Memorial Weekend Air Travel Tips

Memorial Day Weekend is one of the busiest times in the US to fly. Airports will be packed of passengers trying to get to their destinations. Follow this tips and you will have a stress free travel experience.

- Pack what you need only. Do not over pack. Many airlines will charge you depending on the weight of your luggage, so be smart about what you are taking with you for the weekend.

- Airport parking is expensive. Airport parking spaces will be limited for the weekend as well. Take Uber, Lyft, or ask a friend or family to take you. You will save plenty of time.

- Talking about time... give yourself plenty. Time is all you need so you won't stress. Why show up at the airport right before your flight? For International flights airlines recommend 3 hours before. For Domestic flights Airlines recommend 2 hours before departure time. Lines at TSA will be longer than usual, so just give yourself time to get to your gate.

- Follow the TSA rules. No more than 3.4 oz liquids. This includes creams as well. Baby food and medicine is exempt from this rule. Do not wait to take your shoes or your metal articles right before the x ray machine. Do it while waiting in line so you can be ready and others can get to their flights on time. Make sure you don't have any loaded guns, knife or explosive inside your bags, unless you may like to visit the local jail for the night.

- Download the app, usually FREE, of the airline you are taking that day. Airlines will advise you of any changes, including time, gates or delays. Be alert of any announcements inside the terminal as well.

- Check your bags, especially if it is free. DO NOT EXPECT the Flight Attendants or any other crew or passenger to lift your bags for you. It is just not fair. if it is heavy for you, it is also heavy for others. Many Airlines will even offer free bag check at the gates, especially when the flights are full. If you are traveling with children, CHECK YOUR BAGS. If you need assistance or wheelchair, CHECK YOUR BAGS.

- Stay alert during boarding for your ZONE or SEAT. Flights probably will be full. Do not expect to come at the end of boarding with your two bags and find space right on top of your seat. Overhead space is SHARED, so be smart.

- Many Airlines, especially in the US will charge you for items inside the cabin and will only accept credit cards. If you do not have a credit card, buy food at the terminal. It is perfectly fine to bring food on board. Always research if your airline charges for food or not. Many Airports will have ATM like machines that will change your cash for pre paid cards you can use in the cabin.

- One of the most important tips when you travel is to BE NICE WITH YOUR CREW. If you have any issues or not, just BE NICE TO YOUR CREW. A smile can take you far. :-)

As I mention in my book, The Common Sense of Flying, technology is right in front of us. USE IT. Take advantage of the tools we have right in front of us. I hope this small tips can help you so you can have a pleasant flight and wonderful holiday vacation.