I've been a flight attendant for 2 years. Here are 11 of the best travel tips I've collected so far.

21.09.2023 - 10:07 / insider.com

Traveling can be stressful, especially if you're not a frequent flier.

As a flight attendant of two years who has flown hundreds of thousands of miles around the globe, I've collected useful tips to make your travels more enjoyable.  

Each airline has its own unique mobile app, which I highly recommend downloading before heading to the airport.

This is where airlines can send out important information about your flight, from gate changes to delays or cancellations. Sometimes these apps send notifications before flight crews even find out about the changes. 

If you're nervous about a flight being delayed or canceled, traveling earlier in the day can ease some of that worry.

Statistically speaking, flights have a tendency to be delayed more throughout the day, as delays can build on each other. By traveling early, you can often avoid the impacts of other delays and cancellations.  

Because of weather and unexpected maintenance or crew issues, air travel can be unpredictable. If a flight is delayed or canceled, the airline will typically rebook you on the next available flight. 

To avoid the possibility of missing an important event, I always recommend leaving a day or two of wiggle room in your itinerary if possible. 

To avoid the risk of lost luggage or paying a fee to check an oversized bag, I recommend traveling with a carry-on instead of a checked bag. 

One of the best brands I've seen is TravelPro, which is what all the flight attendants use. I also love Beis, which offers cute and efficient storage with unique pockets and organization, as well as Away, which has a variety of great carry-on bags.

It's definitely worth it to invest in a nicer bag that will last a long time or at least come with a great warranty policy. 

Many travelers shy away from bringing a carry-on bag because of the restrictions on liquids. However, there are still ways to pack every step of your daily routine in a carry-on.

I love using the Cadence leak-proof travel containers, which can hold small amounts of your favorite products. These super cute, compact containers are also magnetic, making them easy to keep together in one spot.  

Be sure to drink plenty of water before, during, and after flying. Because your body tends to dehydrate while in the air, drinking liquids will lessen your chances of getting a headache, getting sick, or having terrible jet lag.

Drinking water also helps to keep your skin hydrated, though I do still recommend bringing a mist or lotion to apply during and after your flight. 

Because flights can be unpredictable, unexpected delays are always possible.

In-flight entertainment systems aren't always available or guaranteed, so I always tell passengers to download movies, TV shows, books, or games on