When you travel outside Québec, chances are you’ll have to fly, which means you’ll end up in an airport. Some people enjoy it, while for others it’s not a pleasant part of the trip. We’ve put together a list of our travel agents’ and clients’ 9 favourite tips to make this part of your trip stress-free and as pleasant as possible.
1. Give yourself time to get to the airport
Plan how you’ll get to the airport (taxi, someone close to you driving you, Uber, driving yourself and leaving your car right at the airport or somewhere else, etc.). Also, it’s important to think about travel time, so always plan for possible traffic jams.
Even if you’re leaving on a Tuesday afternoon, when there shouldn’t be a huge number of people on the road, you can never predict whether an accident will slow traffic, or whether construction will keep you from taking your planned route, etc.
2. Have everything ready the night before
The night before the big day, act as if you were leaving that day! That way, you’ll be ready to go the next day: all that’s left is to put on your shoes and that’s it! Off on vacation!
As for last-minute items, like the toothbrush you’ll pack right after using it that morning, leave yourself a list on your suitcase (or on the shoes you’ll be wearing) where you can’t miss it. For example, before I leave, I always leave myself a note on my door lock: toothbrush, deodorant, pillow, etc.
3. Check in online ahead of time
Did you know you can check in online before you leave? You’ll kill two birds with one stone: on top of confirming you’ll be on the plane, you can choose your seat for free! So if you prefer a window to see outside or, on the contrary, an aisle to stretch your legs, now’s the time to choose.
Also, if you only have a carry-on bag, you’ll save time at the airport: no need to check in, it’s already done, so you can go straight to security.
Checking in online (available in the vast majority of cases 24 hours before departure, sometimes 12 hours) is very simple: download your airline’s mobile app and check in right in the app, or go to the airline’s website and do it there! All you need is your passport and your flight booking number.
4. Make the most of the internet connection
It’s easier to keep busy when you travel as a pair (card games, paper and pencil to play Battleship or tic-tac-toe, etc.) than when you travel alone.
Take the opportunity to download plenty of Netflix shows, or new apps you want to try but never take the time to download and poke around in, etc. Some spots tend to have a better connection: in the VIP lounge (or near it), near the duty-free shops, in restaurants with seating and in shared waiting areas.
5. Bring snacks / follow the airport staff
Whether on the way there, on the way back or even during a layover, the meal served on the plane (if there is one) may leave you hungry, or with the time difference you may get hungry when it’s not officially mealtime. Always having a granola bar on you is the best advice there is. You’ll avoid sugar crashes and save money, since you won’t rush to the first airport convenience store you see (we all know prices are higher in airports than regular prices).
That said, if your snack isn’t enough, take the time to watch where the people who work at the airport go. They often know the places worth trying. You’ll eat better, probably for less than at the airport’s Tim Hortons or McDonald’s.
6. Get ready for your time on the plane
When you’re flying and have (finally) made it to the terminal, after security, customs (if you’re going to the United States), etc., you’ll have a break to relax… if you left early and aren’t rushing at the last minute.
Too often, we forget to make a quick trip to the washroom to empty our bladder before the flight. So we suggest that 30 to 45 minutes before takeoff, you walk to the washroom and take 2 minutes to empty your bladder, even if you don’t feel the need.
7. VIP lounge
If you have a long layover, consider your airline’s VIP lounge. It might cost you $50 to $75, but you’ll have drinks, a comfortable place to sit, reading material, unlimited snacks, etc. Check with your credit card to see if you’re entitled to free VIP lounge access.
You might not know it right away, but some “travel” credit cards include a VIP lounge pass, whether in Montréal or elsewhere in the world. It’s worth taking the time to call your bank, or keeping this in mind the next time you change credit cards.
8. Exchange your currency ahead of time
Sometimes while travelling, you realize at the last minute that you forgot to have a little cash on you to pay for the taxi when you arrive at your destination, for example. You can exchange money right at the airport, but you’ll be charged higher transaction fees than you would have paid elsewhere.
To save money, shop around for your currency exchange BEFORE you get to the airport. On the flip side, on your way home, remember to exchange your leftover money before you’re back in Québec. Your exchange rate back to your local currency will probably be better at your destination than if you wait until you’re back home.
9. Be extra friendly with airport staff
A very handy tip from an experienced travel agent: always be courteous and friendly with airport staff. By offering a smile and taking the time to chat a little with employees (if the person seems open to it and has the time, of course), you could receive free bonuses.
For example, the flight attendant in charge of your flight could offer you a free upgrade if there’s room, or a second dessert at no charge, etc. Also, when we smile at the people around us, we get smiles back. Who would say no to a little kindness!
