Tuesday, March 29, 2011

A Little Travel Etiquette

Jessica Riffle
As you jet off to your favorite destination this spring break, here are a few etiquette reminders for the airport, your flight, and at your hotel…

In the security line…
 

  • Be ready: have your shoes, belt, and watch off and make sure you have your liquids and laptop out and in their own bin. Also, have your valid photo ID and boarding pass out. 
  • Remember, 3-1-1: Liquids must be in bottles less than 3.4 ounces that fit into one quart size clear bag for every one flight passenger. Any liquid exceeding the limit will be thrown away. Prescriptions are an exception. 
  • Check your ticket: If you are a member of a special program such as Continental’s One Pass Elite program there’s a special security line just for you!
At the airport… 
  • Be on time: Arrive at your gate no later than half an hour before your flight boards. When you miss a flight and it is your fault, the airline will not reimburse you.  
  • Dress Wisely: Dress in layers because the temperature of the airport you depart from, the plane, and the airport you arrive at can vary greatly.  
  • Keep it together: Place items that you know you will be using in a front pocket of your carry-on or in your personal item.  
  • Remember: Per TSA regulations each passenger is permitted one carry-on bag and one personal item such as a purse, a diaper bag, or a tote bag.
On your flight
  • Keep It Movin': If you need extra time to stow your belongings, find your seat and sit with your bag on your lap until most of the other passengers have made it to their seats. Remember that if you are having trouble stowing your bag, ask the flight attendant for help.  
  • Be considerate: Keep your belongings in your space; keep your headphones turned down so you can hear any in-flight announcements from the pilot or flight attendants.  
  • Don’t talk to strangers: Never tell unknown individuals about your vacation plans or give them any personal information, and  NEVER TELL ANYONE WHERE YOU ARE STAYING OVER YOUR VACATION.  
At the hotel… 
  • Tip wisely: Tipping hotel staff can be a tricky task but by keeping a formula in mind, it will become smooth sailing. Remember 3x5=15: tip the valet $3.00 every time you pick up or drop off your vehicle; tip the housekeeping staff $5.00 every time they clean your room or turn down the bed; tip the room service staff 15% of what your room service bill is.  
  • Don’t be afraid to ask: The hotel concierge’s job is to take care of your needs. Whether you need tickets for a show, a restaurant reservation, or simply directions, they will be more than pleased to assist you.