Travelers Cause Chaos at Airport Boarding Gates....What Can You Do To Make Your Take-Off and Landing Stress Free?

We have all witnessed it, passengers chatting with their friends, eating, people-watching or reading when all of a sudden the dreaded announcement was made. Chaos reigned! Frustration, impatience, anxiety, and panic could now be seen on the passengers' faces.

Planning a trip starts at home. Be practical, DO NOT plan on taking a carry-on suitcase on the plane – especially if you are not able to wheel it or lift it yourself! It is an unearthly nuisance dealing with luggage when you have to rush or make a connection. They are awkward in restrooms, restaurants and fellow traveler's trip over them. There is nothing relaxing about the experience.

Keep in mind that in 2017 airline policies are changing and only “one” carry-on item will be permitted.

Experience has taught me to travel very light; a small crossover strapped bag. However, I have seen many with three and four shopping bags, plus a purse or briefcase, and their roller bag.

“Comfort” and “must” items may be placed in a tote or backpack. Pack and check everything else. Comfort and must item suggestions: reading material, sweater or jacket, puzzle book, neck pillow, medicines, and munchies. Ladies put your purse in the backpack or tote – it is one less thing to keep track of and handle. It should not be so bulky that it will not fit under the seat in front of you and still leave room for your feet.

Use common sense; do not pack the kitchen sink or take a week’s worth of entertainment for your flight. Remember, what you carry on the plane and in the airports is your responsibility alone. While the other passengers may assist upon request, out of courtesy, the ultimate responsibility is yours.

Follow the rules, do not attempt to go through TSA (airport security) or board planes with items that are not sanctioned. Know before you pack your tote bag what is allowed. Do not argue the case at the airport, you will not win. Carrying the minimum items will expedite your TSA and boarding experience.

When the Gate Agent announces that groups will be called soon to board the plane and that you should wait in your seat – wait in your seat! Do not bottleneck the boarding area and gangway; people get hurt that way. You have your reservation and seat assignment. There is no reason to rush or panic that you will be left behind.

It has been my experience in US airports there will always be “chaos” at the boarding gates. But, I have been at international airports where the boarding agents simply made announcements “Everyone sits down unless your group has been called – or no one boards.”. Amazingly, everyone sits down immediately.

When the Captain announces you have landed and are taxiing to the gate and asked you to: “Remain seated until we reach the gate and doors are opened.” Do that; stay seated! Do not bottleneck the aisles. People get injured - don’t be one of them.

Display good manners; be considerate. Do not cut in front of people; bite your tongue if you have to but be courteous.

Lastly, be patient. It is a small price to pay. A bad attitude will simply blemish your trip.

You have done or not done what you need to. Sit back and relax; have a safe, stress-free trip.

Over a period of 45 + years I have traveled via planes, cars, ferries, ships and trains to every state in the US, 48 different countries and each continent. People have traveled vicariously through me for more years than I can remember. I have learned patience at the gate and just wait until everyone else has done the “hurry up and wait” syndrome before I peacefully board. It is so much easier.