The bitch who said. “It’s about the journey, not the destination,” never traveled coach. I have spent quite a bit on time on airplanes recently and have come to realize that it is not a fun place for anyone. The challenges faced by a bear-size traveler can often make the journey feel more like something to endure, rather than enjoy. But, it doesn’t have to be that way with a little advanced planning.

 

 

The maxim, “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure” should be every bear-size traveler’s mantra.
A little preemptive planning before a crisis occurs is preferable to a lot of fixing up afterward. Based on my experience, I have developed the following tips, which should help travelers spend their energies at their destinations, rather than on surviving their journeys.

 

I always consider traveling a two step process – the planning versus the actual journey.

 

Booking the Flight

 

Pick your Airline

It is helpful if you are able to always fly the same airline. You will become familiar with their planes and their policies. You’ll begin to know what to expect, what you can ask for, and what will the limitations.

 

Join the frequent flyer program of your airline of choice. Airlines often treat their frequent flyers better than the masses. There will be opportunities for upgrades and other benefits, not necessarily extended to regular passengers. Use the airline’s website to buy your ticket. Web fares are often less expensive than fares you book by phone or in person.

 

Some airlines have reasonable first class fares. Be aware, however, that first class seats do not have armrests that can be raised and often the tray table is stored in the armrest. This can present a challenge when trying to eat comfortably. You can buy a first class ticket outright or you can buy an economy fare and pay a set fee to upgrade up to 30 hours before the flight leaves. It might be cheaper to buy two economy seats than one first class seat but this depends on the airline. This provides you the availability to raise the armrest for additional comfort, and a drop down tray table. Often, you can get the second seat at a discount. Check. Fares change almost daily!!!

 

Use a Miles Card

Apply for their mileage credit card and use it for everything (groceries, clothing, gas and anyplace that will take a credit card). Initially, you will get a bunch of miles for just signing up. This gets you on your path to free tickets and upgrades. Remember pay attention to the special promotions that will get you extra miles. Then use these miles to upgrade. If you are close to having enough miles for an upgrade you have two options—you can buy the miles you need or you can have someone transfer some miles to you. The transfer is not free, but is cheaper than buying the miles.

 

Choose Wisely

Check nearby airports for fares when possible. Often major metropolitan areas have several airports and sometimes one will have less expensive fares. Also consider how you will get to the airport. Sometimes the closer airport will be more convenient and that will make the higher fare worthwhile.

 

If you can fly at an off-peak time, you will have a better chance of getting that extra seat. The middle of the week and late night flights are often less full. Holiday travel is often difficult due to the number of people traveling. However, travel on the actual holiday can be quite light.

 

If you have booked your flight far enough in advance, you can choose your seat(s). Aisle seats have more room, but you will have to get up and down for your seat partner. Usually, it is easier to get in and out of an aisle seat, than a window seat. Also be aware that in an aisle seat, you might get bumped into by the drink cart. The bulkhead and exit rows sometimes have more leg room but often do not have arm rests that can be raised and the tray tables often come about of the arm rest which brings us back to that problem. Frequently the forward exit row seat does not recline. Check with the ticket agent. Be aware that the airline may use a different style airplane than originally planned which will confuse the issue further.

 

Ask for Help

Get a live ticket agent on the phone and ask for help. That is why they are there. You can explain that you need extra room and ask them to block the seat next to you. This will only work if the flight is not full. If the flight fills up, you risk losing that seat. You can also ask the ticket agent to note that you will need support at the airport. It can be a long way to the airplane. Ask for a wheelchair and/or attendant, if you need one. Make sure it will be available for your connecting flights, if you are not able to fly direct.

 

Sometimes just by chatting up the booking agent they will offer helpful insights, which will help make your travel more comfortable.

 

The Day of the Flight

 

Leave Enough Time

The most important thing you can do is give yourself enough time. You will be more relaxed knowing that you are doing everything you can to optimize your flight. Check in early. Many airlines allow you the option to check in online the night before. You can print out your boarding pass at home and just drop off your luggage at a designated place and go directly to the gate. This will save you waiting in at least one line.

 

By getting to the airport early you will get your requests in first. Whether you are waiting for an upgrade or confirming that the extra seat is blocked, earlier is better. Be pleasant to the gate agents. A smile will go a long way to getting the help you need. Thank them for their help.
Your Stuff

 

Check your luggage. It will be one less thing to deal with. Try not to carry on more stuff than you really need. Do bring bottled water, as it is easy to get dehydrated. Be aware that the restrooms on most planes are tiny (unless there is a handicapped restroom), so balance your water intake with you need to use the restroom. Use the airport restroom right before you board.

 

If you don’t own a seat belt extender, ask for one right away. If you fly frequently, this is a good purchase. Have it in an accessible place in your carry on, so you don’t have to unpack at your seat. Put your name on it, so there is no confusion when you deplane.

 

On the Plane

If you have purchased an extra seat, let the flight attendant know as you board. If you have not been able to get the seating you wanted, mention to the flight attendant that need help in getting better seating. Commonly someone does not make the plane and an extra seat may be available.

 

Pre-board if you need extra time to get to your seat.

 

Sitting for a long time can cause problems. Move around in your seat every hour or better yet, get up and stretch a bit. Avoid alcohol and caffeine. Be aware that you may be sitting crooked to avoid impacting the person next to you. Do some stretching exercises if this is happening.

 

If you experience any problems during the flight, ask the flight attendant for help. If your needs are not met, ask to have a customer service representative waiting for you at the gate. Follow up with a letter to the airline. Usually you can send an email to Customer Relations at the airline website.

 

Enjoy the Trip

Traveling doesn’t have to be a nightmare. It just requires a little forethought. And, remember it never hurts to ask.