As summer holidays peek over the horizon, many of us are starting to daydream about the soundtrack of waves lapping the shore or the buzz of a bustling foreign market. The same advice applies to packing your matching family sunhats, booking a candlelit dinner under the stars for two, and checking British Airways flights for an epic escapade: that much-anticipated journey on a shiny metal bird is your first step to holiday bliss.
But let's face it, flying isn't always as smooth as we'd like. From boarding blunders to in-flight fumbles, it can get a little... well, turbulent. But don't you worry your holiday head about it, because we're about to spill the tea on some insider knowledge. We've chatted with the people who know air travel best — the airline employees — and collected their top tips to help you navigate the skies with the least amount of stress. Not to mention a little tip from us on using our Reward Flight Finder (RFF) to make the most of your Avios reward flights.
Let's dive in and give those pre-flight jitters a one-way ticket out of here.
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Preparing for the Flight
Check Your Seat Allocation
Do you know how in a game of musical chairs, everyone scurries around in a frenzy when the music stops? That's a bit like what boarding an airplane can feel like if you don't know where your seat is. To avoid the frenzied shuffle and the withering stares of your fellow passengers, take a moment to check your seat allocation before you board. Trust us, that runway isn't going anywhere, and knowing your destination within the cabin makes the journey that much smoother.
Overhead Bins
If you've ever felt like you're playing a high-stakes game of Tetris with your luggage in the overhead bins, we're here to tell you there's a better way. Start by aiming for bins that are already open and place your items as close to your seat as possible. With a little bit of luggage-lifting know-how for British Airways flights, you can stop fearing the overhead bin and start seeing it for what it really is: your personal storage space in the sky.
Request Help When Needed
Flight attendants are wonderful beings who navigate aisles at 35,000 feet, balance trays with uncanny skill, and still manage to flash a friendly smile. But remember, while they’re zooming around during boarding, they're juggling a lot of tasks to get us into the air on schedule. So if you're grappling with a stubborn suitcase or wrestling with a wayward coat, consider roping in a member of your travel squad or a fellow passenger for help. It's always nice to share a bonding moment over shared tasks before your airborne adventure begins.
In-flight Tips
Dress Appropriately
Your runway might be the airplane aisle, but trust us, no one's expecting a high-fashion show at 30,000 feet. Think more along the lines of pyjama chic - the comfier, the better. Bring along a travel pillow and pair your softest, baggiest clothes with comfortable shoes for a catwalk-ready, comfort-first look.
Prepare for Eye Comfort
Let's face it, the air up there can be dry. If you're a contact lens wearer, ditch them pre-flight and go with glasses instead. Your eyes will thank you for this spectacle of a spectacle swap.
Stay Hydrated
Bouncing between altitudes and battling fluctuating cabin temperatures can leave you feeling parched. Don’t place too much faith in the in-flight water quality; we recommend bringing an empty water bottle, flask, or even a travel mug. Once through security, you can fill it up and ensure you stay hydrated throughout your journey.
Move
Flight time isn't just for eating, sleeping and marathoning the latest box set. It's also an excellent opportunity to practice your best 'Moonwalk' down the aisle. Okay, maybe not quite, but do make sure you get up and move around to keep your blood circulation flowing. Just remember to limber up during the in-flight safety demonstration.
Ask for More Food or Drinks
Did the in-flight snack leave you still feeling peckish? Don't be shy. Ask for more. There's often a surplus of snacks and drinks available, especially if some passengers decline their goodies. It's always worth asking - the worst they can say is no.
Keep Your Area Clean
Sure, cleaning crews do their best, but with time tighter than your jeans after holiday feasting, they might miss a spot or two. So, channel your inner Marie Kondo and wipe down your seat, tray table, and even the window area. Remember, a tidy space equals a tidy mind, even at cruising altitude.
Make Sure Devices are Charged
Imagine this: you land in a beautiful new city, you're ready to navigate to your hotel... and your phone dies. Avoid such tragedies by bringing a portable charger. That way, you can ensure your devices are as ready to explore as you are.
Make Use of Open Rows
Once you hit cruising altitude, scope out the cabin. If there's an empty row, ask a flight attendant if you can move. If they give you the green light (which they usually do), you've just scored yourself a DIY upgrade with extra elbow room and space to stretch out.
Bring Your Own Entertainment Options
Airline entertainment can be a hit or miss. Why risk a boredom disaster when you can bring your own fun? Download your favourite Netflix shows, pack a book, or how about a Sudoku puzzle? Make your flight time your 'me time.’
Invest in Noise-Cancelling Headphones
Love the sound of a jet engine humming in your ear for hours on end? Us neither. A good pair of noise-cancelling headphones can be your best friend on a flight, helping you block out the rumble and concentrate on your entertainment (or a peaceful nap).
Pack a Self-Care Amenity Kit
Turn your economy seat into a flying spa by packing a self-care kit. Some lip balm, moisturiser, and a facemask can transform your flight into a mid-air pampering session. And if you want to freshen up just before landing, toss in a mini bottle of mouthwash too. With your mini spa kit in hand, you'll be stepping off the plane with a fresh look.
Pack Sweets to Counteract Ear Pressure Changes
Feel the pressure change in your ears during takeoff or landing? It's a common experience, but you can combat it with a bit of confectionery wisdom. Pack some hard candies or mints in your carry-on. These little sweet treats not only keep your taste buds happy but can also help equalise the pressure in your ears. Sucking on them triggers salivation and swallowing, which is a natural remedy for that uncomfortable 'ear popping'. They're especially handy if you're travelling with kids who might find the sensation distressing.
Get Organised
We all want a Hollywood-style smooth exit when the plane lands, don't we? Once the seatbelt signs are off, you don't want to be the person rummaging around for belongings while everyone else is ready to go. Get ahead of the game by packing up your bag and belongings before the captain even announces landing.
Ready, Set, Go!
As you're preparing to alight, make sure you have all your essential documents (passport, visa, immigration forms) at your fingertips. There's no joy in fumbling around for your passport when an immigration officer is waiting. A little preparation goes a long way in making the border security process quick and hassle-free.
Final Thoughts
It's important to remember that your journey to a stress-free flight experience starts long before you step onto the plane. An important tip from our side is to make use of Reward Flight Finder (RFF) to plan your trips. The tool will help you navigate Avios reward flights and maximise the value of your points, making your travel budget stretch even further. Find out more here.
