|
|
|
|
February 02, 2012
Jet Like a Pro
This past weekend I made a spur of the moment trip to visit my aunt and older brother who live in Colorado Springs, CO. Anytime I get an opportunity to visit the Springs I take it. The weather is much better than Nebraska’s and the mountains are absolutely stunning. Taking such a quick trip meant that I would be flying to my destination. I love traveling and flying but the fact of the matter is that air travel can often be stressful, time-consuming, and downright annoying. Many of us college students travel by plane for events like spring break or conferences for organizations. After talking a bit with my aunt, an extensive traveler, I’ve come up with a few tips and tricks to help make your flight go as smoothly as possible. Timing, Timing, Timing I often hear that the best time to arrive at the airport is one and a half to two hours previous to your scheduled boarding time. This is a rule I generally try to follow, especially on the return journey. The Omaha and Lincoln airports are relatively small and the lines usually don’t take too long. However, large hub airports such a Dallas, Chicago, and Denver are notorious for busy lines at the check-in desk and for security screening. Be sure to arrive extra early to large airports and bring a little patience along too. Dress the Part Your favorite hoodie and pair of sweats are often a very tempting choice of airport attire nowadays. Back in our grandparents day people would almost always dress up for air travel. I find a happy medium with business casual. Being dressed well gets you a little more respect from the people you have to deal with at the counter. It’s a personal choice but I always feel and do better when I look the part. You also might see a person you know, especially, when flying back to Omaha or Lincoln. For example, I saw one of my favorite high school teachers on my flight back from Denver. Pay Attention Always be aware of your situation. Flights are often delayed or gates are changed. These small changes can go unnoticed amongst the hustle and bustle of the airport, especially large and loud international airports. Trust me, bad things have happened to the best of us. Just know what’s up. Your Backpack = Your Best Friend I use my backpack as my personal carry on. Take out your books and laptop and see how much you can fit, you will be shocked. There is so much potential in all those little pockets you’ve never used before. I fit in all the clothes and things I needed for the whole weekend with enough room for homework, a book, and lots of snacks. Make It Fun This always means different things to different people. Reading and listening to music make a layover a whole lot easier, but these activities can get old after a while. If you’re one who enjoys people watching there is no better place than an airport to see people from all around the country if not all around the world. If you find yourself a little antsy walk around a bit, most airports try to add a little aesthetic value as a sort of advertisement for their city. If you’re really brave, strike up a conversation and hear some great stories. Whether you’re going near or far, sometime soon or in the more distant future, you will most likely be flying at some point in the next year or two. Wherever you’re headed enjoy yourself and do what you can to make your trip more fun than frustrating.
Joslyn is a freshman studying hospitality, restaurant and tourism management. You may contact her at joslyn.maenner@hotmail.com.
|
|
|
