Prepare for your trip: things not to do at an airport

In the hustle and bustle of international airports, it's essential to move around with confidence and security. Every detail, from baggage handling to internet access, has a significant impact on your travel experience. Even an inadvertent violation of certain rules can cause major setbacks and unwanted delays.

We want to tell you about 9 crucial points to avoid at international airports to ensure a smooth and uncomplicated transit, allowing you to start your trip in the best possible way.

1. Ignoring safety regulations

One of the most common mistakes people make at international airports is ignoring established security rules. These rules are designed to protect passengers and ensure an efficient boarding process.

From size limits for carry-on luggage to restrictions on liquids and sharp objects, it's crucial to familiarize yourself with security regulations before heading to the airport. Failure to comply with these rules can result in delays, confiscation of belongings, or even being denied boarding.

2. Being careless with your luggage

It is imperative to always keep your luggage in sight and never accept requests to carry bags or packages from strangers. Ignorance of the contents of someone else's luggage does not exempt you from responsibility to airport security authorities. This precaution is essential to avoid becoming involved in problematic or dangerous situations, as prohibited items or substances not permitted in the boarding area or in the destination country may be hidden in other people's luggage.

3. Arriving late to the airport

Arriving late at the airport is a stressful situation we all want to avoid. International airports are often crowded, and the check-in, security, and immigration processes can take time. Furthermore, international flights generally have stricter schedules. Therefore, it's essential to plan well in advance to ensure a smooth start to your trip.

The amount of time you need to arrive at the airport can vary depending on whether your flight is domestic or international. Here are some general guidelines:

• Domestic flights:

For domestic flights, it's recommended to arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before your scheduled departure time. This will give you enough time to check in, go through security, and board your flight without rushing.

• International flights:

If you're flying international, it's best to arrive at the airport at least 3 hours in advance. International flights often involve more rigorous security and immigration checks, so it's essential to have extra time to complete these procedures smoothly.

It's important to remember that these are general timeframes and may vary depending on the airport, airline, and time of year. Occasionally, factors such as special events or adverse weather conditions may require an even earlier arrival at the airport. Therefore, it's advisable to check the airline's policy and verify your flight status before departure.

4. Not having documents in order

Travel documents are essential for crossing international borders. Lacking the proper documentation can lead to significant complications with immigration authorities and, in extreme cases, even result in being denied entry to your destination country. Before embarking on your trip, it is crucial to thoroughly review your documents to ensure a smooth journey.

To make this task easier for you, we provide a detailed checklist of documents you should make sure you have before starting your adventure:

• Passport: Check that your passport is valid for the entire duration of your trip. Some countries require your passport to be valid for a minimum of six months to one year from the date of entry.
• Visas: Research and ensure you obtain the necessary visas for the countries you plan to visit. Visa requirements can vary depending on your nationality and the purpose of your trip. Check with the embassy or consulate of your destination country for up-to-date visa information.
• Additional identification: You may wish to carry additional identification, such as a driver's license or national identity card, in addition to your passport, for use in local situations.
• Reservations and confirmations: Bring printed or digital copies of your flight, accommodation, and any other service bookings. This can be helpful in case of immigration questions or booking issues.
• Travel insurance: Make sure you have a copy of your travel insurance policy and the contact numbers in case of emergency. Travel insurance is essential to cover unexpected medical expenses, flight cancellations, and other unforeseen events.
• Vaccination card: If you are traveling to countries that require vaccination certificates, such as for yellow fever, make sure you bring the necessary documents with you.
• Document backups: Store digital copies of all your documents in a secure cloud account. You may also consider keeping additional physical copies in a separate folder.
• Emergency contacts: Carry a list of emergency contacts, including phone numbers of family or friends and contact information for your country's embassy or consulate at your destination.
• Travel itinerary: Leave a copy of your travel itinerary with someone you trust in case they need to locate you in an emergency.

This checklist will help you ensure you have all the necessary documents for a smooth trip. Remember that requirements can vary depending on your destination and nationality, so it's important to research in advance and keep your documents organized and secure throughout your trip.

From Conecty we bring you a complete travel guide on what to pack for your trip to Europe.

5. Connecting to Public WiFi Networks at the Airport

Avoiding public Wi-Fi networks at airports is crucial for protecting your personal and sensitive information. While they may seem like a convenient way to wait for your flight, these networks often lack adequate security measures, making them a perfect target for cybercriminals who can easily access your data, passwords, and personal information. Opt for using your mobile data or, if you must connect to a Wi-Fi network, ensure it's a secure and reliable one, preferably using a VPN (Virtual Private Network) to add an extra layer of security to your connection.

6. Inappropriate behavior

Behaving inappropriately, rudely, or aggressively toward airport staff or other passengers can cause problems and even lead to legal penalties. Remember that airport staff are there to ensure the safety of all travelers, and treating them with respect will make your experience and everyone else's better.

7. Failure to respect customs restrictions

Customs restrictions vary from country to country and may include limits on the amount of cash you can carry, restrictions on the import of certain foods and items, and other regulations. Failure to comply with these restrictions can result in fines or even confiscation of goods. Before traveling, familiarize yourself with the customs restrictions of the country you will be visiting and ensure you strictly adhere to them.

The use of electronic devices, especially mobile phones, is widespread in international airports. However, each country may have different regulations regarding the use of these devices in specific areas of the airport. Some countries may prohibit the use of electronic devices in certain areas or require mobile phones to be in airplane mode during the flight. Be sure to familiarize yourself with local regulations and follow the instructions of airport staff to avoid problems and ensure a smooth experience.

8. Lack of preparation in communication during the trip

Staying connected while traveling is essential for keeping in touch with loved ones and accessing important information. However, many travelers make the mistake of not being prepared in this regard.

Using your regular data plan abroad can result in exorbitant roaming charges and connectivity limitations. It's also important to have a data plan for viewing your bookings, communicating with your transportation provider, in case you need information at Customs that you haven't downloaded, or if you arrive at an airport where you don't understand the language.

To avoid this problem, get a reliable SIM/eSIM , like those offered by Conecty. These solutions let you enjoy high-quality mobile data in a wide range of countries, without worrying about excessive costs when you return home. Conecty stands out for its exceptional coverage, which spans more than 190 destinations worldwide, ensuring reliable connectivity at all times, even during layovers in different countries.

Choosing a quality SIM/eSIM like the one offered by Conecty allows you to enjoy an uninterrupted travel experience, with the priority of providing you with exceptional service and reliable connectivity in any corner of the world.

Traveling can be exciting, but it can also present challenges if you don't take the rules and regulations into account. Avoiding the eight things mentioned in these recommendations will help you maintain a pleasant and hassle-free experience while passing through international airports.