Travel Tips for First Time and Even Veteran Flyers - Yahoo Voices - voices.yahoo.com

As a well seasoned flyer on Delta airlines, I have some tips for first time flyers that will help get you to your gate a little quicker.

HAVE YOUR BOARDING PASS AND ID READY:
Once you have obtained your boarding pass, however the method, you will need to have it available from the time you check your luggage until the time you board the airplane. Keep it handy so you are not searching for it. This will be true no matter what airline or airport you travel with.

CHECKING BAGGAGE:
If you are checking bags, make sure they are not subject to a overweight fee. If you are not traveling first class on a Delta flight, you will get an over weight charge of $90.00 for anything over 50 pounds. If you are first class, the weight extends to 70 pounds before over weight charges apply. I have seen people at airport actually throw out their personal belongings to avoid this charge.. I have a simple bathroom scale to help gauge the weight of my check in luggage.

GOING THROUGH SECURITY:
This is the part that gets most people held up by TSA agents. As most of you know, you cannot wear shoes or jackets going through security. In addition, everything and I mean everything must be removed from all of your pockets. You do not need to hold your boarding pass and ID when going through security although some people prefere to do so. It may get you held up for a while in some situations. If you have a laptop computer, it must be placed in a seperate bin all by itself with nothing else. If you smoke, do not worry about your lighter. TSA lifted this rule a few years ago. The bottom line is go through prepared and go through fast. Please remember the 3 once liquid rule. You cannot carry on any form of liquid over 3 onces. Anything 3 onces or under must be placed in a clear, see through zip lock bag. This is the number one hold up going through security for most passengers. You can take any amount of liquid in your check in luggage.
ONCE AT YOUR GATE:
If you are not happy with your seat, check with a gate agent and ask to have it changed if possible. Myself, I do not like to seat in the middle. I prefere a window or an isle seat. More times than not, a gate agent can meet my needs. You may have to sit a few rows further back in the plane but it is worth the comfort if you are on the longer flight.

CONCLUSION:
Hopefully these few tips will help you get to your gate and get to your seat on your flight a little faster. My suggestion is to always arrive no less than 2 hours before your departure time, Happy Flying!