Insider Travel Tips from Nearly a Million Miles in the Air and Eight Years on the Road

Over the past eight-plus years, I’ve flown close to a million miles and spent an average of 70 nights a year in hotels. That’s enough time on the road and in the air to learn a thing or two about navigating airports, airplanes, hotels, and everything in between. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or gearing up for your first big trip, here are the lessons I’ve learned to make your travels smoother, more efficient, and less stressful.

Planning Your Trip

1. Move Slowly Airports are chaotic, but you don’t have to be. Take your time. Moving too quickly can lead to mistakes—whether it’s leaving something behind at security or rushing to the wrong gate. Slow and steady wins the travel race (unless you’re sprinting to a gate—then good luck!).

2. Invest in TSA Pre-Check (and More) Buy TSA Pre-Check and any other add-ons that make security faster and easier. It’s worth every penny. Trust me, you don’t want to be in the regular line watching people breeze through in socks.

3. Skip Clear In my experience, Clear isn’t worth the cost. TSA Pre-Check usually gets the job done more effectively. Save your money for overpriced airport snacks instead.

4. Don’t Cheap Out on Flights Time in the air matters. Investing in a better airline or seat can significantly improve your experience. Besides, your knees will thank you later.

5. Understand TSA Rules Know the rules for liquids, electronics, and prohibited items. Follow them to avoid unnecessary delays. No one wants to be the person holding up the line because of an oversized toothpaste.

6. Be Ready for Changes Things change quickly in travel. Have your airline’s app downloaded and notifications turned on for updates. It’s like having a crystal ball for your flight.

Packing for Your Trip

1. Prepare for Temperature Changes Planes and airports swing between too hot and too cold. Dress in layers and plan for both extremes. Better to look like an onion you can peel than to freeze in shorts.

2. Know Your Baggage Limits Different airlines have different baggage weight limits. Invest in a luggage scale to avoid surprises at the counter. Your wallet will appreciate the foresight.

3. Use Packing Cubes and Toiletry Bags Packing cubes keep your suitcase organized, and a good toiletry bag ensures you have everything you need in one place. Bonus points if you feel like Marie Kondo while packing.

4. Buy Good Luggage Durable luggage pays for itself over time. Wheels that glide smoothly and sturdy construction can save you a lot of hassle—and maybe even your sanity.

5. Always Buy a Seat Whether it’s for comfort, legroom, or just peace of mind, paying for a seat assignment is worth it. Don’t leave your fate to the middle-seat gods.

On Your Way to the Airport

1. Plan Your Timing Wisely

2. TSA Pre-Check: Arrive two hours before your flight.

   1. No TSA Pre-Check: Add an extra hour.

   2. Airport Distance: Know your travel time based on traffic and weather. If you’re driving more than an hour to the airport, add 30 minutes per hour to your travel time. Because Murphy’s Law loves traffic jams.

3. Rental Car Returns

4. Know where the nearest gas station is in relation to the rental return.

   1. Use your map app to navigate to the car rental return, not the airport. Avoid that last-minute “where’s the gas station?!” panic.

At the Airport

1. Ignore Line Skippers It’s easy to get frustrated when someone skips ahead in line, but don’t let it ruin your day. Focus on your own journey. Karma will handle them.

2. Stay Calm at the Gate There’s no need to crowd around the boarding area. Your turn will come. This isn’t a race, and there’s no trophy for getting on first.

3. Manage Overhead Luggage

4. If you’re not in the top 50% of boarding groups, don’t expect overhead space.

   1. If you bring a carry-on, place it in the first available spot rather than walking down the aisle searching for space. Be kind to your fellow travelers (and your back).

5. Moderation is Key Don’t overindulge in food or drinks, especially alcohol. Travel can be taxing, and you’ll feel better if you keep things light. Trust me, no one wants to be the tipsy passenger who forgets their gate number.

On the Plane

1. Prepare for Discomfort Seats will likely be small and cramped. The person next to you might be too loud, too big, or have too much stuff. Mentally prepare to be uncomfortable, and it will bother you less. Remember, it’s temporary. You’re not moving in.

2. Stay Entertained Know your entertainment options. Download movies, books, or music in advance, and bring the necessary charging cables. If you’re lucky, your in-flight neighbor won’t peek at your screen too much.

3. Don’t Delay Bathroom Breaks Always use the restroom when you have the chance. You don’t want to be stuck waiting on a tarmac wishing you had gone earlier. Bathroom FOMO is real.

During Your Trip

1. Expect Delays Everything takes longer than it should: security, boarding, and even getting to the gate. Accepting this will save you stress. Patience is your best travel companion.

2. Be Bumped (Literally) Airports are crowded places. People will bump into you. Let it go. Consider it a gentle reminder of how popular airports are.

3. Travel is Fun There is a lot to take in, so most people will be distracted. Be patient and enjoy the journey. After all, it’s about the memories, not the minor inconveniences.

Final Thoughts

Travel can be one of life’s greatest joys, but it’s not without its challenges. The key is to stay calm, prepared, and flexible. Remember, travel is an adventure, and a little patience goes a long way. Bon voyage!