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Much has changed over the course of the pandemic. Flying was vastly restricted during the height of COVID-19, but it’s safe to fly in many regions thanks to vaccinations and the tireless work of frontline healthcare workers.
Not only can you fly once again, but if you keep the following tips in mind, your next trip will be smoother and more affordable.
1. Drive Yourself to the Airport
A new model allows commuters to drive their own vehicle to and from the airport at much less cost than it used to. Everybody from Cincinnati knows that CVG airport parking was prohibitively expensive, but now you can park in an underused lot beside the airport and save a bundle.
Utilize a hotel airport adjacent to the airport, even if you don’t book an overnight room. All you need to do is book a reservation and pre-pay online or by phone the night before. Show the attendant your reservation upon arrival, park your car, then board the free shuttle to your terminal.
Remember to keep the receipt so you can board the shuttle on your way home, and that’s it! The best platforms offer free cancellations, no hidden fees, and some even give you reward points, making an expensive transit method even more affordable.
2. Pack Strategically
For years now, airlines have charged extra fees for checking-in bags that they didn’t use to levy, and your packing game should have adjusted by now. If possible, pack everything you’ll need for the trip into a carry-on bag, so you can avoid extra luggage fees and the line at the baggage carousel.
When you carry all your baggage onto the plane, the airline won’t get a chance to lose it by sending it to the wrong city accidentally. Just make sure you aren’t carrying on any prohibited items, or you’ll have to hand them over or mail them to yourself.
If you absolutely must have an item you can’t carry onto the plane, you’ll have to check in at least one bag.
3. Dress for Success
Now, it’s easy to dress for comfort and style when you wear modern clothes that retain their shape, resist wrinkles, stretch, and keep you looking smart throughout the flight and once you’re hitting the town.
Some commuter pants even have special secure pockets for things like stowing a passport. No wardrobe change is necessary when the comfy clothes you wear also look suitable in a business meeting or in a fancy restaurant. There’s no shortage of products that make it easy to keep organized while on the go.
4. Bring What You’ll Need from Home
The CVG airport has stores in case you forgot something essential, but you’re better off bringing what you’ll need from home. You’ll save money and ensure you’ll always have exactly what you want.
The bookstore might have the novel or magazine you’re reading, but probably not. You can make your favorite on-the-go meal at home, so why pay for airport food? Control for flavor, allergies, nutrition, portion size, and price by bringing whatever entertainment or food you want from home.
Don’t forget these tips, and you’ll have a smoother and more affordable trip the next time you leave Cincinnati.
