Air Travel Tips From a Frequent Flier

I fly a lot. A thread of what I learned:

• Never check bags. Pack for max 10 days & do laundry.

• Jetlag hits you on the second night. Use melatonin.

• When you get off the plane, speed walk to passport control. You save a minute of queuing for every person you pass.

— taha (@KhanStopMe) February 20, 2019

• Cabin pressure & lack of movement is bad for blood circulation. Regular stretches & movement prevents aching.

• Cabin air is dry. Moisturise skin & lips often.

• Watching films dries your eyes quickly, you’ll feel rough afterwards. Podcasts, music & audiobooks are better.

— taha (@KhanStopMe) February 20, 2019

• Ask for upgrades at the gate everytime. Sometimes they’re really cheap.

• Noise cancelling headphones are essential.

• Neck pillows aren’t worth the hassle. Eye masks are worth it.

• Always have a powerbank. Don’t count on inflight power or entertainment.

— taha (@KhanStopMe) February 20, 2019

• Snacks. M&Ms or Skittles are good.

• Orange Juice is magic. It makes you feel alive again. Bring your own, theirs is sugar water.

• Bring anti-bacterial wipes for the table.

• During school term time, arriving 1.5 hrs before an international flight is fine. Trust me.

— taha (@KhanStopMe) February 20, 2019

• Passports are pocket sized. Keep it on you from start to finish.

• Always take off belt, shoes & jackets at security, even if they don’t ask, it saves you any trouble.

• All electronics should be in your backpack. Repacking your suitcase after an inspection is a nightmare.

— taha (@KhanStopMe) February 20, 2019

• Have good bags. I use an Away Suitcase & a Peak Design Backpack.

• Always have a shortcut set up to alert someone if there is any trouble upon landing. This is especially important for non-white people.

• Being patient, smiley & friendly go a long way.

What are your tips?

— taha (@KhanStopMe) February 20, 2019