Imagine stepping off the plane after visiting over thirty countries across seven continents. That’s the experience of seasoned travelers who share these top flying hacks1. Whether you’re a frequent flyer or on your first international trip, this article has expert tips. They’ll make your next journey smoother, cheaper, and more fun.
Learn how to find empty rows on flights and get free trips with points. These are the flying tips that seasoned travelers love. You’ll zip through airports, pass security easily, and arrive ready to explore.
Key Takeaways:
- Discover expert tips to save time, money, and stress at the airport and in the air
- Learn how to utilize travel apps and online resources to enhance your trip
- Uncover strategies for scoring the best seats and avoiding restrictive flight fares
- Explore packing hacks and luggage tricks to make your journey more efficient
- Gain insights on how to prepare for unexpected delays and travel disruptions
Prepare for Unexpected Delays with a Buffer Day
Unexpected flight delays can ruin even the best travel plans. In fact, seven of the 10 highest TSA checkpoint travel numbers happened in the last 30 days2. To keep your trip smooth, add a buffer day at the start.
A Real-Life Example of Why a Buffer Day is Essential
Our trip to Egypt from Seattle was meant to be 17 hours. But it took 42 hours2. A hurricane, lightning storms, a forced overnight stay, and a broken plane part made it stressful. If we had a buffer day in Cairo, we’d have been less stressed.
Expect the unexpected in travel and plan for it. A buffer day at the start can turn chaos into a smooth trip.
The first flight of the day is more likely to arrive on time, about 25 percentage points more than later flights2. Airlines adjust delays based on conditions, affecting when you fly2.
For delays under an hour, go to the airport as planned2. But, new federal rules promise refunds for big delays, though they’re not yet in effect2.
Adding a buffer day at the start of your trip can save your vacation from delays. It gives you time to relax and enjoy your journey, no matter what happens.
Prepare for Unexpected Delays with a Buffer Day
Benefits of having a buffer day at the start of your trip
When planning your next trip, adding a buffer day at the start is key. It acts as a safety net against unexpected delays and disruptions3. The 2023 Airline On-Time Performance Report shows Delta, Alaska, and Southwest had over 85% of flights on time3. But, flights with layovers are more likely to be delayed, as the Bureau of Transportation Statistics found3.
About 20% of flights are delayed, with weather causing 30% of these delays, according to FlightAware3.
A buffer day helps you handle any unexpected setbacks, like cancelled flights or delayed baggage, without ruining your trip4. Travelers often face issues like cancellations and delays, which can mess up plans4. If everything goes smoothly, you get a day to relax, explore, and start your trip without stress4.
For international travel, a buffer day is even more important. Delays are more common and can be harder to deal with4. You’ll need to act fast if your flight changes or is cancelled, finding new places to stay and ways to get around4. This extra time makes your trip planning more flexible and ready for any surprises4.
So, think about adding a buffer day to your next trip. It’s a smart move to reduce stress, stay flexible, and make your travel experience better4.
Travel During Shoulder Season for Better Prices and Fewer Crowds
Looking for good weather, fewer people, and lower prices? Plan your trip for the shoulder season. It’s the time between busy and off-peak seasons. You get nice weather, fewer tourists, and better deals without the high costs5.
Shoulder season usually starts in September and ends in October in the northern hemisphere5. In Europe, it’s from March to April and October to November5. For the southern hemisphere, it’s mid-February to April and September to early December in Australia5. In South America, it’s March to May and September to November5.
Traveling during shoulder season means fewer people on the move5. You’ll find better deals on flights, hotels, and attractions5. It’s a more relaxed trip with fewer crowds at popular spots5. The weather is mild, perfect for exploring5.
But, if you’re looking for skiing or sunbathing, shoulder season might not be the best time5. Being flexible with your travel plans can help you enjoy the benefits of shoulder season5.
In the northern hemisphere, shoulder season is in fall and early spring6. High season is when it’s sunny, schools are on break, or there are festivals. This means more people around6. Prices for flights, hotels, and tours are lower than in high season but not as cheap as in low season6.
Traveling in shoulder season means fewer tourists and shorter lines6. You’ll also see a different side of the city, thanks to the locals’ lifestyle6.
“Shoulder season travel is the perfect balance of cost-effectiveness, fewer crowds, and pleasant weather – the ultimate recipe for a stress-free and enjoyable trip.”
Embrace Carry-On Only for Stress-Free Travel
Are you tired of heavy luggage and long waits at baggage claim? Worrying about lost or delayed bags is stressful. It’s time to try carry-on only travel. Packing light makes travel easier and more fun.
Advantages of Traveling with Just a Carry-On
Choosing carry-on only travel has many benefits. You’ll save money on checked bag fees, which can be over $50 per bag7. With a carry-on that’s 22″ or less7, you’ll move quickly through the airport.
Carry-on travel means your things are always with you. No more lost or delayed luggage. You can also skip the long wait at baggage claim.
- Avoid checked bag fees up to $50 or more7
- Breeze through the airport with just a single carry-on bag7
- Never worry about lost or delayed luggage
- Skip the wait at baggage claim
Packing light makes traveling easier. You can move around freely, whether you’re traveling between cities or exploring a new place. With fewer things to carry, you can enjoy your trip more.
“Traveling with just a carry-on has been a game-changer for our family. We no longer have to worry about checked bag fees or lost luggage, and it’s so much more efficient to get in and out of the airport.”8
Ready to make your travel easier? Start planning your next trip with a focus on packing light. This way, you can enjoy the freedom of carry-on only travel.
Embrace Carry-On Only for Stress-Free Travel
Traveling with just a carry-on can change your trip for the better. It makes your journey more efficient and stress-free. A good tip is to volunteer to check your carry-on for free. Many airlines overbook seats and don’t have enough overhead bin space for everyone9.
If you’re okay with waiting at baggage claim, you can volunteer to have it checked. Just remember to take out all your important items first!
This approach is great if you want to avoid checked bag fees10. Checking a bag costs at least $25 each way, which is $50 for a round trip. By volunteering to check your carry-on, you save money and have a smoother trip.
It’s important to know the airline’s rules on carry-on size and weight11. UK airports, for example, limit liquids in hand luggage to 100ml or less. By packing smartly and following airline policies, you can enjoy the carry-on lifestyle without the hassle of checked bags.
Traveling with just a carry-on also makes airport navigation easier9. Wearing slip-on shoes for security screening saves time. Staying hydrated during flights helps prevent dehydration. Also, checking in online and downloading travel apps keeps you informed9.
Embracing the carry-on lifestyle can make your travel more enjoyable and stress-free. By following airline rules, packing smart, and taking advantage of free bag checks, you can make your journey smoother. This way, you can focus on the excitement of your destination.
Increase Your Chances of Scoring an Empty Row
Getting an entire row to yourself can make flying much better. A smart trick for couples is the aisle-window seat strategy12. One person takes the aisle, and the other the window. This way, the middle seat is often left empty, giving you a better chance at an empty row.
This method works because most people don’t want the middle seat. They prefer the aisle or window for more room12. If someone does take the middle seat, you can ask them to switch. They usually agree, making your flight more comfortable and enjoyable.
- TikToker @gracietravels shared a hack for getting an entire row of seats all to yourself by becoming the last passenger to enter the plane13.
- Chelsea Dickenson’s tip on increasing the chances of getting an empty row on flights by selecting specific seats14.
By choosing your seats wisely and asking nicely, you can get an empty row. This simple trick can make a tight flight more comfortable. You’ll arrive at your destination feeling better and more relaxed.
Increase Your Chances of Scoring an Empty Row
Booking seats at the back of the airplane can be a smart15 strategy. From the rear, you can see the whole plane and spot empty seats15. If you see a row you like, ask a flight attendant if you can switch15.
Sitting in the back means you’re closer to the flight attendants. They can help a lot15. They might even help you find a better seat if one opens up15.
Why Booking Seats at the Back Can Be Beneficial
- You can easily see which seats are open after boarding, making it easier to request a seat change if desired15.
- Flight attendants are more accessible and can be more helpful in assisting with15 last-minute seat changes or other requests15.
- Flights are often fully booked these days, reducing the chances of securing an empty seat next to you16.
- Some airlines, like Southwest, use a first-come, first-served boarding system, so checking in early increases your odds of obtaining an open seat16.
- Some airlines offer the option to reserve the seat next to you for an additional fee, such as Scandinavian Airlines’ experience from Copenhagen to Los Angeles16.
Booking seats at the back can help you get an empty row or a better seat15. You’ll also be closer to the flight attendants, who can be very helpful15.
“I’ve been using this strategy for the past 7-8 years, and it’s worked out about half the time. Flights are just so full these days.”
– TikTok commenter
| Airline | Seat Reservations |
|---|---|
| Delta, American, United, Southwest | Allow passengers to purchase an extra seat to guarantee space16. |
| Southwest | Refund the cost of the extra seat after travel16. |
| Air New Zealand, Etihad, Emirates, Fiji, Philippine, Qantas, Sri Lankan | Offer options to reserve empty seats next to passengers for a fee16. |
| Delta A220 jets, some wide-body planes | Feature configurations that eliminate middle seats, providing more room16. |
Avoid Basic Economy Fares for Long-Haul Flights
Steering clear of basic economy fares on long-haul flights is wise. These tickets come with many restrictions that can make your journey less comfortable17.
Restrictions and Downsides of Basic Economy Fares
Basic economy fares often don’t include a checked bag. In some cases, you might not even get a carry-on18. This forces you to pack everything into a personal item, which can be a big hassle, even on long trips18.
Also, basic economy passengers board last. This makes finding space for your carry-on in the overhead bins harder18.
Another big issue is seat selection. You can’t pick your seat, which might mean you end up in a middle seat17. This is a big problem on long flights when you want to be as comfortable as possible.
The biggest drawback of basic economy fares is their lack of flexibility. These tickets are non-refundable and can’t be changed, even for a fee17. If your plans change or you need to adjust your flight, you’ll have to cancel and rebook. This can be expensive and inconvenient.
For long-haul flights, it’s better to pay more for a standard economy ticket. The extra benefits, like checking a bag, choosing your seat, and making itinerary changes, can greatly improve your travel experience.
“The strictest change fee policies often come from low-cost carriers like Spirit and Frontier.”19
When considering budget air travel, think carefully about basic economy fares. While they might seem cheaper upfront, the restrictions and downsides can quickly outweigh any savings, even on longer flights191817.
Use Travel Credit Cards to Earn Free Flights
Unlock the power of travel credit card rewards to make your next flight almost free. By choosing the right credit card, you can earn points for free airfare. The Chase Sapphire Preferred card is a top choice for travelers2021.
Benefits of the Chase Sapphire Preferred card for travelers
The Chase Sapphire Preferred card has a $95 annual fee but offers great perks. You’ll earn 3x points on dining and travel and no foreign transaction fees. This is perfect for those who love to travel21.
The card’s biggest advantage is redeeming points for flights at a 25% higher value through the Chase Ultimate Rewards portal20.
This card also offers travel insurance and rental car coverage. It protects your trips, whether domestic or international21. It’s ideal for those who want to maximize their flight booking strategies and travel hacking efforts20.
Ready to explore travel credit card rewards? The Chase Sapphire Preferred is a great choice. It offers freedom and flexibility, making flights more affordable2021.
Pack Light and Roll Your Clothes for More Space
Packing smart is easy. One top travel hack is to roll your clothes instead of folding them. This space-saving packing tip saves space and keeps clothes smooth22. Rolling clothes can save up to 30% more space than folding22. Also, 67% of experienced travelers like rolling better than folding22.
Rolling clothes helps you efficiently manage your luggage. You can see all your packed items easily. Travelers find up to 50% fewer wrinkles with rolled clothes22. Plus, rolling is 40% more organized than folding, as items fit better together22.
For carry-on travel, rolling clothes is a must23. Pack no more than a week’s clothes for longer trips. Use luggage with 35 to 40 liters capacity for minimalist packing23. Rolling clothes lets you pack more without extra fees or hassle.
The secret to packing light is choosing wisely and being versatile with clothes23. Layer clothes for flexibility and use. Invest in quality outerwear like a Patagonia Torrentshell 3L jacket for its quality and size23. With smart planning and packing, you can travel with less and stay organized2322.
Utilize Travel Apps and Online Resources
In today’s world, using travel apps and online resources can change your next trip. These tools help you find great deals, meet other travelers, and explore your destination easily24. Travel hacking, like earning points for free travel, is now more common24. This way, you can save a lot on flights and hotels24.
Useful Apps for Finding Travel Deals and Meeting Fellow Travelers
Apps like Skyscanner, Hopper, and Google Flights are great for finding deals25. They track prices and offer alerts and comparisons to help you book flights cheaply25. Apps like Backpackr and Travel Buddies help you meet new friends on your travels. They match you with travelers nearby, so you can plan activities together.
| Travel App | Key Features |
|---|---|
| Skyscanner | – Price alerts – Fare comparisons – Direct booking |
| Hopper | – Predictive analytics – Optimal booking times |
| Google Flights | – Price tracking – Route exploration |
| Backpackr | – Personality-based matching – Itinerary syncing |
| Travel Buddies | – Nearby traveler connections – Activity planning |
Using these travel apps and online travel resources opens up a world of savings and connections24. Whether you want to save on flights, meet travel buddies, or explore easily, these tools make planning and traveling better.
“The right travel apps can make all the difference in your trip, from finding the best deals to seamlessly connecting with fellow adventurers.”
Utilize Travel Apps and Online Resources
Traveling without internet can seem tough, but there are smart ways to do it. Google Maps is a great offline tool. Before you go, download maps for your destinations by opening the app, searching, and tapping “Download”26. This lets you navigate, find places, and see satellite views, all without using up your data.
Google Translate is another must-have offline tool. It lets you translate text, talk in real time, and scan documents. It’s super helpful when you’re in new places and don’t speak the local language26.
Offline Access to Google Maps and Google Translate
Don’t let no internet stop you. Download key travel apps and maps before you leave. This way, you can move around easily, talk to locals, and dive into local culture, even without internet2627.
Being ready is key to stress-free travel. With a bit of planning, you can open up a world of possibilities. Enjoy your trips, whether in cities or the wild2627.
| Feature | Google Maps | Google Translate |
|---|---|---|
| Offline access | ✓ | ✓ |
| Navigation | ✓ | – |
| Language translation | – | ✓ |
| Searchable points of interest | ✓ | – |
| Real-time conversation translation | – | ✓ |
With these offline travel apps, you can explore confidently. Navigate new places and talk to locals, all without needing the internet2627.
Conclusion
This article has shared travel hacks and strategies to change your travel game. They make your trips more efficient, cheaper, and fun28. Now, you can prepare for delays and get the most from your airline rewards.
Looking to save money, time, or stress? This guide has you covered29. Learn about loyalty programs, travel credit cards, and smart packing. This way, you can plan better and enjoy your trip more.
Ready for your next adventure? Use these travel hacks summary, smart flying tips, and strategies for optimizing the travel experience. A bit of prep and creative thinking can change your travel life. Start your journey with these hacks and enjoy the freedom and adventure they bring!
FAQ
How can I prepare for unexpected delays when traveling?
What are the benefits of having a buffer day at the start of a trip?
When is the best time to plan a trip for good weather, fewer crowds, and lower prices?
What are the advantages of traveling with just a carry-on bag?
How can I get my carry-on checked for free?
What’s the best way to ensure I can sit with my travel companion on a flight?
Why is booking seats at the back of the plane a smart strategy?
What are the downsides of basic economy fares?
How can I earn free flights using travel credit cards?
What’s the best way to pack and save space in my luggage?
How can I use travel apps and online resources to enhance my trip?
Source Links
- Ten Best Travel Hacks To Be a Smart Traveler — Moore Misadventures – https://www.mooremisadventures.com/blog/travel-hacks
- Summer travel delays could be brutal. Here’s how to deal with them – https://www.theoaklandpress.com/2024/06/20/summer-travel-delays-could-be-brutal-heres-how-to-deal-with-them/
- Avoid Flight Delays: A Business Traveler’s Guide | Navan – https://navan.com/blog/insights-trends/avoid-flight-delays-a-business-travelers-guide
- I’m Stuck at the Airport: What to Do When Your Flight is Cancelled, Delayed or Rebooked – https://www.alwayspacktissues.com/post/stuck-at-the-airport
- Travel Hack: Book Your Next Vacation During Shoulder Season – https://www.popsugar.com/travel/what-shoulder-season-49338628
- Why Shoulder Season is My Favorite Time to Travel – HI USA – https://www.hiusa.org/blog/travel-hacks-tips/why-travel-shoulder-season
- How to Pack a Week’s Worth of Clothes in a Carry-On – Samantha Brown’s Places to Love – https://samantha-brown.com/tips/pack-a-weeks-worth-of-clothes-in-a-carry-on/
- How to Pack in Just a Carry-On – https://www.becomingminimalist.com/how-to-pack-in-just-a-carry-on/
- 10 Essential Travel Hacks for Stress-Free Flying – https://medium.com/@easemytrip/10-essential-travel-hacks-for-stress-free-flying-b92c92814b58
- Flying Hacks: 10 Secrets to Stress-Free Air Travel (From a Pro!) – https://www.thebellevoyage.com/fly-like-a-pro-10-secrets-to-stress-free-air-travel/
- Essential Things To Pack In Hand Luggage For A Stress-Free Trip – https://www.thetravelpocketguide.com/tips/pack-hand-luggage-stress-free-trip/
- Every Travel Hack You Need to Fly Like a Damn Professional – https://www.thrillist.com/travel/nation/flying-tips-travel-hacks-tsa-security
- Travel Hacks Nobody Talks About – https://amomama.com/433870-travel-hacks-nobody-talks-about.html
- 4 TikTok travel hacks that could save you money on your next flight – https://www.houseandgarden.co.za/travel-leisure/4-tiktok-travel-hacks-that-could-save-you-money-on-your-next-flight-3d61d75e-45b8-4a90-ac54-1825534b44f7
- This travel hack reveals how to get a ‘whole row to yourself’ on flights – https://nypost.com/2021/10/21/travel-hack-reveals-how-to-get-a-whole-row-to-yourself-on-flights/
- Tricks to Score an Empty Middle Seat on Your Next Flight – https://thriftytraveler.com/guides/airlines/how-to-get-an-empty-middle-seat/
- How to survive basic economy on United Airlines – The Points Guy – https://thepointsguy.com/airline/how-to-survive-basic-economy-on-united-airlines/
- How To Survive and Fly Basic Economy (With No Carry On) – https://maphappy.org/the-survival-guide-to-flying-basic-economy/
- All the Hidden Costs of Flying and How to Avoid Them – https://www.realsimple.com/work-life/travel/hidden-costs-of-flying
- No title found – https://www.under30experiences.com/blog/travel-hack-ultimate-guide-to-get-free-flights-through-credit-card-rewards
- Travel Hacking For Beginners – https://www.wanderingredhead.com/travel-hacking-for-beginners/
- How To Roll Clothes For Packing: A Simple Yet Life-Changing Method – https://www.cabinzero.com/blogs/packing-tips/how-to-roll-clothes-for-packing?srsltid=AfmBOoomKVspOIKpXWjT9pPhAHw-EjJu-n8O_ydbaDhkvI44_YEtj9QP
- Packing Like A Pro And Traveling Light—My Ultimate Guide – https://www.indietraveller.co/how-to-pack-light/
- Travel Hacking 101: How To Score Cheap Flights and Free Travel – https://www.travelerchoice.com/blogs/all-blogs/travel-hacking?srsltid=AfmBOorKNdfLL2pTJMv3RiYJa8QpHignHR1eLQcRw17c7xP2dxsjl-W5
- 7 Clever Travel Hacks to Outsmart Airlines and Enhance Your Journeys – https://www.mightytravels.com/2024/04/7-clever-travel-hacks-to-outsmart-airlines-and-enhance-your-journeys/
- The Ultimate Airport and Flying Hacks Survival Guide – https://bohotravel.org/2023/06/14/airport-and-flight-hacks/
- Travel Hacking 101: How To Score Cheap Flights and Free Travel – https://www.travelerchoice.com/blogs/all-blogs/travel-hacking?srsltid=AfmBOoqdM3EoOOHUlAMCiaBfCyG9DVE_BAe6zH0xW5doqqDTjqG1jXDB
- Beginner’s Guide To Travel Hacking : A Free Flight In 15 Minutes – https://zerototravel.com/beginners-guide-travel-hacking/
- How I Travel Hack: A Step-By-Step Guide To How I Saved $100,000 On Flights – https://apurplelife.com/2023/01/24/how-to-travel-hack-a-step-by-step-guide/