Foreign media interviewed 80 airlines and compiled “11 smart flight tips”

▲Traveling abroad has become a national pastime, but flying to the other side of the world isn’t all that easy — from pre-trip planning to disembarking, every step requires careful preparation. (Illustration / Photo by reporter Tsai Wen-jun)

Travel Center / Comprehensive Report

Traveling abroad has become a national pastime, but flying to the other side of the world isn’t all that easy — from pre-trip planning to disembarking, every step requires careful preparation.Foreign mediaspecially interviewed staff from over 80 airlines and compiled 11 smarter and more enjoyable tips for international travel. If you’re planning a trip, consider these travel basics as essential guidelines.

1. Roll your clothes instead of folding them
Packing is definitely an art — rolling your clothes instead of folding them can save a lot of space in your suitcase.

▲Some airlines offer discounted upgrades on the day of departure, so arriving early might get you a sweet deal. (Illustration / Photo by reporter Peng Huai-yu)

2. Arrive before boarding time
Some airlines offer discounted upgrades on the day of departure, so arriving early might get you a sweet deal.

3. Stay humbleabove all
No one wants to help someone arrogant. When facing unexpected situations, always remember that being humble will encourage ground staff to willingly offer their best assistance.

4. Join airline membership programs and use co-branded credit cards
Frequent flyers are always the first to receive perks from airlines — just having access to exclusive lounges is worth it.

▲Although sitting in the front lets you disembark earlier, the back seats often come with better service. (Illustration / Photo by reporter Peng Huai-yu)

5. Choose a seat toward the back
Although sitting in the front lets you disembark earlier, the back seats often come with better service.

6. Volunteer to take a later flight
If your flight is overbooked, it’s recommended to volunteer for the next one — compensation could include hotel stays, meal vouchers, or an upgrade on the next flight.

7. Avoid flying if you have a severe cold
If you have a bad cold right before your flight, it’s better to postpone. Flying at 3,000 feet altitude may damage your eardrums or even cause hearing loss.

8. Bring your own water bottle
Bring an empty water bottle and fill it up after passing security — it’s also more eco-friendly.

▲Avoid using electronics before bed, drink some sleep tea or read a book to create a bedtime atmosphere similar to home. (Photo / Dazi / Illustration)

9. Create a sleep-friendly environment on the plane
Avoid using electronics before bed, drink some sleep tea or read a book to create a bedtime atmosphere similar to home.

10. Check whether the hotel provides laundryDryerWasher
Before you depart, confirm whether your hotel has a washer and dryer. Bring some laundry detergent so you can pack 2–4 fewer days’ worth of clothes.

11. Avoid Choosing Late-Night Flights
Surveys show that late-night flights are more likely to experience delays.