Next time you’re in an airplane, scan the walls.
Next time you’re in an airplane, scan the walls. You might spot four black or red triangle stickers above the windows, two on each side of the plane. They probably don’t mean anything to you, but they mean a lot to flight attendants.
If you go up to the seats with the triangles and look out the window, you’ll notice the stickers line up with the edge of the airplane wing—one for the front, and one for the back. (Check out these other 7 hidden airplane features you never knew about.)
When flight attendants or pilots need to look at the wings, the triangle stickers act like a sign telling them exactly where to look. If they’re checking the moving parts of a wing (the flats and slats) for problems like ice, they won’t have to crawl over ten passengers before finding the best view, according to Travel + Leisure. (Find the answers to 11 more airplane questions you’ve always wondered .)
Related: Secrets all travelers should know
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40 airport secrets only insiders know
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40 airport secrets only insiders know
1. Global Entry and TSA PreCheck Are Totally Worth It
While many travelers are enduring long waits to get through security these days, insiders are taking advantage of Global Entry ($100) and TSA PreCheck ($85) for faster screening.
“Global Entry is a must for anyone who travels internationally and includes TSA PreCheck for your domestic flights,” said frequent traveler Lee Huffman, founder of BaldThoughts.com . «Because you are what’s known as a Trusted Traveler, you can skip security lines at the airport and don’t have to take off your shoes or remove your 3-1-1 liquids bag.»
2. Sign Up for Airline Rewards Programs
Even if you don’t fly often, you could benefit from signing up for an airline rewards program. After just a few flights, you might have enough miles or points to score free or low-cost travel. And you might not even have to use the same airline to redeem your miles.
“You can often fly on partner airlines using your airline’s miles,” said Huffman. “In some cases, using Airline A’s miles to fly on partner Airline B requires less miles than if you used Airline B’s miles for the same flight.»
3. Don’t Check Your Bags
One way to make sure your stuff arrives safely is to pack like a pro and take only carry-on bags when you travel. Typically, airlines allow for one carry-on bag and another small item, such as a purse or laptop. However, checking your bags can mean waiting in long lines, and there’s a risk of your luggage getting lost or even stolen.
Instead, utilize carry-on bags to save time and ensure your stuff arrives when and where you do.
4. Take Advantage of Airport Lounges
Airport lounges aren’t just for the rich and famous.
“Many credit cards and airline loyalty programs provide free or discounted access to airport lounges,” said Huffman.
Not only do these lounges allow you to escape the hustle and bustle of the airport to relax before your flight, but you can also enjoy complimentary beverages and snacks. Call your credit card company ahead of time to see if you’re eligible for entrance.
5. Pack Only What You Need
Frequent fliers know that one of the best airport tips is to travel light. While it’s wise to pack a few extra socks for your trip, stop and ask yourself if all the items in your suitcase are truly necessary.
“When packing, think about [in] exactly what situation you’ll want a certain item of clothing,” said Gillian Morris, CEO and founder of Hitlist, a travel app that alerts you when cheap flights are available.
6. Fly Off-Season for the Best Deals
Many people enjoy taking summer vacations, but airport insiders know that traveling off-season is the best way to find deals.
Typically, traveling to your intended destination at off-peak times — for example, during the rainy season — can save you money. Do your research to see when the «low season» is for the place you’d like to go.
7. Pack an Empty Water Bottle
The best airport travel tips save you both money and time.
Instead of having your water bottle thrown out by the TSA, or having to stop and buy a $5 water bottle at the food court, pack an empty bottle to stay hydrated. Airports have water fountains where you can fill up before your journey — for free.
8. Clear Your Cookies Before You Book a Flight
If you’ve ever searched online for a flight and then waited an hour or so to purchase, you might have seen the price increase. The culprit could be your cookies. After all, internet browsers track your activity online, and some booking sites might increase the price depending on demand.
To avoid this situation, travel pros suggest clearing your cookies or using a private browser when booking a flight. You might just be able to score a lower rate on your next trip.
9. Bring Your Own Headphones
Many airlines offer free in-flight entertainment, but not all of them provide headphones for free. In order to save money and keep yourself entertained during a long flight, pack your own headphones. As a bonus, you’ll look busy and avoid any unwanted conversations with people in your row.
10. See If You Can Gate-Check Your Bags
More and more airlines are making baggage fees the norm — and charging $25 or more per checked bag. One way to avoid baggage fees — and the hassle of flying with carry-on luggage — is to check a small bag at the gate.
Most airlines don’t charge to check carry-on bags at the gate, but you should check before heading to the airport to avoid surprises. Along with saving you money, this airport tip can help keep you comfortable during the flight. Instead of stuffing a bag under your feet, you can save this valuable space for a more crucial commodity — your legs.
11. Fly on a Tuesday for the Best Deals
The weekend is prime travel time for many people, which can mean higher prices and larger crowds. For the best travel deals, fly on a Tuesday. Additionally, you should consider booking a flight that leaves at a non-peak time, such as early in the morning or late at night.
12. Four Wheels Are Better Than Two
The luggage you travel with matters, and having four wheels can be better than two. This way, you can avoid dragging your bag and push it in front of you instead.
Additionally, bags with four wheels allow you to navigate tight spaces and maintain better control over your luggage. The end result is that you can get through the airport faster.
13. Download Your Airline’s App
One easy travel tip that can make air travel easier: Download your airline’s app. In most cases, you can enjoy paperless boarding and get real-time updates on any flight delays, changes or updates. As an added bonus, having a mobile boarding pass can help you save time — and some trees.
14. Wear Slip-On Shoes
If you dread taking off your shoes in the security line, make your life a little easier and wear slip-on shoes. This simple travel hack can keep the line moving and make getting through security a little less painful.
15. Pack Your Own Food
Airline food has a bad reputation, and for good reason. Instead of eating substandard food on the plane, or picking up overpriced snacks in the airport, pack your own items ahead of time. Sandwiches, fruit, crackers and granola bars are all smart choices, but be sure to check with the TSA to make sure your menu follows security guidelines.
16. Spend Money to Save Money
While airport shops have a reputation for jacking up prices, travelers can occasionally score good deals. Some states, such as Oregon, have no sales tax. If you’re thinking of shopping at the airport, compare prices online and check tax laws before you travel.
17. Pick an Aisle Seat
Planes can be cold, and the temperature tends to drop even lower by the window. In fact, cold air can leak right through the window glass at high altitudes.
Opt for an aisle seat to stay warm on your next flight. As a bonus, you won’t have to climb over anyone to go to the bathroom.
18. Bring the Sanitizer
Airplanes can be hotbeds for germs. Be sure to bring hand sanitizer and sanitizing wipes to avoid illness when you fly. One area not to miss is your tray table. Tray tables might contain germs, so take the time to sanitize that tray before you eat your snack off it.
19. Get Social
One of the best travel tips for saving money is to get social. Follow various airlines, airports and airline booking sites on social media sites, like Twitter and Facebook, to score promo codes, discounts and insider tips.
20. Know Your Airport Code
Before arriving at the airport, learn your airport code or the three letters that refer to your destination, such as LAX. After all, some cities have multiple airports, and your luggage tags can get mixed up if you’re not sure where you’re headed.
21. Make Your Luggage Unique
At baggage claim, the sea of bags can look eerily similar. One of the best travel tricks is to make your luggage unique by tying a ribbon or tag to the handle.
Not only does differentiating your bag from the rest save you time, but it also ensures someone else won’t walk off with your belongings.
22. Wear a Jacket
Picking the aisle seat might not be enough to keep you warm on your trip. For best results, wear several layers, including a jacket, so you’re prepared to handle temperature fluctuations. Along with helping you deal with the cold, donning a coat gives you more pockets for small items that you want to keep handy on your journey.
