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9 Simple Ways to Make Your Flying Experience Smoother, According to Flight Attendants

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  Published in Travel and Leisure on Thursday, November 6th 2025 at 10:37 GMT by Travel + Leisure
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Smooth Skies: How to Turn Every Flight Into a Breeze

Flying has long been a mixture of excitement and anxiety. From the moment you step onto the tarmac until you land at your destination, there are countless little decisions that can tip the scale between a pleasant journey and a stressful ordeal. Travel + Leisure’s recent guide, “Ways to Make Your Flying Experience Smoother,” distills a wealth of expert advice into actionable steps that even the most seasoned traveler can apply. Below is a comprehensive summary of the article’s key insights, enriched with additional details from the helpful resources linked within the original piece.

1. Plan Ahead—Before You Even Check In

a. Choose the Right Flight Time
The guide emphasizes that selecting early‑morning or late‑night flights can reduce crowds and allow for a quieter boarding experience. Late‑night flights, in particular, often see fewer disruptions because airlines have a larger pool of crew members and maintenance staff available to handle unexpected issues.

b. Leverage Airline Apps and Loyalty Programs
Travel + Leisure recommends downloading your airline’s official app as soon as you book. These apps let you track gate changes in real time, receive instant boarding passes, and monitor flight status. For frequent flyers, enrolling in a loyalty program can unlock perks such as priority boarding, dedicated check‑in counters, and even complimentary upgrades. The article links to a detailed post titled “How to Maximize Your Airline Loyalty Points,” which outlines tier requirements and strategies for earning points faster.

c. Pack Smart
Packing a “one‑stop” carry‑on bag that meets size restrictions ensures you’ll be ready to board when the doors open. The guide highlights a “smart packing” method: use a packing cube for clothing, a separate cube for electronics and documents, and a small pouch for toiletries. This keeps everything organized and speeds up security screening. The linked “Ultimate Packing Checklist” article provides an illustrated guide for packing efficiently across various travel styles.

2. Master the Check‑In Process

a. Online Check‑In
Most airlines allow online check‑in 24 hours before departure. Doing so reserves your seat, saves you a line at the airport, and offers the chance to select your preferred seating if you haven’t already. The article stresses that some airlines automatically assign the best available seats to elite status members, so it’s worth knowing your status level before you hit “check in.”

b. Mobile Boarding Passes
A digital boarding pass is quicker to print and easier to manage. Keep the QR code handy and ensure your phone’s battery is fully charged. If you’re traveling internationally, the guide suggests downloading the destination’s customs app (for example, the U.S. Customs & Border Protection app) so you can pre‑submit entry forms.

c. Arrive Early, but Not Too Early
While most experts recommend arriving two hours before a domestic flight, the guide notes that some international flights require a 3‑hour buffer due to extra security checks. This extra cushion gives you time to handle unexpected delays without the anxiety of a rushed departure.

3. The Boarding Experience

a. Boarding Order
Boarding groups are usually announced based on your seat row and boarding group. The linked “Understanding Boarding Groups” article explains that “early” boarding groups often include those who have paid for priority or who have elite status. Being aware of where you stand can help you plan your approach to the plane.

b. Efficient Packing for Luggage
The article offers a quick tip: store the heavier items in the bottom of your suitcase and keep light items on top. When loading your carry‑on, place larger items on the bottom of the overhead bin and keep your passport, wallet, and phone on the top of your bag for easy access.

c. Etiquette and Space
Respecting fellow passengers’ space is essential. The guide advises keeping the overhead bin close to the seat to avoid creating a “tunnel” that can trap other passengers in the aisle.

4. In‑Flight Comfort

a. Choose the Right Seat
The guide highlights that the best seats depend on your priorities. An aisle seat is ideal for those who want easy access to the lavatory, whereas an exit row seat offers more legroom. The linked “The Ultimate Seat Selection Guide” provides side‑by‑side comparisons of seat features across popular airlines, helping travelers make an informed choice.

b. Bring Personal Comfort Items
A travel pillow, earplugs, and an eye mask can turn an average flight into a restful experience. The article suggests a small pouch for all items to keep them within arm’s reach. Additionally, a reusable water bottle can be refilled once you pass through security—staying hydrated is essential, especially on long-haul flights.

c. Utilize Entertainment Wisely
Many airlines provide in‑flight entertainment, but the guide recommends pre‑loading your favorite movies or podcasts on a tablet or phone in case the in‑flight Wi‑Fi is spotty. Some airlines offer free streaming services that you can access via their app.

5. Post‑Flight Strategies

a. Efficient Disembarkation
Once the plane stops, the guide advises standing up when you hear the last call to avoid overcrowding. If you’re traveling with luggage, keep your bag near you and avoid blocking the aisle.

b. Customs and Immigration
For international flights, the article directs readers to the “Customs Pre‑Check” portal where you can submit the required paperwork ahead of time. This often speeds up the process upon arrival.

c. Stay Connected
If you need to be reachable immediately upon arrival, consider renting a local SIM card or purchasing a portable Wi‑Fi hotspot at the airport. The guide’s link to “Best Wi‑Fi Hotspots in Major Airports” reviews coverage quality, speed, and pricing.

6. Beyond the Basics—Leveraging Technology and Service Upgrades

a. Airline Partnerships
The article explains how airline partners with hotels, car rental agencies, and ride‑share services can provide seamless transfers. Many airlines now allow you to book a car rental or hotel room directly from the flight booking screen.

b. In‑Flight Meal Options
If you’re prone to dietary restrictions, pre‑ordering a meal via the airline’s app can ensure that your preferences are honored. Some carriers now offer “healthy” meal choices and allergen‑friendly options.

c. Post‑Flight Feedback
Finally, the guide reminds travelers to complete the airline’s post‑flight survey. Feedback not only helps airlines improve but can also earn you future upgrade points.

Bottom Line

By combining strategic planning, smart packing, and technology‑savvy practices, you can transform a routine flight into a stress‑free experience. The Travel + Leisure guide serves as a practical playbook for anyone who wants to travel smarter, not harder. Whether you’re heading to a weekend getaway or a business trip across continents, applying these tips will help you arrive relaxed, refreshed, and ready to enjoy the adventure that awaits.