How I Prepare to Travel

In a few short weeks my boyfriend and I will be travelling back to England. Although I love to travel the actual travel part is daunting. Going to the airport, going through security, boarding, flying and then getting to the destination is such a task and I don't think anyone enjoys it.

The one thing I am is prepared. The day before I go travelling I make sure that I am packed and ready to go then I double check and triple check. I hate buying something new when I know I have it at home. Everything I am planning on wearing I put out and make sure my wardrobe for the week matches and that I can wear every piece at least twice. I've learned this because in my family we almost never check baggage so its all on your carryon. The night before I take out all my toiletries and put them on the counter to ensure I have everything and that I can pack them up easily in the morning and I am ready to go. I get this from my Dad but I leave the luggage near the front door so we can just grab and go. The other thing might be obvious is to lay out your clothes that you are going to wear the next day, my goto outfit is always a loose fitting t-shirt, a pair of Lululemon leggings, my Muskoka crewneck sweater and vans shoes. I like to be comfortable and I find a lot of flights tend to be cold so I like to dress in layers so I can put on clothing or take it off as my temperature fluctuates.

Getting to the airport is such a hassle. In Toronto the airport is in the west end and I am always early for the flight so leaving early is a must. A few times when I have been downtown I have taken the UP Express which at the time was inexpensive and a great way to get to the airport with no traffic, luggage racks and wifi! When I can't get downtown easily I book an airport limo. You can do this in most major cities and they have a set rate and are always on time. I always feel so classy when I ride in the back of one and they help with my luggage getting in and out of the car.

Now everyone knows especially now the havoc that is the airports right now. After two years of being cooped up at home everyone wants to travel and I don't blame them but the lines, baggage issues and being short staffed it is crazy at the airport. Like they have been advising every get there early and pack your patience. Once through the nightmare of check in and security what I like to do is go to the bar and drink an over priced glass of wine, I always feel like I deserve it after awhile in long lines.

Soon after it is time to board and get seated. I know I want to watch a movie or two and will usually do something on my laptop. I can't sleep on planes so it's lucky that most airplanes have their own entertainment systems and I can be entertained while sitting on the flight. Airplane food has gotten better over the years and I usually enjoy my meal so there are good sides to being on a long flight.

Once I get to the other airport I tend to just sit in my seat until its time to go. I'm not one of those people who gets up as soon as the plane lands. Once I get out in the terminal I make sure I have my passport and all my documents ready to get through customs. Once I am clear I usually book it to the taxi stand or the train (especially if I am in Europe I always take the train its faster and cheaper).

Once booked into my hotel or airbnb I can finally relax for a few minutes before I go exploring. I hope you take a few tips and can travel a bit more comfortably especially going far.

Happy Travels and as always Happy Hygge!