Stay Grounded, For Holiday Fun

By Ron Smith, Executive Publisher

Photography by Kristen Brown

Where has all the excitement and fun of air travel gone?

That was the question I asked myself recently on a business trip to California. When I was a kid, lying on my back looking at the clouds on a hot summer’s afternoon and then spying the vapor trail of a passenger jet high in the sky, I could only dream of something so exotic as flying. How amazing it would be, I thought then, to be one of those passengers. Heck, even the idea of having someone in a uniform serve me a soft drink made me think I was important.

How things have changed!

Today, I am traveling a couple of times a month, mostly by airplane. At RDU the other day I noticed that the security lines had been divided into segments — family, casual and experienced. I guess that I am the experienced one because I know to take my shoes off and my laptop out. Reminds me of the time I was in Phoenix — I took out my laptop, took off my shoes and suit coat, took off my belt, and then turned to the lady behind me and said, “ Don’t worry, that’s as far as I am going.”

Since I am now recognized by the airlines as an “experienced” traveler, I thought I would share with you some thoughts and/or recommendations as you plan your holiday travel.

If you are flying Southwest, you need to check in to get your grouping assignment. (Remember, to the airlines we are all cattle.) You can do this 24 hours in advance. Set some type of alarm to remind you do to so, because if you want until you get to the airport, you’ll get an undesirable seat.
Nothing is more “fun” than having a crying baby right behind you. I try to sit midway or toward the back of the plane because families like to sit up front. This is especially true on Southwest.
You don’t want to be on the sunny side of the plane. Even if it is raining outside, you will be flying above the clouds. Remember: The sun rises in the east and sets in the west.
You can use the airline’s blankets for more than simply keeping warm. Fold the blanket and put it on your seat before you sit down. The extra seat padding will make it much more comfortable on long flights.
If you are traveling alone, as I often do, don’t make eye contact or talk with your fellow seatmates. If they try to talk with you, pick up the magazine, say something noncommittal and start reading. An airline seat is not the place to be friendly. I remember one time speaking to a grandmother in Chicago and she didn’t stop talking about her grandchildren until San Diego. If you want to strike up a conversation, start it when you have just landed. Trust me, it is easier.
Unless you are in first class, pack some food. Gone are the days of getting a meal on a plane.Instead, think of the time when a family would pull off the highway for a picnic lunch at a picnic table.

Same thing, just a lot smaller space.

Airline travel is still the best way to go long distances quickly. It is still tolerable, but I wouldn’t use the word fun.

Safe travels this holiday season.