Airport Tips for Air Travellers and Frequent Flyers
Here are 10 basic tips for air travellers and frequent flyers when at the airport... |
1. Arrive Early
Always plan to arrive early. Before going to the airport check both the weather forecast and monitor if flights are departing and arriving on time - you can do this online or on TV text services. If available, try to use on-line check-in.
Allow yourself plenty of time to get to the airport in case of any unforseen travel delays - this will reduce stress levels.
2. The Taxi-Switch
Do your homework concerning onward transport options at your arrival airport. Also consider doing the 'taxi switch' - if there is a big queue at the taxi rank outside the flight arrivals terminal, walk over to the departure terminal entrance and pick up a cab from there. The taxi driver may be happy to take a quick pick-up fare (although in some places this is 'officially' against the rules).
3. Changi Airport, Singapore
Changi airport in Singapore has free internet terminals for use around the arrivals and departure area. These are very handy for travellers - often airport Internet access can be prohibitively expensive. This should change as free Wi-Fi hotspots become more widely adopted.
If you have a stopover of more than 5 hours at Changi, then you should take advantage of their free 2 hour sightseeing tours of Singapore - there are 3 tours available: Colonial, Cultural and Lifestyle.
There is also a swimming pool available at the Ambassador Transit Hotel.
4. Culture at Amsterdam Schiphol
You can view some old masters paintings at Amsterdam Schiphol airport from the world famous Rijksmuseum exhibit. Situated between piers E and F, entry is free.
5. Use the Phone
If anything goes wrong with your travel arrangements while at the airport, don't get in line and queue like everyone else. Get on the phone to your airline and try to sort it out with the airline agent. Alternatively, you could try to change your travel on-line if you have an Internet connection available.
6. Airport Parking
Airport parking can be expensive, especially for longer periods. You should book your parking well in advance to secure a cheaper rate. Consider a meet and greet service if you are pushed for time. Some airport hotels may allow you to park for a few days if you book one night's accommodation.
7. Fly Early
Try to book flights that depart early in the morning - the airport will be less crowded at that time. By flying earlier you have less chance of getting delayed. Flights later in the day can be affected by the ripple knock-on effect of previous delays.
8. Luggage
If checking-in luggage, make sure your name and contact address are also inside the case. Do not advertise your home address on highly visible luggage tags. Ensure your check-in agent attaches the destination tag on to your case.
If you have a lot of carry-on luggage, try to be one of the first to board otherwise the overhead lockers will fill up fast. If you have valuable hand luggage and are particularly worried about theft on-board, place them in an overhead bin on the opposite side so you can keep a better eye on them.
In light of recent security requirements, you should check you airline carryon baggage policy beforehand.
9. Damaged Luggage
If your luggage gets damaged in transit then report this immediately to your carrier in the baggage hall. They should be able to help you either repair it or replace the case.
10. Lounge around
If you are not flying business class (or you have not yet reached elite status in a frequent flyer program) but you wish to get away from the crowds at the airport, then consider joining an independent lounge access program like Priority Pass or purchase a one-time access pass.
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