Be neurologically early

Let’s begin with the most important tip: Get to the airport early, at least three hours prior to your flight. Also, check in online whenever you can to avoid waiting in lines. Upgrades are possible if you have the funds or miles/points available. You will not only be able skip the lines, but you also have the option to go into a lounge in case of delay.

Keep your luggage as minimal

Carry only your carry-on. Your bags missing or damaged can ruin a holiday like nothing. And with the current state of airports, there are high chances that your suitcases will disappear. We’re devoted fans of Away’s The Carry-On, which is compact enough to meet sizing requirements–including on-budget airlines–but roomy enough for everything you might need. The included USB charger, which can be used as a portable charging device for your iPhone when you are stuck at the gate with no outlets and your iPhone dying, is a bonus point. If you absolutely have to stow a bag, consider an AirTag as an extra precaution–especially if you’re carrying valuables. The Apple devices can be stored in one of Hermes’s traditional luggage tags.

Clear your inbox without any delay

Many of us have 72 or more messages in our Gmail and are guilty of not completing tasks before we board the plane. You can take this opportunity to get some rest from work. Grab a latte and settle down at your gate. Tie up any loose ends. Although Inbox 0 might seem like a distant dream, you can still do urgent tasks.

Have backup plans

You can decide ahead of time whether to cancel your holiday or reschedule it if you are concerned about your flight being cancelled. Although most bosses will be open to letting you work your OOO days in case of an emergency, a courtesy email should calm your nerves. If you don’t have any backup plans, it is best to make them aware.

Be careful with your reading material

Ulysses is not something you can finish while waiting in Heathrow. You should instead stock up on literary page-turners to keep you occupied even in a crowded Starbucks: The Girls by Emma Cline and Special Topics In Calamity Physicsby Marisha Pessl are great places to start. The Goldfinch is by Donna Tartt.

Do your homework

If you are someone who prefers a relaxed approach to holiday planning, you can delay your travel to give you another chance to do some research. A compact, but essential directory that offers aerial views of different cities is recommended for those who prefer analog guides. For digital natives, they can either browse through amazing design-focused recommendations by locals or plan their itinerary via an app. It’s a great time to learn basic phrases and words in your host country’s language. While you won’t be able to speak fluently in Italian via Duolingo in an hour, you might learn to say hello, goodbye, and “more gelato please” while you wait for your flight.

Make an investment or two

Impulse purchases at duty-free shops are not a good idea. However, if you have a lot of time to browse and are looking for designer sunglasses or a handbag, don’t hesitate to make a purchase. Do some research before you hand over your AmEx. Not all duty-free items will be cheaper than the equivalent at home.

Use your Netflix subscription

You don’t have to endure mediocre entertainment in flight. You can download your favorite Netflix titles and watch them without Wi-Fi. The app allows you to start with any relevant travel or food documentary. Ugly Delicious and Chef’s Table are great. Podcasts are another good option for whiling away a few hours, or–if you’re feeling completely overwhelmed–temporarily escape via Field Recordings, which consists of natural sounds recorded by audiophiles everywhere from the frozen waters of Svalbard to the tropical rainforests of Congo.

Please read the fine print and then go back

Travel insurance is not something you should cut corners on. It is a good idea to choose a reputable, well-respected company and read through every section of your policy at least once. Some providers may not cover travel disruptions, including strike action. This can make it even more frustrating to have to pay for your hotel room after a flight is cancelled.