Fifty percent of travelers have reported experiencing stomach trouble while in Bali, often due to drinking tap water or consuming foods rinsed in it, causing an unexpected medical emergency.¹ This type of blunder can quickly turn your trip into a nightmare.
But fear not! We’ve compiled a list of the most common air travel pitfalls and the savvy strategies you need to avoid them. Whether you’re a seasoned jet-setter or a first-time flyer, read on to ensure your next flight is smooth sailing from takeoff to touchdown.
1. Procrastinating on Travel Insurance
Don’t let an unexpected medical emergency drain your wallet. Secure travel insurance when you book your trip to ensure you’re covered for cancellations and health hiccups.
Remember, coverage for cancellations typically kicks in as soon as your policy is issued.(ref) By delaying, you risk being left high and dry if an illness or injury forces you to cancel your plans.
Play it safe and prioritize travel insurance on your pre-departure checklist.
2. Cutting It Close with Passport Expiration
Imagine the horror of being turned away at the boarding gate because your passport expires in five months. Don’t let this easily avoidable mistake ruin your trip.
Plan and check your passport’s expiration date well in advance. If you need to renew, allow ample time for processing. A little foresight can save you from the heartbreak of a canceled vacation.
3. Skimping on Connection Time
Missed connections are the bane of every traveler’s existence. Remember to check the time needed to navigate airports and clear security checkpoints.
When booking flights, allow at least 90 minutes to two hours for domestic connections and even more for international layovers.(ref) It’s better to have extra time on your hands than to watch helplessly as your connecting flight takes off without you.
4. Neglecting to Notify Your Bank
Picture this: you’re standing at a foreign ATM, desperate for cash, only to have your card declined. Avoid this travel nightmare by notifying your bank of your upcoming trip.
Many banks will flag foreign transactions as suspicious and freeze your account if they’re not expecting you to be abroad.
A quick phone call or online notification can prevent this headache. While at it, ask about international transaction fees and consider applying for a credit card that waives them.
5. Overpacking Your Carry-On
We get it—you want to be prepared for every possible scenario. But stuffing your carry-on to the brim can lead to many problems. Not only will you be stuck lugging a heavy bag through the airport, but you also risk having to gate-check it if it doesn’t meet the airline’s size requirements.
Embrace the art of minimalist packing. Stick to versatile, mix-and-match outfits and leave room for souvenirs. And always check your airline’s carry-on size restrictions before heading to the airport.
6. Forgetting to Screenshot Your Boarding Pass
You’re standing in line at the airport, ready to breeze through security, when you realize your phone has no service. Suddenly, accessing your digital boarding pass becomes impossible. Avoid this tech failure by screenshotting your boarding pass before leaving for the airport.
This simple hack ensures you’ll have your boarding pass at your fingertips, even if your airline’s app decides to take a vacation. Plus, it’s one less thing to worry about as you navigate the airport hustle.
7. Underestimating the Importance of Hydration
Airplane cabins are notoriously dry, with humidity levels hovering around a parched 10-20%. Couple that with the diuretic effect of caffeine and alcohol, and you’ve got a recipe for dehydration.
But many travelers avoid drinking water to minimize bathroom breaks, only to arrive at their destination feeling drained and headachy.
Prioritize hydration by bringing an empty reusable water bottle to fill up post-security. Sip regularly throughout the flight, even if it means extra trips to the lavatory. Your body will thank you upon arrival.
8. Leaving Valuables in Checked Luggage
It’s a tale as old as time: a traveler arrives at their destination, only to discover their checked bag has taken an unplanned detour. While most lost luggage is eventually reunited with its owner, the wait can be agonizing—especially if you’ve packed valuables in your checked bag.
Play it safe by keeping irreplaceable items like jewelry, electronics, and medication in your carry-on. And if you must check a bag, snap a photo of its contents in case you need to file a claim later.
9. Not Packing a Change of Clothes in Your Carry-On
We’ve all been there: stuck in an airport overnight, desperate for fresh clothes. But if you’ve checked your bag, you’re out of luck. Avoid this fashion faux pas by always packing a change of clothes in your carry-on.
This simple step can make all the difference when faced with unexpected delays or cancellations. Plus, it’s a lifesaver if your checked bag takes an extended vacation.
10. Skipping the Pre-Flight Bathroom Break
It’s tempting to rush straight to your gate, eager to snag that prime overhead bin space. But skipping a final bathroom break can lead to a world of discomfort once you’re airborne.
Airplane lavatories are cramped, and turbulence can make using them a challenge. Do yourself a favor and hit the restroom before boarding, even if it means sacrificing that coveted carry-on spot. Trust us, your bladder will thank you.
11. Not Bringing Your Snacks
Airline food is notorious for being overpriced and underwhelming. And on shorter flights, you might not be offered food at all. Don’t let hunger pangs ruin your travel experience.
Pack your snacks to tide you over until you reach your destination. Opt for portable, non-perishable options like granola bars, trail mix, and dried fruit. Just be sure to check your airline’s food policies before bringing anything aboard.
12. Ignoring Airline Apps & Notifications
In the age of smartphones, there’s no excuse for being caught off guard by flight changes or delays. Most airlines offer free apps that provide real-time updates on your flight status, gate changes, and baggage claim information.
Download your airline’s app before your trip and enable push notifications. This way, you’ll be the first to know if anything changes, giving you a head start on making alternate arrangements if needed.
13. Not Dressing for Comfort
It’s understandable to want to look put-together while traveling but sacrificing comfort for style is a rookie mistake. Airplanes can be chilly, and tight clothing can become uncomfortable on long flights.
Opt for loose, breathable layers that you can easily adjust based on temperature. And don’t forget to wear comfortable shoes—you never know when you might need to make a mad dash to catch a connecting flight.(ref)
14. Forgetting to Charge Your Devices
There’s nothing worse than settling in for a long flight only to realize your phone or laptop is running low on battery life. While many airports and planes now offer charging stations, they’re not always reliable.
Make a habit of fully charging your devices before leaving for the airport. And consider investing in a portable power bank for extra juice on the go.
15. Not Being Prepared for Security
Navigating airport security can be stressful, especially if you need more preparation. Fumbling with your belongings and holding up the line is a surefire way to earn dirty looks from fellow travelers.
Streamline the process by having your ID and boarding pass ready, removing liquids and electronics from your bag, and wearing easily removable shoes. A little preparation can go a long way in getting you through security quickly and with minimal hassle.
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Martha A. Lavallie
Martha is a journalist with close to a decade of experience in uncovering and reporting on the most compelling stories of our time. Passionate about staying ahead of the curve, she specializes in shedding light on trending topics and captivating global narratives. Her insightful articles have garnered acclaim, making her a trusted voice in today's dynamic media landscape.
