I ended up with a delayed flight that made me miss my connection and the next flight was overbooked. There was one seat left and two of us at the gate that needed on. The other guy was mean and belligerent to the gate agent and I was understanding and supportive. When it was time to close the door to the jet way the gate agent briskly ushered me through and wished me a safe and happy flight and closed the door behind me as I heard the other guy start yelling in protest. Be nice to people. Not only is it the right and decent thing to do, it also often pays off.
In the last 4 years or so I've migrated to wearing suits day to day. This has really helped me especially when traveling on airlines. My last flight was completely full and they were making people check carry ons for the slightest infraction. My carry-on is right at the limit, and was heavy AF as I had an extra pair of shoes, shoe trees, 4 suits, 5 shirts, socks shorts and all my toiletries in there. Everyone else of comparable size was having their stuff weighed and measured I just got a 'have a nice flight sir' and was sent on my happy way.
When I worked for an airline-owned company and we got travel benefits, I always drilled into my trainees that they needed to be the nicest person that the gate agent and flight crew had met all day. A smile and a bit of sympathy will get you much farther than an attitude and demands. I once was running to catch my connection in Newark and was sure that I had missed my flight, or if I didn't, my checked luggage would. Well, it turned out that I was delayed due to weather and so ALL the flights into and therefor out of EWR were delayed. Several of the passengers at Newark were swearing about how they'd better get on the G- D- flight and many were kicking up a fuss. As the delay increased, passengers began to storm off as they rebooked themselves onto other flights. The gate agent had been arguing with a string of passengers about their overweight bags. I went up to the gate, gave a sympathetic smile to the gate agent and said, "Wow, you're really having a tough day." Then I showed my pass, which WAS positive space, not "space available," and was for that particular flight, but I said, "I totally understand the situation and appreciate anything that you are able do," with the idea that maybe he could get me onto the next available flight. It turns out that a lot of people were traveling in pairs and I was one of the few individual passengers. My gate agent looks at my pass, looks up at the crowd of grumpy passengers, says "Just wait," and goes to his computer and begins typing. He then begins calling the standby line. People begin to get on the plane, but a lot of people didn't answer when their names were called. I was the last name that he called and there were definitely paying passengers left waiting for another flight. The flight from Newark to Washington DC is not a long one and since it was delayed and they were going to try to make up as much time as possible in the air, they cancelled the snack and beverage service. I got the very last seat at the very back of the plane, next to where the crew were sitting in their jump seats in the galley. My nose was glued to the window waiting to see if my luggage made it aboard. The flight attendant reassured me that my luggage would make it since she knew that we were delayed taking off, and that there was a LONG line of flights waiting in the taxi line. Instead of complaining about my seat, I started chatting to the flight attendant and told her of how relieved I was that my luggage and I had made it onto the flight since my inbound flight was so delayed. She saw that I was an "airline" employee from my boarding pass and asked about my company. I told her about it (if you haven't hear of us, we're doing our job right!) and the fact that I hadn't eaten since breakfast came up. She passed me a boxed crew meal!!! I was the only person on that flight who got fed!! I discretely snarfed down my little turkey sandwich and my chips and cookie, which I washed down with my little bottle of water and carton of juice. I was able to face my hike to the baggage claim and to the Metro without being as tired and hungry as I expected to be. Airline employees look after one and other!!
Recently I had a 10 minute window for a connection due to a delayed flight. I tried to get the people at the desk to allow me to board in the first wave. I’m walking-challenged due to a bad knee replacement. I had one almost empty carryon. They wouldn’t listen because they were “too busy with a different flight”. So, I got into a vacant wheelchair (Wheelchair request on my ticket anyway). I was boarded in first group. I would have made do w/o the wheelchair, but it seemed my best option. As it was, I just made the flight.
I had the experience in Munich airport where the woman patrolling the area where you scan your pass to go into the gate areas saw me coming and told me from distance that my carry on was too big. I argued and said that it wasn't and she said, "put it in the sizing frame"...sure enough she was right. I was forced to check my bag. But I was in PY so I had like 2 bag allowance anyway. As for the "sick" people (drunk/high/etc)...I think some gate agents are not too good at weeding them out. One flight I was on this guy had travelled from Siberia via Frankfurt and Toronto to eventually end up in Calgary. I could smell the alcohol on him. Then on the plane he proceeded to have no less than 6 drinks! On a different flight there was this woman sat across the aisle from me and she was coughing non-stop for the entire flight home from Paris. Another main reason they don't allow impaired people on the plane is because in the event of an emergency they can't act to save themselves and could hinder other people trying to evacuate.
When she was talking about when she handed things out in the airport that she couldn't take on the plane. 🤣 When I was in Maine, (I flew to Boston) I was in a nice hotel that had a complimentary gift basket that had a bottle of wine in it. I had a hard time trying to get rid of it because I don't drink and I obviously couldn't take it on the plane with me. I tried mailing it back since I have a friend who does drink, but the post office wouldn't accept it lol. On the day I was flying back, I was in Boston, MA to catch my flight home but I still had that bottle of wine in my rental car. I stopped at one of the historic sites in Boston and I had to park the car in a pay garage. As I left to go catch my flight, I drove to the checkout and the lady in the booth checked me out. Then I was like, "Would you like a bottle of wine?". She happily took it and I definitely made her day😂😂. Awesome video!
Unfortunately, a great deal of this is subjective and depends on the individual gate agent. Like you say, most gate agents are skilled and professional; others, not so much. Staying cool and calm with gate agents goes a long way towards a better outcome in the unlikely event there is a problem. Thanks for the new video, Megan. It is always nice to view your travel-smart content. Cheers.
I always keep my backpack close when they weigh the carry-on luggage just in case I need to transfer heavy items to backpack (even when I fly Spirit). Your video is such good preparation for anyone who flies
Thanks for all these tips. The smell issue is real, especially perfumes. Many people are allergic to certain scents, and many many headaches from even simple perfume scents. It’s an enclosed space. Everyone around you would be affected.
LUGGAGE TIPS 1, 2, 3 Tie two or three colored ribbons around the handle to your luggage to warn others that this is not their luggage. People grab luggage at the turnstile and take it home before you ever see it. Anywhere you put your bag, it could be grabbed in error. Example: overhead compartment, unloaded from the bus, at the hotel lobby, at the airport turnstile... These ribbons make your luggage different and EASY TO SPOT when the piece is surrounded by 35 other cases unloaded from the bus. Use 1” wide ribbons 14” long and not longer. Cut the ends at 45 degrees. Scissor cut trim the ribbons to cascading different lengths after they are tied. Put a drop of Super Glue at the end. If each ribbon is slightly a different length by 1/4” the color layers will all show up no matter how they drape. Tie the 3 ribbons as a sandwich, as if they were one ribbon. Use a man’s tie, a half Windsor knot for the best look. After it is tied on, the total length of the ribbons will be about 5 inches from the handle. This is too short to catch on anything. Half Windsor knot tying ruclips.net/video/S_ny-hrKqzU/видео.html You can see this ribbon from 40 feet away. Perhaps tie TWO handles or RINGS top and side of the case. This way, it won’t slide around. This knot does not loosen. Put your phone number on one ribbon using a permanent Sharpie. Example: “Owner 454-333-7878” Choose one ribbon with an unusual pattern or fabric to really make it unique. Stand by the output port of the turnstile to reduce the chance of someone else grabbing your piece. Tie your skiies, duffel bag, backpack and what ever else with matching ribbons-even your computer case. If you are a Travel Agent, you could hot gold stamp one ribbon with your name and phone number. Send them a set of ribbons, red and blue and BLACK to your customer as a gift. Record this gift in your database so you don’t duplicate yourself. Buy a gold hot embossing machine. Gold emboss your business name on the BLACK ribbon. Put the customer’s name on it if possible. Pleasant color combinations: Red and blue Chartreuse and purple Orange and light blue Orange and yellow Gray and pink Green and yellow Red and Green Red and Gold Light blue and light green The third ribbon could be white, gray, black, tan Tip #2 Take a cell phone picture of the ribbon tied on. Then another picture of the full luggage piece. You now have a way to communicate “what it looks like” if someone is tasked with searching for it. Take this picture outside in direct sun. Tip #3 Place a strip of colored duct tape on the inside lining to your case. Put your name and phone number on this tape. If all identity is stripped from your case, you have this to show. If someone steals it and rips off identity tags, you can show the police officer the inside tape..
Hahaha! I copy this hack 6 years going to Cuba its doesn't work with my color blind husband. I put 2 colored red and blue large ribbon 3 inches wide everybody can notice but not my husband. For 2nd trip to Dominican Republic all our bags are blacks I decorate with patterned duct tape from Michael's store with striking color of orange and neon blue. Till this time were using but to be honest some edges are started to peel off. But I glued it with fabric glue.
I wear a safari vest with tons of pockets and a fanny pack. Neither counts as personal bags. As I only take a 37 liter backpack I can get way more stuff. Both also secure money and passport.
I was wondering after watching that if they are allowed to use a restroom stall that has extensive cleaning agents to wash off (not whole shower)? Guess passenger's appearance & attitude will factor in!!!
I had no idea that airlines take smell (fragrance) so seriously. Especially since I'm someone who is extremely allergic to fragrance and haven't flown in over 10 years due to a fragrance issue on a return flight to NY. The person sitting directly behind me opened a bottle of Eucalyptus Oil as soon as the cabin door closed. And proceeded to slather herself in it with no regard for the people around her. The smell was so overwhelming that my throat immediately started to close. Fortunately I always carry Prednisone and Benedryl along with my EpiPen. So I started chewing several of each pills like they were TicTacs while my husband had a my EpiPen at the ready, just in case. A flight attendant noticed my distress, got me water to wash down the pills and had an ambulance on stand by. Then we hear the Pilot announce that "NO One should be using fragrance of any kind once the cabin door is closed". At this point the woman behind me starts to complain that she should be able to do as she pleases since she paid for her ticket. It was all I could do not to climb over the seat and chock her. Fortunately after about 80 mg of Prednisone and 600 mg of Benedryl there was no need for the EpiPen and the Pilot was assured that I was ok so we proceeded to take off. Needless to say I slept the entire flight and don't actually remember the drive home from the airport. Unfortunately this experience has made me extremely fearful of ever flying again. As the average person is so unaware of what others might be dealing with and forget that they are in a closed environment in an airplane. Thank you for all of your information and fingers crossed I'll be able to get up the courage to fly again soon. This time will be different as I now have my own Oxygen Concentrater which gives me a lot more protection from fragrance.
I didn't realize you were an anxious flyer! I'm the same way! Love to travel, hate to fly! But I still do it! Could you do a video about how you deal with being anxious when flying? I'm always looking for tips and tricks and your videos are the best! Thanks for all the great videos!
I think the best tip (although not always practical) that I heard once was "if you're wearing it they usually won't question the weight". And I thik this is true, especailly if it's clothing. You could easily wear the extra stuff past the point where they check your baggage weight and then remove it.
Great video. European carriers weigh your carry on bag. Most regular US carriers ( not Spirit, Frontier etc) do not weigh your carry-on bag but once you are in Europe and taking one their carriers for a connecting flight they weigh the carry-on bag. I believe the max is 9kg. I had this happen with Croatia Air on my way back to the US and they made me check my carry on bag free of charge. Sadly , it was a connecting flight and my bag was lost.
You know what pisses me off they have these rules weigh your bags and people still put thier "personal items" in the overhead bins its supposed to go under the seat in front of you meaning not enough space for bags but nobody stops it yes I know about bulkhead seats wish they would enforce that and newer planes bags go on thier sides people still put them flat
Really do enjoy your vids. Have traveled extensively and back packed all over the world. I was an RN working in disaster relief and have had airlines put protective covers on the seats as we were being boarded out of Port of Prince, same out of Nepal
Good advice. Thank you. One other suggestion is to purchase and keep with you is a digital weight scale. They are cheap and very very light. Helped me heaps.
I love your vlogs. Always informative and well presented. It's just a shame we can't go anywhere at the moment! Let's hope the world opens up next year because I have a 6 month trip planned to Cambodia.
Yes if they can do that I really appreciate. I used to be nanny 15 years ago but now I had a different career. I can't really stand the screaming and yelling it's triggers my migraine. My advice for your comfort just bring Noise cancelling headphones it's help a lot.
Lol. The one really bothers me is kids kicking the back of my ,or other's seat & their parents don't do anything !! I have been in the situation !! And the flight attendants & his ( single dad ) family too k his side !!! Unbelievable !! Then ,later finally the same flight attendant told him & hos boy to move their seats after the father ORDERED ME to move !!! 😡😱🤣💜🥁🐉🎤✈💞
Regarding dress codes, maybe it has to do with destination. Most countries find our barely clothed culture offensive. We're so used to seeing it, we don't realize that what we call a shirt, others would call a bra or camisole/under shirt, etc.
Make sure if you checked in online to still go to an agent or kiosk to make sure it did go thru. I know someone that checked in online but must of done something wrong and was taken off the flight right at boarding time. The system took them off since they didn't check in and a standby was put in their seat.
I wish the over scented rule had applied on my flight back from Dubai, Arab countries really love perfume. The gentleman in my row was wearing so much perfume that I wore 3 masks to try to lessen the onslaught, it didn't help much. That 7 hour flight to Amsterdam felt more like 20.
I was denied boarding because they said the ticket was canceled by the agency. However, it was the partner airline while the original airline said the ticket was 100% valid. I had to wait for the next day to let the agency solve the problem.
A new travel suggestion for you. The 516 Arouca is the longest pedestrian suspension bridge in the world. Per Lonely Planet’s Andrea Smith, the bridge is located in the Arouca Geopark, a destination in the northern region of Portugal where visitors can hike, go white water rafting and explore historical sites. Arouca is designated a Unesco Global Geopark for its significant geological characteristics. The park is also home to Neolithic graves and Roman and medieval ruins, as well as the Monastery of Arouca, which served as a religious center for nuns, and sometimes monks, between the 10th and 19th centuries. Stay healthy and safe and don't forget your drone !
Best way to avoid humiliating baggage searches at airports. I never travel by plane ever. I either take a bus, train or go by car. I used to travel by air since the age of five but decided that after 9/11, I would no longer risk my life trapped in a plane up.in the sky with potentially crazy people. It's not worth my time to wait in line for a baggage search. I have been all over numerous times to the point there is very little to see that I have done. Europe was the most interesting but there again some of the countries such as as Italy lose whatever charm they have by their continual emphasis on food. There is more to life than food! Mostly though, I love Sweden! I would recommend not only Sweden, but Spain and the UK.
I weigh my carryon. I keep it under 20 lbs My outfits in the summer are tennis shoes shorts tee shits and jeans. A jacket I leave the toiletries at home. Map out the gates in all the airports your flying to. Have a clasp folder with your plan in it boarding passes gate numbers map land go to the terminal you need to be at using the bathroom and eating along the way. Have fun travel isn't the destination it's the journey.
For those domestic flights, I like shipping stuff ahead, in either direction. Like when I buy too many bulky souvenirs. I've learned to ask, "Do you ship?" Lots of shops will! Lacking that I will hit the UPS Store and that package will beat me home! Leaving the country is a little different. Canada, Mexico, no problem, haven't been to Europe, but I figure if I can shop online and get stuff shipped to USA, then it's no big deal.
I never had my carry on bag checked for weight…I believe that’s if you leave the country, they will definitely charge for an over weight checked bag tho!!
I have taken to wearing a photographers/hunters/fishermans vest. Plenty of pockets. And, since I'm wearing it if there is an evac I'm wearing everything important. I carry a back up of all my computer stuff, which is what is important, so the computer can go.
Hello Megan! We’re getting closer to traveling again 😁☀️ Do you plan on staying abroad next winter, if so will you bring your dog with you? I remember that Vietnam is not necessarily the most dog friendly place? Enjoy your summer!
Ollie has many aunts and uncles more than happy to spoil him for parts of the winter. He is very adaptable! The plan has yet to be decided but I don't think I would bring him on a long haul flight.
Another way to be denied on board is being to big for your seat and there's refusal to pay for another seat to accommodate. It's considered safety hazard to the neighbor passenger. Jenny Craig it for some months before travel my big people cause the seats are getting smaller!
Thanks for these tips! I am looking forward to reading Atomic Habits. One of many books I highly recommend "The Four Agreements: A Practical Guide to Personal Freedom" by Don Miguel Ruiz. 😁
@@PortableProfessional looking forward to it. You're such an endearing women Megan hopefully we'll bump into eachother in London or Canada one day. I'm unlikely to ever travel to Vietnam it's not really scene. Sri Lanka is more likely.
South African Airlines weigh the carry on too and their limit is pretty low like 18 lbs. It’s been a few years when this happened to me so I don’t remember the exact weight.
Your United example is misleading - the passengers in question were traveling on buddy passes and were subject to a stricter dress code for employees than revenue passengers are subject to. When employees check-in for their standby flights they agree to this dress code that specifically prohibits flip flops and leggings. Revenue passengers are allowed to wear either.
Hi Megan, have you done a video on going through customs and immigration? Going to Zurich in spring and haven't gone through customs and immigration in over 10 years or so and a bit anxious about process, especially in a foreign airport. What nis the process? Do you have to collect your luggage at connecting airport and then carry it through customs and recheck it for your international flight or does it get checked through to your destination on your first flight of the day? Does customs check passport of every traveler and question them or is it random? What is the process like in foreign airport? ustoms first, then collect your baggage and then immigration? Bit intimidating..
Hi, In case your questions are still unresolved, i may help you out, since I've travelled from Zurich airport a lot. Regarding your luggage, if you have booked both flight on one ticket from the same airline, most of the times your luggage will get checked through and you don't have to get it on your layover. If you booked the flight seperatly you have to collect your luggage and check it again. But to be safe you can ask on the check in desk if your luggae will get checked to the final destination or you could look which airports are written on the luggage tag. This will determine, where your luggage will end up. The customs and immigration is mostly before you get the luggage (don't know how it works in all airports, but those that i have been to, were like that). Also if they ask you questions, depends on the person behind the desk. I only got asked once where I am heading to and for how long I am planning to stay and that was it. But the passport are going to get checked on every passenger. I hope I could help you and wish you a pleasant stay here 😊
i love the idea of putting more clothes on you, i wear my pj leggings and turtle neck under my short and tshirt and add a long sleeve or vest over it. cheaper to use a laundromat to was everything than to pay carry on fees..
It depends on the Airlines if you go to Spirit and Ryanair they are strict. I booked flight AirCanada more pricey but convenient most of my flight direct flight no lay-over and charging my luggage. In CanadaAir first bag check-in luggage is FREE but within a certain weight and height of luggage just follow their bag restriction and You'll OKAY. It's not about your lucky, remember different airlines has different rules and restrictions.
Another tip for your main luggage suitcase is to purchase a TSA approved lock so they don't call you back once you have gone through ALL the checkpoint securities. They could not open my suitcase and thus called me back. With the TSA approved lock they would already have the key (I saw this TSA lock at Marshall's)
How about they quit feeling up my 75 yr old body just because I had a total knee replacement surgery! I’m really sick of it. I tell them ahead that it’s going to set off detectors, but they still make me go thru it and then the fun starts. I’m going to request a wheelchair from now on. Seriously. I have TSA Pre and have flown the same route 2-3 times a year for the past 20 years. I guess the only solution is to stop flying or lie about my disability.
I ended up with a delayed flight that made me miss my connection and the next flight was overbooked. There was one seat left and two of us at the gate that needed on. The other guy was mean and belligerent to the gate agent and I was understanding and supportive. When it was time to close the door to the jet way the gate agent briskly ushered me through and wished me a safe and happy flight and closed the door behind me as I heard the other guy start yelling in protest. Be nice to people. Not only is it the right and decent thing to do, it also often pays off.
In the last 4 years or so I've migrated to wearing suits day to day. This has really helped me especially when traveling on airlines. My last flight was completely full and they were making people check carry ons for the slightest infraction. My carry-on is right at the limit, and was heavy AF as I had an extra pair of shoes, shoe trees, 4 suits, 5 shirts, socks shorts and all my toiletries in there. Everyone else of comparable size was having their stuff weighed and measured I just got a 'have a nice flight sir' and was sent on my happy way.
When I worked for an airline-owned company and we got travel benefits, I always drilled into my trainees that they needed to be the nicest person that the gate agent and flight crew had met all day. A smile and a bit of sympathy will get you much farther than an attitude and demands. I once was running to catch my connection in Newark and was sure that I had missed my flight, or if I didn't, my checked luggage would. Well, it turned out that I was delayed due to weather and so ALL the flights into and therefor out of EWR were delayed. Several of the passengers at Newark were swearing about how they'd better get on the G- D- flight and many were kicking up a fuss. As the delay increased, passengers began to storm off as they rebooked themselves onto other flights. The gate agent had been arguing with a string of passengers about their overweight bags. I went up to the gate, gave a sympathetic smile to the gate agent and said, "Wow, you're really having a tough day." Then I showed my pass, which WAS positive space, not "space available," and was for that particular flight, but I said, "I totally understand the situation and appreciate anything that you are able do," with the idea that maybe he could get me onto the next available flight. It turns out that a lot of people were traveling in pairs and I was one of the few individual passengers. My gate agent looks at my pass, looks up at the crowd of grumpy passengers, says "Just wait," and goes to his computer and begins typing. He then begins calling the standby line. People begin to get on the plane, but a lot of people didn't answer when their names were called. I was the last name that he called and there were definitely paying passengers left waiting for another flight. The flight from Newark to Washington DC is not a long one and since it was delayed and they were going to try to make up as much time as possible in the air, they cancelled the snack and beverage service. I got the very last seat at the very back of the plane, next to where the crew were sitting in their jump seats in the galley. My nose was glued to the window waiting to see if my luggage made it aboard. The flight attendant reassured me that my luggage would make it since she knew that we were delayed taking off, and that there was a LONG line of flights waiting in the taxi line. Instead of complaining about my seat, I started chatting to the flight attendant and told her of how relieved I was that my luggage and I had made it onto the flight since my inbound flight was so delayed. She saw that I was an "airline" employee from my boarding pass and asked about my company. I told her about it (if you haven't hear of us, we're doing our job right!) and the fact that I hadn't eaten since breakfast came up. She passed me a boxed crew meal!!! I was the only person on that flight who got fed!! I discretely snarfed down my little turkey sandwich and my chips and cookie, which I washed down with my little bottle of water and carton of juice. I was able to face my hike to the baggage claim and to the Metro without being as tired and hungry as I expected to be. Airline employees look after one and other!!
thats the spirit!
Recently I had a 10 minute window for a connection due to a delayed flight. I tried to get the people at the desk to allow me to board in the first wave. I’m walking-challenged due to a bad knee replacement. I had one almost empty carryon. They wouldn’t listen because they were “too busy with a different flight”. So, I got into a vacant wheelchair (Wheelchair request on my ticket anyway). I was boarded in first group. I would have made do w/o the wheelchair, but it seemed my best option. As it was, I just made the flight.
I had the experience in Munich airport where the woman patrolling the area where you scan your pass to go into the gate areas saw me coming and told me from distance that my carry on was too big. I argued and said that it wasn't and she said, "put it in the sizing frame"...sure enough she was right. I was forced to check my bag. But I was in PY so I had like 2 bag allowance anyway. As for the "sick" people (drunk/high/etc)...I think some gate agents are not too good at weeding them out. One flight I was on this guy had travelled from Siberia via Frankfurt and Toronto to eventually end up in Calgary. I could smell the alcohol on him. Then on the plane he proceeded to have no less than 6 drinks! On a different flight there was this woman sat across the aisle from me and she was coughing non-stop for the entire flight home from Paris. Another main reason they don't allow impaired people on the plane is because in the event of an emergency they can't act to save themselves and could hinder other people trying to evacuate.
When she was talking about when she handed things out in the airport that she couldn't take on the plane. 🤣 When I was in Maine, (I flew to Boston) I was in a nice hotel that had a complimentary gift basket that had a bottle of wine in it. I had a hard time trying to get rid of it because I don't drink and I obviously couldn't take it on the plane with me. I tried mailing it back since I have a friend who does drink, but the post office wouldn't accept it lol. On the day I was flying back, I was in Boston, MA to catch my flight home but I still had that bottle of wine in my rental car. I stopped at one of the historic sites in Boston and I had to park the car in a pay garage. As I left to go catch my flight, I drove to the checkout and the lady in the booth checked me out. Then I was like, "Would you like a bottle of wine?". She happily took it and I definitely made her day😂😂. Awesome video!
Unfortunately, a great deal of this is subjective and depends on the individual gate agent. Like you say, most gate agents are skilled and professional; others, not so much. Staying cool and calm with gate agents goes a long way towards a better outcome in the unlikely event there is a problem.
Thanks for the new video, Megan. It is always nice to view your travel-smart content. Cheers.
Exactly, Mark! Wishing you a safe (and hassle-free) return to travel!
I always keep my backpack close when they weigh the carry-on luggage just in case I need to transfer heavy items to backpack (even when I fly Spirit). Your video is such good preparation for anyone who flies
Great idea! Thanks so much for watching and letting me know it was helpful. Love reading these comments!
❤❤
I had no idea planes had dress codes.. I've worn leggings several times
Some will be pickier than others, really depends on the flight staff!
Thanks for all these tips. The smell issue is real, especially perfumes. Many people are allergic to certain scents, and many many headaches from even simple perfume scents. It’s an enclosed space. Everyone around you would be affected.
LUGGAGE TIPS 1, 2, 3
Tie two or three colored ribbons around the handle to your luggage to warn others that this is not their luggage. People grab luggage at the turnstile and take it home before you ever see it.
Anywhere you put your bag, it could be grabbed in error. Example: overhead compartment, unloaded from the bus, at the hotel lobby, at the airport turnstile...
These ribbons make your luggage different and EASY TO SPOT when the piece is surrounded by 35 other cases unloaded from the bus.
Use 1” wide ribbons 14” long and not longer. Cut the ends at 45 degrees.
Scissor cut trim the ribbons to cascading different lengths after they are tied. Put a drop of Super Glue at the end.
If each ribbon is slightly a different length by 1/4” the color layers will all show up no matter how they drape.
Tie the 3 ribbons as a sandwich, as if they were one ribbon. Use a man’s tie, a half Windsor knot for the best look. After it is tied on, the total length of the ribbons will be about 5 inches from the handle. This is too short to catch on anything.
Half Windsor knot tying
ruclips.net/video/S_ny-hrKqzU/видео.html
You can see this ribbon from 40 feet away. Perhaps tie TWO handles or RINGS top and side of the case. This way, it won’t slide around. This knot does not loosen.
Put your phone number on one ribbon using a permanent Sharpie.
Example: “Owner 454-333-7878”
Choose one ribbon with an unusual pattern or fabric to really make it unique.
Stand by the output port of the turnstile to reduce the chance of someone else grabbing your piece.
Tie your skiies, duffel bag, backpack and what ever else with matching ribbons-even your computer case.
If you are a Travel Agent, you could hot gold stamp one ribbon with your name and phone number. Send them a set of ribbons, red and blue and BLACK to your customer as a gift. Record this gift in your database so you don’t duplicate yourself.
Buy a gold hot embossing machine. Gold emboss your business name on the BLACK ribbon. Put the customer’s name on it if possible.
Pleasant color combinations:
Red and blue
Chartreuse and purple
Orange and light blue
Orange and yellow
Gray and pink
Green and yellow
Red and Green
Red and Gold
Light blue and light green
The third ribbon could be white, gray, black, tan
Tip #2 Take a cell phone picture of the ribbon tied on. Then another picture of the full luggage piece. You now have a way to communicate “what it looks like” if someone is tasked with searching for it. Take this picture outside in direct sun.
Tip #3 Place a strip of colored duct tape on the inside lining to your case. Put your name and phone number on this tape. If all identity is stripped from your case, you have this to show. If someone steals it and rips off identity tags, you can show the police officer the inside tape..
Hahaha! I copy this hack 6 years going to Cuba its doesn't work with my color blind husband. I put 2 colored red and blue large ribbon 3 inches wide everybody can notice but not my husband. For 2nd trip to Dominican Republic all our bags are blacks I decorate with patterned duct tape from Michael's store with striking color of orange and neon blue. Till this time were using but to be honest some edges are started to peel off. But I glued it with fabric glue.
@@christineoneill2112 Use patterned ribbons. Also, you can marker ink white ribbons with a name or design.
Agreed....Never fly with Spirit. I did once....once. Never again. What a hassle.
I wear a safari vest with tons of pockets and a fanny pack. Neither counts as personal bags. As I only take a 37 liter backpack I can get way more stuff. Both also secure money and passport.
Absolutely genius, Diane!!
Good point about the smell, a lot of people don't think about things like cologne.
Right!? Some of us are super sensitive to it!
I was wondering after watching that if they are allowed to use a restroom stall that has extensive cleaning agents to wash off (not whole shower)? Guess passenger's appearance & attitude will factor in!!!
I had no idea that airlines take smell (fragrance) so seriously. Especially since I'm someone who is extremely allergic to fragrance and haven't flown in over 10 years due to a fragrance issue on a return flight to NY. The person sitting directly behind me opened a bottle of Eucalyptus Oil as soon as the cabin door closed. And proceeded to slather herself in it with no regard for the people around her. The smell was so overwhelming that my throat immediately started to close. Fortunately I always carry Prednisone and Benedryl along with my EpiPen. So I started chewing several of each pills like they were TicTacs while my husband had a my EpiPen at the ready, just in case. A flight attendant noticed my distress, got me water to wash down the pills and had an ambulance on stand by. Then we hear the Pilot announce that "NO One should be using fragrance of any kind once the cabin door is closed". At this point the woman behind me starts to complain that she should be able to do as she pleases since she paid for her ticket. It was all I could do not to climb over the seat and chock her. Fortunately after about 80 mg of Prednisone and 600 mg of Benedryl there was no need for the EpiPen and the Pilot was assured that I was ok so we proceeded to take off. Needless to say I slept the entire flight and don't actually remember the drive home from the airport. Unfortunately this experience has made me extremely fearful of ever flying again. As the average person is so unaware of what others might be dealing with and forget that they are in a closed environment in an airplane. Thank you for all of your information and fingers crossed I'll be able to get up the courage to fly again soon. This time will be different as I now have my own Oxygen Concentrater which gives me a lot more protection from fragrance.
@@PortableProfessional I sat next to someone who was reeking of heavy duty perfume. I was coughing for a week afterwards.
I didn't realize you were an anxious flyer! I'm the same way! Love to travel, hate to fly! But I still do it! Could you do a video about how you deal with being anxious when flying? I'm always looking for tips and tricks and your videos are the best! Thanks for all the great videos!
I think the best tip (although not always practical) that I heard once was "if you're wearing it they usually won't question the weight". And I thik this is true, especailly if it's clothing. You could easily wear the extra stuff past the point where they check your baggage weight and then remove it.
We have taken many 10 day cruises. Some people bring enough luggage for a semester abroad. Thanks, Tina.
Great video! Weight is always a problem with budget airlines. We had an issue with Cebu Pacific but were able to convince them not to charge us 😁
Great video. European carriers weigh your carry on bag. Most regular US carriers ( not Spirit, Frontier etc) do not weigh your carry-on bag but once you are in Europe and taking one their carriers for a connecting flight they weigh the carry-on bag. I believe the max is 9kg. I had this happen with Croatia Air on my way back to the US and they made me check my carry on bag free of charge. Sadly , it was a connecting flight and my bag was lost.
Great tips! But... I love, love your dog!!
You know what pisses me off they have these rules weigh your bags and people still put thier "personal items" in the overhead bins its supposed to go under the seat in front of you meaning not enough space for bags but nobody stops it yes I know about bulkhead seats wish they would enforce that and newer planes bags go on thier sides people still put them flat
Really do enjoy your vids. Have traveled extensively and back packed all over the world. I was an RN working in disaster relief and have had airlines put protective covers on the seats as we were being boarded out of Port of Prince, same out of Nepal
Good advice. Thank you. One other suggestion is to purchase and keep with you is a digital weight scale. They are cheap and very very light. Helped me heaps.
I agree. A luggage scale is a game changer!
Yes Peter and Terri!
Digital weight scale save my day because I'm over packer and I paid 100 from San Diego to Toronto for 2 pounds over limit.
Another way to avoid being overweight on luggage: develop packing lists for each type of trip.
My Kindle always accompanies me on my flights.
Very helpful! Thank you!
Thanks for the important information. Love your videos and your dog!!!👍🐶🐕😊
Thanks for all the tips! Will be my first time traveling internationally. Haven't been on a plane for 40 years. Very useful information.
I love your vlogs. Always informative and well presented. It's just a shame we can't go anywhere at the moment! Let's hope the world opens up next year because I have a 6 month trip planned to Cambodia.
Oh I hope so too, that sounds like an incredible trip. Thank you so much for sticking around on the channel, Edward, we will travel again!
can they have a policy of no SCREAMING KIDS?
NO
I had a fussy toddler on a 4-5 hour flight. Was very glad to get off that plane...!!!
Yes if they can do that I really appreciate. I used to be nanny 15 years ago but now I had a different career. I can't really stand the screaming and yelling it's triggers my migraine. My advice for your comfort just bring Noise cancelling headphones it's help a lot.
Lol. The one really bothers me is kids kicking the back of my ,or other's seat & their parents don't do anything !! I have been in the situation !! And the flight attendants & his ( single dad ) family too k his side !!! Unbelievable !! Then ,later finally the same flight attendant told him & hos boy to move their seats after the father ORDERED ME to move !!! 😡😱🤣💜🥁🐉🎤✈💞
@zodoz Exactly 💯!!! 💜🥁🐉🎤🎶✈💞
Regarding dress codes, maybe it has to do with destination. Most countries find our barely clothed culture offensive. We're so used to seeing it, we don't realize that what we call a shirt, others would call a bra or camisole/under shirt, etc.
Make sure if you checked in online to still go to an agent or kiosk to make sure it did go thru. I know someone that checked in online but must of done something wrong and was taken off the flight right at boarding time. The system took them off since they didn't check in and a standby was put in their seat.
I wish the over scented rule had applied on my flight back from Dubai, Arab countries really love perfume. The gentleman in my row was wearing so much perfume that I wore 3 masks to try to lessen the onslaught, it didn't help much. That 7 hour flight to Amsterdam felt more like 20.
I was denied boarding because they said the ticket was canceled by the agency. However, it was the partner airline while the original airline said the ticket was 100% valid. I had to wait for the next day to let the agency solve the problem.
A new travel suggestion for you.
The 516 Arouca is the longest pedestrian suspension bridge in the world.
Per Lonely Planet’s Andrea Smith, the bridge is located in the Arouca Geopark, a destination in the northern region of Portugal where visitors can hike, go white water rafting and explore historical sites. Arouca is designated a Unesco Global Geopark for its significant geological characteristics.
The park is also home to Neolithic graves and Roman and medieval ruins, as well as the Monastery of Arouca, which served as a religious center for nuns, and sometimes monks, between the 10th and 19th centuries.
Stay healthy and safe and don't forget your drone !
Best way to avoid humiliating baggage searches at airports. I never travel by plane ever. I either take a bus, train or go by car. I used to travel by air since the age of five but decided that after 9/11, I would no longer risk my life trapped in a plane up.in the sky with potentially crazy people. It's not worth my time to wait in line for a baggage search. I have been all over numerous times to the point there is very little to see that I have done. Europe was the most interesting but there again some of the countries such as as Italy lose whatever charm they have by their continual emphasis on food. There is more to life than food! Mostly though, I love Sweden! I would recommend not only Sweden, but Spain and the UK.
Bus train or car to Asia?
I weigh my carryon. I keep it under 20 lbs
My outfits in the summer are tennis shoes shorts tee shits and jeans. A jacket I leave the toiletries at home.
Map out the gates in all the airports your flying to. Have a clasp folder with your plan in it boarding passes gate numbers map land go to the terminal you need to be at using the bathroom and eating along the way. Have fun travel isn't the destination it's the journey.
Thank you for the info. Love your dog!
For those domestic flights, I like shipping stuff ahead, in either direction. Like when I buy too many bulky souvenirs. I've learned to ask, "Do you ship?" Lots of shops will! Lacking that I will hit the UPS Store and that package will beat me home! Leaving the country is a little different. Canada, Mexico, no problem, haven't been to Europe, but I figure if I can shop online and get stuff shipped to USA, then it's no big deal.
I never had my carry on bag checked for weight…I believe that’s if you leave the country, they will definitely charge for an over weight checked bag tho!!
How about covering ScotteVest jackets? They’re an unsurpassed way to lighten your carry-ons and take more items actually in your possession.
I have taken to wearing a photographers/hunters/fishermans vest. Plenty of pockets. And, since I'm wearing it if there is an evac I'm wearing everything important. I carry a back up of all my computer stuff, which is what is important, so the computer can go.
That is great planning!
I'm flying for the first time next week and alone, so this is very helpful
Interesting. I hadn't thought of many of these (other than overweight luggage). I am curious to look into dress codes, just for fun. 🌺 Heidi
Hello Megan! We’re getting closer to traveling again 😁☀️ Do you plan on staying abroad next winter, if so will you bring your dog with you? I remember that Vietnam is not necessarily the most dog friendly place? Enjoy your summer!
Ollie has many aunts and uncles more than happy to spoil him for parts of the winter. He is very adaptable! The plan has yet to be decided but I don't think I would bring him on a long haul flight.
I didn’t know they had a dress code. I wear a polo shirt and khakis. Sometimes I wear a sport coat. I wear Stan Smiths and socks
This is all good advice. I didn't like one of your previous techie ones as it felt too sponsored, but this is solid advice.
I appreciate that!
I'm planning to start the new Tamara Leigh series on our flight to England in April 2023
hi megan, i like your sourrounding is always so clean, good to know hacks thx
Thank you so much for taking the time to let me know! i clean before every video , but it doesn't last long with the pup!
Your video is very informative and I enjoy watching you. You are a delight ❤️
Another way to be denied on board is being to big for your seat and there's refusal to pay for another seat to accommodate. It's considered safety hazard to the neighbor passenger.
Jenny Craig it for some months before travel my big people cause the seats are getting smaller!
I am just loving that blue backpack you have! What's the brand name of it and where did you get it from please 😃?
Hi Megan! I love watching your videos! I have a mini goldendoodle! Your doodle is o cute! 🐾❤️🐾
Thanks for these tips! I am looking forward to reading Atomic Habits. One of many books I highly recommend "The Four Agreements: A Practical Guide to Personal Freedom" by Don Miguel Ruiz. 😁
Great to see a new video from you Megan
More to come! Thanks, Leo!
@@PortableProfessional looking forward to it. You're such an endearing women Megan hopefully we'll bump into eachother in London or Canada one day. I'm unlikely to ever travel to Vietnam it's not really scene. Sri Lanka is more likely.
South African Airlines weigh the carry on too and their limit is pretty low like 18 lbs. It’s been a few years when this happened to me so I don’t remember the exact weight.
Cebu Pacific are keeping my fares from their cancellation for COVID-19.
Yes, I’ll have that book love auditable too.
Great job! Thank you very much!
Nice dog, what kind is he/she?
Thank you for the Chirp info and code! Love your channel.
6. No screaming children 7. Seat needs to be upright and no kneeing the back of the other passanger's seat 8. No taking up of entire armrest.
9. No kicking the seat back of the passenger in front of you
4:33 unintentional pun warning
Great tips. The dog is Everything❤
Really helpful video thank you!
Glad it was helpful! Thanks so much for being here and letting me know :)
I love audiobooks as well. My favorites are biographies and mysteries.
Thanks for sharing, Terri! They are a travel essential for me!
Your United example is misleading - the passengers in question were traveling on buddy passes and were subject to a stricter dress code for employees than revenue passengers are subject to. When employees check-in for their standby flights they agree to this dress code that specifically prohibits flip flops and leggings.
Revenue passengers are allowed to wear either.
I know this is a year old but that backpack is so cute!!! Anyone know the brand ?
Thank you for the tips 😊🙏
My pleasure 😊 Thanks so much for being here!
I was running late the debord my luggage 😂
It’s also surprise visit to my parents on new year 2016- 30 dec it’s happened
Omg. It's true smell. I experienced that from cuba back home 3hours of torture smell I have no idea what it was. Closed to dead rotten animal .
puppers is a doll and a ham! 😂
The cute brown bear at 10:01 seems too heavy for you to carry. How many kg is it?
Haha Yes, the breeders lied to me. He is 2x the size of his 'parents'! About 18KG
I love that backpack! Do you have a link? Thank you!
I pack a booksack on spirit everytime and I've never had an issue.
Nice! I hear a lot of mixed things and didn't have a great experience myself haha but it's great you didn't have any trouble. Safe travels!
Never fly with spirit? Wow. I have flown many airlines . Yes spirit is cheaper but I have flown many times with them no problems.
Hi Megan, have you done a video on going through customs and immigration? Going to Zurich in spring and haven't gone through customs and immigration in over 10 years or so and a bit anxious about process, especially in a foreign airport. What nis the process? Do you have to collect your luggage at connecting airport and then carry it through customs and recheck it for your international flight or does it get checked through to your destination on your first flight of the day? Does customs check passport of every traveler and question them or is it random? What is the process like in foreign airport? ustoms first, then collect your baggage and then immigration? Bit intimidating..
Hi, In case your questions are still unresolved, i may help you out, since I've travelled from Zurich airport a lot. Regarding your luggage, if you have booked both flight on one ticket from the same airline, most of the times your luggage will get checked through and you don't have to get it on your layover. If you booked the flight seperatly you have to collect your luggage and check it again. But to be safe you can ask on the check in desk if your luggae will get checked to the final destination or you could look which airports are written on the luggage tag. This will determine, where your luggage will end up. The customs and immigration is mostly before you get the luggage (don't know how it works in all airports, but those that i have been to, were like that). Also if they ask you questions, depends on the person behind the desk. I only got asked once where I am heading to and for how long I am planning to stay and that was it. But the passport are going to get checked on every passenger. I hope I could help you and wish you a pleasant stay here 😊
Can you bring say a McDonald’s bag of personal food, not liquids and not necessarily with McDonalds in it?
For any reason at all? The rules are listed online or you can call the airlines. Follow the rules, it’s not a free for all.
I just follow the rules so I won't have any problems. So if my bag to heavy I just pay for the bag.
There are airlines that will not allow a backpack as well as a carry on. It's either or.
i love the idea of putting more clothes on you, i wear my pj leggings and turtle neck under my short and tshirt and add a long sleeve or vest over it. cheaper to use a laundromat to was everything than to pay carry on fees..
For sure! I always travel overdressed. haha
Nice transition into a commercial.
Is there compensation if the airlines denied passenger for boarding?
You totally got upstaged by your dog :) Great information though!
Always! He steals the show
That's not because of a" sleeveless " romper...,but " off shoulder " bare shoulders . She should had put a jacket on ,or something !! Lol.😅💜🥁🐉🎤🎶✈💕💞
Question: how strict is United on the size of travelers' carry-on items?
I have flown with them dozens of times and never been questioned, but that's just my experience! Good Luck!
Depends mostly on what station you are departing from and also the type of ticket you bought. If you bought a basic economy ticket than very strict.
It’s simple, don’t press the limits and you won’t have a problem.
It depends on the Airlines if you go to Spirit and Ryanair they are strict. I booked flight AirCanada more pricey but convenient most of my flight direct flight no lay-over and charging my luggage. In CanadaAir first bag check-in luggage is FREE but within a certain weight and height of luggage just follow their bag restriction and You'll OKAY. It's not about your lucky, remember different airlines has different rules and restrictions.
Expecially?
Hi Megan, what is that backpack, never saw one like it.
Thanks for the great info. May I ask what kind of back pack in this video?
Hopefully y this fall :) you??
Looks like a Nordace.
Good thing JetBlue doesn’t have a weight limit for carry-on bags
Does Emirates weigh your carry on bag??? Also can I carry a personal backpack with my with my carry on Suitcase on Economy Class
Expecially.
What are your thoughts on lufthansa?
With a vpn do you have to pay for one for your desktop and another for you iPhones/iPads?
It can depend on the company and plan you buy but many will allow you to use it on multiple devices. The VPN I use does.
With such a great dog, what do you do?
How about only one way ticket I mean no return
Your puppy is super cute 😍 💕 👍👍💜🥁🐉🎤🎶✈💞
Another tip for your main luggage suitcase is to purchase a TSA approved lock so they don't call you back once you have gone through ALL the checkpoint securities. They could not open my suitcase and thus called me back. With the TSA approved lock they would already have the key (I saw this TSA lock at Marshall's)
Absolutely! great tip!
Aw thank you!
How about they quit feeling up my 75 yr old body just because I had a total knee replacement surgery! I’m really sick of it. I tell them ahead that it’s going to set off detectors, but they still make me go thru it and then the fun starts. I’m going to request a wheelchair from now on. Seriously. I have TSA Pre and have flown the same route 2-3 times a year for the past 20 years. I guess the only solution is to stop flying or lie about my disability.
Love from Pakistan.God bless you and your family
When are you starting to travel?