Since many members of the TPG staff are often on the move, we've each developed our own way of preparing. The entire travel journey has become second nature. In this guide, four TPG staffers will give their travel tips.
You'll see some tips that you're familiar with, like Priority Pass lounge access, but we'll also cover lesser-known suggestions like the right time to withdraw cash from an ATM with no fees.
Let's get into it.
People will tell you to dress nicely while packing. There are shoes, socks, pants.
The same concept is used when packing my bag. I visualize the trip and think about what I need and how I will use it. The first things I put in my backpack are things I won't need in the near future. Between home and my final destination, the items I'll need to use are the ones I can reach easiest.
My phone, wallet, and headphones are included. You won't be able to get your ID or passport at the security checkpoint, so you need to pack them first. It will slow you down at security, slow you down when trying to buy coffee at the airport, and frustrate you when you dig in your carry-on bag for headphones during your flight.
Put the items you won't need in your carry-on bag. The easiest thing to get is the last item. Along the way, you'll need these items: ID, wallet, medications, phone charge, and so on.
My day-of- travel habits are the same no matter where I go. If I need to be up at a certain time, I always set an alarm on my phone and device. I pack as much as I can the night before, leaving just the items I'll need to use in the morning to pack on my trip.
I check out the airport lounges on my way to the airport if I'm flying. If I'm driving, I take into account where I might want to stop for a meal or a break before I hit the road.
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I check for priority lanes at the airport that I might be able to use if I travel internationally. Sometimes my status, fare type or credit card can help shorten lines. I go to the lounge or the seating area in the terminal to get some work done.
I check my Airalo Discover Global eSIM before I board my flight to make sure it covers my destination. If that's the case, I check the Airalo app for the network name and the settings I need when I get to my destination. Should I buy a different eSIM for my trip?
If I have a long time in the lounge or airport terminal at my origin or connecting point, I'll set an alarm on my phone for 15 minutes before my flight. At this point, I can get to a stop in my work, grab a snack and check my flight is on time.
If I'm in a country that doesn't have a currency I can't use, I'll visit an ATM to get cash. I don't have to worry about the high fees airport ATMs charge because my Charles Schwab card reimburses fees at ATMs around the world. If I'm traveling internationally, I can also purchase a local sim card at the airport.
Unless it's late, unsafe or extremely hot out, I take a walk around the property after unpacking. It's important to get used to your lodging and neighborhood on your first day.
Most of my prep is done the night before I leave so I leave early in the morning.
I double-check my packing list before I go to bed to make sure I have everything I need for the day. I check to make sure I have the right credit cards in my wallet and snacks to get me through the day if there is an unforeseen delay. After laying out my ID and programing my coffee maker, I will be able to leave.
I check to see if my flight is on time when I get up. I double check my bag to make sure I have everything I need. Even if the airport coffee shops aren't open yet, I still drink my coffee in a disposable cup in the car. I don't want to have to pay for coffee on the plane.
When I get to the airport, I fill up my water bottle and buy another one. I always drink water on travel day.
I usually plan my flights in the afternoon to maximize my time in my hometown.
When I can, I use public transportation to get to the airport, so I'll look at maps and websites to find my way. If I use my Chase Reserve Card, I can earn 2 Delta SkyMiles per dollar on airport rides and 10 Chase Ultimate rewards per dollar.
I will do my best to not check my luggage. There is no guarantee that your bag will be on your next flight if your flight is delayed or canceled. I once had to wait for several days for a gate-checked bag after the plane developed a maintenance problem and all passengers had to deplane.
I have a complimentary Clear membership because of my premier 1k status with United. I usually get through security in less than five minutes.
I used to be able to use credit card lounge access, but with full American Express Centurion Lounges and underwhelmed United Clubs, I've started looking to lesser-known ways to "kill" time in airports. I check out the partner lounges when I have Star Alliance Gold status as you can't access anything but the United Club. The Air Canada Maple Leaf Club is located in the terminal next to United. The Turkish Airlines lounge is a good bet. The baklava is amazing if you get there.
Plaza Premium lounges are accessible with the Capital One Venture X rewards credit card. The Virgin Atlantic lounges are located at IAD and SFO.
The Captial One lounge at Dallas Fort Worth International Airport was amazing. A lot of grab-and-go options were available. I rode my bike over the taxiway at DFW after lunch. There was a long line out of the club.
I always check LoungeBuddy to find out what lounges I have access to. It's time to get on the plane. If it's in your power, you need to get on board before the overhead bins fill up.
I use the App in the Air to be notified of flights. I will usually be notified of flight delays before the gate agent or pilot picks up the PA. You can see your mileage statistics and flight patterns with the app in the Air.
The best way to have a stress-free and enjoyable experience is to have a game plan. A contingency plan is part of the game plan. Where is the next flight going to go? Is there any other lounges that you can use?
You will get into a routine that you like. Maybe you will start to enjoy it if you are like us.
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