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It can be tiring, stressful, irritating and downright difficult; airline travelling can be a nightmare. The nation's skyway warriors are the ones who know the real tricks for beating the system and dialling down stress levels when you fly. Travellers can find themselves bewildered by long lines, merciless airline agents, and banks of machines that have replaced humans behind the counter. As frequent flyers, it is important to take advantage of the best airline innovations and work around the worst. The following tips may reduce stress and anxiety on your next flight.
Fly off-peak
Lines are shorter, and if something goes wrong, you'll be competing with fewer passengers for the attention of agents. Avoid travelling early morning Monday or Tuesday. That is a busy time for business travellers who tend to have laptops and other carry-on stuff that slows down the line.
Book directly with the airline
Use general travel sites like Webjet, Flight Centre or travel.com.au to search for the best flights and fares. But once you've found them, make your reservation by calling the airline or using its website-it's easier to rebook if you need to change your plans, and there's a better chance the airline will waive any fees.
Get a seat assignment when you book
If the airline says they can't assign you a seat at the time of booking, that usually means that the flight is oversold and you are going to have to be at the airport extra early to sort things out.
Upgrade on the go
Electronic kiosks can help you check in quickly and also hunt for a better seat if you're on the second leg of a connecting flight.
Pack for productivity
One way to weather a delay in the terminal is to plug in your laptop and get a little work done. But power outlets can be scarce, carry a double adaptor.
Do simple contingency planning
If your flight is cancelled, what's your plan? Better to think it through ahead of time than when you're standing in line with 100 other people.
Don't take no for an answer
Always be polite-but if you're trying to get rebooked or you're asking the airline for a favour, make a firm, reasonable case and ask to talk with a supervisor or customer-relations official if necessary.
Get to know the agents
If you travel frequently from the same place, make a point of befriending workers at the airport. Consolidating your travel on one carrier will help frequent-flyer miles add up faster, but you'll also become a familiar-and (hopefully) friendly-face to the people behind the counter.
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