Travel is back, but so are the delays, long lines, and baggage issues. Whether you're flying for business or leisure, being prepared can save you time, stress, and even money. Here’s how to make air travel more manageable, based on real advice from experienced travelers and travel consultants at ORX Travel.
Avoid Baggage Problems Before They Happen
The easiest way to avoid lost luggage is not to check any. Carry-on bags let you bypass check-in lines, skip baggage claim, and eliminate the risk of your bag not showing up.
If you must check luggage:
- Put an Apple AirTag or Tile tracker inside your bag so you can see its location instantly if it goes missing.
- Keep anything valuable, fragile, or essential in your carry-on—this includes medication, electronics, chargers, ID, and a spare outfit.
- Take a quick photo of your luggage before checking it. If it gets lost, this will help airport staff identify it faster.
Get Through Security Without Wasting Time
Security lines are unpredictable, but there are ways to skip or shorten them. If you travel more than once a year, it’s worth enrolling in an expedited screening program:
- NEXUS: Best for travelers between Canada and the US. Includes Global Entry and TSA PreCheck access.
- Global Entry: Ideal for US travelers returning from international trips. Includes TSA PreCheck.
- CLEAR: Speeds up the ID process at many US airports. Can be combined with TSA PreCheck for even faster screening.
Even without a program, you can speed things up:
- Pack your liquids in a clear, resealable bag and place them on top of your carry-on.
- Wear shoes you can slip off easily, and always wear socks—you don’t want to be barefoot at security.
- Empty your pockets before you get in line to avoid delays at the scanner.
Some airports offer fast-track security access if you purchase a premium ticket or airport service. For example, a business-class Heathrow Express ticket includes fast-track security access at Heathrow Terminal 5.
Time Your Airport Arrival Right
Cutting it close isn’t worth it. Staffing shortages and unexpected delays at check-in or security can easily cost you your flight.
- For domestic flights, arrive 2 hours before departure.
- For international flights, aim for 3 hours in advance.
- Check your airport’s website or app for real-time security wait times before leaving for the airport.
If you’re traveling during peak seasons or holidays, add at least 30–60 minutes to those times.
Stay Comfortable and Productive During Travel
Flight delays and onboard service problems are more common than ever. Plan ahead to stay comfortable and get work done if needed.
- Snacks: Always bring your own. Don’t rely on airport vendors or in-flight meals.
- Water: Bring an empty bottle and fill it after security.
- Special meals: If you request a special meal (vegetarian, gluten-free, kosher, etc.), it’s often served before the standard options.
- Entertainment: Download everything before you leave—music, podcasts, shows, movies. Don’t count on Wi-Fi.
- Spotify lets you download playlists and podcasts for offline listening.
- Netflix, Disney+, and most streaming apps offer offline viewing.
- Your airline’s app is essential for flight updates, digital boarding passes, and seat maps.
Tech essentials:
- Bring a portable charger.
- Bring both wired and wireless headphones—some aircraft entertainment systems only support wired.
- Use airplane mode but keep Bluetooth on so your devices stay usable.
Prepare for the Unexpected
A little advance planning can prevent major issues if something goes wrong—like a missed flight or lost documents.
- Work trips or Sunday returns: Always bring your work laptop, even on leisure trips. If your flight gets delayed or cancelled, you’ll be ready to work remotely.
- Document check: Make sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your travel dates. Some countries won’t let you in otherwise.
- Print backups: Carry paper copies of your passport, visa, travel insurance, and itinerary. Phones die and apps crash.
- COVID-19 policies: Some countries still require proof of vaccination or test results. Check entry requirements the week before your trip, not just when you book.
Final Advice
Most travel problems aren’t random—they’re predictable and avoidable with the right preparation. Track your bags, know your airport, arrive early, and bring what you need to stay comfortable and productive. These are small actions that can prevent major headaches.
Need help with more complex travel logistics, multi-person bookings, or building systems for your agency?
ORX Travel helps travel agencies and corporate teams streamline their workflows and improve the travel experience for their clients and staff. Learn more at ORXTravel.com.
