This article is for those who are taking to the friendly skies this spring break, flying to warmer scenes than the balmy temps of Radford. The following tips should help alleviate some of the stress and make the journey more pleasant, and grant some peace of mind. 

Prepping For Flight

First things first, you will want to ensure that all your documents are in order before you make your way to your flight. Start by making sure that you have all the needed identification to go through security. In May 2025, the Real I.D. law went into effect, requiring supporting documentation for all state-issued licenses and I.D.s. This now makes it mandatory for you to have it when flying domestically without a passport, according to the Department of Transportation. If you don’t have one but do have a passport, you are set, though I recommend getting the Real I.D. to avoid any hassles at the terminal. One important note on passports: make sure that your passport is up to date and has the correct visa stamps, especially if you are traveling outside the United States. While I, myself, have never had a passport and traveled overseas on military orders, the process is essentially the same. 

In the same vein of advice with passports and I.D.s, it is advisable to keep some cash on hand while you are going from airport to airport. This can do two things at once for you: one, it will help keep you from overspending on the trip, and two, it gives you a chance to exchange it if you are going overseas. This way, you have readied funds for when you land. One other useful part for cash is that, if it’s stolen, then only that is stolen and not your bank or credit card. 

Zen Traveler

In other articles I have written on travel, I encourage mindful traveling, that being present in the moment, mitigating any complications. This is no different. One of the most effective ways to keep air travel sanity, arrive early. Give yourself some time before you are supposed to board to get to the airport and go through security. This also helps plan in case of delays to find other flights out to your destination. 

As my mother is always fond of saying, “pack your patience”. Delays, inconveniences, and Murphy’s law are always in effect, and you will need to take some patience while traveling by air. The time between your arrival and flight can be filled with some things to keep you preoccupied, like reading a book (check out our book reviews for some new material!).

Another tip for being a Zen Traveler is packing light. I wrote an article previously about how to Travel like a Pro, where I talked about the importance of only packing what you need. Air travel with luggage is no different. The mindset for air travel, especially overseas air travel, is “less is more”. A single carry-on with just the essentials, passport and I.D., book, phone, tablet (should you take one), and I recommend a notebook and pen. The addition of a notebook gives you a chance to write down things that you want to do and organize yourself while you are on spring break. If you have space, pack a spare outfit in case of unexpected missing luggage. As luggage goes, if you check a bag, I recommend making sure that it is tagged with your name, address, and email written clearly on it. This way if something happens, you can claim it, or it can be found and returned. I also recommend writing this in the luggage somewhere in Sharpie for the same reason. 

Situational Awareness

I have always maintained that utilizing an attitude of “Urban Camouflage” will keep you safe while on the move. There is a slight modification to my previous statements and to my previous article. Headphones offer you a moment of public privacy while traveling. While it would be advisable to wait until you are aboard the plane before using them, they can offer some sense of apprehension mitigation while in the terminal. 

Something I suggest, especially to new flyers, is to call a designated person and let them know where you are and when you get to your destination. This may be a little different if you are traveling overseas, but contacting loved ones or friends will help keep you safe. 

Keeping Travel Anxiety at Bay

As it may go without saying, staying comfortable while traveling is very important to keep anxiety at bay. Consider a pair of knockaround pants or chinos, slip-on shoes, and a polo shirt for comfort. For those who are not fashionistas, knockaround pants are a pair of cargo pants that have a drawstring. Military surplus fatigue pants are also good for comfort. Adding to that comfort, I also suggest a pullover hoodie or zip-up hoodie as it helps keep you warm and offers a flexible level of travel anonymity. 

Another suggestion is one that may require some planning: traveling with friends. Even if you go separate ways, traveling with friends always beats having to go alone, especially if you are going overseas or on a flight for the first time. If you plan to go with your friends and head to another country, it would be advantageous if you knew a foreign language. Even if it is very basic, knowing a foreign language can help add to the experience of your trip. In thirty-five years, I have learned three languages conversationally and know how to read and write others. This can offer you a chance at an experience that can be unforgettable. 

Remember, stay safe while traveling and have fun. Spring break may only be a week, but that week can be the most memorable one yet. As St. Augustine said, “The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only a page.” Travel often and fill your book with many stories and adventures; it’s the best education you can get outside of school. Stay safe and curious friends. 

Reviewed and Edited by Kien Powell