Since I have not flown in a while, I made a couple of missteps during my airport time last weekend. Things that I learned or re-learned are as follows:
DURING THE PACKING AND CARRYING OF LUGGAGE
- Check the condition of the wheels of the bag you are packing and its ability to roll smoothly, especially if it has made many trips. The top coating of the wheels on my bag were falling off in pieces as I was taking the bag to my trunk. I had my fingers crossed that it would make it to and from Tucson. It was too heavy to carry, so it had to roll. It did make it back with functioning wheels, but now it is time to shop for a new one.
- Pack lighter (this is hard for some of us Joneses). This could prevent follow-up hernia repair surgery. It will also help if the wheels malfunction and you have to carry the luggage more than just into your trunk.
- Make sure the carry on roller bag is light enough to carry since it is hard to guide two roller bags at the same time.
AT THE SECURITY CHECK POINT
- Having sharp elbows that are hidden by three quarter length sleeves can cause an elbow pat down.
- Wearing shoes with laces and having to untie, remove them, put them back on and retie them is a pain. I did remember to wear socks at least.
- Wearing a shirt with any form of sequin or “decoration” (I have one shirt like this and of course I wore it) can cause a pat down of more than just your elbows. Thankfully, there was a female TSA officer. I am still trying to figure out what they thought I was trying to smuggle. Nope, that is all me under those decorations.
ON THE FLIGHT
- Fight for the aisle seat, especially on a 3-4 hour flight. It makes restroom access a lot easier. The problem is that other folks have this in mind when boarding.
- Don’t drink a lot of liquids before the flight (see previous bullet).
- Sit in the exit row if at all possible. The leg room is worth it.
- If you are in the exit row, cross your fingers and pray there will not be an emergency that will call for your services. I am not good during emergencies.
- Wear a mask to prevent the inevitable cold you will get.
- Prepare some entertainment for a possible WiFi outage.
The main lesson learned from my recent trip (particularly the security part) -– apply for TSA PreCheck status!
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