A flight attendant has revealed her tips and tricks for those travelling over the festive period – including cheaper flights and festive in-flight dinners.
Esther Sturrus often hits the headlines due to her experience and knowledge as a flight attendant, where she shares the top hacks and secrets frequent flyers should know.
Previously, she revealed where hidden cameras are often found in hotel rooms, how to keep clothes fresh while travelling and who is truly deserving of the middle seat armrest.
The 22-year-old has now revealed her top tips for anyone flying over the festive period, whether it’s a short flight, or a long one – including secret in-the-air meals.
- Advertisement -
FESTIVE DINNERS:
Around this time of year, it’s normal to crave all the incredible food Christmas brings – from roast dinners to chocolates – and the flight attendant says these can be enjoyed while up in the skies.
“Many airports and airlines embrace the festive spirit by decorating terminals and planes,” Esther told NeedToKnow.co.uk.
“But some airlines even serve special holiday meals, adding a touch of celebration to the journey.”
PACKING:
It’s the question on everybody’s lips – pay for a check-in bag or shove everything into a carry on? But fear not, Esther has it covered.
She said: “During the Christmas period, I suggest packing all essentials into a carry on.
- Advertisement -
“You will be in and out of the airport rush much faster.”
ARRIVAL TIME:
Arriving early is essential for any flight – but this time, try and make it even earlier.
She said: “To avoid holiday crowds, get in early, get what you need, and go to your gate.”
- Advertisement -
BRING SOMETHING FESTIVE:
Festivities don’t just stop on the plane.
She said: “Bringing a festive spirit on board is the best start to a flight.
“Pack small holiday treats, or even decorations!”
EMAIL PASSPORT:
One of the most important tips, which can come in very handy for those forgetful minds, is to scan your passport and email it back to yourself.
The 22-year-old said: “Having proof of who you are is vital when travelling international flights.
“This is especially true if you are a victim of burglary or loss.”
SCORE CHEAPER FLIGHTS:
It’s no secret that flights, and travel in general, around this time of year is expensive.
But to save those pennies on travelling home for the holidays, the flight attendant recommends looking for flights in “private” mode.
Esther added: “Often, travel sites and airlines will record your browsing history by installing cookies on your browser.
“These companies know how often you visit their site and will typically raise the price because of your frequent visits.
“Therefore, by using private browsing, nothing can be tracked or traced.
“During Christmas, airlines often experience a surge in passengers, leading to increased demand for flights.
“So additionally, being patient and understanding can go a long way during busy holiday flights.”
Esther, from Rotterdam, dreamed about working for airlines since she was a young girl and at the age of 16, she attended an aviation course.
After three years, she got a role for TUI, before moving onto KLM.
