Before I jump into additional fees airlines charge when traveling internationally, let me first offer some tips that may make your next long haul trip a more bearable and less stressful experience.
Just as in domestic travel, I recommend packing in your carry on:
A sandwich (PB or PB&J work well because no refrigeration is required)
An empty, disposable 16-32 oz. (1/2 - 1 Liter) plastic water bottle (to fill up at the drinking fountain after you pass through security and before you board the plane).
Other (non-liquid) snacks (no applesauce, yogurt, etc...)
A book, magazine, or something to do on a layover or on the plane
Any medications needed (If perscription, make sure you have the perscription info with you; if non-perscription, make sure you follow TSA guidelines as to size (eg. 4 oz. OTC cough syrup). Better yet, avoid liquid medications if a pill alternative is possible. It may speed security and it will eliminate the chance of a mess in your carry on!
A travel pillow (if you want one)
Other items as desired (camera, cell phone, laptop, etc..)
Arrive at the airport at least 2 (or more) hours in advance of your international flight. If traveling from a major hub airport such as LAX, Chicago, Atlanta, or JFK, allow even more time (3 or more hours depending on TSA, airport, or airline guidelines).
Keep your passport in a safe place on your person AT ALL TIMES. Carry a photocopy of your passport picture page in another location separate from your actual passport, and leave another photocopy at home with a friend or family member. If you plan to use a travel pouch, make it one that fits discretely underneath your clothes. Don't look like a tourist with their money pouch on display for all to see.
Once On Board the Aircraft:
Try to sleep as much as possible. Avoid the temptation to watch all the movies and TV programs available in your personal seatback entertainment system.
Drink, Drink, Drink (water, that is). Avoid alcohol or caffeine. These disrupt your sleep cycle. Ask for water from the flight attendant when you are thirsty, or drink what you brought on board. NEVER drink the water from an airplane lavatory (bathroom).
Stand up and Stretch, Elevate your feet. If possible, get up and move around every hour or two. If the seatbelt sign is on, stretch your legs as far underneath the seat in front of you as possible. Tighten and relax the various muscle groups. Do neck rolls, shoulder rolls, or other similar movements to stay as loose as possible. If you are lucky enough to be on a plane with empty seats next to you or near you, stretch out over the adjacent seat(s). Even two seats together will allow you to put your feet up a little (take your shoes off first, and stow them underneath the seat in front of you).
Set your watch to the local time at your destination. Try to adjust your sleep/wake cycle to the time at your destination from the moment you board your international flight. If you arrive at your destination during the day, try to wait until evening before going to bed. It will help ease the jet lag, and hopefully start you off on the right foot on your first full day in country.
Questions? Comments? Advice from other international travelers? I'd love to hear from you!
Josh
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