8 Simple Airline Hacks for the Smart Flier

Flying has become an occupational necessity these days. Even if you discount the use of flights for travel and leisure – chances are you will have to fly more often than not to meet the demands of your job.

Over the years, a number of frequent fliers have contributed some cool travel hacks to make your flying experience better, cheaper and less stressful. If you’re not used to flying in airplanes – forget those prayer beads and read on, because these 8 simple airline hacks for the amateur flier are exactly what you’ll need.

Clear the Cache

Whilst booking your flight, you could try clearing your cache and download history to ensure that the flights page loads up faster. This comes especially handy if you’re booking close to your date of departure. Faster loading time will mean you get speedier access to upcoming flights which are usually cheaper than the ones before. Bear in mind, there’s a mad rush for flights so there will be other people probably refreshing their pages constantly as well. Clearing your cache gives you a definite advantage here.

Stay Off the Airline Menu

 

Flight menus are overpriced – that is a universal truth. So be prepared and save up on some cash by bringing dried food or chocolates with you. That way, you’ll keep yourself filled without resorting to cold sandwiches that cost Rs. 250.

Always Go For the Online Check-in

This one’s gospel. Flight check-ins can take some time at the airport, because there’s always a queue. So if you’d like to avoid leaving home three hours before your flight, just go online and make that check-in. The online check-in process takes hardly ten minutes or so.

Weigh Your Bags Beforehand

 

Each airline has its own set of rules regarding luggage weight. Most flight carriers require no more than 33 kilograms to be the weight of luggage (minus the carry-on). It would be a good idea to stay on the safer side by pre-weighing your bags to ensure they’re complying with luggage regulations. If your bag exceeds the weight, you’ll have to either pay the extra fee to get your luggage through, or leave behind some items to meet the weight.

From Pocket to Carry-on

Transfer all the contents in your pockets to your carry-on to avoid unnecessary delays during the security check. Not only will your passage become faster, you’ll also make things convenient for those behind you, waiting in line.

Parking Space Memories

Parking at the airport can be quite a headache, considering that most airport parking lots are behemoth structures where it’s easy to get lost or forget where you parked your car. Do yourself a favour, and click a photo of the parking space (D-4 for instance). This will make it much easier to locate your vehicle.

Getting the Best Spots

 

If you’ve booked ahead, you usually have a bevy of seats to choose from. Try using websites like SeatGuru which give a seat plan of the airplane to let you have the pick of the spot. Try going for the first seat by the window which provide plenty of legroom. Also, you do not want to be that person stuck on a seat near the toilet.

Family Rooms in Airport Lounges

 

If you travel frequently with your kids, it wouldn’t be a bad idea to have a lounge access for your airline. Family lounges are worth the expenditure – offering snacks, recreational facilities, TV and Wi-Fi to keep the whole family occupied until boarding time.

 There’s no reason why your air travel can’t be a cost-cruncher and comfortable at the same time if you benefit from the experience of those who have traveled before you. Try these airline hacks and see how your flying experience gets bumped up to first class!