It’s officially summer, which for many means it’s vacation season! For me, it means I’m back to work with Delta helping summertime travelers get to their final destinations.
While summer is the preferred season to getaway, it can also be one the most challenging times to travel thanks to thunderstorms, extreme heat and packed flights.
Having worked for an airline for 7 summers straight, I’ve learned the do’s and don’ts traveling in the summer! Below are my insider tips to help ease summer travel.
BOOK THE FIRST FLIGHT OUT
Summertime weather can be unpredictable and the later you fly, the greater the chances of experiencing delays due to weather. Booking the first flight out guarantees that your plane and crew are already at the airport, which reduces the chances of unforeseen delays or cancellations.
DOWNLOAD YOUR AIRLINE’S APP
Most of the questions I get asked on a daily basis can be answered by your airline’s app. Gate changes, boarding times, seat assignments, baggage tracking, flight changes, etc it’s all there!
You can also avoid long lines at the ticket counter by checking in online and using a mobile boarding pass.
DON’T CHECK BAGS
My number one rule for traveling anytime of year is DON’T CHECK BAGS if you can avoid it!
Checking bags means you’ll need to factor in an additional hour just stand in line to drop them off. Not to mention excessive bag fees! It can also limit your options if you need to make quick changes in the case of delays or cancellations.
But if you insist on checking a bag, be sure to put a change of clothes and toiletries in your carry-on, just in case you and your bag get separated!
SKIP THE SECURITY LINE
The one thing everyone dreads are long lines at security. One of the best decisions I made was signing up for Global Entry, which includes TSA Pre-Check and CLEAR.
Now I can skip to the front of the line and I’m through security in minutes! Even if you only travel a few times a year, it’s worth it!
TRACK YOUR INBOUND FLIGHT
The 3 pieces of info you need to know to get the clearest picture of your flight’s status is the location of your inbound aircraft, your pilots and your flight attendants. In many cases, all 3 are coming in from different locations. Tracking those flight numbers will give you insight into when your flight will depart.
I use the site Flight Aware to track my inbound aircraft. You’ll have to ask an agent for the deets on your crew’s whereabouts. Simply ask for the flight numbers they’re coming in on and track them on the app!
GET CLUB ACCESS
Gaining access to airport lounges has been a game changer and completely transformed my travel experience. Rather than trying to find seating at a loud, overcrowded gate, being stuck at a crowded gate, I now wait for my flight in the comfort (and quiet) of the Delta lounge thanks to my AMEX Platinum card.
And when I’m traveling international, my card gives me access to the Priority Pass lounges. It’s magical.
Even if you don’t fly Delta, the AMEX card grants you access to the Centurion Lounge.
My card has been a life saver on a few occasions when I’ve gotten stuck waiting on a delayed flight!
There you have it! I hope these tips help you during your summertime travel adventures!
Do you have travel plans this summer?! What are some of your travel tips?! Share your comments below!
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