Travel Hacks Frequent Flyers Swear By
Holidays are an exciting time to enjoy a blissful break from everyday worries. To make sure you get on your way smoothly, here’s what you need to know to fly like a pro.
Use a Qantas Points-earning credit card
Did you know you can earn points toward your next holiday while you’re on your current one? Just use your Qantas Points-earning credit card – there are more than 50 to choose from – while you’re away, you could earn up to 1 point (sometimes more) for every $1 you spend* so you’ll be on your next adventure in no time.
Book flights around arrival times
If you’ve ever landed in a foreign place at 2am, you’ll know the importance of checking your arrival time when booking a flight. Consider how touchdown will impact things like your commute from the airport (is it peak hour?), sightseeing (are attractions open?) and accommodation (will you be able to check in to your hotel?).
Check, then double check
According to recent research, 55 per cent of Australians have chosen the wrong date when booking flights online. Before you enter your credit card details and hit “confirm”, double check your itinerary and ensure you’re flying on the days you actually want to.
Pack like a pro
Keep essentials – a toothbrush, change of clothes, medication, chargers and adaptors – on you at all times. In the rare event that your luggage is lost, it helps to have a few key pieces on hand.
Beat boredom
Remember, not all planes have in-flight entertainment screens – in fact, many domestic aircrafts now rely solely on apps. Download your Qantas entertainment app before you get on the plane so you’re guaranteed access to movies, music, games and TV shows in the air. Alternatively, pre-load your personal tablet with boredom-busting books and films.
Get to know your airport
Make the most of your time at the terminal by getting to know the airport you’re leaving from – there are often great places to shop and spaces to unwind. For example, Changi Airport in Singapore has an incredible complex called Jewel, home to a huge number of shops, places to eat and even an indoor waterfall – and you wouldn’t want to miss that! Do your research so you know exactly how to take full advantage of the airport.
Stay hydrated
Dehydration can worsen the effects of jetlag, so drink plenty of water before, during and after your flight. Bring your own reusable water bottle (just ensure it’s empty when you’re clearing security for international flights) so you can refill it at your convenience.
Relax and unwind
Ask any frequent flyer for tips on beating jet lag, and they’ll give you a long list of remedies, from taking melatonin tablets or tuning out sensory distractions on the plane by using noise-cancelling headphones and eye masks. Recent studies also show that “earthing” – taking off your shoes and feeling the grass, sand or soil beneath your feet – can help improve sleep and normalise hormones, both of which are essential to synching your body with your time zone.
