The Gentlemen’s Corner w/ Colin Furcht- The Gentlemen’s Guide to Air Travel.

I’m sharing this week from a flight from Las Vegas, 30,000 feet in the sir. While I have not traveled extensively over my life, I have learned a few things, now that it’s become more frequent in my current job. Regardless of how often you fly, there’s always unknows, delays and other issues that make for a long day. Being prepared for as much as possible should make things a little less stressful and allow you to enjoy that fact that you are traveling somewhere new. Even if you’ve been there before.

How much planning can you really do?

Well, you are talking to a Master Planner! I have always tried to plan ahead in everything I do. Some may call it obsessive, I call it Risk Mitigation. Admittedly, I have never been able to anticipate everything, but I have always tried. Travel should be fun and enjoyable. Letting things out of your control negatively impact you, could make for a very long and tiresome schedule. Let’s dive into the things we CAN control and hope for the best!

1. Make sure you have your ID. Recently, all US airports are requiring a Real ID. It’s been in the works for many years but of course some folks didn’t get one and now they are freaking out. If you are reading this and already have one, good for you. If not, know that you can still fly with a US Passport. ALWAYS make sure to keep that current, just in case. Having your ID valid, even your drivers license, should always be a priority.
2. Check the Airlines app or website frequently. Flights are delayed and canceled every day. Gates change all the time. Making sure you are getting updates via your phone could mean the difference between making or missing your flight. The boards are there as a backup but unless you are sitting in front of one, you may miss that last-minute change.
3. Give yourself plenty of time. I’m the guy that shows up a few hours beforehand. You can never depend on the TSA line being short and there’s always something or someone that prevents you from buzzing through.  Take some of the stress away by getting to the airport early. Don’t forget TSA Precheck if you will be flying often. This could save hours   of time on a trip by using this service. For about $85, you can bypass the lines and just like at Disney, get the Magic Pass to your gate!
4. Try to find the Non-Stop flights. This should be a no brainer but if you don’t search for one, the default may add a stop. Depending on your destination, you may have to stop over somewhere. Always choose the non-stop option to shorten the overall travel time and lessen the risk of losing a bag. Choosing a different airline may help address this as well. Some smaller carriers might have direct flights to that smaller city.

5. Fly early. Over the past few years, many flights throughout the day are being delayed or cancelled. This generally happens after all the early flights head out. Something impacts them in the air or on the ground that now pushes all of the later flights. By getting on the first flight of the day, no matter how early, you reduce the risk of being caught in the domino effect throughout the day. Sure, this cannot be done all of the time, but it certainly could reduce risk.
6. Pack smart. ‘How much should I pack’ is the age-old question when we travel. Is it going to be hot or cold there? Do I need a jacket? How many outfits will I need per day? Is this a business trip or personal. I certainly won’t be able to address every scenario. You’re all big boys and should be able to figure that out. The only things I will leave you with are: extra underwear, don’t forget the belt and your phone charger. 
7. Charge your phone. I’ll say it again. Charge your phone before you get there, find every charging station you can and hopefully your flight has an outlet or a USB connection. You may even want to invest in a small portable charging brick to keep in your carry on. Having a dead or almost dead phone causes me more stress than any gate change. You just never know where you will be and not having a phone could be disastrous. Was that too dramatic?
8. Dress comfortably. Especially this time of year, dressing for the flight could be what makes the most difference. Being too hot to too cold is never a great way to travel. I believe it’s always easier to add than take away. Slide on shoes have become a standard for me, especially having to go through TSA. Don’t forget socks if you are bothered by walking in bare feet at the airport.
9. Remember where you parked. There’s nothing worse after a long flight home and you forget where you parked. Was it Long Term 1 or 2? Which letter did I park in? What aisle? Quick tip. As you are riding the shuttle to the terminal, put your parking information in your calendar on the day and time you are supposed to arrive. 

What about the points?

Yep, those are important too. Finding programs that maximize your purchases to your travel might save you thousands. Investigate the different cards and programs to find which one suits you best. It would be a Gentlemen’s Corner without referencing the Brotherhood. Make that Guys Trip happen! Traveling with the boys will create memories that you will talk about forever.  Plan far enough ahead to make sure you can get as many with you as possible. I think its time for one myself!

Take care of yourselves and your brotherhood!

Colin Furcht- BRO Beard Products CEO

Colin Furcht- BRO Beard Products CEO
Colin has been a long time Lake Norman resident and has been very active in the community. From Commissioner to founding the Lake Norman Lighted Christmas Boat Parade to now a featured Author and small business owner! His desire is to bring men together and encourage
them to reach out. He has always said, ‘look out for yourselves and each other.’ All men need a Brotherhood. www.brobeardproducts.shop

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