Traveling can be a fun and exciting time. It also can be very stressful and bring out the worst in people. Even when you’re in a less than optimal situation you’ll want to keep a few tips in mind to make travel easier for you, and everyone around you.
Be early
There’s nothing worse than running behind schedule when you have to be somewhere. Instead of waiting until the last minute to show up at the airport for your flight or train, get there early. Sure you may have more time waiting around but bring a book or something else to do and relax knowing you’re where you need to be on time. Getting there early also means you’re more likely to get any upgrades or special perks that may be available.
Dress appropriately
There’s no hard and fast rule about how you should dress when traveling but it doesn’t hurt to err on the side of professionalism. Wear clothing that is comfortable and presentable. Yoga pants may be your ideal outfit for a trans-Atlantic flight but they don’t convey professionalism. That might be just fine! If you’re hoping for an upgrade, studies have shown travelers that look like they would be in first class are typically the ones that get upgraded if there is availability. You don’t have to wear a business suit, but save the short shorts, flip flops, and tank tops for the beach.
Be courteous of your fellow travelers
You’re not alone on your travels, well unless you’re driving your own vehicle, so be courteous to those with whom you’re sharing space. You’ll likely have two arm rests, don’t hog them. Leave space for theperson sitting next to you to use it as well. Follow the carry-on regulations. Even if you think stuffing a few extra things in is ok, what would happen if everyone did this? By taking up more space than you’re permitted you can make things uncomfortable for others. If you’ll be bringing food on board, try to stick to things that don’t have a strong odor like raw onions, fish, or other pungent foods. These are small things that can go a long way.
Have Patience
Crying baby on your flight? Kids who are less than happy sitting in their seats? A person behind you that has a cold? All of these things can be less than ideal but that doesn’t mean you have to make the situation worse for either of you. Being patient and even offering assistance or a kind smile can go a long way to making travel more enjoyable for you and for them.
Be gracious of staff members assisting you
In today’s travel climate it can sometimes be hard to find staff members that are willing to go above and beyond. If you want to be treated well, you need to treat those assisting you well. No one wants to help you if you’re rude, angry, or pushy. You may be surprised however to find just how helpful they can be when you are kind, gracious, and thankful. Don’t forget your manners just because someone is doing you a service.
Being gracious is a huge thing. North Americans tend to think they deserve way too much.
Thanks for the tips, especially #1. My rule when traveling, which has saved me so many times, is that if you're on time, you're late. Always build in a little extra time to deal with the unexpected.
YES! I love the one about dressing appropriately! It's so important.
I wish that everyone followed your tips, especially for consideration of others! In any case, we follow your tips and are much happier for that, especially being early.
What great tips for travelers. I am always early and I do my best to be courteous.
These are all great tips. Remember, a little kindness goes a long way!
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These are all fantastic tips. Be kind and be on time! If you're not early, you're late.
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I try so hard to make sure I am friendly to those who work in the travel industry. It is a hard one to be in. You get yelled at for stuff you have no control over. These are all great tips!
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Great tips! I especially love the be early tip… you never know when a few extra minutes can save you!
What great tips. I always try to remember to pack at least one nice outfit. Nothing like being invited to an impromptu dinner at a fancy restaurant and having nothing to wear.
Patience is a HUGE tip. I have to remind myself to pack my own patience every single trip I go on.
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I love traveling and I love tours!! Great tips. My fav is having patience. Makes life easier and happier. 😉
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These are great tips for travelling. Not everyone travelling is as courteous.
These are great tips for traveling. I wish everyone would get a etiquette lesson before they traveled.
Oh my gosh the people on our last flight were cranky with the flight attendants for no reason. Patience is the biggest tip!
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These are definitely good ideas to keep in mind. I find it helpful to research local customs if you're going international too.
These are great tips. I have seen so many people act discourteous to staff. They are people and deserve to be treated like you would like to be treated.
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These are great tips! I wish every traveler knew these!
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When you're visiting a country, you're a representative of the country you live in! It's important to be couteous so you don't reflect poorly on your friends back home!
these are some cools tips. they dif will make your time on the road more enjoyable.
These are awesome tips. It's important to pack a lot of patience when traveling. I just hate it when someone easily ticks off with a very petty matter.
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Manners! Yes that is the true key. You can accomplish all you want but always being mindful of others makes traveling so much easier on all.