To help you have a stress-free journey, WestJet offers a variety of travel tips designed to make the process smoother and more enjoyable. Here’s an in-depth guide that covers everything from booking to arriving at your destination, ensuring you experience less hassle and more relaxation along the way.
1. Booking Your Flight
One of the first steps to ensuring a stress-free journey is booking your flight efficiently. WestJet recommends booking well in advance, especially during peak travel seasons like summer, winter holidays, or spring break. This not only guarantees you get your preferred flight times but often secures better fares. Consider flexible dates and times, and try to book flights during non-peak hours to avoid the crowds.
Tip:
Use WestJet’s online booking system, where you can easily choose your seat, book extra baggage, or even upgrade to premium or business class for extra comfort.
2. Prepare Your Documents Early
Ensure your travel documents are ready well before departure. You’ll need a valid passport for international travel, and in some cases, visas or other permits. Double-check the requirements for your destination and ensure that your passport will not expire within six months of your travel dates (a common rule for many countries).
Tip:
WestJet’s website offers a detailed list of country-specific document requirements to help you prepare.
3. Check-in Online
One of the most effective ways to reduce stress at the airport is to check in online. WestJet allows passengers to check in via its website or mobile app up to 24 hours before departure. This saves time at the airport and allows you to go straight to baggage drop or security, skipping the long lines at the check-in counter.
Tip:
Checking in online also gives you the advantage of choosing your preferred seat, ensuring you avoid being assigned a middle seat if that’s not your preference.
4. Pack Wisely
Packing efficiently can significantly reduce travel stress. Begin by checking WestJet’s baggage policies. Ensure your luggage complies with weight and size restrictions to avoid extra fees. WestJet provides clear baggage guidelines on its website, including information on checked baggage fees and carry-on allowances. Pack a carry-on bag with essentials like toiletries, a change of clothes, medications, and important documents in case your checked luggage is delayed.
Tip:
Consider using packing cubes to organize your belongings and keep your suitcase neat. Additionally, keep your electronics and liquids in easily accessible areas for quick removal during security screening.
5. Arrive Early at the Airport
Give yourself ample time to get through airport formalities, especially during busy travel seasons. WestJet recommends arriving at least two hours before domestic flights and three hours before international flights. Early arrival gives you time to navigate through security lines and deal with any unexpected issues without the stress of rushing.
Tip:
Many airports offer expedited services like priority security lines, which can be a time-saver, especially if you’re traveling with young children or have tight connections.
6. Use WestJet’s Mobile App
WestJet’s mobile app is a convenient tool for staying updated throughout your journey. Through the app, you can check your flight status, gate information, and even access mobile boarding passes. Having this information at your fingertips reduces anxiety, as you’ll be alerted of any changes like delays or gate changes in real-time.
Tip:
Download the app before your trip and familiarize yourself with its features. It also offers the option to track checked baggage, providing peace of mind that your luggage is on its way.
7. Security Screening Tips
Going through security can be one of the most stressful parts of flying, but with a little preparation, you can speed up the process. Remember to follow the 3-1-1 liquids rule: containers should not exceed 100ml, all liquids must fit in a single quart-sized bag, and the bag must be placed in the bin separately from your carry-on. Be prepared to remove your shoes, jacket, and electronics for scanning.
Tip:
Wear slip-on shoes and limit your accessories to avoid setting off alarms. Place your valuables in your carry-on before you reach the security line to avoid losing items during the screening