Ultimate Flying Tips
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Flying doesn’t have to be stressful — if you know the right tricks. Whether you're a frequent traveler or getting ready for your first international flight, these tips will help you save money, breeze through the airport, and stay comfortable from takeoff to landing.
table of contents
booking smart
Booking flights can feel overwhelming, but knowing where and when to book can save you hundreds.
Use flight comparison tools
I always check these sites before booking a flight:
» Kiwi.com — Find cheap flights with flexible options. This is good for multiple flights like layovers or booking multiple flights.
» WayAway — Get cashback on flight bookings
» Google Flights — I love using Google Flights to find the best ticket pricing. I usually open Google Flights tab first and then browse other flight availability on different platforms to compare.
» Chase Sapphire Travel — Book flights & earn bonus points
» Capital One Venture X — Use miles for flights & travel perks
Book at the right time
The best time to book? Sunday evenings tend to have lower fares. For peak seasons (summer & holidays), book 3-6 months in advance for international trips and 1-2 months for domestic flights.
Choose the best airline for your trip
Not sure which airline to book? Here’s a quick breakdown:
BUDGET AIRLINES
Spirit, Frontier, Ryanair — cheap but full of hidden fees.
MID-TIER AIRLINES
JetBlue, Southwest — affordable with some perks.
LUXURY AIRLINES
Emirates, Singapore Airlines, EVA Air, China Airlines, and STARLUX are worth the splurge for long-haul flights, especially with an upgrade.
Definitely try out different airline options to see what fits your vibe. Also, think about the distance and the pricing. Are you willing to take a cheap flight for a short time? Would you prefer a more comfortable seating area for long-haul flights?
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packing like a pro
Overpacking is a rookie mistake. Here’s how to travel light without missing any essentials.
Carry-on must-haves
Passport or ID + boarding pass
Portable charger (must be in carry-on, not checked luggage!)
Travel-sized toiletries (TSA-approved!)
Reusable water bottle (empty before TSA, refill when you’re inside)
Noise-canceling headphones
Disinfecting wipes
Invest in a great luggage for travel
Invest in lightweight, durable luggage, 4-wheel luggage. My favorite? NORTVI, which is sustainable luggage made from recycled PET bottles!
Keep all your essentials in your personal bag
Put your passport, important documents, electronics, toiletries, reusable water bottle, and all other important essentials in your personal bag. Your personal bag usually goes on the floor in front of you in the seat below, making it easy to grab what you need. Remember, your portable charger must be in your carry-on and not in your checked luggage.
Minimum luggage allowance
Most airlines allow one personal item, one carry-on, and one checked bag. Double-check with your airline for specific rules.
No full-sized items
TSA doesn't allow full-sized liquids in carry-ons. Don't pack full-sized shampoo, conditioner, body soap, or even toothpaste! I once packed a brand-new full-sized toothpaste, and they took it. Don’t make the same mistake!
💡 DON’T MAKE MY MISTAKE!
TSA will confiscate full-size toiletries — I lost a brand-new toothpaste once! Stick to travel-sized bottles.
No sharp items
Avoid packing sharp items like pocket knives, as they won’t make it through TSA.
Travel light
Only pack the essentials! Overpacking makes it harder to move around, especially if you’re carrying everything yourself.
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airport hacks
Check-in online
If you’re flying domestic, download your airline’s app for easy access, check in through the app and save your boarding pass on your phone. Keep your ID or passport handy when heading to TSA.
Wear a comfy airport outfit
Go for loose, comfortable clothing and avoid tight-fitting outfits. Shoes should be easy to slip on and off since you’ll remove them at security. Also, wear socks — you don’t want to be barefoot at the airport when millions of people walk around every day! Layer up for temperature changes. [INSERT BLOG POST: What to Wear to the Airport]
Bring a reusable water bottle
Don’t waste money on bottled water. Empty your bottle before TSA and refill it at a water fountain inside the terminal.
Navigating TSA smoothly
Have your boarding pass and ID/passport ready. When you reach security:
Carry-on bags go directly on the belt, while your personal bag goes in a bin.
Keep electronics in an easily accessible spot to make security checks faster.
Take out all electronics and place them in a bin.
Remove shoes (wear easy to slip on & off sneakers and socks!).
Remove your belt (if you have one) and empty your pockets.
Remove your outerwear
Get through security faster
TSA PreCheck
Skip long lines, keep your shoes, jackets on, and electronics in your bag for a cost. Good for domestic flights and some international flights. You must apply beforehand, input all your info, and pay a fee.
Global Entry
Breeze through immigration for international trips. You’ll need to apply beforehand, input all your info, and pay a fee.
Airport lounges are worth it
Why wait at the gate when you can enjoy free food, WiFi, and comfy seats? There are different ways to access airport lounges such as:
Priority Pass (access to 1,300+ lounges worldwide)
Travel Credit Cards (many offer free lounge perks!)
Airline-specific lounges – Great if you have elite status and are a frequent flyer
Best ways to get to the airport
RIDESHARE & PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION
Avoid surge pricing by booking in advance.
TAIWAN TRAVELERS
Take the HSR Standard Class for a smooth ride to the airport.
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in-flight comfort
Flights can be brutal if you’re unprepared, especially long-haul flights. Here’s how to stay comfy:
Disinfect everything
Wipe down your seat, tray table, and armrests. Planes don’t get thoroughly cleaned between flights because they’re rushing to get the next round of passengers on the plane, so make sure you wipe before you settle in!
Hydrate & moisturize
Airplane cabins are dry — drink water every hour!
Bring a lotion, lip balm, and maybe a face mask!
Sleep like a pro
Use a good travel pillow (not the cheap ones!).
Wear an eye mask & noise-canceling headphones or earplugs — you can thank me later
Try melatonin for better sleep. Pop a melatonin in once you’re settled in your seat and you’ll be good to go.
Stretch & move around
Sitting too long? Do ankle rolls & seat stretches to avoid stiffness.
Don’t walk barefoot!
Airplane bathrooms are gross! Wear shoes or use airline-provided slippers.
Limit alcohol
Drinking at high altitudes dehydrates you faster. If you have a low tolerance, avoid alcohol to prevent a mid-flight hangover.
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max your travel experience after landing
You made it! Here’s how to make the most of your destination:
Get local currency without fees
Use ATM withdrawals with the right international credit card instead of exchanging your currency at the airport.
Pick a no-foreign-transaction-fee credit or debit card such as Chase Sapphire, Charles Schwab, Capital One Venture X.
Stay connected
eSIMs & Pocket WiFi keep you online without crazy roaming charges.
Book must-do activities in advance
Skip long lines & secure the best experiences:
Find Top Tours & Activities → Viator, Klook, GetYourGuide
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check out my recent travel vlog!
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SUGGESTED FOR YOU
Plan your dream trip without the stress! 🌍✈️ From itinerary hacks to smart booking tips, this guide has everything you need for a smooth and hassle-free adventure.