✈ 6 tips to make your next flight easier

Bonus - they work in the parks too!

Jul 22, 2023

Hi everyone!

I just got back from an incredible international adventure in Indonesia. We spent two weeks exploring the island of Bali and the astounding coral reefs in Wakatobi National Park.

Getting to Wakatobi is one of those trips that takes multiple days and over 24 total hours in flight. It definitely gets a person thinking about how to make the travel as easy as possible.

Last year I sent out a guide about how to fly easier, and, after dealing with 7 airports on this last go, I think it’s worth repeating.

Turns out that many of the same tactics that help you handle the hullabaloo of Disney World also work at the airport. Here’s what I do when I travel by air. Let me know your tips in the comments. 👍

Use these theme park touring tactics to make your flights go easier.

1) Have a plan. Also a plan B. And C. And D. And maybe E.

Just like at the parks, you need a solid plan for how to deal with your flights. Early in your planning, think about what could go wrong. Has your preferred airline been canceling flights lately? Think about what you'll do if this happens to you. Have some backup plans in mind so you can take action as soon as a problem pops up.

2) Keep it simple. Fly non-stop if possible.

If you have to change planes, so does your checked luggage. No stops means a lot less chance of something getting waylaid. It also means you've only got one flight schedule to worry about.

If a layover can't be avoided, give yourself at least a two hour gap between the flights. Three or four is better. This gives more time to accommodate flight delays and get you and your luggage where it needs to go.

3) Skip the line. Pack light.

Yes, going carry-on-only can be challenging, but your bags can't get lost if you don't check them. Carrying on also means you can bypass the airport check-in desk, and you won't have to wait for your luggage on arrival. Which means more time at the pool!

Want to share these tips with a special someone? Or the whole world? Hit that share button 👇 and spread the word.

4) Be a VIP. Upgrade your seats.

How do you get a free Express Pass at Universal? Stay in a premier hotel. How do you get first-on first-off on the plane and at baggage claim, and priority in case of a cancellation? Bump yourself up to premium or first class.

If you've been saving those miles for the right occasion, this is it. Take advantage of any chance you have to get VIP treatment from the airline. It will make everything easier from the moment you check-in.

5) Rope drop it. Get to the airport early.

You had to know I'd say this. Top tip: Get There Early.

Getting to the airport early means more time if there's a complication you need to deal with. It gives more time for the airline to get your bags to the right plane. And it gives you time to catch your breath before starting your journey.

6) Be nice. Say thank you.

Crowds, delays, keeping track of everyone in your group - it's a lot to deal with, whether you're in Diagon Alley or MCO. Remember that the staff is working hard so you can have your vacation. A smile and thank you goes a long way to making their day better too.