This week and next week I am doing something of which I have become unaccustomed, flying without status. Flying as regularly as I do now, having status on my favorite and most frequently flown airline, United, has made a WORLD of difference in my “daily” commute. With premier status the perks include  bags flying free, front of the line security access, free upgrades to first class (from already preferred economy plus seating), first boarding group on the plane, priority baggage off the plane…and the list goes on…

…The next two weeks I have none of this, which puts me in the casual flier versus road warrior realm of being.  So a couple of easy tips that I will be employing myself this week:

1.) Packing light to ensure no checked bags. Not only can the lines take forever just to check baggage, now just about every airline out there charges for them to fly. Taking only the bare essentials (and not the,” well maybe I might wear this” item) will save you both time and $$$$.

2.) Setting an alarm for check-in. Most (if not all) airlines allow you to check in 24 hours in advance online. When talking about an airline like Southwest, this is a crucial thing to do  to ensure the best opportunity for as early boarding as possible. The earlier you board, the better chance you will have overhead space available and your bags won’t have to get checked at the gate. No checked bags=no waiting at the destination.

3.) Getting to the airport 30 minutes earlier than normal. The security line is a constant moving target and without the luxury of the front of the line pass, I would rather be there with plenty of time to spare than being a stress case in line…. Plus, even if I’m not flying United, I still have Club access  and can enjoy a free cocktail while I wait 😉