Insider Tips from Flight Attendants: Surviving Summer Travel with Ease

Summer travel brings both excitement and challenges, with crowded airports and packed planes becoming the norm. But fear not, as flight attendants, who have seen it all, are here to share their top tips for smoothly navigating summer travel. CNN Travel spoke with seasoned flight attendants Rich Henderson, Andrew Henderson, and Essence Griffin to gather their insider advice.

Tips for Travelling with Ease in Summer

Travel early in the day: If possible, book the first flight of the day to avoid the ripple effect of delays and cancellations that often occur later in the day. While waking up early may be a sacrifice, it pays off with fewer travel issues.
Book off-peak travel days: Avoid peak travel days like Friday evenings and Monday mornings, as they tend to be the busiest. Opt for less crowded days like Tuesdays to minimize potential problems.
Leave buffer time: If you have an important event, such as a wedding or a cruise, consider arriving a day early to allow for unexpected delays. A buffer day between your flight's arrival and the event will ensure that travel disruptions don't ruin your plans.
Avoid tight connections: Give yourself ample time between connecting flights to avoid unnecessary stress. It's worth paying a little extra or exploring alternative airlines to have a comfortable connection time, especially for long-haul flights.
Read the fine print: Familiarize yourself with your airline's policies, especially if you booked through a third-party agent. Different airlines have varying amenities and services, so knowing what to expect will prevent any surprises.
Download airline and travel apps: Prior to your journey, download the airline's app, as well as apps for your departure and destination airports. Additionally, flight tracker apps like FlightAware can provide real-time updates on flight status and gate changes, helping you stay informed.
Arrive at the gate early: Plan to arrive at the gate well in advance of your flight's departure time. Boarding typically starts 30 minutes prior to departure, and you don't want to risk missing your flight due to time miscalculations.
Contact gate agents for assistance: In cases of flight delays or cancellations, it's more effective to reach out to gate agents rather than standing in long customer service lines. Gate agents have valuable information and can help you find alternative solutions.
Pack snacks: While airlines provide food, it's always a good idea to bring your own snacks, especially during potential delays or limited meal options. Be prepared for the unexpected and avoid relying solely on in-flight catering.
Dress for the journey: Instead of dressing for your destination, consider the comfort and practicality of your attire for the duration of the flight. Layered clothing is advisable to adapt to varying temperatures onboard.
Consider carry-on luggage: Flight attendants often advocate for carry-on luggage only, as it offers convenience and minimizes the risk of lost or delayed baggage. If you can fit everything in a small bag, it's usually more manageable and saves time.
Pack essentials in your carry-on: Always include a change of clothes and essential toiletries in your carry-on bag. This ensures you'll have the necessary items if your checked baggage is lost or if you experience a flight delay requiring an overnight stay.
Charge devices and download entertainment: Download movies, TV shows, or books in advance and bring portable chargers to keep your devices powered. Prepare for potential entertainment disruptions and ensure you're well-equipped for long flights.
Secure seating arrangements: If traveling with a companion, either pay for preferred seating or check-in early to secure seats together. Checking in early through the airline app increases your chances of sitting together.
Travel with kindness: Flight attendants appreciate kindness and understanding from passengers. Remember that they are working to make your journey comfortable and safe. Traveling with empathy and respect goes a long way.

By following these tips from experienced flight attendants, you can navigate the challenges of summer travel with ease. Prepare in advance, stay informed, and approach your journey with a positive attitude. Safe travels!