Your First International Flight Tips
One of the super advantages of retirement is that you have ample time at your disposal. OK, you might say that you’re so busy with your hobbies you don’t have time to do anything else. Yet, getting on a flight to go to some distant land can also fit in as one of your hobbies…traveling. This article deals with international flight tips, be it your first flight, or one of many. No matter who you are, no matter what you did or do, and also if you’re a retired old fart, you should travel. It’s one of life’s luxuries. Enjoying other countries and their culture is something many people dream about.
Providing you have put enough money aside during your retirement planning, you should take advantage of globe-trotting. More so if you are still healthy and can go about without having any issues.
If your funds are good, just you are holding you back
If all is good, and your finances are up to it, nothing is holding you back apart from yourself. Get on to a traveling agency, and start booking away your next, or your first destination.
In this article, traveling by plane is on the agenda, and this covers international flight tips.
Some of the procedures will differ from country to country, and from airline to airline. Always check with your carrier about luggage allowances and other protocols they offer so you’ll be fine when your journey starts. Yet, the jest of it all is still pretty similar, so you’ll be fine following these points.
The big day, a holiday in a far-off foreign nation has come. Preparations are all done and have everything you need to leave. You have an airline ticket, a passport, and a means of funding for the upcoming weeks. You’re ready to go but also worried and nervous. Here are some suggestions to help you enjoy your long flight a little bit more.
Phase 1: Before leaving – Pack as little as you can
Pack as little as you can. Two pieces of luggage and one carry-on are the most you should bring. Packing shorts and T-shirts for a tropical destination will be even simpler. Additionally, you can always buy some fresh clothing when you get there.
Make sure you have copies of your prescriptions and all your meds. These can be an issue if you’re on medication and pharmacies are not available. Check the most recent guidelines before packing any liquids. Keep up to date because the laws and regulations alter with the seasons.
Reconfirm travel details
Confirm your traveling details once more. Due to a typhoon that slammed Taiwan at the same time that my flight from Hawaii was passing through Taipei, my most recent trip was almost two days late. I soon changed my ticket to one that passed through Tokyo, Japan, and was able to be in Thailand on time. I was fortunate to be able to board a different flight because I neglected to check ahead of time. I got the message. Get your seat assignment while you’re reconfirming. For extra legroom, I prefer exit rows.
Check you have everything
This is perhaps one of the most important international flight tips. Check to make sure you have everything. I use a list and go through it twice or three times before I leave. You should have your passport, tickets, and a method of payment with you, such as cash, an ATM card, a credit card, or traveler’s checks. Having a combination will ensure that you have more payment options. Plan to convert a day’s or two’s worth of cash at the airport of your destination if you are traveling to a nation with its own money. Avoid exchanging currency in your own country because the exchange rate is poor.
Phase 2: At the local airport – Arrive three hours before your flight
Plan to be at the airport around three hours before your scheduled flight is due to leave. Security and check-in lines can be long. Wherever you go, have your travel documents prepared to show. Check the regulations once more to see what you can bring on the plane, especially in your carry-on.
Before flying, I always eat at the airport. Airport amenities have improved and become more affordable. Yet, I prefer to bring my food instead of relying solely on airline cuisine. To snack on throughout the flight, I also pack some trail mix.
Enjoy duty-free stores for Tax-free cigarettes and booze
Enjoy the duty-free stores. Buy goods, such as cigarettes and alcohol, at tax-free rates. Prior you purchase six bottles of whiskey only to discover that you can only bring one. It would be wise to check the import regulations in the country you intend to visit. Additionally, confirm the liquid limits on flights with one or more layovers. The layover before your final journey might be where you have to make your buy.
Playing with any of your electronic toys will pass the time. In most airports, there is wireless connectivity so you may surf and check your email. You can also listen to some music if you so wish. In most airports, wireless is available outside the airline lounges. To use their public, unprotected network while sitting outside, you are not required to be a member.
Phase 3: On the plane – If your flight is long, attempt to sleep
Depending on how long your trip is, try and get some sleep during the flight. This will reduce the effects of jet lag and time zone fluctuations. Avoid alcohol, and especially on prolonged flights, drink lots of water. Long flights with dry cabin air can soon lead to dehydration. When you get there, you can start drinking.
To kill time, read and watch a movie. Try some of the riddles in the magazines that are onboard. As much as you can, stay busy.
I avoid the plane’s main meal
I often steer clear of the plane food’s main meal. Yes, I do consume salad, bread, and sweets. Rarely is the main course edible. I eat a meal and my snacks before I leave because of this.
To reduce air pressure during takeoff and landing, chew some gum and mints.
On the plane, you must complete and submit a customs declaration form to the customs officer. Do this while flying, then attach it to your passport.
Phase 4: Arrival – Leave the plane ASAP
Get out of the plane as soon as you can. The race is on because both you and everyone else must pass through immigration and customs. I hope you received the instructions before getting off the plane. If not, heed the directions. Don’t take a break to smoke or use the restroom. Pick the quickest line, and have your passport prepared. Always carry a copy of your boarding passes with you.
Approach the customs official with courtesy and good manners, have your passport stamped, submit your customs declaration, and then go to the luggage carousels. Ensure your luggage is with you and locate the currency exchange.
Change enough money for a day or two
Change only enough cash to get you by for a day or two. A debit card is the most practical means to get local money because ATMs are quite accessible throughout the world. Utilizing a credit card may carry a little bit more danger. Grab your cash and make for the door.
Take a taxi or the nearest bus to your hotel.
You succeeded! Enjoy your trip right now, and stay safe.
