I once got to Toronto airport 3 hours before my flight and for some reason the airport was super backed up. The airport staff took me to the front of the line because my gate was going to close soon and I got a ton of angry looks from passengers ahead of me in line. A couple of them even loudly complained why I was getting special treatment and assumed I came to the airport late. Sometimes there's no way you'll win the situation. I gave myself a decent buffer and I still annoyed other passengers. It is what it is.
@sherlockwho5714 Жыл бұрын
Better some temporary anger then the missed flight
@CABNoLimit Жыл бұрын
Not your fault
@robertthomson1587 Жыл бұрын
A few years ago I too got stuck in the endlessly long passport queue at Lisbon, despite allowing a very generous amount of time. The airport staff realised that they had a problem on their hands and started working their way down the queue, plucking out passengers who were at risk of missing their flights and taking them right to the front of the queue.
@dr.d723 Жыл бұрын
Recently, I was boarding an international flight in the Middle East. I had just gotten off my flight, went through their security checkpoint, then ran to use the restroom. I still had over 2 hours before my connecting flight. I decided to check out my gate that I would be boarding from to make sure the flight would still be boarding from this gate. And to my surprise, they had already started the screening process. Yes, I had to go through another security checkpoint! It took another 1/2 hour, and by that time they were boarding the flight. Summary: Get to your gate at least 2 hours before flight time - yes, not a general boarding area but at the actual gate.
@koenven7012 Жыл бұрын
that's all well and good if they announce the gate that much time in advance. In Heathrow they only announce the gate maximum 1 hour before the boarding begins and if then you have to go to another part of the terminal and the little train they use is broken, it's a lot of fun.
@MeiLee-t2v Жыл бұрын
And it's always a long hike to get there!
@ganyu.theqilin Жыл бұрын
I relate so much Megan! Last year, I had my first International flight alone without being accompanied or any adult supervision and your explanation about managing time was spot on. I entered the security process around 1 hour before my departure, but the whole airport was extremely full and hectic. Because it was my first solo travel, I was nervous and afraid to ask a staff member that I was running late so all i did was "hope that the line would go faster"😂 That obviously didn't end well because at the time I passed my security check, it was already time for departure and i was the last passenger on board😵💫 I was literally running to my gate and when i entered the plane everyone was staring at me lol😭. I recommend entering the immigration and security check right after the check in counter opens because we never know the situation it is in certain airports.
@letter203ify Жыл бұрын
I think you should get to the airport at least 2 hours before departure. I recall in Texas I was taking a trip and they had changed the gate. Not only did I find out late, but it took half an hour once I caught the shuttle just to get to the other gate. So I barely made the trip, which was already a modified trip to begin with. So yeah, get there early!! It's not worth being late.
@letter203ify Жыл бұрын
In a super long line, I'd just wait it out. I mean everyone is in the same boat so I try my best to be patient.
@TheChelseaCate Жыл бұрын
I’ve always done around 3-4 hours before. 3 for domestic, 4 for international. But I’m also in the Chicago area, so things may be different due to the airports :)
@letter203ify Жыл бұрын
@@TheChelseaCate better safe than sorry. And this explains why I sometimes cut it close when lines are long
@gerryz1839 Жыл бұрын
I had that exact issue in Lisbon last month! That passport control line was surprisingly long, even though the staff in the lounge said that it would "take five minutes." There were a few line jumpers, just cutting through, although I had a reason to get ahead too. Lesson learned: some airports have inefficient passport control lines (São Paulo GRU is another), so allow buffer time and be aware.
@PortableProfessional Жыл бұрын
It was a bit of a surprise for me too! Lesson learned!
@michellekaye723 Жыл бұрын
I recently flew back from New Jersey (USA) to London. I almost always go through security to get to my gate as soon as possible. Sadly, I discovered that there was basically nothing after security, including hot food once I was through. I’d really like airports to show what is available after security, before you go through, so you can make a decision. I was stuck with only snacks I had brought with, rather than a hot meal.
@TheEstevenw Жыл бұрын
I was flying from Honolulu to Toronto with a stop in San Francisco. You had to leave security and go through again at international departures. Even though my boarding pass showed I had almost two hours between flights, the flight board showed 35 minutes. Glad we were flying first class, got to security first, told a TSA agent that my flight was being called and he took us to the front of the line, everyone was very kind about it. When we made the gate on time, I told one of the flight attendants what happened, they looked at my ticket and delayed the flight so other passengers could arrive. Really don't understand we you have to leave security to catch an international flight. There were about 10 others with the same problem after us.
@MRBCA500 Жыл бұрын
Usually because of challenged airport design and lack of planning. SFO has a huge international terminal but one half of the secured side is not connected to the other. And If you have domestic connections it largely depends on what terminals you fly in and out of. Very disjointed. SFO is one of the worst examples for sure.
@R0swell5104 Жыл бұрын
Your second point is really worth remembering. I've made connections at Lisbon airport a few times and sometimes you are directed through a passport control and possibly security and sometimes not, even if your connecting flight is domestic. I always give myself a minimum of two hours after being caught out once and having to do a sprint to the gate. I am more built for comfort rather than speed 😁
@PortableProfessional Жыл бұрын
Always better to have extra time and relax!
@R0swell5104 Жыл бұрын
@@PortableProfessional 👍👍
@michy818 Жыл бұрын
I’ve had this situation in Australia. Didn’t realize there was another passport control when I was spending time window shopping, also erroneously assuming I was near the gates. Sprinted too. Some airports post how many minutes to the gate.
@alicejhanson865 ай бұрын
I always arrive early to my gate for international travel. What I dislike are the individual gates that make you go through security yet again and corral you in an area without bathrooms well before boarding. No water bottles either. Ugh.
@907T Жыл бұрын
Megan I meant to make this comment the other day, but as someone's dad I was very touched by the explanation at the end of your last video. I'm sure your parents are grateful for your visit.
@PortableProfessional Жыл бұрын
That is very kind of you to say, Joe. It was a great trip!
@jeffreyclinard2002 Жыл бұрын
In August 2022, the issue I ran into wasn't getting to the airport on time. It was baggage issues. On the way out, I had a long layover in Frankfurt. I arrived in Copenhagen with my bags. 200 passengers on my cruise were not so lucky. On the way back, I had a 90 minute layover in London. I ran into all the issues (from being selected for additional security screening to long passport control lines). I did make it, but my bag took an extra 30 hours to make it back (only one flight a day between Heathrow and Las Vegas on British Airways, then time for them to deliver it to my home). My own tip is based on that. Take the long layover. I had options for my upcoming trip, and took the five plus hour layover in Heathrow over shorter options. I don't want to arrive in Amsterdam without my bags, and then have to worry about retrieving them or having them delivered. I do arrive two days before my sailing, but I don't want to have to deal with trying to track them down.
@michelepineau9657 Жыл бұрын
I haven't seen any lines for digital boarding passes in Europe ( went through 5 airports during 2 trips last year) and wouldn't rely on Wi-Fi working perfectly, so physical ones for me . I have been through sluggish passport control lines and need to control my impatience with agents who take their sweet time when other lines are moving smoothly.
@PortableProfessional Жыл бұрын
This was my first time see this. Not sure how common it is but always feel better with the printed boarding pass.
@pattieduffy4992 Жыл бұрын
Asked a passenger once, showed my ticket, was very cooperative. Iceland 10 yrs ago.
@terrinewell3044 Жыл бұрын
We tried asking an employee if we could be moved up in the security line, as our flight would be boarding in 30 minutes. She said, no need, you have lots of time. There were easily a hundred people ahead of us. We ended up getting to our gate just minutes before last call for boarding. So stressful! Lesson learned. I now make sure we arrive at the airport at least two hours, if not more, before boarding time...not flight time. My family growls, but I would rather spend an hour or two sitting at my gate, than go through that stress again!
@PortableProfessional Жыл бұрын
I agree with you, Terri!
@shulmice7 ай бұрын
EL-AL has special security at New York which take a lot of time. We were transferring from a flight from LAX which was delayed then delayed at EL-AL security. EL-AL brought our check luggage to the gate for us to check.
@thebookwasbetter3650 Жыл бұрын
I went through Newark from Bogota once. I got off the plane and ran to the rest room for 3 minutes. When I got out, around two planeloads of people got in the customs line and I ended up missing my connection. Now as soon as the announcement comes on that we are descending, I get up and take care of business on the plane one last time.
@jonb3189 Жыл бұрын
I travel internationally all the time, and yet I've never experienced so many delays as I have in the US.
@CarolgTX Жыл бұрын
I find the worst delays are in AMS. The US is a close 2nd.
@jimhamilton8775 Жыл бұрын
Thank you for the advice Megan
@PortableProfessional Жыл бұрын
You are so welcome!
@alisong2328 Жыл бұрын
I just returned from a trip to Spain. The way the flights were booked, I only had an hour in Madrid to ho through customs and change terminals (which was a 45-minute trip including a train ride). I had asked the Iberia agent in New York if an hour was going to be enough time to make my connecting flight, and she said "No problem." Well, it was a big problem! My flight from New York actually arrived in Madrid at the about 20 minutes early, and I dragged my carry-on bags through the airport, passport control and customs and barely made it to my connecting flight. It seems that everyone there was in the same situation, having arrived from other countries and trying to catch a connecting flight - and all those flights seemed to be boarding at the same time.
@nakamakai5553 Жыл бұрын
Number of international flights ever: 3 - Value of this advice for my next trips: Golden
@PortableProfessional Жыл бұрын
Thanks so much! Happy travels!
@renferal5290 Жыл бұрын
I always make a point to have a lot of time before my flight. I will say, the worst passport/customs I have ever gone through, have been in Canada. It took almost 2 hours and then when everyone was heading to the gate, the doors to it were locked. Even the Pilots couldn't get to the plane. They were making calls and cursing in French. By the time we were able to get to the gate, it was 15 minutes before departure time. Sad to say, the flight left an hour late.
@Gatorfanforlife Жыл бұрын
im gonna get to my flight 4 hours early and hang out and wait for my flight at my gate...Not taking any chances
@PortableProfessional Жыл бұрын
Good planning! You never know what might delay you! Safe travels!
@Gatorfanforlife Жыл бұрын
@@PortableProfessional yes mam
@AlWeihnachtsmann Жыл бұрын
The problem at Euro-Airports…they have two areas. One for Schengen flights ( to other Schengen states/inside the EU) - no passport control One for non Schengen flights ( out sight of EU) - passport control needed. On most of these airports the non-Schengen area is a smaller one (e.g Hamburg) or on another Flor (e.g Vienna)
@charronmoczygemba72 Жыл бұрын
Just finished USA to Uk trip and your tips were well used to help make our family trip easier. One problem my daughter and I encounter on all flights was food allergies. We could not eat anything offered on the plane (United, Air Canada). We both have gluten allergies and I have an egg allergies. When we registered for our flight there was no options to select an allergy friendly meal or snacks. I had one sweet flight attendant offer 1st class cheese and grapes to us. We were so grateful, but on the way back no such luck, a combine 17 flight. We pack only carry on so food/TSA/ security make it difficult to pack snacks for the flight. How can we prevent starving on international trips for the future? Even lay over was challenging bc we both ran into the same problem with limitations on options.
@claudettealliance1582 Жыл бұрын
Good afternoon Megan, I like all your videos 👏🏿 they short and good thank you 🙏🏿 what brand is your backpack?
@PortableProfessional Жыл бұрын
I adore this bag and have used it for years: alnk.to/5F8hgU5
@claudettealliance1582 Жыл бұрын
Thanks a million Megan🌹
@boomertuber8878 Жыл бұрын
HELPFUL! THANKS!
@missmayflower Жыл бұрын
Yikes. I Always find my gate as soon as I can before I start to relax.
@cziegle3794 Жыл бұрын
Yay top 362 likes. Love this channel. Best to you and your family.
@PortableProfessional Жыл бұрын
Thank you! Great to have you on the channel!
@huubjoanfranssen8980 Жыл бұрын
Personally I walk always first to the gate itself. Then I know where it is and then I go to explore. Must admit my biggest mistake was on a trip to the NL. I mixed up Dutch airports and was standing at the wrong gate (was sleepy)…. Both planes where departing at the same time……. Luckily they where both delayed……
@R.Hogarth Жыл бұрын
Some airlines/airports REQUIRE you to check in and get a hardcopy boarding pass even if you checked in online & have a digital boarding pass. An example of this is flying Air Canada from Las Vegas back to Canada. They require you to get a hard copy and will confirm that you have your passport while checking in at the airport, even if you checked in online. This extra step needs to be factored in to your planning.
@PortableProfessional Жыл бұрын
Thanks for sharing that! Safe travels!
@missmayflower Жыл бұрын
Same in Mexico.
@Roi_Anthony Жыл бұрын
It's annoying for sure. I get that sometimes when I fly to the US from Iceland. I could still board but they gave me crap for only having a digital boarding pass.
@BlackFlag1719 Жыл бұрын
Question: When arriving in the country you're visiting, have you ever run into an uptight passport control agent who demanded to see your return itinerary? Not just your return ticket, your _itinerary._ I got that in Munich last year, on the way to Cologne. I hadn't printed one out, and had no smartphone service. The agent interrogated me with a few questions: "What is the purpose of your visit?" "I'm going to a concert." "What kind of concert?" etc. In the end, she softened enough to let me through, but admonished me to bring the danged itinerary next time.
@PortableProfessional Жыл бұрын
Wow! That really is getting specific. I have never been asked to show my itinerary and a good thing as I usually don't have one!
@BlackFlag1719 Жыл бұрын
@@PortableProfessional Thanks, I thought so, :) Also to answer your question, if I had to either be a little rude or miss my flight, I'd take the lesser evil and be rude.
@ricardo68 Жыл бұрын
OMG, Megan! You were in my home town. We should’ve gone for coffee. 😊
@PortableProfessional Жыл бұрын
Your home town is beautiful, Ricardo!
@kimgrod Жыл бұрын
Thanks Megan. Again, good tips.I have arrived at the airport w/only a digital copy of my ticket to find the digital ticket reader is broken. Sigh
@PortableProfessional Жыл бұрын
You just added another good reason to have that printed ticket! Safe travels and thanks for watching!
@dwighttaylor5107 Жыл бұрын
❤❤❤❤❤❤ it thanks great information
@staceykimberlin5158 Жыл бұрын
I am planning my first international flight soon and your videos help me a lot
@PortableProfessional Жыл бұрын
Glad it was helpful! Safe travels, Stacey!
@DavidSkerritt Жыл бұрын
Although not for an international flight I learned the have a physical boarding pass as a backup because on a trip last summer just as I was walking to the boarding line on Spirit Airlines the Spirit app was down and I could not load the boarding pass. Had to go to the counter and they printed me one for free and then got back in the boarding line. Normally they charge to print a boarding pass but didn't because the app was down.
@sophiadoll4793 Жыл бұрын
Great video as always. For the digital copy of your boarding pass can do you something as simple as taking a screen shot or do you have to save it to your phone wallet.
@jons7834 Жыл бұрын
first leg of four got delayed. then i had to go through frankfurt passport control with no extra time. 75 people in line. i had to ask my way to the front of the line from other passengers. hated to do it but had no choice if i wanted to make my flights. ran though the airport got to my gate just in time. i was the second to the last person to board.
@petertarantelli Жыл бұрын
I’m a new subscriber so you may have covered this already but I noticed someone in this video doing it (I realize this is ‘file’ footage). The pet peeve…putting your carry-on bag in the overhead bin sideways vs bottom first. I don’t know about the smaller aircraft - regional jets - but most of the larger aircraft have overhead bins that can fit at least 3 carry-on bags (bottom side first) vs. 2 carry-on bags (sideways). I’ve often had to rearrange sideways bags to be able to fit mine.
@PortableProfessional Жыл бұрын
Welcome to the channel Peter! I agree! I too have had to do some rearranging.
@karidufur8908 Жыл бұрын
Thank you!!! More great tips!
@zoepetra Жыл бұрын
Thank you Megan! Have a wonderful day, you always have the best tips and information :)
@PortableProfessional Жыл бұрын
Thanks for watching, Zoe!
@troigrl Жыл бұрын
How is the Rome FCO airport move for international flights? I will be traveling from a cruise terminal to the airport as soon as possible for a 11 am flight. I was told I should make it fine, but hear I really need 3 hrs. It takes about an hour from the cruise terminal to FCO. The earliest I could disembark is 7:30-8.
@short1961 Жыл бұрын
I made the mistake of thinking I had plenty of time to get to the gate at Lisbon airport and spent too much time in the food court. I spent a little more than an hour online going through customs. Sad thing was I didn’t have. At Lisbon airport they have three lines. One for EU citizens, one for electronic passports, and finally all other. The all other line is the one I got on; stupidly I should have gotten on the electronic passport line which had no one. I did not find out till after I got back home that my passport issued April 2019 is chipped. Which line did you get on Megan? This was in April 2022.
@dennisspackman7147 Жыл бұрын
Especially if you have not flown out of a given airport before, get to your departure gate early to judge amount of time it takes and you can also determine if there are unknown time delays. Then if time allows you can look for food, visit shops etc. also you can confirm that your flight is still departing from that gate. I have had it happen several times when the departure gate has been changed. So check periodically and as stated get to your gate early just in case there is an unforeseen delay or gate change or other unknown delay
@PortableProfessional Жыл бұрын
I totally agree with you, Dennis!
@mandarinfox1813 Жыл бұрын
We had several flights that refused to accept digital boarding passes! I was lucky as I’d printed mine out too!
@PortableProfessional Жыл бұрын
I always feel better having that printed boarding pass in my hand!
@michy818 Жыл бұрын
I took some cheapo European airline and was charged $30 for not having a printed ticket. I overlooked the fine print apparently.
@yasharyan4003 Жыл бұрын
Pls suggest, how to carry gold jewelry through the security check, should we wear it or keep it in the carry-on baggage, thanks in advance.
@brentirvine2336 Жыл бұрын
I made that same mistake In Lisbon last year when I dawdled in the ANA Lounge for too long. Last week I made sure to get through sooner.
@deebelisle963 Жыл бұрын
happen to me in Split Croatia - Rental car guy was slow on return - EasyJet delayed the departure and sent someone to find us in the passport control line
@PortableProfessional Жыл бұрын
That’s great! Glad you made your flight!
@deandecoursey2334 Жыл бұрын
Thanks, Megan. I’m looking forward to using my Global Entry number on my next international flight. At least, the shoes and belt can stay on. Since going to Thailand is my primary international flight these days, I fly Southwest to LAX to catch the international flight and arrive at the airport 5-6 hours before departure at LAX. Last February, I flew EVA through Taipei to Chiangmai. The connection was close and my flight was close to an hour late, so I ran through the airport, only to find out that there were additional flights from San Francisco and Seattle on Eva that were also late and the plane to Chiangmai would be waiting for connecting passengers from all 3 EVA flights. It would have been nice if an announcement had been made to this effect before landing. Have fun with your parents in Portugal!
@mrslcom Жыл бұрын
Usually the airlines would know that there are connecting passengers who might be late and will have someone escort you at the arrival gate. EVA is a great airline and they generally take good care of their passengers.
@pcmacintyre Жыл бұрын
I had something similar flying EVA SFO-Taipei-Bangkok in late January. The flight from SFO was over an hour late. While I was certain I would make it I wasn't sure my checked bag would. The TPE-BKK flight waited for all connecting passengers and their baggage. I originally had an earlier flight on the second leg and wonder if those who had it were bumped to the flight I ended up taking.
@birbluv9595 Жыл бұрын
Thank you, Megan. This might be a weird situation, but: when I applied for Global Entry, my fingerprints would not register. It was New Years Eve in Plattsburgh, NY (the only appointment I could get) and I was delayed over an hour while the staff tried to communicate with a Washington D.C. main office to see if they could process my fingerprints. Of course, it being right before a major holiday, that did not work. So I can’t use the kiosks to enter the U.S. and have to go through a line. Once when I did this, the guy ahead of me in the line for Global Entry problems had a very time-consuming problem, and I watched all the non-Global Entry passengers get processed through regular immigration lines before I could even get to the agent. So it’s not a panacea.
@aravindm790 Жыл бұрын
Almost missed my connection in Frankfurt. Luckily the flight was on hold since I checked in online 😅
@thebookwasbetter3650 Жыл бұрын
On you having to go through the passport line, oh man, that would never happen to me. I go through security and I immediately go to the gate. What if gate 37 is actually moved between gate 13 and 14? Yes I have airport anxiety about that! So I find my gate first then do my coffee and reading.
@TrackerRoo Жыл бұрын
I had a flight change gates three times within an hour. I was so annoyed by it and so were a lot of others.
@thebookwasbetter3650 Жыл бұрын
@@TrackerRoo was it like in Airplane! where everyone was running through the terminal?
@davenorth2903 Жыл бұрын
Have never seen a separate line for digital and physical boarding pass in 10 million miles of flying. More and more airlines are going with facial recognition.
@PortableProfessional Жыл бұрын
It was a surprise to me, Dave! Not sure how common it is though.
@elbaby2001 Жыл бұрын
No I would not try to get ahead of the passport control line. I get to the airports hours ahead of schedule take off to make sure I get across TSA or Passport Control screening and go enjoy the Lounges or Clubs that are at the airport.
@barrywmurphy2 Жыл бұрын
Nice work, Megan
@PortableProfessional Жыл бұрын
Thank you, Barry!
@annamichelle3248 Жыл бұрын
Once when we were pressed for time, we asked to move forward in the security line. We weren't allowed but with some running to the gate and grace from the gate agents, we made the flight. And I'm understanding of those who are rushing to make a plane, because I know these things happen.
@Bohemiahotrodandcustom Жыл бұрын
In 1997 I flew in to LAX from australia, there were at least 1200 people in line to clear immigration and get there luggage but there was only one person at the desk, you could see the frustration on the guys face. Not a good start to a 2 month holiday.
@margaretdawes4537 Жыл бұрын
I did exactly the same thing at Lisbon airport a month ago .. i had to queue jump to make the flight .. it was so embarrassing!
@PortableProfessional Жыл бұрын
Nice to know I'm not the only one!
@marianaval4404 Жыл бұрын
When and where do I ask the person about availability of seat upgrades,is it at check in kiosk ,or before boarding?
@alltogethernow121 Жыл бұрын
I missed a flight because I'm DEAF. Now I always ask the desk staff to personally let me know when to board, or in the passport checking lines. I am usually told to pre board, which is a nice perk, but because I look able-bodied I can see people are annoyed. I've learned to live with the stares, instead of possibly missing a flight again. I've learned to let the stewardess know I'm deaf too, so if there is any emergency or delay they will let me know what's up...
@grandmasmagic3858 Жыл бұрын
I've had to ask to skip the queue when I had a connecting flight to get to in one airport and there was not going to be enough time if I'd just waited my turn...it does pay to ask a staff member, tell them your situation, and get their assistance to get to the front of the line..asking gets you way further peacefully rather than just skipping yourself.. and, ALWAYS get to the airport hours ahead of time...one year I got to the airport just more than 2 hours ahead, had gotten through so far when I discovered I'd left my drivers license and medicare card, and other things, on my bedside cupboard..I needed them because I was hiring a car at my destination...my son had dropped me off and was on his way home when I SOS'ed him...he was able to grab what I'd forgotten, bring it back to the airport and pass it on to security who were able to pass it on to me..and because I'd allowed myself enough time it meant I didn't have to worry very much (though you still do worry some)...but being early allows for any mistakes to be fixed and still get on your flight...
@PortableProfessional Жыл бұрын
I totally agree, Carol!
@MarilynMayaMendoza Жыл бұрын
The only flight I ever missed was a Charles de Gaulle airport. I slept at an airport hotel walked a long way to the airport and then was told I needed a Covid test which was not communicated to me in any way, then I waited on the wrong line and when I finally got to the right line with the right papers. At that time they did not accept my vaccination card from the US, they told me I would never make the flight because it was too far away. I was so upset. They did put me on a plane to another city but I lost my first class rev Confirm ticket. The whole Covid Test at the airport was a scam to get money. I don’t think I will Arrive at the Charles tackle airport for my flight home ever again but I have to arrive to the airport from my city which I hope will be easier if slow. That airport is huge and there’s not much help from the staff. Aloha
@tammypearson4500 Жыл бұрын
I haven't cut in front of any lines, but sure cut it close many times. Hoping your visit with your parents was special 💗
@PortableProfessional Жыл бұрын
It was amazing, thanks!
@tammypearson4500 Жыл бұрын
@@PortableProfessional You're very welcome!
@michy818 Жыл бұрын
I’ve definitely cut in lines (2x?) and felt awful but no one stopped me (or my two embarrassed siblings). Would rather be rude than miss my flight. Sometimes it’s just unavoidable.
@yaowsers77 Жыл бұрын
I'm paranoid and never flew on my own so I'll be there at least three hours before boarding.
@PortableProfessional Жыл бұрын
Great idea to be early! Safe travels!
@robertparsons313 Жыл бұрын
Gate agents were conducting "security interviews" 45 minutes before boarding started for my last international flight. I was called to come to the desk and answer questions and show several documents. I had already checked in and had my boarding pass ready, but if I had not been in the gate waiting area, I would not have made the interview. Also...there were a lot of gate changes! I had two documents stating Gate #70, but the flight was leaving from #62, which you cannot see from Gate #70.
@kylietk29 Жыл бұрын
Whoa, which airport was this in?
@robertparsons313 Жыл бұрын
@@kylietk29 Tokyo Haneda
@heleneg525 Жыл бұрын
Is a photo of one's boarding pass acceptable?
@abigailgerlach5443 Жыл бұрын
No, they say the flight boards 45 minutes before take off, but with the usual delays you'll be lucky if they board on time. Good point about having two boarding passes. The rules seem to be a secret kept by employees and not shared with the passengers. 🤷
@jenniferlynn1037 Жыл бұрын
We always get to the airport at least an hour before boarding (longer for unfamiliar or busy airports) and our first order of business after the security checkpoint (even at our home airport) is find our gate!!! 😉 then we can find a restaurant nearby or visit a shop or two (one at a time). I am rarely a carry on only packer (I have managed it for a few trips) I will generally check my carryon through to my destination if the flight is really full and it’s free 😉. The caveat is that I don’t pack anything irreplaceable or expensive when I travel. And since we tend to have at least one checked bag, the counter prints us paper boarding passes, so we have both. 😁
@jenniferlynn1037 Жыл бұрын
And I love you content and advice!! Thank you!
@PortableProfessional Жыл бұрын
Thanks for sharing that! Great having you on the channel, Jennifer!
@TravelAdventureswithEricB Жыл бұрын
All Great tips Megan.
@PortableProfessional Жыл бұрын
Thanks so much!
@mrslcom Жыл бұрын
I was shocked and concerned flying out of Hong Kong to discover that they had eliminated boarding passes altogether on some flights and employed facial recognition technology for automated boarding. The trouble was that they had never taking my picture that I was aware of. So how did they get my facial scan in the system?
@robertparsons313 Жыл бұрын
Same happened to me in Minneapolis. Just looked at the screen and then was told to get on the flight. Kinda scary that the system knows so much about us.
@sunshinesmile94 Жыл бұрын
You have a photo on your passport... That is registered on an international system along with your fingerprint for biometric scanning
@joefalkner2368 Жыл бұрын
Good vid.
@PortableProfessional Жыл бұрын
Thanks so much!
@labtechsuperstar Жыл бұрын
I had done the same thing as you my first time to Lisbon. We ended up having to run and because it was still Covid, there was yet ANOTHER stupid "security" line to get a sticker on the back of your passport. 🙄 But all's well that ends well.
@u_t_d_s_h-1_a Жыл бұрын
One massive International flight mistake is to avoid reserving unquestioned reverence to authenticity of any airline operatives claims to providing overwhelming hospitality -- the line between veracity and desperation for profitas to stay afloat is usually too vague---so much risks exists of one corrupting the other.
@adamjosephyoungdokim7667 Жыл бұрын
I’ve always had the Mobile boarding pass check-in in Canada & USA! Yes exactly told me when exact time opens the gate plus they informed me when the gate changed 🎉😀
@PortableProfessional Жыл бұрын
That's great! Happy travels, Adam!
@tennilledebysingh5819 Жыл бұрын
If I had to get ahead to not miss my flight, I would ask. We must be careful to not judge or get upset at people Bec we don't know their story.
@PortableProfessional Жыл бұрын
So true! I am very willing to let others go ahead if needed, just ask!
@patrickpepper412 Жыл бұрын
All great tips Megan, I have a trip booked for Colorado to Bangkok with only a 2 hour layover in Korea, did you have any tips on how not to miss my flight? Thanks for any help you can offer.
@achevres Жыл бұрын
Incheon airport is supposed to be very efficient, you should be ok. Also, if both flights are on the same reservation the airline is obligated to make sure you get to your destination. Have a great trip!
@Stormbrise Жыл бұрын
Amsterdam airport they only call you ahead of the checkpoint 10 min before boarding time, that is if you are flying inside the EU. So we only hit this process trying to get back to our home. The 2nd leg of our flight usually about 800 meters from this check point, and we barely make it before the gate closes because of this. If we were flying KLM maybe it would be different, but this star alliance airline is way back in the other side of nowhere. This is always an issue flying from the US/Canada, and making a connecting flight to Scandinavia. So, I plan for this, and we are rushing no time to stop and get a coffee or bathroom break, anything! But it never works, that we get yelled out by the gate agents every time we barely make our flight. They are even asking on the PA where we are as we are waiting to be called forward in the EU Passport Control.
@WeAreAllAlexJones2024 Жыл бұрын
I have a few serious international travel questions, and the airport can't answer them when I called to ask. I have never traveled internationally in my life. So I don't fully know what to expect when I arrive. I have obtained a Algerian visa, which was not easy to get. I couldn't make that flight a year ago when my host sent me a invitation letter to come. The expiration date says it's good till July of 2024. Can I still travel there even know its been a year since i got the invitation letter from my host and he's still good for it? I also don't know what questions the Algerian customs will ask me?
@juanitahardy85837 ай бұрын
So sad my UK passport doesn't allow me to walk through Europe as it did pre Brexit.
@annan.3283 Жыл бұрын
Wait you went to Portugal for only 2 days?
@CO84trucker Жыл бұрын
Dual citizens (like yours truly 🇺🇸🇵🇱🇪🇺) should be mindful of which passport to present to the authorities. While most countries are indifferent to dual citizenship, presenting the wrong passport to border guard may cause problems.
@PortableProfessional Жыл бұрын
Interesting! I have never thought about that!
@CO84trucker Жыл бұрын
I obtained Polish citizenship & passport through my mother who was born in Poland (one of a handful of EU countries that are very generous with citizenship by descent... even a through a great-grandparent). While citizenship in a EU country offers so many benefits like living & working there, one of the biggest conveniences is speeding through the EU/Schengen line upon arrival. Furthermore, once Europe's new ETIAS visa waiver program comes into force next year, citizens of EU countries are naturally exempt.
@vh6307 Жыл бұрын
O.....Super....MG!!! YESSSSSS!! A real wisdom-moment for sure!!! And yet.........it becomes a roulette of id's & P.A.T.'s(Pleasant Authorities Today)!!!😉🛄🎲
@danielmacnair726215 күн бұрын
Another backup: Once my bar code is up on my phone, I take a screenshot of it. Then I have a backup in my Photos folder.
@PortableProfessional15 күн бұрын
That’s a great idea, thanks for sharing!
@robertjames-life4768 Жыл бұрын
The airport in Rome is like a huge mall in the beginning but then you realize you need to take a tram
@PortableProfessional Жыл бұрын
Wow! That must be an impressive airport to transit through!
@robertjames-life4768 Жыл бұрын
@@PortableProfessional it really is. Here’s another tip- plan an extra two days and stay at the QC Terma Spas and Resort. It will heal you in many ways before the long flight home! Right near the airport
@tray2811 Жыл бұрын
Not all print at the airport boarding passes are free of charge! I know Ryanair charge for that!
@vh6307 Жыл бұрын
😨
@j2simpso Жыл бұрын
Here's some tips for passport control. Most countries have inbound and outbound passport control (the US and Canada being notable exceptions). If you are flying to Europe you will enter something called the Schengen area. Any flights within this area (i.e. Zurich to Lisbon) don't require passport control, but whatever flight takes you out of the Schengen area (i.e. Lisbon to Toronto) means you must clear outbound passport control. If you have a tight connection in the Schengen area and need to be stamped out quickly, use the EU line even if you aren't an EU citizen. Explain to the officer that you have a tight connection. I did that in Lisbon without any issues.
@sarahkovensky3650 Жыл бұрын
Last summer we flew through Heathrow with a 2 1/2 hour layover. Our gates were both in the same concourse. Even so, we barely made our connection. Give yourself LOTS of time if you're going through there.
@PortableProfessional Жыл бұрын
Great advice, Sarah!
@leohoward7282 Жыл бұрын
Were your parents happy to see you lol
@acarpio3 Жыл бұрын
1 hour before departure time may not be enough time because sometimes boarding time is over an hour before departure especially on huge planes like the A380. Just be there by boarding time as shown on your boarding pass and you should be fine.
@juanitahardy85837 ай бұрын
I avoid going through the USA at all costs.
@chrismarcus3058 Жыл бұрын
cross your toes!
@JohnSmith-bz9be Жыл бұрын
:)
@sunnyscott4876 Жыл бұрын
I never traveled internationally, but I do fly domestically very often. I prefer to get to the airport 🛫 early because I don't mind hanging out on the airside once I am through parking and TSA. And things are so unpredictable. My flight ✈️ last week I literally walked directly up to TSA....no lines at all. It was a breeze. I never have bothered with TSA pre check. I had plenty of time to get a delicious $14 sandwich and a $5 Coke, relax, take some pictures, and get to my gate at a very leisurely pace.
@gracebergeron949 Жыл бұрын
Closed mouths don't get feed
@toddboothbee1361 Жыл бұрын
Over the years I've learned to take pleasure in annoying others. The annoyed deserve to be annoyed.
@mrbushlied7742 Жыл бұрын
The boarding time is printed on your boarding card you can print 24 hours in advance.
@aminor7476 Жыл бұрын
I asked to get ahead of an international flight when I was caught in a traffic jam getting to the airport. Letting the agent know my situation, having TSA Pre-check, and Clear, saved me. I got onto my flight to France with only minutes before doors were closing. 🥲