choice of the next available JetBlue flight (even if it is in a couple of days) or a refund. If it's their fault, other airlines usually try to rebook you on a different carrier if it is possible.
posted by grouse at 12:33 PM on May 10, 2013
Yes, fly Virgin if at all possible, and bring a decent amount of tasty snacks. I got stuck on a flight last year that sat at the gate (already boarded and doors locked) for two hours because of thunderstorms, and they ran out of food. But I had some beef jerky, nuts, cheese, and chocolate, and my boss - who was sitting a few rows ahead - sent some free drink tickets back to me, so it was fine.
I've also found that even if I'm not actively listening to anything, keeping my earbuds in mutes noises to a perfect nap-inducing level.
Yes, Xanax. Or Ativan. Though if you've never take. Them before, do a dry run at home before your flight.
posted by rtha at 12:39 PM on May 10, 2013
I've also found that even if I'm not actively listening to anything, keeping my earbuds in mutes noises to a perfect nap-inducing level.
Yes, Xanax. Or Ativan. Though if you've never take. Them before, do a dry run at home before your flight.
posted by rtha at 12:39 PM on May 10, 2013
Please for the love of God start taking your shoes and jacket off, emptying shit out of your pockets, etc., a few people BEFORE you actually get to the bins. I just missed a flight yesterday because security was crazy and every single person in line moseyed up to the bins oblivious and then was shocked, shocked!! to discover they had to do these things, grinding the entire line to a halt. (Also, don't whistle out loud to whatever you're listening to on your earbuds, don't get in screaming matches with your spouse yelling "don't even fucking talk to me" within earshot of people's kids, and don't walk around in a toxic cloud of perfume turning the entire plane into your own personal gas chamber.)
posted by HotToddy at 12:49 PM on May 10, 2013 [3 favorites]
posted by HotToddy at 12:49 PM on May 10, 2013 [3 favorites]
Here's a tip.
NEVER tuck anything into the pocket in front of you unless you plan on losing it. It's the most common place that people forget their laptops, ipads, headphones and it's hard to track them down. Put your contact info on your ipad/laptop incase you do forget it, but either keep it in your hands or in your bag.
posted by Crystalinne at 1:08 PM on May 10, 2013 [1 favorite]
NEVER tuck anything into the pocket in front of you unless you plan on losing it. It's the most common place that people forget their laptops, ipads, headphones and it's hard to track them down. Put your contact info on your ipad/laptop incase you do forget it, but either keep it in your hands or in your bag.
posted by Crystalinne at 1:08 PM on May 10, 2013 [1 favorite]
I have one of these USB batteries, and it is wonderful. It means that I don't have to think about whether my phone is charged, or deal with fighting for power at charging stations. The capacity is about 4 full charges of a phone.
posted by Adamsmasher at 1:10 PM on May 10, 2013 [1 favorite]
posted by Adamsmasher at 1:10 PM on May 10, 2013 [1 favorite]
The rules for liquids are pretty easy to remember; they call it the 3-1-1 rule. You get a one quart plastic bag that must contain any liquids you are carrying, and the liquids must be in containers no larger than 3.4oz (100ml). These rules do not apply to any medications, so you can leave those in your carry-on as long as they look like prescriptions.
If you don't want to pay for a checked bag, some airlines (like United) allow for one free checked bag if you have their credit card. If you fly more than once a year, it pays for itself.
I always bring earplugs - just the cheap foam ones you roll up and stick in your ear canal. They help slow the pressure changes, and they keep me happy even when next to screaming infants.
Just back from a business trip myself, and oh how I feel you, HotToddy!
posted by blurker at 1:15 PM on May 10, 2013
If you don't want to pay for a checked bag, some airlines (like United) allow for one free checked bag if you have their credit card. If you fly more than once a year, it pays for itself.
I always bring earplugs - just the cheap foam ones you roll up and stick in your ear canal. They help slow the pressure changes, and they keep me happy even when next to screaming infants.
Just back from a business trip myself, and oh how I feel you, HotToddy!
posted by blurker at 1:15 PM on May 10, 2013
Southwest does two free checked bags, and I've generally had good experiences flying with them. The in-flight amenities are bare-bones but they also have rarely screwed anything up in my experience. Certainly less so than the other commodity airlines (i.e. not Virgin or JetBlue and the like, which don't fly anywhere I actually go).
posted by Holy Zarquon's Singing Fish at 1:23 PM on May 10, 2013 [2 favorites]
posted by Holy Zarquon's Singing Fish at 1:23 PM on May 10, 2013 [2 favorites]
Airlines seem to be operating a lot closer to their margins these days -- expect every flight to be full and if anything goes wrong with a plane, a four to eight hour delay as they fix it (rather than the hour or so of moving everyone to a new airplane). I don't think I've flown anywhere in the last five or ten years without at least one leg of a flight being seriously delayed. So have a few in case snacks (even if you're planning on buying food on-board) and a bit more entertainment than you might otherwise need. (Also, food on the flight is now for purchase only, and some airlines have improved their selections accordingly. The menu is often available online, so you can see if you'd rather eat on flight or bring something beforehand.)
posted by Margalo Epps at 1:33 PM on May 10, 2013
posted by Margalo Epps at 1:33 PM on May 10, 2013
Do you have to fly to SFO? OAK is much smaller and easier to manage. Between the fog and runway construction at SFO, flights there are frequently late. (I flew out of SFO on Sunday - every single flight on the board was delayed.)
posted by 26.2 at 1:40 PM on May 10, 2013 [2 favorites]
posted by 26.2 at 1:40 PM on May 10, 2013 [2 favorites]
Get a couple of pairs of those foam ear plugs. The constant hum of the engines is fatiguing and blocking it will really help. They're only a couple of dollars at your local grocery/pharmacy.
posted by Confess, Fletch at 1:57 PM on May 10, 2013
posted by Confess, Fletch at 1:57 PM on May 10, 2013
If you do happen to use your laptop on the plane, either use it on your lap and NOT the tray-table, or else keep it uncomfortably close to your belly and not touching the seat in front of you. If you have an open laptop when the person in front of you decides to recline their seat, the tray-table latch or the indent for the tray can catch the top of your screen and potentially break it. I've had some close calls lately.
posted by Andrhia at 3:05 PM on May 10, 2013
posted by Andrhia at 3:05 PM on May 10, 2013
Expect to pay for your meal this time; it's no longer included in the ticket. A small bag of snacks and non-alcoholic beverages are still free, though peanuts are history thanks to the allergy issue. Cash or credit cards are accepted and efficiently processed.
Wi-Fi is very commonly available, but not free, or has only a limited free period; you'll pay through a browser.
It's interest to reflect on what has changed in 10 years, not all of it security-related.
posted by Sunburnt at 3:25 PM on May 10, 2013
Wi-Fi is very commonly available, but not free, or has only a limited free period; you'll pay through a browser.
It's interest to reflect on what has changed in 10 years, not all of it security-related.
posted by Sunburnt at 3:25 PM on May 10, 2013
though peanuts are history thanks to the allergy issue.
Unfortunately (or i guess fortunately if you can't go a few hours without peanuts) this isn't always true. I was on several flights (Delta) a few weeks ago where they served peanuts. (and I wrapped my face in my scarf and was annoyed.)
posted by DestinationUnknown at 3:34 PM on May 10, 2013
Unfortunately (or i guess fortunately if you can't go a few hours without peanuts) this isn't always true. I was on several flights (Delta) a few weeks ago where they served peanuts. (and I wrapped my face in my scarf and was annoyed.)
posted by DestinationUnknown at 3:34 PM on May 10, 2013
I have seen plenty of peanuts on Southwest.
Any "meal" you get on a plane kind of boils down to a $10 box of snacks these days. If you have time and ability, maybe get more food in the airport before you get on the plane.
The wi-fi on planes is usually pricey.
I usually bring some kind of fanny pack/waist bag item to hold anything that would go in my pockets, and then take the waist bag off when going through security (preferably put it in a bag), so as to not forget something in a pocket. They are not happy with you if you go through the metal detector and forgot your cell phone in your pocket, lemme tell ya.
For the love of god, do not make any kind of jokes whatsoever about the security, cops, whatever when you are in the airport. Do exactly what they say. I can't stress this enough. Be as obedient and quiet as possible while you are in the security line. They have all the power in the situation and can really fuck with you if they want to, so don't give them a reason to do it.
Have your ticket in your hand at all times during security to hand to someone when they ask. Even if they say, "you don't need it, you can put it away," I've been surprised from airport to airport as to which ones will check your pass at the start of the line AND when you get to the naked scanners.
If you opt for the pat-down rather than the naked scanner, politely say so just before they run you through it. It's probably not as bad as you've heard the pat-downs are, though it varies from airport to airport and person to person as to how bad it is.
Thanks for the reminder on this stuff--I'm flying tomorrow myself.
posted by jenfullmoon at 8:59 PM on May 10, 2013
Any "meal" you get on a plane kind of boils down to a $10 box of snacks these days. If you have time and ability, maybe get more food in the airport before you get on the plane.
The wi-fi on planes is usually pricey.
I usually bring some kind of fanny pack/waist bag item to hold anything that would go in my pockets, and then take the waist bag off when going through security (preferably put it in a bag), so as to not forget something in a pocket. They are not happy with you if you go through the metal detector and forgot your cell phone in your pocket, lemme tell ya.
For the love of god, do not make any kind of jokes whatsoever about the security, cops, whatever when you are in the airport. Do exactly what they say. I can't stress this enough. Be as obedient and quiet as possible while you are in the security line. They have all the power in the situation and can really fuck with you if they want to, so don't give them a reason to do it.
Have your ticket in your hand at all times during security to hand to someone when they ask. Even if they say, "you don't need it, you can put it away," I've been surprised from airport to airport as to which ones will check your pass at the start of the line AND when you get to the naked scanners.
If you opt for the pat-down rather than the naked scanner, politely say so just before they run you through it. It's probably not as bad as you've heard the pat-downs are, though it varies from airport to airport and person to person as to how bad it is.
Thanks for the reminder on this stuff--I'm flying tomorrow myself.
posted by jenfullmoon at 8:59 PM on May 10, 2013
Comfort-wise I always bring a "travel blanket" (a small fleece blanket that rolls up nicely or tucks into its own pouch). It is great for when the plane is cold, or you can scrunch it up as a pillow, or roll it is a "neck pillow", or just kinda cuddle it for comfort.
Everyone knows that airports are overpriced but sometimes I just tell myself that it's a perk of dealing with flying stress, and I go buy a new magazine and a candy bar and some gum which for some reason makes me feel like I'm splurging.
posted by radioamy at 9:01 PM on May 10, 2013
Everyone knows that airports are overpriced but sometimes I just tell myself that it's a perk of dealing with flying stress, and I go buy a new magazine and a candy bar and some gum which for some reason makes me feel like I'm splurging.
posted by radioamy at 9:01 PM on May 10, 2013
I have done tons of long-haul flying. Suggestions so far are all good, I just want to add:
- If you are able to sleep on planes, the Best Thing Ever for sleeping is earplugs PLUS over-ear noise-cancelling headphones. I listen to music on the headphones until I get sleepy, then turn it off and stick earplugs in. Between the two, it's (relative) blissful silence, even in the back of the plane.
- Bring less crap than you think you need. I spent many a flight wrestling a backpack, a carry-on AND a bag with assorted crap onto and off of each and every plane, and it took me that long to realize that I only ever use one book, one electronic device (phone or tablet), headphones, earplugs, eye mask, and a mini-toothbrush/toothpaste and face wipes (super-nice, because I always find myself feeling generally stanky and gross at the end of a flight, regardless of whether that's actually true).
- If you happen to wear contacts, don't wear them for the flight. Between the hyper-dry air in the plane and possibly sleeping, it ain't fun. The small bottles of contact solution generally pass through security in my experience, despite being a -weeny- bit over the limit.
- Also, something nobody else seems to have addressed yet, and which I have found to reduce my stress and crankiness more than anything else: You do not have to board when they tell you to board. You can sit in the lounge, reading your book or dinking on your tablet while they call boarding group A, B, C, and D, or rows whatever, right up until the last person goes through the scanners. You have already checked in. They will not leave without you, at least not in the first 5 minutes after everyone else has boarded. This results in far less standing in line and waiting, which I find the least bearable part about flying. Same for getting off the plane, unless you're in a big hurry - don't bother standing up when the seat-belt sign goes off, 'cause it'll be a few minutes before you actually start moving.
posted by po at 7:19 AM on May 11, 2013
- If you are able to sleep on planes, the Best Thing Ever for sleeping is earplugs PLUS over-ear noise-cancelling headphones. I listen to music on the headphones until I get sleepy, then turn it off and stick earplugs in. Between the two, it's (relative) blissful silence, even in the back of the plane.
- Bring less crap than you think you need. I spent many a flight wrestling a backpack, a carry-on AND a bag with assorted crap onto and off of each and every plane, and it took me that long to realize that I only ever use one book, one electronic device (phone or tablet), headphones, earplugs, eye mask, and a mini-toothbrush/toothpaste and face wipes (super-nice, because I always find myself feeling generally stanky and gross at the end of a flight, regardless of whether that's actually true).
- If you happen to wear contacts, don't wear them for the flight. Between the hyper-dry air in the plane and possibly sleeping, it ain't fun. The small bottles of contact solution generally pass through security in my experience, despite being a -weeny- bit over the limit.
- Also, something nobody else seems to have addressed yet, and which I have found to reduce my stress and crankiness more than anything else: You do not have to board when they tell you to board. You can sit in the lounge, reading your book or dinking on your tablet while they call boarding group A, B, C, and D, or rows whatever, right up until the last person goes through the scanners. You have already checked in. They will not leave without you, at least not in the first 5 minutes after everyone else has boarded. This results in far less standing in line and waiting, which I find the least bearable part about flying. Same for getting off the plane, unless you're in a big hurry - don't bother standing up when the seat-belt sign goes off, 'cause it'll be a few minutes before you actually start moving.
posted by po at 7:19 AM on May 11, 2013
You can bring food from the terminal onto your flight. Think burritos, burgers, whatever you can get. Everyone around you will be either jealous or offended by your smells. Fuck 'em.
When possible I keep toilet articles at my destination or mail them one way or the other.
Carry things you can't live without in your carry-on like meds or contact lens stuff. I keep a backpack ("personal item") with any techy things or toilet articles plus all my IDs. I never open my carry on bag through the whole security/boarding process but I keep my personal item under the seat in front of me.
My carry-on is a soft-side duffly-type bag. I can cram it anywhere in the overhead bins and I never have to check it.
Try to get an aisle seat, always fly nonstop when you can.
I'm a former Virgin America employee and I still think they have the best options for on board food and entertainment - plus you can check in online and use Passbook if you have an iOS device.
Sleep if you can (or at least close your eyes and zone out). It alleviates boredom by giving you something to do.
I try to get a seat in the row as close to the front as possible. Be one of the first off the plane (and one of the last to board) and if you don't have to go through baggage claim you're golden.
Drink lots of water. I've trained myself to make it through a cross-country flight without having to pee, but if you can't the aisle seat is the best place to be.
posted by bendy at 7:38 PM on May 11, 2013
When possible I keep toilet articles at my destination or mail them one way or the other.
Carry things you can't live without in your carry-on like meds or contact lens stuff. I keep a backpack ("personal item") with any techy things or toilet articles plus all my IDs. I never open my carry on bag through the whole security/boarding process but I keep my personal item under the seat in front of me.
My carry-on is a soft-side duffly-type bag. I can cram it anywhere in the overhead bins and I never have to check it.
Try to get an aisle seat, always fly nonstop when you can.
I'm a former Virgin America employee and I still think they have the best options for on board food and entertainment - plus you can check in online and use Passbook if you have an iOS device.
Sleep if you can (or at least close your eyes and zone out). It alleviates boredom by giving you something to do.
I try to get a seat in the row as close to the front as possible. Be one of the first off the plane (and one of the last to board) and if you don't have to go through baggage claim you're golden.
Drink lots of water. I've trained myself to make it through a cross-country flight without having to pee, but if you can't the aisle seat is the best place to be.
posted by bendy at 7:38 PM on May 11, 2013
This thread is closed to new comments.
Also, this is probably just my personality, but trying to fit everything into a carry-on (which I do sometimes do) is a great way to increase my stress. It means I have this larger, heavier bag to lug around all over the airport, and then I have to worry about whether I'll be able to find room for it in the overhead bin (less of a problem in First). YMMV.
posted by primethyme at 11:38 AM on May 10, 2013 [5 favorites]