Do you remember the last time you were on a plane? Can you recall the feeling of packing your bags days, maybe weeks, before a trip? The feeling in your stomach after passing through security and pulling your suitcase towards your boarding zone? What about the rush as the plane takes off into the clouds? For me, those were distant feelings that became all too real a few days ago.
Nothing makes me happier than the fact that the world is slowly but surely re-opening. Some countries may be more ahead than others, however, I’m sure many of us are anticipating a more optimistic summer than we could have possibly imagined last year. Restaurants, bars, gyms, museums, cinemas, churches, salons, and malls are slowing re-opening and so is travel. Each of us will carry a different comfort level as the world re-opens which is to be expected. For some, the thought of being on a train, plane, or bus for a lengthy period may cause anxiety, but for others including myself, the time couldn’t have come sooner. This post is for both the former and the latter, because while we’ve all been cooped up inside for over a year, eventually we’ll all be re-integrating into society at our own pace.
This past weekend, I travelled to Montreal by plane, which I had not done in years. Below are a few of many tips that helped me, and will hopefully help those who need to ease back into travel this year and beyond.
Create to-do lists.
My notes app always helps me stay organized and is so easy to use. My favourite feature is the little check-list that allows you to tick each item off as you complete them. Not only do I use it for trips but also daily tasks such as chores and grocery shopping. If you like this concept as well, create a folder and name it the destination you’ll be visiting. Then, create separate to-do lists for tasks you need to finish. Here are some examples:
- Things to do before trip (ex. download movies for plane, label zip locks)
- What to buy before Montreal (ex. buy shampoo, replenish vitamins, new socks)
- What to pack in carry on (ex. pajamas, a book, reading glasses, outfits)
- Places to visit in Montreal (ex. cafes, restaurants, museums, parks)
Can you tell I love to-do lists?
Check the weather forecast frequently
Checking the weather app up until the last day before departure will hopefully give you some clarity on what to pack for your trip, how to dress at the airport, and what to wear once you arrive.
Plan a flexible itinerary
I say flexible because plans will always change. I never follow an itinerary to a tee, however, having an idea of where you’d like to go each day is helpful. Luckily, I have amazing friends in the city who knew of fun places to explore. If you don’t know anyone at your destination, all you’ll need to do is a bit of extra research.
The great Anthony Bourdain once said,
“Letting the happy accident happen is what a lot of vacation itineraries miss, I think, and I’m always trying to push people to allow those things to happen rather than stick to some rigid itinerary.”
And I agree with him. An itinerary is merely a guide. It’s helpful to be organized but truthfully, spontaneity is always more fun. Another piece of advice is to check how far your first location will be from the airport. This way you have an idea of what time your excursions begin.
Leverage social media
I’ve discovered countless travel spots and activities over the years thanks to social media. Whether it’s a travel vlog on YouTube, or the location tab on Instagram, there is so much content out there from users all over the world. Do what you’ve got to do so that you familiarize yourself with your destination and start planning.
If you follow someone who lives in the location you’ll be travelling to, try stepping out of your comfort zone and ask them about what it’s like living there! You’ll gain a new perspective from a local, and who knows, maybe you’ll make a new connection!
Research the cost of living at your destination and budget accordingly
Review the menus of restaurants you want to visit, tickets for tourist attractions, etc. The more you familiarize yourself with costs, the fewer surprises you’ll encounter.
If you want to track your spreading, create an excel spreadsheet to monitor your spending each day. And when you get back from your trip, compare your budgets to your actuals.
Clear up storage space
Because I take so many photos, I like to clear out unnecessary storage from my phone and clear up space before special occasions. Nothing worse than being in the middle of a good shoot and that little notification pops up!
If you know you know.
Watch your liquids!
Be mindful that liquids in your carry-on and personal item must be 100ml or less. I only travelled with a carry-on and small bag, so I had to play by this rule. If you’re doing the same, don’t carry an excessive amount of products. For perfume, I keep a travel sized spray bottle and pop it in my purse wherever I go. Purchase only as many travel sized products and empty containers as you need. I purchased mine from Miniso, although you can find them everywhere!
On the other hand, if you’re checking in more luggage, you’ll be able to pack larger liquids in there.
Label your zip-locks and containers
As a visual person, I appreciate little cues and reminders of where my belongings are. Not everyone needs to do this, but it helps me a ton. Having millions of scattered products in my suitcase would stress me out lol!
Also, since it was a weekend trip, I packed 3 of my ‘One a Day’ gummy vitamins into a small zip lock. I didn’t want to pack the entire container, so I saved a bit of space.
Plan your outfits ahead of time
This tip isn’t only for my fashionistas, but for everyone. Figuring out what to wear can be stressful and you don’t want to spend the time you could be out exploring, digging for clothes. If it helps, try on different looks before your trip and snap photos of each of them so that when the time comes you know what to wear. But just like an itinerary sometimes changes, outfits do too. So don’t over think it.
Pack clothing items that will be easy to mix and match with others
Not only does this create more space in your luggage as you forego excess clothing, but it also makes planning outfits much easier. For this trip, I packed a variety of button-up shirts that I could easily throw on and take off. Any breathable materials such as linen or cotton are great for travel. The photo above illustrates three outfits I wore with three different button-ups, which can be combined with all sorts of pieces.
Also, I’m wearing shorts in the first photo!
Don’t forget your headphones or earphones
I cannot go a day without music, especially when I’m out and about. Music keeps me feeling uplifted, and it did just that my entire flight. Although, being on a plane for the first time in a decade was enough to keep me in great spirits.
In addition to this tip, I would say create a travel playlist. I have a playlist specifically for travel featuring various songs by Bublé, Sinatra, Sade, and many others, that make me feel like hopping on a plane. This includes songs like Everything, Fly Me to the Moon, and Smooth Operator.
Depending on the airline and your mobile device, your headphones/earphones may not be compatible to the USB port on the flight. If you have a USB extension cable and want to connect your devices to the plane, add that to your list.
Have movies, shows, podcasts, and music downloaded in advance
Depending on how long your flight is, you may or may not have the time or energy to watch a movie. I’d still say to download one or two comfort films if you want extra entertainment on your journey. Make sure to have music or a podcast downloaded as well so that when service goes out you’re able to play all of your favourites.
Bring a good book
If you’re a reader, pack a good novel or magazine to keep you entertained. If you prefer audiobooks, have one downloaded as well.
Charge your phone
A sufficiently charged phone always gives me peace of mind especially when I’m going on a trip. Try to charge your phone overnight before you leave the house, or at the airport before your flight. A portable charger is handy too if you have one. And remember to keep your charger in your bag for quick access.
Arrive at the airport early
My flight was domestic, so I arrived at the airport approximately 2 hours in advance. If your flight is international, I would suggest being at the airport anywhere from 2.5 to 3.5 hours early. Or earlier, if you so choose. Each traveler will have a different experience so you may not need the extra time, but it’s always better to play it safe.
Arrange transportation ahead of time
Arriving at the airport early means you must leave your house early. If you or a loved one plans on driving, depart ahead of time and make sure your gas tank is full in advance. If you’re taking an Uber or a taxi, page them early as you never know how long it might take for them to arrive. And if you’re taking public transit, plan your route accordingly.
Make sure your hygiene products are accessible
Whether you pack your hygiene items in your carry on or personal item, you want to have them close by so you’re able to freshen up at any given time. Especially after you land. I like to keep wipes, deodorant, perfume, sanitizer, and lotion with me so that I feel and smell good throughout the journey. Bring some gum or mints too.
Wear a comfortable outfit to the airport
I would suggest wearing sneakers or any flat shoes to the airport for maximum comfort and mobility, and layering up because temperatures tend to fluctuate. To Montreal, I wore a windbreaker, a tank top underneath, and loose pants. If you’re wearing a jacket, make sure to have a t-shirt or tank top underneath because security requires you to take it off. Also, I would avoid wearing anything too tight and instead wear clothing that is loose and breathable. Over shirts, vests, windbreakers, cardigans, large scarves, and oversized zip up hoodies makes excellent layering pieces to throw over an outfit.
At the end of the day, comfort feels different for everyone so wear what makes YOU feel good.
Carry a crossbody or backpack
Any bag that allows you to travel hands-free is one you need in your life, especially when traveling. To the airport, I carried a belt bag as my personal item which allowed me the freedom to do other things with my hands. Having a sturdy bag in addition to your carry-on will make a huge difference.
Items I like to include in my bag: phone, wallet, mask, earphones, charger, gum/mints, mini lotion, mini perfume bottle, and sanitizer.
Explore the airport, but after security
I love watching planes take off, so I did a bit of exploring in the airport and found myself a good seat by a window with a good view of the runway. If you like doing this too, just make sure to get through security and confirm where you’ll be boarding your flight beforehand so that you’re not crunched for time.
Check into your flight 24 hours before your flight to secure a good seat
I was able to secure a window seat on both flights which made me happy because I wanted to stare out at the sky. Whichever seat you prefer, try to book it in advance!
Take lots of pictures but stay present
Those who know me know that I love to take pictures and capture moments. I do so because time flies, and I love to look back on all of the incredible memories I’ve made with people that I love. That being said, I’ve also learned to strike a balance between capturing memories and truly living them. I had many highlights on this trip but the best part was spending quality time with friends who I had not seen in a long time.
There are many more tips I could include, and I’ll list more in the future. However, as a beginner traveler I have found these beneficial and I hope they ease the stresses of other up and coming travelers too. If you have any additional tips you’d like to share please comment them below! And even if you do not have a trip booked just yet, keep these tips in mind so that when the time comes, you’re a few steps ahead. I wish each of you lots of travel and happy memories this year and onwards. Bon voyage!
Kundi
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