DNC Worldwide

You should ALWAYS arrive at the airport a minimum of 1 hour prior to your plane’s departure.  In today’s age of massive (and usually slow moving) security lines, I suggest arriving even 2 hours early.

You’ll have to do the following:

• Take your laptop out of it’s case
• Have all liquids, gels, etc, in an FAA approved zip lock bag, with no items being over 3.4 ounces (some airports will provide these for you, but not all of them will.  Err on the side of caution, bring your own!)
• Remove your belt
• Take off your shoes
• Empty any loose change from your pockets

Bearing that in mind, I always make sure to wear shoes that are easily removed, socks (can you imagine the number of people who walk barefoot through those checkpoints on a daily basis?  I shudder to think), no belt, and have my liquids conveniently placed in a bag that is easy to grab and throw into one of the bins.

Real jewelry (platinum, silver, gold) will not set off the metal detectors, but anything made of any other metal will.  Save yourself and the people behind you the grief and don’t wear any of it!

Remember that gates will frequently change.  Make sure you pay close attention to your gate and any announcements regarding your flight while waiting to get into the queue to board the plane.  I also suggest signing up for mobile alerts with your airline, which will text you with gate and flight information and any applicable changes.

When you pick up your rental car, never assume that they give you a car that’s in perfect condition.  Also, never assume that they have gone over the car with a fine toothed comb for any dents, scratches, or other issues with it.  Put your luggage away, and do a quick walk around the vehicle.  If you see anything wrong, alert the rental agent immediately.  This will cover you from facing any charges for something that you did not do.

Once you arrive at your destination and obtain your rental car, the hardest part is over.  Now you just have to find the hotel and get settled in!  I always make ‘friends’ with the front desk agent at the hotel where I stay.  They are an excellent source of information regarding everything from restaurants to the nearest dry cleaner.  Sometimes they can even offer you discounts or specials! And if they can’t, you can always google specific places + coupon code and you’ll be surprised with what comes up!