10 Tips for Stress-Free Family Travel on Southwest Airlines
Traveling with your family can be an incredible experience. Exploring new horizons, immersing yourself in new cultures, and making unforgettable memories with your loved ones can be a source of joy and fulfillment. However, travel can also bring a lot of stress, especially if you’re not well-prepared. In this article, we’ll share with you ten tips for stress-free family travel on Southwest Airlines.
Tip #1: Book Early and Plan Ahead
One of the keys to stress-free family travel is careful planning. Booking your flights early and planning your itinerary in advance can save you a lot of time, money, and hassle. Southwest Airlines offers an easy-to-use website with plenty of resources to help you plan your trip, from flight schedules to destination guides. Take the time to research your destination, book your flights, and plan your activities ahead of time.
Tip #2: Pack Smart
Packing can be a headache, especially when you’re traveling with kids. Make sure to pack essentials such as medication, snacks, and entertainment devices. Check with Southwest Airlines for their baggage allowance and restrictions. You can also save time and money by shipping your luggage ahead of time or using Southwest Airlines’ baggage delivery service.
Tip #3: Arrive Early
Getting to the airport early can reduce stress and give you time to check in, go through security, and board your flight comfortably. Southwest Airlines recommends arriving at least two hours before your domestic flight and three hours before your international flight. You can also use Southwest Airlines’ EarlyBird Check-In service to secure your boarding position and avoid the rush.
Tip #4: Choose Family-Friendly Accommodations
Look for family-friendly hotels and resorts that offer amenities such as kids’ clubs, swimming pools, and babysitting services. Southwest Airlines also partners with several hotels and resorts to offer exclusive deals and packages that can make your travel more affordable and enjoyable.
Tip #5: Use Mobile Check-In and Boarding Pass
Southwest Airlines offers a mobile check-in and boarding pass service that allows you to check in and board your flight using your smartphone. This can save you time and avoid the hassle of printing out boarding passes.
Tip #6: Get TSA Pre✓®
TSA Pre✓® is a program that allows you to expedite security screening at participating airports. This can save you time and reduce stress at the airport. Southwest Airlines offers TSA Pre✓® for eligible customers, so be sure to sign up if you’re eligible.
Tip #7: Bring Entertainment for Kids
Traveling with kids can be challenging, especially when they get bored or restless on flights. Bring plenty of age-appropriate entertainment, such as books, games, and movies to keep them occupied. Southwest Airlines offers free in-flight entertainment, including movies, TV shows, and music, which can also help keep your kids entertained.
Tip #8: Use Southest Airlines’ Family Boarding
Southwest Airlines offers Family Boarding for families with kids under six, which allows you to board the flight ahead of general boarding. This gives you more time to settle in and get comfortable with your kids.
Tip #9: Take Advantage of Southwest Airlines’ Perks
Southwest Airlines offers many perks that can make your family travel more comfortable and affordable. These include free checked bags, no change fees, and unlimited reward seats. Make sure to sign up for Southwest Airlines’ Rapid Rewards program to earn points and redeem them for free flights.
Tip #10: Stay Calm and Flexible
Finally, the key to stress-free travel is to stay calm and flexible. Traveling with kids can be unpredictable, so be prepared to deal with unexpected situations, such as flight delays or cancellations. Stay flexible and keep a positive attitude, and you’re sure to have a great time.
In conclusion, family travel on Southwest Airlines can be a fun and stress-free experience, as long as you plan ahead, pack smart, arrive early, and take advantage of Southwest Airlines’ perks and services. By following these tips, you’ll be able to make unforgettable memories with your family and enjoy your travel to the fullest.
