17 Travel Hacks Frequent Flyers Swear By (That Airlines Don’t Want You to Know)
Traveling is fun, but it’s no secret that it can be quite a headache. It can feel like more of a challenge from long lines at check in to cramped seating. But savvy frequent flyers caught onto it years ago and now they know a few tricks to make the whole process more fun. These tips will teach you things airlines don’t want you to know, and they may very well change how you travel forever.
Sure some of these travel hacks may sound simple, but if you are travelling across the country or across the world, they make all the difference! In our journey to help you up your travel game, here are some tricks that frequent fliers can swear about saving you time, money, and sanity in the process.
Making the Most of Your Airline Miles
For frequent flyers, it’s a given that you need to maximize airline miles. Instead, these travelers use points to redeem for things like upgrades, priority boarding or even meals and snacks on board. A trick is to fly when it’s off peak — tickets are cheaper and you can stretch those miles a bit further. Some experts also say to use rewards for those small upgrades that make the flight more comfortable, such as extra legroom and better seats. Trust us, every mile counts.
Check In Late for a Better Seat
You would think that checking in early is the way to go, but if your flight is less than full, waiting closer to departure time could snag you a better seat. Frequent flyers know that if they wait until the very last moment before checking in, they might be able to get better seats now that other passengers have boarded. If you’re lucky, you’ll snag a seat with more legroom or a seat in a quieter part of the plane. It’s a gamble, and it can pay out big time.
Bring Your Own Snacks
You’ve seen the overpriced bags of chips and little bags of nuts that airlines serve. Frequent flyers avoid them like the plague. Instead, they have a homemade sandwich or supply of protein bars. You don’t just dodge paying sky high prices, you can eat what you actually want. And if you’re on a flight where food is few and far between, some snacks will help you stay full longer.
Bring a Neck Pillow and Blanket With You
In a world where airlines are cutting back on comfort, regular travelers know to come prepared. You’ll need a neck pillow and a blanket to make those long, uncomfortable flights a little more comfortable. A decent neck pillow can help you get some sleep on planes that feel more like metal tubes than cozy cabins. Lastly, if the temperature drops mid flight, a small travel blanket (or even a large scarf) is a good idea. You’ll look a bit silly at first, but you’ll thank yourself later.
Pre-order Special Meals
This is one of those hacks that airlines may not want you to know, but is a favourite among frequent flyers. If you pre order a special meal, vegan, gluten free or kosher, you tend to be served first. On top of that, these meals are also fresher than regular meals. This is your chance to enjoy something that’s worth your while if you’re on a long flight and don’t want to eat the mystery meat or bland pasta.
Use Airline Credit Cards
Airline credit cards do have perks that frequent flyers know quickly add up. Points from regular purchases, free checked bags, priority boarding and the list goes on. Some credit cards even get you into airport lounges, a blessing when you have long layovers. If you fly often, this little investment might be more worth than you think. Just remember to keep track of your spending so you don’t end up with those dreaded interest charges!
Faster Check-in With Airline Apps
For frequent travelers, airlines’ apps are a convenience — and airlines often push them on passengers, as they save time. The app allows you to check in quickly, track your flight, and receive real time delays or gate changes. In fact, some apps let you select or change your seat and get mobile boarding passes and you can avoid the long airport check in line.
Flying Direct Flights Instead of Connecting Flights
Taking a connecting flight may seem counterintuitive, but sometimes it’s cheaper and more comfortable than a direct flight. Of course, if you are on a connecting flight, specifically those with longer layovers, you usually have more room and a better chance of claiming a seat of your choice. Plus, you get a chance to walk around and breathe before hopping on another plane.
Use Airport Lounge Access
Airport lounges are a luxury that frequent flyers love to have. These are private spaces with comfy seating, free snacks sometimes even showers to fresh up, a peaceful break from terminal life. Lounge access is normally reserved for people with high tier frequent flyer status, but many credit cards and loyalty programs also offer access so you can lounge in style before you fly. It’s a fantastic way to escape the hustle and bustle before you board.
Avoid Checking Luggage
There’s one thing airlines don’t want you to know: how much money they make on baggage fees. Frequent flyers know that lugging around heavy baggage is a definite no-go. So they opt for carry on bags that will fit in the overhead compartment. It saves you money and allows you to walk out of the airport the minute you land. There is less waiting, less hassle, and more time to enjoy your trip.
Know the Best Times to Fly
For those who are frequent travelers, you know exactly the best times to book a flight — and it’s not during the times you might expect. Flights mid week are cheaper and less crowded (especially Tuesdays and Wednesdays). Early morning flights are also a favorite of frequent flyers; there are fewer delays, and you’re there faster. You’ll save money on booking at the right times and avoid the stress of peak travel hours.
Bring Empty Water Bottles
You may have experienced it: you’re parched, but the flight attendants are busy with long lines and the drinks seem out of reach. Frequent flyers have found ways to deal with this, bringing empty water bottles through security and filling them once they’ve passed the checkpoints. Then stay hydrated and don’t pay a rip-off for water on the other side. Do bring your own if possible, so you have water at your side and don’t have to wait.
Upgrading With Points at Check In
One of the secrets frequent flyers love to use to upgrade at checkout is frequent flyer points. If you’re lucky, the airline will upgrade you to first or business class for relatively few miles. The best part? You don’t have to book an upgrade in advance so it’s always worth asking at the check in desk if you have enough points for a comfy upgrade.
Some Extra Perks Can Be Obtained With Frequent Flyer Programs
If you travel a lot, signing up for frequent flyer programs is a no-brainer. Not only do you earn miles there for each journey, but many courses will provide you with issues like precedence boarding, free of cost upgrading and even reductions on tickets. You don’t have to be a jet setter, a few flights a year will get you enough points for free drinks, meals or even a few free flights.
Skip the Duty-Free Shops
Frequent flyers know duty free shops are often a waste of time and money. They say they’re saving you money, but the prices aren’t really all that much lower than what you’d get at your local store. If you don’t want to get sucked into the airport shopping vortex, use your time waiting for the flight to relax, eat, or work. It’ll help you save your wallet and make you more relaxed once you board.
Traveling by Flights With Bigger Aircrafts Is a Better Option
If you’re a frequent flyer, you probably have a pretty good idea of which aircrafts offer the best amenities. In particular, wide body jets offer more leg room, better selection of food and smoother flights. When you book your ticket, check the aircraft model before you confirm your reservation. If you have a long flight ahead of you, choosing flights on a larger plane can be world changing when it comes to comfort.
Stay Calm and Plan Ahead
The journey isn’t about getting to the destination, it’s about the experience of it, and if you fly often, you know that. Rather, they remain calm and make sure the airport chaos doesn’t get to them. Whether apps, knowing the best airport lounges or even just packing smart, being prepared is key to making the whole process a lot smoother. You’re not just riding the arrival when it’s smooth.
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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