Navigating Air Travel: Your Ultimate Guide to Airport Check-ins and the Journey from Departure to Arrival

​Welcome to this blog post, where you will discover a wealth of valuable tips and practical advice to elevate your travel experiences. Whether you're embarking on your very first voyage or you're a well-traveled explorer, this page is designed to ensure your journey is seamless and delightful. From the day preceding your departure, to check-in, navigating the airport, and everything in between, I'm here to provide you with useful advice drawn from my own personal experiences. (It's important to note that while the information shared here offers general guidance, it should never replace your own thorough examination and verification of all travel-related details). So let's dive in and make your next adventure truly unforgettable!

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​Checking In
Download the airline App.
Check in on-line, 24 - 48 hours prior to your flight (varies between airlines)
​Sign up for text flight notifications

 
Delayed / Cancelled Flight
All airlines travelling to / from Canada are subject to the Air Passenger Protection Regulations. (Other regions have similar agreements)

In the event of a flight delay or cancellation, the airline must:

• inform you about your rights and the remedies available
• provide the reason for the disruption
• give regular status updates during the delays

Depending on the reason for the delay or cancellation, an airline has minimum obligations to passengers. These obligations vary according to the size of the airline.

European Air Passenger Rights

Canadian air passenger protection regulations

​Denied Boarding (uncommon)
If the flight is overbooked, Airlines will voluntarily look for passengers to give up their seats.
​If you aren't in a rush you can use this to earn some cash / credit and possible upgrades - you will need to negotiate!
If it isn't voluntary they are obliged to adhere to compensation standars (if the reason is within the airlines control and not required for safety reasons).
 
Lost / Delayed / Damaged Luggage
As soon as you realise there is a problem, report it to the local airline staff and record / document all interactions.
Under the Montreal Convention, airlines around the world are required to compensate travellers for any "reasonable" expenses incurred, such as the interim purchases to replace missing clothes and other essentials.
Keep all receipts related to these "reasonable" expenses
​Make sure you submit your claim within the required time frame
 
Long Layover
Buy a pass for an Airport Lounge * Have a sit down, leisurely meal * Freshen up in an Airport shower *
​use the airport gym / go for a walk around the terminal * Some airports have museums and LAX even has therapy animals available * Visit an airport hotel swimming pool / spa * City tour - some airports offer guided city tours (but you may need a visa and will need to allow time to clear customs, immigration and security) * check in to a transfer hotel * rent an airport sleeping pod *

Sleeping in Airports