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Low price versus location: when tempted by a low flight
price, check to see where the destination airport is. You might
find that it's a long and costly journey from the airport to
where you really want to be, and that you may be better off
paying a little more so you can arrive at an airport that is
closer to your destination.
Pack
with care: pack items such as suntan lotion, moisturiser
and perfume into individual bags, just in case the packaging
gets smashed or the contents leak. Plastic or paper tissue folded
around delicate clothes can help prevent creases.
Stow
your stuff: with strict security checks in place at
airports, items such as razors, penknives and hypodermic needles
must be packed into your hold baggage, not cabin baggage.
Check
in early: get the seats you want by checking in at
the earliest time given by the airline. Remember that you can
sometimes check in at train stations that serve major airports.
If you're meeting a friend at check-in, go ahead and check yourself
in, then reserve a seat for your travel partner to make sure
you can sit next to each other.
Mark
your bags: as well as tying luggage tags to the exterior
of your bags, attach some extra tags to the inside of your luggage
as an extra precaution.
Long
legs: if you are tall, try to get a seat by one of
the emergency exits. Ask in good time, but you probably won't
be allocated the seat until check-in, as staff will have to
see for themselves that you are able-bodied and capable of opening
the door should an emergency situation arise.
Dress
smart: it's always a good idea to look presentable
when you fly. You'll feel much better when you arrive at your
destination and if you feel brave enough to ask for an upgrade
you're more likely to get one.
Do
not disturb: take an eye mask and wear it for less
chance of getting disturbed by a chatty neighbour or by cabin
staff.
In-flight
comfort: walk or move around as much as you can on
your flight to help prevent deep vein thrombosis. As cabin air
is very dehydrating, drink plenty of water to help you keep
hydrated on your flight. Avoid alcohol at all costs - its effects
are stronger at altitude.
Pops away:
chewing gum or sucking a mint can help prevent your ears popping
during take-off and descent. Chemists also provide devices to
put in your ears, which are designed to help prevent the pain
caused by changes in cabin pressure.
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