Cleared for Takeoff: Master the Airport Game with Expert Tips and Tricks

Traveling can be exciting. But, let's face it, it has its challenges, especially when it comes to long flights and navigating the airport. From dealing with security checks to waiting in long lines, flying can be a hassle, and it's easy to forget important details when you're caught up in the chaos. But, don't fret, because Klook's here to the rescue! We put together some helpful long-flight tips and airport essentials to make your travel experience as smooth and stress-free as possible.

You've probably heard this long-flight tip tons of times before, but one of the best pieces of advice is to arrive early, especially if it's an international flight. Be at the airport at least two to three hours before so you'll have more than enough time to check in and board your flight without fussing over the time.

Arriving early isn't just about avoiding the stress of rushing through security or missing your flight—it's also a chance to relax and get organized before your journey. You could also use this time to check your flight status, review your itinerary, and make sure you have all of your long-flight travel essentials in order.

Check if your airline offers online check-ins! Checking in online before your flight can be a terrific way to save time and avoid long queues at the airport. This allows you to select your seat and print your boarding pass even before arriving at the airport, saving you time and effort. Not only is this more convenient, but it can also save you money in some cases because there's the possibility of paying a cheaper fee for checked baggage than if you paid in person.

Be aware of your airline's baggage policies and restrictions. Before packing your bags, make sure you know how much luggage you're allowed to bring and any weight or size restrictions that may apply. Avoid being caught off guard at the airport with excess baggage for which you'll have to pay extra fees. Also, label your bags with your name and contact information in case they get lost or misplaced during the flight.

Another tip is to invest in a good carry-on bag with plenty of compartments and pockets to help you stay organized. Pack a travel pillow and blanket to make sleeping on the flight much more comfortable. Additionally, bringing snacks is a great way to save money and ensure you have healthy and tasty options. By following these airport essentials, you can ensure a more comfortable and enjoyable long flight experience.

Another great long-flight tip is to dress comfortably. Go for breathable clothing to help you feel relaxed and at ease, especially if you're going on a long-haul flight! You wouldn't want to spoil your trip because your clothes are uncomfortable.

At security checks, some airports ask travelers to take off their shoes. Because of this, we highly encourage you to wear socks so you don't have to stand barefoot. This long-flight tip will also come in handy in case your toes shiver from the cold.

Since you'll be arriving early at the airport, remember to bring something to keep you entertained while you wait and during your flight. Some of these long-flight travel essentials include a book, a fun game, music, or any device you have that might help keep you occupied and make your flight more enjoyable.

Avoid dehydration during a long flight by drinking plenty of water before you board the plane. If you can, we recommend bringing a reusable water bottle that you can refill at the airport, so you won’t have to spend anything on bottled water. Staying hydrated also helps lessen the risk of fatigue and dizziness during your trip!

There’s no better long-flight tip than telling you to follow airport rules. Read in advance the regulations on security screenings, immigration procedures, and boarding guidelines so there’s less to no risk of being offloaded from your flight.

When encountering unexpected situations such as delays or cancellations, remember to remain patient and stay calm, as getting angry or frustrated might only worsen matters. Additionally, being polite and respectful to airport staff and fellow passengers can make the travel experience more pleasant for everyone involved. Remember that airport staff are working hard to ensure your safety and comfort, and treating them kindly can make their job more manageable and less stressful. By keeping a positive attitude and practicing patience and respect, you can navigate the stresses of travel with ease and grace.

Ever gone to the airport and found that you weren’t able to charge your phone at home or at the hotel? One of the most frustrating experiences while traveling can be the lack of power outlets or charging stations at the airport, especially during long layovers or delays. To avoid this, bring a portable charger! 

This airport essential can also be helpful during the flight itself. While many airlines now offer in-flight charging options, these may not always be available or reliable. With a portable charger, you can ensure your devices’ batteries are full throughout the flight, so you can stay entertained or productive without worrying about running out of juice.

Bringing your laptop with you on your flight? When going through security, you’ll be asked take out your laptop or any other large electronics from your carry-on bag. Pack your laptop or other electronics in a pocket or compartment of your luggage that can be easily accessed to avoid the hassle of digging through it while waiting in line. With this long-flight tip, you can quickly take them out and place them in a bin for screening without disrupting the flow of the security line. This also lessens the risk of damaging your device.

In case your checked luggage is misplaced during your travel, a photo of it and your luggage receipt can significantly help locate it. This simple long-flight tip can be a lifesaver in the off-chance that your suitcase does get lost—by providing airport staff with a clear visual reference of what your luggage looks like. If needed, a photo of your luggage can also serve as proof of ownership. So, snap a quick photo before you check it in to ensure you have all the necessary information in case of any mishaps!

If you love to travel, you know that packing can be a bit of a hassle, especially when it comes to toiletries. The last thing you want to do is buy many travel-sized items that you'll only use once or twice. So why not consider taking some complimentary toiletries from your hotel room? 

It's one less thing to worry about when you're trying to pack light for a weekend getaway or a long international flight. And if you frequently travel with only carry-on luggage, having a stash of travel-sized toiletries can be a real game-changer.

When you land at your destination, hailing a cab to your hotel or first stop can be tricky, especially in a major airport. Or, you may be tired and disoriented from your flight. The last thing you want to worry about is finding transportation to your hotel or other accommodations. Enter airport transfer service. 

With an airport transfer, you won't have to navigate unfamiliar public transportation or wait in long lines for taxis. More often than not, you’ll get knowledgeable and friendly drivers who can offer helpful tips and recommendations for your trip. 

At Klook, you can choose from a broad selection of airport transfer services such as shuttle buses, taxis, express trains, public buses, private cars, and many more. Our airport transfers are available in more than 1,300 cities worldwide, ensuring a reliable transfer option no matter where you go.