Air Travel Woes!

Most of us in India aspire to travel by air – be it for work or leisure. While the major ‘upside’ of air travel is saving in terms of time, there are many ‘downsides’ one has to be prepared for. Here are Six:

1. Long queues!

From entering the airport (showing your ID proof to security) to check-ins to security checks, long queues are the norm. Be patient.

2. The right amount of baggage.

Recently, an airline insisted that passengers can check in only one piece. Those who carried 3 pieces had to lug 2 as cabin baggage. The result, passengers were fighting for overhead baggage space! The overweight of the baggage and the resultant charges are another story. Plan your baggage.

3. The right item in the right baggage.

So often travelers pack the wrong items in their cabin bags. The result, the security officials hold up the bag at the security checkpoint, pull out the contents, dump prohibited items, ask a hundred questions and make it a harrowing experience!

4. Devices!

Another challenge at the Security check is having to put all your electronic devices in a tray, including the charger and battery pack. Keeping them handy will help. So often one of these items is left in the baggage and the traveler is looked upon as though he has committed a crime!

5. Another ordeal.

At the Security check is ‘removing one’s belt’.. Many face the risk of ‘losing one’s pant/jean’!! 

6. Plan your meal.

Having to report at the airport a couple of hours before departure, most travelers’ mealtimes are messed. Budget travelers hesitate to eat at the eateries in the airport. And if they have not booked a meal along with the ticket, chances are they’d starve until they reach their destination.