The pandemic has enormously affected the aviation industry. However, after the first half during the previous peak year, things are slowly getting back to normal. You can now fly for business or leisure, but remember that things might be as far from usual.

Travel restrictions are still in place, and there is an extended list of guidelines and rules to be followed. So, if you are a frequent flier, you would feel the change. You will have to deal with many changes, from flight prices to the ticket booking process, onboard precaution, and airport transit.

Besides, you will also have to be ready to verify your health records and for quarantine guidelines, once you arrive at your destination. Therefore, it will only make sense to be aware of the challenges and have a specific approach to handling them even before flying out. The following are some travel hacks that will make you a better flier.

Research travel restrictions

Are you traveling internationally? If yes, you have to remember that things will be more challenging than before. Almost every country has some extensive restrictions for travelers from various parts of the globe, depending on the state of the pandemic in that specific country. Moreover, some countries might deny you entry or might not allow you to fly from your location directly. This means that you will have to take an alternative route.

So, it is very crucial to research more about the travel restrictions in your destination imposed by your country. For instance, if you are traveling to the Jewel in Turkey’s Crown, you will have to research the guidelines as well as the restrictions. You will make things a lot easier if you have up-to-date and complete information about your destination.

Book smarter

Flight operations might have resumed, but they are far from returning to their normal levels. You might get fewer choices, especially when you are planning to fly abroad. Besides, you can expect surges in ticket prices as most flights are taking off with just a small number of their average capacity to give room for social distancing and other Coronavirus safety guidelines.

Therefore, you must do enough research before booking your flight. Ensure that you look for reasonable rates, and if you can, use your time to do more investigation and put more effort into booking your flight.

Also, it is a good idea to keep your options open as possible you can. You might have the perfect vacation dates; however, having flexibility can really help you get cheaper plane tickets and save on your entire trip cost.  Flexibility is the easiest way to save a significant amount of money when booking plane tickets and hotels. For instance, if you are flying internationally, you can save enormous money on the ticket by being open to even the slightest shifting of dates or alternate airports.

Follow the health and vaccine certification essentials

Before the pandemic hit the world, the documentation needed by the frequent flier was mostly visas and passports. It was way more accessible for people to fly domestic routes. However, things have changed, and there are many more things that you will need documentation for. It is, therefore, significant to have everything in place before planning your flight. You will need to have a health certification and proof that you have been vaccinated and ready for flying.

Also, you might be required to submit COVID-19 test results when traveling to some destinations. Make sure that you know your facts and have every document with you to prevent last-minute stress.

Choose the best seat

All airline seats are made differently, some are smaller, less comfy, and some are noisier, especially when on a long flight. So, before choosing your flight when booking your trip, ensure that you select a seat that will be comfortable for you. And if you are not familiar with the seat arrangements in a plane, head on to some sites like SeatGuru, which has seat plans for almost every major aircraft.

You might be surprised to know that some of the newest flights have different seat sizes and comfort levels for the same price. Also, if you fail to choose a comfy seat, you can get yourself some noise-canceling headphones to get rid of the loud plane noise, the sound of people chatting away, and the clink-clink of ice being poured into cups of sodas, which can all be a perfect ingredient for a migraine.

Get smart with airport transport

Most people, when flying, usually take the cheapest and the most accessible commute options to the airport. This is because, before the pandemic, people mostly preferred public transportation. However, public transportation should be your last option now, considering the dangers of COVID-19 infection.

Taking a cab to the airport might be a better alternative, but this comes with a probability of delays and unavailable bookings. In that case, you can consider getting airport transfer services, which are more convenient, safe, and reliable. The best part about airport transfers is that you can book your service and have peace of mind knowing that you will not miss your flight with just a few clicks. Besides, you don’t have to worry about catching the Coronavirus as these services come with a bunch of safety protocols to keep travelers and drivers safe.

Be conscious with packing

Even before the pandemic, fliers needed to pack their stuff smartly. But now that things have changed, the concept of packing goes beyond what you can imagine. To manage your luggage, it is a good idea to go for a small bag and pack light.

Ensure that you put safety first and pack sanitizers, face masks, soaps, and gloves since you will need them at the airport and on your flight. And to prevent stress at check-in, make sure that you check your items before you start packing. Carry only the things that you will need for your travel.

Bottom Line

Flying during these times can be complex and risky at the same time, but you can make it much easier and safe for yourself. Flying doesn’t have to be boring; you can use the above hacks to make your traveling more exciting. Besides, you get to save more and your time by following these practical tips.