Traveling internationally by air can be either an exciting and luxurious experience or a challenging process of getting to your destination. As a luxury travel advisor, our clients expect top-notch service and comfort. Here are some of our airline travel tips to ensure you have a seamless and enjoyable journey (as much as it’s in your control):
Book Business or First Class: Book business or first-class tickets whenever possible. These classes offer greater comfort, better meals, priority boarding, and access to exclusive lounges.
Pre-Flight Planning:
Ensure you have the necessary visas and travel documents; we will do this when you book your adventure with us.
We recommend you arrive at the airport early to avoid stress.
Arrange a private airport transfer for a seamless start to your journey; we can do this for you when we book your trip.
Lounge Access: We not only recommend using airline lounges or premium lounges like Priority Pass, but we also do this. These lounges offer a quiet and comfortable environment, complimentary food and drinks, and many offer spa services.
In-Flight Comfort:
Be sure to dress comfortably yet stylishly.
We recommend noise-canceling headphones and an eye mask for better rest.
We also suggest you hydrate during the flight and avoid excessive alcohol and caffeine.
Customized Menus: Many airlines offer pre-order meals to suit dietary preferences. If available for your flight, please take advantage of this option for a more personalized dining experience.
Stay Hydrated (another reminder): Cabin air can be dry, so drink plenty of water throughout the flight to stay hydrated. This will also help with swelling that some people experience when flying.
Entertainment: While most international flights offer entertainment options, it’s always best to bring books, magazines, or downloaded movies or your choice of watching preferences. Even though airlines usually offer a variety of in-flight entertainment, sometimes technology doesn’t work.
Compression Socks: If you have issues with swelling, we recommend compression socks to improve circulation and reduce the risk of swelling and discomfort during long flights.
Jet Lag Management: After flying overnight, adjusting to a new time zone can be difficult. Not everyone can get a good night's sleep on flights. We always recommend upon arrival that you walk around your destination and get the “lay of the land,” so to speak. Then, take a short nap, no more than 2 hours, and head out for an early dinner. Get to bed early on arrival day, which will help you acclimate to the new time zone. Most people still hit a wall on day 3, and when we’re planning your trip, we always keep this in mind and make it a light day.
Amenity Kits: Business and first-class passengers often receive luxury amenity kits. We encourage you to use these, as they contain high-quality skin care products and other essentials.
In-Flight Sleep: Try to use a travel pillow and blanket to maximize comfort during rest periods and prevent neck or back soreness.
Electronics and Charging: Don’t forget to bring chargers and adapters for your electronic devices. Most airlines offer in-seat power outlets and USB ports.
Arrival Services: For arrival, we can arrange VIP meet-and-greet services that expedite customs and immigration procedures. Depending on your destination airport or even your layover location, these can be huge time savers and stress relievers.
Baggage: Always pack essentials in your carry-on bags in case of baggage delays. And now you can invest in high-quality luggage with GPS tracking or airtags.
Travel Insurance: We always highly, highly recommend the purchase of travel insurance that covers trip delays, cancellations, and medical emergencies.
Airport Transfers: Our favorite is private transfers or luxury car services at the destination airport to ensure a seamless transition to your accommodation.
Safety Precautions: No matter your destination, you must stay vigilant, secure your belongings, and be cautious when sharing personal information while traveling. Keep your purses/bags closed (zipped); men’s wallets are best kept in front pockets to prevent loss.
By offering these tips and personalized services, we hope these tips can help you enjoy a mostly stress-free international flight experience. While we can’t anticipate flight delays, cancellations, re-routing, etc., we hope these suggestions help you on your next international adventure. If you would like help planning your next trip, please contact us to have a chat.
