Trifter

Traveling today has changed so much from traveling only ten years ago.  With the obvious security requirements from 2001’s 9/11 event travelers, especially families, now have to plan much more carefully their trips.  Traveling with young children is even more challenging as personal safety and time management becomes a priority.

Gone are the days of the last minute spontaneous trips; throwing a few items in a bag and running off to the airport to catch a plane at the last minute.  Now we have to make sure our carry on items meet all stringent requirements and our bottles of shampoo and lotions are three ounces or less.  Friends can no longer walk us to the terminal or meet us as our gate.  People wait at security like airport groupies for friends and families arriving from afar. 

Who would have thought that one day we would have to plan what to wear to the airport and not because we are concerned with fashion? Instead the mission is to wear the easiest outfit to get through security without having to be stripped searched in front of your children and spouse. Is anyone wearing a belt? Is it necessary? A belt can be such a hindrance at the airport thought greatly needed as a part of one’s’ outfit.  Is a coat really necessary? What shoes will be most comfortable and easy to plop off into the bins that won’t make those in line wont faint from the aroma of naked or socked feet?  Perhaps flip flops are the best way to go even in winter.  Has anyone suggested to the airlines that they provide slippers to everyone with your tickets?

The following are tips to help your family make a speedy and drama free trip to the airport and through security so that you can focus on your destination and not the journey.

1.       Pack the majority of your vacation or trip needs in your checked baggage so there will be no worries of what might not make it on to the plane with you.

2.       Plan and pack your carry-on bags thoughtfully.  Each person should carry their own entertainment (games, magazines, book, kid’s toys) in their own bag for easy access.  This will include snacks that might have to be purchased at the airport depending on how long your flight will be.

3.       Pack all lotions, toothpaste, razors, or items that will need to be pulled out in one bag, preferably an adult’s, who will have the responsibility of managing this for security and repacking into their carryon bag.

4.       Pack one change of clothes for your destination for each person incase luggage is delayed, or worse, lost.  This will allow you and your family to change from their traveling clothes into vacation wear while you work out the luggage details.  No reason the fun should be postponed.

5.       Before leaving the house make sure you have all identification, passport, tickets, hotel reservations, and money or credit cards needed at the airport and for your trip. Nothing is worse than forgetting your ID at the airport and not being able to leave with your family.

6.       Finally, leave the appropriate amount of time for your trip to the airport, parking, checking in, passing through security, and getting a snack.  Rushing with your family is not the way to start a relaxing vacation.

The key to a successful family trip to the airport is to be prepared and be prepared to wait. Remember you are either going on a vacation or back home.  The goal is to arrive relaxed, both ways of your trip. Plan, prepare, pack, and play.  Enjoy your trip!