Valet Connections: Part 2 of Our Winter Roundup Edition

Last week, we shared part one of our two-part series: Winter Roundup. In today’s edition, we’ll give you tips on how to get through the airport faster, followed up by things you should never do before a flight. If you want to schedule DTW valet service, call us at (734) 992-4946.

1.    Here’s How to Get Through the Airport Faster This Winter

Every minute counts when trying to get to DTW airport, especially with winter weather throwing a wrench into the works. Using DTW airport parking makes it all easier and faster. Heed these tips too.

Check Flight Status

Before leaving your house, check the airline’s website ensure your flight remains on time. It’s wise to sign up for automatic flight status updates if the airline offers this feature. You may as well check in online while you’re doing that.

Buy Proper Travel Gear

If you’re like most travelers, you bring too much stuff and don’t use a majority of it. But there are some things, such as TSA-friendly laptop cases, clear toiletry bags, and slip-on shoes, that can make airport navigation much easier.

Make Documents Easily Accessible

Prior to leaving home, make sure you have your ID, credit cards, passports and boarding passes and that they can all be easily accessed from your purse or bag. This is an important last-minute check for peace of mind, plus it will save you a lot of time and hassle when waiting in line later on.

Weigh Bags

Many airports have scales at all the check-in areas where you can assess your suitcase’s weight. This is a good idea, as it will give you plenty of time to make any necessary switches between pieces of luggage before reaching customer service where the pressure is on. They also sell luggage scales online and in stores, so you can always invest in your own and check the weight at home.

Book Valet Parking Service

Why waste time circling all the lots looking for a parking space when you can book DTW valet parking ahead of time?

Know Where You’re Going

View the map of the airport before leaving, learn your hotel shuttle info and timelines, and apprise yourself of where the rental car counter is located. Download DTW airport’s flight tracker app so you can easily check flight status updates, as well as the location of the gate and baggage claim.

Put Important Items in Your Carry-On

All important documents besides your boarding pass and license should be kept in your carry-on bag. This way you won’t be scrambling through your pockets as you reach your turn on the security line.

Be Aware

Take inventory of what will be needed to show security and know the accessories you will have to remove when going through the scanner. When you are aware of your surroundings, it’s easy to jump into action as your turn approaches.

2.    Things You Should Never Do Before a Flight

Here’s a look at some things you should not do before a flight. The biggest one is to NOT forget to book your DTW airport parking well before the flight.

DON’T Scramble Through Your Carry-on at Security

Sort your carry-on bag and contents while at home. Double-check which foods and toiletries are TSA-approved. If you wait till the last minute at the airport, you will have to toss unapproved items or quantities, or chug that bottle of water or juice.

DON’T Pack Travel Documents in Your Suitcase

Some things you should never pack in your suitcase include ID, boarding pass, phone, or passport. Instead, keep these critical items in your purse or outer compartment of a carry-on bag so you can easily grab them when needed.

DON’T Board Without a Transit Plan

It’s likely that you’ve been so stressed on getting to the airport for the first leg of the trip that you haven’t put much thought into what will happen at the other end. Will you be calling for a taxi or Uber to your hotel? Will you be renting a car? Do you need to hop on a shuttle? Figure all this out beforehand.

DON’T Buy Day-of Travel Insurance

Don’t wait till the last minute to buy travel insurance. If you’re going to do it, make the purchase at least a day ahead of travel day. Waiting till the day of makes it hard to snag a comprehensive travel insurance policy, or even one at all.

DON’T Buy Concessions

Bring TSA-approved snacks from home rather than spending a fortune on food at restaurants and kiosks around the airport. They should be stored in an easily-accessible bag in your carry-on for easy access.

DON’T Show Up On Time

Always get to the airport early. Even being on time can morph into a panic situation if you find yourself in a long line or got caught in traffic. It is far better to sit at the terminal with a cup of coffee and book than to run frantically through the airport.

DON’T Have a Cocktail Before Takeoff

First off, alcoholic beverages are ridiculously expensive in an airport. Secondly, even if you just have a single cocktail in lounge, it can feel like you downed a few upon takeoff, as pressurized airplanes have less oxygen. You’re better off having a ginger ale to stave off possible motion sickness, saving the cocktail indulgence for the resort pool.

DON’T Exchange Currency in the Airport

Be aware of foreign currency exchanges at the airport. In this country, prices can be higher and include an exchange rate fee. Essentially you are paying more to exchange currency, leaving with less than when you arrived thanks to this unfair exchange rate. It’s wiser to wait till you leave the airport before making an exchange. Not only will you get more favorable rates, the banking institution or hotel can assist you in these transactions.

What You SHOULD Do: Book Parking Beforehand

Reserving your spot with Valet Connections before you fly brings peace of mind!

Contact Valet Connections DTW Parking

We hope you found this second edition of our winter roundup helpful. Now it’s time to follow up on booking those parking accommodations! Contact us at (734) 992-4946 today.

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