Searching for cheap airline tickets

The most popular ways of booking an airline ticket are:

• Through a traditional travel agency
• Directly at the airline via phone or walk-in
• On the Internet

In today's blog I will mainly focus on finding good prices using the Internet.
Keep in mind that making your own booking on the Internet is not always the cheapest as travel agencies might get discounted prices. See more on Travel Agents

Be informed

It is necessary to know what airlines service the routes you want to fly - take a look at the arrivals and departures on the airport's website or query online booking and airline websites.
Keep up to date with special offers, register for newsletters on the relevant booking sites or airlines, and consider becoming a fan or follower on their social media websites.

Be Flexible

In order to get the best deal you need to be flexible.
Consider different travel dates - travelling on a Friday, Sunday or Monday may be more expensive. Travelling before or after holidays are more expensive but travelling on the date of the holiday e.g New Years day can be much cheaper.
Airport taxes are a big part of the final price, consider different airports that are close to your destination. London for example has two major airports with different airport tax charges.
Direct flights are more popular and therefore likely to be more expensive, consider taking a connecting flight via the airline's hub.
You can sometimes pay less when travelling with different airlines, but be aware of the pitfalls. You will have different booking references for each flight and your luggage will not be booked through to your final destination. When you make such a booking via a travel agent you are more likely to get one booking reference and your luggage will be booked to your final destination. This is also more likely to happen on code sharing airlines.

Best time to buy

This is a tricky one, it really depends on the airline or booking site.
Some airlines adjust their prices during the week and according to some Internet sources the best day to buy a ticket might be on a Tuesday afternoon.
Some airlines will offer a variety of tickets at different prices, these prices will stay the same for a specific flight but discounted tickets will sell out first, and its best to book as soon as possible.
Some airlines offer last minute specials to fill their seats.
Remember prices are mainly determined by supply and demand, fuel prices and airport taxes.

Compare prices

Compare prices on various airline websites, play around with travel dates and routes.
Make use of online booking sites / comparative sites to compare prices for different airlines, routes and travel dates.
Note - Always make use of a trusted service and secure website.

Additional charges

Some airlines (mostly low cost airlines) as well as some booking sites may add fees to the advertised ticket price, always be aware of what check boxes are ticked by default and make sure you know what the final price is before confirming your booking.

Legislation in some countries require booking sites / airlines to have clear pricing with no hidden fees. There might still be additional fees e.g. baggage fees, but this must then be clearly indicated.

There are very good booking sites that are upfront on all charges, look for a reputable site that has been in business for some time.

Most major airlines tend to be transparent on their pricing structures, with the advertised price being the final price.

Additional fees might include:

• Airport taxes
• Checked baggage fees - especially on low cost airlines
• Carry-on charges - especially on low cost airlines
• Extra charges for bulkhead seats
• Extra charges for same day flights
• Extra charges for refreshments - especially on low cost airlines
• Reservation / booking fees
• Price differences on ticket classes
• Extra charges for seat selection / reservation of seat - especially on low cost airlines
• Credit or debit card fees
• Extra charges for one-way tickets
• Fuel surcharges
• Checking in at the airport

Low cost airlines

Best when you are:

• Flying local with little or no luggage.
• Don't expect any frills, entertainment or refreshments.
• Have no seating preference.

When an airline charge baggage fees, make sure to declare your baggage when you check in online as most will charge more when you declare your baggage at the airport.

 

Legislation

USA
"The new rules also will make it easier for passengers to determine the full price they will have to pay for air transportation prior to travel.  Under the new requirements, all mandatory taxes and fees must be included together in the advertised fare.  In addition, airlines and ticket agents will be required to disclose baggage fees to consumers when they book a flight online.  The first screen containing a fare quotation for a specific itinerary must show if there will be additional baggage fees, and inform consumers where they can go to see these fees.  Information on baggage fees also must be included on all e-ticket confirmations, and for most trips the same baggage allowances and fees must apply throughout a passenger’s journey."


Europe
"Booking online – clear pricing
When you book a flight online, the total price of the ticket – including all compulsory elements such as taxes and charges –  must be visible from the start, so you can compare prices across airlines and make an informed choice.
As well as the final price, at least the following information must be clearly displayed: air fare, taxes, airport charges, other charges, surcharges or fees (such as for security or fuel).
Any optional supplements must be clearly indicated and suggested on an opt-in basis only."

Final thoughts

Its always best to make an informed decision.
If you are comfortable with the price, buy your ticket, you have no guarantee that the price will stay the same of go down.
Discounted tickets and specials sell out very quickly, if you want to make use of it, do it as soon as possible.

The cheapest price is not always the best deal. Take baggage allowances, refreshments and comfort into consideration and make sure there are no hidden or additional fees.

Lufthansa Economy Class Airbus A321 LH1276 - review #2

Route

LH1276,  Frankfurt to Malta Luqa, 10 October 2012. This is the second review of this route, you can view the previous review here

Duration

2 hours 25 min.

On time departure and arrival

Departed on time.
Arrived on time.

Ground crew and check-in

We checked in online 23 hours before the flight, as part of a connecting flight from Johannesburg.
Our bags were booked through to Malta, so there were no need to collect luggage. For our connecting flight we had to go through security again.
Our printed online boarding passes served as boarding tickets.
The counters were handled by Lufthansa staff.
Ground staff was friendly.

Boarding procedure

Priority boarding for business class passengers, families with small children and assisted passengers.
This flight was fully booked and the crew asked passengers to board by row number, but most passengers ignored it.
The electronic boarding gates were not use, and the ground staff scanned our tickets.
We boarded via a mobile bridge.

Luggage allowance

Hand luggage - One carry on bag 8kg max
Checked luggage - 23kg

Seating

Number of seats - 200 in total, economy has limited recline seats. Lufthansa refitted most of their regional aircraft with new seats. These new seats are very comfortable and allow for generous leg room.
The seating configuration depends on how many business class seats are allocated.
Emergency exit row seats cannot be book online, they are allocated when checking in at the counters.

We sat in row 25 B and C, a two-seater row. These seats are nice if you are travelling as a couple, but they cannot recline and they seem to be a tad narrower than the other seats, although I am not 100% sure.
There were limited locker space available in row 25 B and C because of a storage box. See the attached pictures.
View more information at  Lufthansa A321 seatmap or Seatguru A321 Economy seat information

Amenities

None.

Entertainment

Newspapers were available at the boarding gate waiting area. In-flight magazine available in seat pocket.

In-flight communication

None

Meals and refreshments

Breakfast
We were served yoghurt and fruit.
Any special meals must be pre-ordered when you make your reservation.
Coffee, tea, beer, wine and other beverages were served after our meal.

Toilets

The toilets were kept clean, economy class can only use the toilets at the back of the aircraft. I feel that there are not enough toilets on this plane/flight.
Basin to wash hands and brush teeth.

In-flight shopping

Available.

Travelling with Children

Milk and baby food can be warmed up by the cabin crew.
Read more on Lufthansa - Travelling with children.

Crew

I found the crew competent and friendly. Instructions were given in German and English.

Disembarking

Business class disembarked first. We took a short bus ride to the terminal building.

Overall opinion

What I liked
The new seats are very comfortable and the breakfast tasty and healthy.
The plane was quiet with not too many rattles and noise.

Not so good
There are only toilets at the back of the plane, this can be a problem when food is being served or in flight shopping trolleys are blocking the aisle. Watch out for limited recline and overhead locker space on the two-seater rows.

Limited space in overhead locker - Row 25 B,C



Row 25 D and E




Breakfast













Lufthansa Economy Airbus A380-800 - LH573

Route

LH573,  Johannesburg  to Frankfurt, 09 October 2012.

Duration

10 hours 45 min

On time departure and arrival

Departed and arrived on time.

Ground crew and check-in

We were able to check in online 23 hours before the flight.
We dropped off our luggage at the Lufthansa check-in counters.
Passports and visa's are checked before you can proceed to the check-in counters.
Ground staff was friendly and very helpful.

Boarding procedure

Priority boarding for first and business class passengers, families with small children and assisted passengers. Boarding cards were manually scanned by the ground crew.
We boarded via a mobile bridge.

Luggage allowance

Hand luggage - One carry on bag 8kg max
Checked luggage - One bag not exceeding 23kg , Lufthansa make use of the Piece concept for luggage

Seating

Number of seats - 420 in economy
Emergency exit row seats cannot be book online, they are allocated when checking in at the counters.
Seat pitch - 78.74 cm (31")
Seat width - 43.18 cm (17")
Recline at 113 degrees

View more information at  Lufthansa A380 seatmap or Seatguru A380 Economy seat information

We sat in row 73 against the bulkhead. These seat have normal recline, the toilets are behind them and this can be a nuisance.
The overhead locker space was adequate for the middle rows, but the ones for seats H-K had newspaper and magazines stored in them so they have limited space. See attached photo.
The armrests in the middle fold away completely.

Amenities

Small cushion and blanket. Headsets were handed out after boarding and collected just before landing.

Entertainment

German and English newspapers were available upon boarding. In-flight magazine available in seat pocket.
Personal touchscreen monitor with remote control. The selection of movies was a bit limited in my opinion, but still enough to keep you entertained on a 10 hour flight.
Lufthansa magazine available in seat pocket

In-flight communication

None. No in-flight wi-fi available yet.

Meals and refreshments

Dinner
The in-flight service started as soon as we reached cruising altitude.
We were served a hot dinner. There was a choice between a chicken dish and a pasta dish.
The food was tasted good.
On the tray - Salad, bread bun, dessert, butter, salt, pepper, sugar cheese, cutlery, wet wipe and serviette. Cup for Coffee.
Any special meals must be pre-ordered when you make your reservation.
Coffee, tea, beer, wine and other beverages were served before our meal as well as afterwards.

Breakfast
A hot breakfast was served around 2 hours before landing. Breakfast consisted of an egg dish with some mushrooms and potatoes on the side.
On the tray - Fruit salad, bread bun, butter, jam, salt, pepper, sugar, cutlery, wet wipe and serviette.
I feel its a bit to early to eat breakfast ( around 03:30 in the morning) and it was not that good. Next time I'll pass on breakfast and rather get some more sleep in.

Toilets

The toilets were kept clean, and there are more than enough toilets on the A380.
Basin to wash hands and brush teeth.

In-flight shopping

Available. Shopping magazine in seat pocket

Travelling with Children

Milk and baby food can be warmed up by the cabin crew
Read more on Lufthansa - Travelling with children

Crew

I found the crew competent and friendly. Instructions were given in German and English.

Disembarking

Business class disembarked first. We had an aircraft bridge to the terminal building at Frankfurt airport.

Overall opinion

What I liked
The A380 still feels like a new plane. The seats are very comfortable and the service is good.
The plane was quiet with not too many rattles and noise.
Even though the A380 is very big, you never feel crowded, I think the configuration was well thought through.

Not so good
If you sit in the back of the plane it can take a while to get out of the plane, take this in consideration if you have a tight schedule for your connecting flight.
I would like to see more entertainment options and in-flight wi-fi.



Seats with cusion and blanket



Limited over head locker space in row 73 H- K

Legroom

Inside the cabin

Dinner

Dinner option 2

Fascilities

Breakfast








 











South African Airways Economy Airbus A340-600

Route

SA261,  Frankfurt to Johannesburg, 01 October 2012.

Duration

10 hours 45 min.

On time departure and arrival

Departed on time.
Arrived about 20 minutes early.

Ground crew and check-in

We were able to check in online 24 hours before departure.
We arrived by long distance train but could not drop off our luggage at the AlRail Terminal at Frankfurt airport. We needed to drop our luggage at the SAA counters.
Our printed online boarding passes served as boarding tickets.
Ground staff was friendly and helpful.

Boarding procedure

Business class passengers and selected Frequent Flyers (Voyager Gold, Platinum, and Lifetime members, Star Alliance Gold) have priority boarding.
The crew asked passengers to board by row number, but most passengers ignored it. Boarding was a bit disorganised.
The electronic boarding gates, where you scan the barcode on your ticket to open the gate, were not in use
We boarded via a mobile bridge.

Luggage allowance

Hand luggage - One carry on bag 8kg max
Checked luggage - One bag not exceeding 23kg. SAA is now using the Piece Concept for checked luggage.

Seating

Number of seats - 275 recliner seats. Seats against the bulkhead  has the same recline as standard seats.
We were not sure about the bulkhead seats, as there are conflicting information available. We sat in the  row 71,  and I checked the recline of seats in row 74 and they had normal recline.

View more information at  Seatguru and SAA

There were adequate locker space in row 71 D - G

Amenities

We did not get any amenity bags ( with socks, slumber shades etc), although we did get amenity bags on previous SA261 flights. 
Small pillow and blanket
Stereo headset

Entertainment

Personal touchscreen monitor with remote control. The entertainment system did not function. SAA needs to attend to this issue, this is not the first time on this route that the entertainment system did not work.
In-flight magazine available in seat pocket.

In-flight communication

Satellite phone

Meals and refreshments

Dinner
A choice of Pork with vegetables or  Chicken with pasta was offered.
On the tray - Salad, whole-wheat bun, dessert, chocolate, butter, cheese, crackers, cutlery, wet wipe and serviette.
Cup for coffee/tea
I had the pork and it was very tasty and the meat was tender. My travel partner had the delicious chicken and pasta.

Breakfast

Hot breakfast was served.  We were not very hungry and skipped breakfast.


Refreshments

Drinks and alcoholic beverages were served before and after meals. Coffee/tea was only served after meals. Water was available in small bottles and were served at regular intervals.

Toilets

The toilets were kept clean. 
Soap were provided.
Paper towels and tissues
Basin to wash hands and brush teeth

In-flight shopping

Available.

Travelling with Children

Some of the toilets have diaper boards. Baby bassinets must be pre booked.
Meal request for children must be made at time of reservation
Milk and baby food can be warmed up by the cabin crew
Read more on South African Airways - Travelling with Infants

Crew

I found the crew competent and friendly.

Disembarking

Business class disembarked first. We took a short bus ride to the terminal building.

Overall opinion

What I liked
The seats were comfortable with enough leg room. The recline was adequate for economy seats. I never felt the reclined seat in front of me was too close.
Water in bottles that you can keep with you during the flight.
Milk were served from a jug, so you can add enough in your coffee or tea.
The food was enough and tasty.
The plane was quiet with not too many rattles and noise

Not so good
The Entertainment system not functioning.




Economy Seats




Cabin



Legroom, cushion and blanket



Basin




Dinner




Dinner


















Breezing through Airport security

Before you can board the plane, you need to go through airport security. 
Depending on the airport and border control rules,  you may need to go through security again before boarding a connecting flight.

If you keep to the rules and come prepared, it should be a quick and easy process.

Keep in mind that queues at security checkpoints can be long and that there might be delays.
Always allow enough time to go through security. 
Part of the security check is to go through a metal detector scanner.

The basic steps are:

• Queue to go through security
• Put belongings into x-ray bins
• Walk through the metal detector scanner or any other scanners the airport may be using e.g. Full Body Scanners
• Collect your belongings.

 What to expect at airport security

Step 1 - Queuing

While standing in the line remove items that will trigger the scanner:

• Keys
• Wallet
• Watch
• Spectacles
• Bulky jewelry
• belt with metal buckle etc.

Temporarily place these items in your hand luggage.
Remove your jacket, coat or jersey.

Security personnel will direct you to the different checkpoints, advise you what to do, or ask you security related questions e.g. is there a laptop in you bag. 
You may be asked to present your boarding pass or some form of identification.

Step 2 - Put belongings in the x-ray bins

You need to put the following into the x-ray bins for scanning:

• Laptops, computer pads and electronic readers (all removed from bags)
• All bags and hand luggage.
• The contents of you pockets (if not already placed in your hand luggage)
• Any jackets, cardigans, hats, etc. Some head coverings may be kept on as long as it is not too concealing. If you are asked to remove your head covering, you may ask for this to be done away from public view.
• Any bulky jewelry, watches, wallets and sunglasses (if not already placed in your hand luggage)
• Any belts containing metal buckles etc. (if not already placed in your hand luggage)

Step 3 - Go through scanners

Wait in line to go through the metal detecting scanner.  Security personnel will indicate to you when you can go through.
Only one person at a time is allowed to go through.
When you trigger the scanner while walking through, it will make a sound. You will be asked to make sure that you don't have any metal objects on you and go through the scanner again. If it triggers again you will be searched at the security point.

Children must be removed from strollers, mothers can carry babies but toddlers and children of older ages need to go through on their own. Alternatively make use of the family or assisted passenger security points if available.
Pets that fly with you in the cabin must be removed from their carriers.

 

Step 4 - Collect your belongings

Most of the time you should be through the scanners before your belongings are ready for collection, but it's always a good idea to keep an eye on your belongings. If you travel in groups ask someone to keep an eye on your belongings while you go through security scanning.
Make sure you collect everything that you've put in the x-ray bins. Make sure you take the correct items. Laptops and other electronic equipment tend to look alike. To make sure you collect your own property, put some form of identification (e.g. stickers) on them.
After collecting your belongings kindly move forward / onwards to avoid any more crowding.

What to do when things go wrong 

If you trigger the scanner, security personnel will ask you to step out of the way, and they will search and scan you. This will include a light pat-down and scanning with a device.  If any anomaly is detected, you will be asked to accompany security personnel to a private area where they will do a more intense pat-down.

You may be asked to take off your shoes after going through the security scanner - most of the times that I have been searched and scanned, it was because there were metal parts in my shoes.

You may be asked to switch on your laptop or electronic device, open your bags, or identify objects.

If security personnel find it necessary they may interview you.

If you do not understand the language, ask for an interpreter.  English is widely spoken at most major airports.

You can only be pat down by a person of the same gender.

You can ask to be searched in private.

Tips

Always be polite, and co-operate. Security personnel are doing a very important job and are trying to ensure the safety of all passengers. 

Do not use your mobile phone while at security checkpoints

Do not make any jokes using inappropriate words or anything sounding like a threat.

Do not over pack your hand luggage, you might need to open it.
Adhere to the  LAG- and prescription medicine rules - see my blog on LAG's

Make sure you don't have any prohibited items with you or in your hand luggage - contact your airline or travel agent if you are unsure. See Prohibited items for a comprehensive list

Always have your boarding pass and passport with you.
Wear shoes that can be taken off easily.
Avoid clothes that will trigger the scanner e.g. studded clothing.

  

 Passenger rights at security checkpoints

The  rules and regulations are governed by the local authorities and may differ from country to country.

Here are some guidelines

Searches by Customs and Excise Officials

TSA - pat-downs

Lufthansa Economy Class Airbus A321 LH1276

Route

LH1276,  Frankfurt to Malta Luqa, 24 August 2012.

Duration

2 hours 25 min.

On time departure and arrival

Departed 5 minutes late.
Arrived 11 minutes late.

Ground crew and check-in

We were able to check in online 23 hours before the flight.
We arrived by long distance train and dropped our luggage off at the AlRail Terminal at Frankfurt airport
Our printed online boarding passes served as boarding tickets.
Check-in and luggage drop off at the counters was handled by Lufthansa staff.
Ground staff was friendly and very helpful.

Boarding procedure

Priority boarding for business class passengers, families with small children and assisted passengers.
This flight was fully booked and the crew asked passengers to board by row number, but most passengers ignored it.
The electronic boarding gates were in use, where you scan the barcode on your ticket to open the gate.
We boarded via a mobile bridge.

Luggage allowance

Hand luggage - One carry on bag 8kg max
Checked luggage - 23kg

Seating

Number of seats - 200 in total, economy has limited recline seats. Lufthansa refitted most of their regional aircraft with new seats. These new seats are very comfortable and allow for generous leg room.
The seating configuration depends on how many business class seats are allocated.
Most seating websites, (even Lufthansa ) shows Economy starting in row 9, on our flight it started in row 6.
The configuration from row 9 - 11 is of particular interest as it is over the emergency exit. 
Row 9 A- C are normal seats.  9 D and E, is a two seat row and there is a crew seat behind 9D
Row 10 only have two seats - E and F - these seats have extra legroom.
Row 11 A- C and 11 D have extra legroom.
Emergency exit row seats cannot be book online, they are allocated when checking in at the counters.
View more information at  Lufthansa A321 seatmap or Seatguru A321 Economy seat information

There were limited locker space available in row 9 A-C because pillows were stored in the overhead locker.

Amenities

None.

Entertainment

Newspapers were available at the boarding gate waiting area. In-flight magazine available in seat pocket.

In-flight communication

None

Meals and refreshments

Breakfast
We were served a blueberry muffin.
Any special meals must be pre-ordered when you make your reservation.
Coffee, tea, beer, wine and other beverages were served after our meal.

Toilets

The toilets were kept clean, economy class can only use the toilets at the back of the aircraft.
Basin to wash hands and brush teeth.

In-flight shopping

Available.

Travelling with Children

Toys were handed out to children.
Milk and baby food can be warmed up by the cabin crew.
Read more on Lufthansa - Travelling with children.

Crew

I found the crew competent and friendly. Instructions were given in German and English.

Disembarking

Business class disembarked first. We took a short bus ride to the terminal building.

Overall opinion

What I liked
The new seats are very comfortable and the muffin tasty.
The plane was quiet with not too many rattles and noise.

Not so good
There are only toilets at the back of the plane, this can be a problem when food is being served or in flight shopping trolleys are blocking the aisle.



Economy Seats



Legroom

Breakfast

Breakfast



Basin in toilet









Lufthansa Economy Class Airbus A321 - LH1277

Route

LH1277,  Malta Luqa to Frankfurt, 22 August 2012.

Duration

2 hours 45 min

On time departure and arrival

Departed 20 minutes late but arrived almost on time.

Ground crew and check-in

We were able to check in online 23 hours before the flight.
We dropped off our luggage at the Lufthansa check-in counters.
Our printed online boarding passes served as boarding tickets.
Check-in, and luggage drop off at the Lufthansa counters was handled by Malta airport staff.
Ground staff was friendly and very helpful.

Boarding procedure

Priority boarding for business class passengers, families with small children and assisted passengers. Boarding cards were manually scanned by the ground crew. I noticed some passengers using mobile boarding passes.
We boarded a bus to the aircraft.

Luggage allowance

Hand luggage - One carry on bag 8kg max
Checked luggage - 23kg

Seating

Number of seats - 200 in total, economy has limited recline seats. Lufthansa refitted most of their regional aircraft with new seats. These new seats are very comfortable and allow for generous leg room
The seating configuration depends on how many business class seats are allocated
Most seating websites, (even Lufthansa ) shows Economy starting in row 9, on our flight it started in row 6.
The configuration from row 9 - 11 is of particular interest as it is over the emergency exit. 
Row 9 A- C are normal seats.  9 D and E, is a two seat row and there is a crew seat behind 9D
Row 10 only have two seats - E and F - these seats have extra legroom.
Row 11 A- C and 11 D have extra legroom.
Emergency exit row seats cannot be book online, they are allocated when checking in at the counters.

View more information at  Lufthansa A321 seatmap or Seatguru A321 Economy seat information

 The overhead locker space was adequate.

Amenities

None.

Entertainment

German and Maltese newspapers were available upon boarding. In-flight magazine available in seat pocket.

In-flight communication

None

Meals and refreshments

Lunch
No tray -  We were served a traditional Bavarian breakfast. Weisswurst  and a pretzel roll (Laugensemmel)
Any special meals must be pre-ordered when you make your reservation.
Coffee, tea, beer, wine and other beverages were served before our meal as well as afterwards.

Toilets

The toilets were kept clean, economy class can only use the toilets at the back of the aircraft.
Basin to wash hands and brush teeth.

In-flight shopping

Available.

Travelling with Children

Toys were handed out to children
Milk and baby food can be warmed up by the cabin crew
Read more on Lufthansa - Travelling with children

Crew

I found the crew competent and friendly. Instructions were given in German and English.

Disembarking

Business class disembarked first. We had an aircraft bridge to the terminal building. at Frankfurt airport.

Overall opinion

What I liked
The new seats are very comfortable and the food tasty.
The plane was quiet with not too many rattles and noise.

Not so good
There are only toilets at the back of the plane, this can be a problem when food is being served or in flight shopping trolleys are blocking the aisle.



Economy Seats



Legroom



Lunch




Lunch




Drinks




Basin in toilet









LAG's (Liquids, Aerosols and Gels)

I have a friend who travelled from Johannesburg to Stuttgart via Frankfurt. He went through airport security at OR Tambo International, and  bought some chilli sauces at the duty free shop before going to the departure gate.
He was allowed to carry it in his hand luggage when boarding his flight to Frankfurt.
At Frankfurt airport he got a connecting flight to Stuttgart, and had to go through security again.
The sauces he bought was more than the allowed 100ml per container and he was told that he cannot take it through security and had to throw it in the dustbin.
The bottles were in a sealed duty free bag, this made no difference, the 100ml rule still applied.

The general rules concerning LAG's in your hand luggage are: 

• You are allowed to carry liquids, Aerosols and Gels in your hand luggage, in containers that have a maximum volume of 100ml (3.4 fluid ounces) each, but total capacity may not exceed one litre.
• The container size may not be over 100ml, even if it is only partially filled
• These containers must be packed in a re-sealable transparent plastic bag.
• Each passenger may carry only one of these bags
• These bags must be removed from your hand luggage and presented when going through airport security
• Any containers over 100ml should be placed in checked luggage

Baby food

Baby food and formula do not count as LAG's when you are travelling with a baby or small child (0-24 months), but must be presented when going through airport security


Medication

You are allowed to carry medication in your hand luggage but it must comply to the LAG rules.  It is advisable to have the prescription for your medication with you. You may be asked to taste your medicine in the presence of security personnel


Duty-free purchases
If you need to go through security at your connecting airport, it is better not to buy duty free LAG items (perfume, wine etc.) when departing on the first leg of your journey, but rather at the connecting airport on the final leg of your journey. LAG's purchased at duty free shops must be kept in the special sealed plastic bag.
Duty free shops usually supply these bags when you make a purchase. They may also ask to view your flight ticket and advise you on what you may take with you, but not always.
Some airports do allow you to bring in duty free LAG  items from certain counties on your connecting flight, confirm with your airline or travel agent. Certain rules might apply to these e.g. it must be in tamper free sealed bags

An example taken from the European regions airline association :
Passengers are currently allowed to buy LAGs in duty free shops at EU airports and on board EU airlines.
LAGs purchased at duty free shops at international airports in Croatia (6), Canada (all international airports), Malaysia (1), Singapore and the US (all international airports) can currently also be carried in connection through EU airports."

From IATA website - "Passengers should ask and make sure the liquid products they are buying will not be confiscated later on in their trip. Different countries have different requirements and determine if duty free purchased in another country is allowed or not. In certain countries, it will be placed in a sealed tamper-evident bag, with the proof of purchase. This is meant to allow the passenger’s purchases to go through other airports without being confiscated, although this needs an agreement between the countries concerned"

In-flight shopping

The rules for in-flight shopping differ from airport and airline. Some allow inflight duty free purchases onboard for transiting/transferring/connecting passengers if they are packed in transparent, sealed plastic bags with the receipt attached.  Make sure of what rules apply to you before making a purchase

Take note of the following:

LAG rules do not apply to checked luggage. Keep in mind that liquids add a lot of weight to luggage, so only take what you need.
If you need to take any LAG's with you in hand luggage (e.g toiletries or medicine) try to get sample sizes or fill small bottles (100ml each).

Examples of LAG's

Beverages e.g. water, juice, soup or wine
Liquid food e.g. soup, yogurt, jam
Gels e.g. toothpaste, hair and shower gel
Contents of aerosol cans e.g. shaving foam and deodorants
Cream, lotions and oils
Perfume

Explanation of terms used

Hand luggage
Also known as cabin baggage or carry-on luggage. It is the luggage that passengers are allowed to with them when boarding the plane. Airlines put restrictions on the maximum seize and weight of hand luggage. These restrictions is usually printed on your e-ticket or booking confirmation, if not contact your airline to find out more.

Checked luggage
The luggage you hand to the airline at the check in counters (or drop-off counters when checked in online).

If you are unsure about any of the LAG rules, or need more information, please contact your airline or travel agent

Some helpful websites

TSA - Transportation Security Administration

Airports Company South Africa

European regions airline association

IATA - Air Transport Association

Transit, connecting flights and final destination

It doesn't matter if I go on a business trip or on holiday, the moment I leave for the airport, I always feel a sense of adventure and excitement. In most cases the process of checking in, boarding and departing from your home country is a smooth one.  The process that tends to make people nervous is the unknown environment that awaits you at your destination, even more so when flying to a different part of the world or when your journey consists of multi segment flights.
The arrival process and rules are similar at most airports. Modern airports are very well sign posted and have friendly staff at information desks to assist you.
It is a good idea to keep a pen with you to complete any forms required
Know the address where you will be staying.
Keep your passport safe and easy accessible.

Arriving at the airport

 

Connecting flights
When your journey includes connecting flights , you must disembark at the connecting airport, and again at your final destination.

1. After the plane has come to a complete standstill, and the seat belt signs are turned off, you can get your hand luggage from the overhead compartment. During this time the aircraft bridge or mobile staircase will be connected to the plane.
2. As soon as the doors are opened, you can start to disembark the plane.
3. Once inside the terminal building, follow the "Connecting Flights" or  "Transit" signs
4. The process that you need to follow will depend on the airport and border control rules, some of the possible scenario's are:
• Go straight to connecting gate
• Go through security, then to the connecting gate 
• Collect your luggage, go through security and then to the connecting gate. Your luggage will be handled by the airport after security check and you don't need to check it in again.
• Go through Passport control, collect your luggage, go tho check in counters to check in your luggage, go through security, and then go to the connecting gate
5. Board the plane for the next leg of your journey at the relevant gate.

If you have some lay over time at the airport, you can walk around in the terminal building, do duty free shopping, relax in a lounge ( if you have access) or order refreshments at a restaurant. Always keep the boarding time for you next flight in mind as well as how long it will take you to get back to the boarding gate. Some airports offer a variety of shops and services, while others only have basic services.

Arriving at final destination
When you have a direct or non-stop flight you will only disembark the plane at your final destination.

1. After the plane has come to a complete standstill, and the seat belt signs are turned off, you can get your hand luggage from the overhead compartment. During this time the aircraft bridge or mobile staircase will be connected to the plane.
2. As soon as the doors are opened, you can start to disembark the plane.
3. Once inside the terminal building, you need follow the "Baggage claim" or "Exit" signs
4. This will lead you to passport control if you travelled outside your home country or area. If you arrived via an internal/local flights you can go directly to baggage claim or Exit.
5. At passport control you need to present your passport and any relevant visas. You might need to answer questions relating to your visit e.g. the purpose of your visit, how long and where you will be staying. 
6. If everything is in order, your passport will be stamped and you can proceed to collect you checked luggage.
7. You need to declare any relevant items inside your luggage - Find out more about customs limits and prohibited items from your airline, travel agent, airport websites. You can also find information on IATA's website
8. If you have nothing to declare you can go through the Nothing to declare (usually green) door. If you need to declare items, go to the Goods to declare (usually red) door.
9. Collect your luggage at the relevant carousel. The carousel number for you flight will be either displayed on monitors or announced.
10. Exit to the arrivals hall.

Explanation of terms used

Direct Flights
Flight between two designated airports without change in Aircraft or Flight numbers, but may include a stop over. 
Example: Taking a flight from Dubai to Malta via Larnaca. The plane will land in Larnaca and there might be passengers leaving/boarding the plane.  If your final destination is Malta, you stay on board the aircraft until it arrives in Malta.
You only disembark the plane at your final destination

Non-stop Flights
A non-stop flight is made in a single leg and without intermediate stops between the departure and destination airport.
Example: Taking a flight from Frankfurt to Atlanta. The plane will fly directly from Frankfurt to Atlanta without making any stop overs.

Connecting Flights
Flights with intermediate stops and change of aircraft and possibly airline.
Example 1: Taking a flight from Johannesburg to Munich via Dubai. The first leg is from Johannesburg to Dubai Airport on EK764 (Emirates). Disembark the plane in Dubai. Once inside the terminal building, go through security and wait for the boarding gate to open for your next flight. No need to collect luggage. Board flight EK049 (Emirates)  to Munich.
Example 2: Taking a flight from Frankfurt to Cape Town via Johannesburg on Multiple Airlines. The first leg is from Frankfurt to Johannesburg on LH572 (Lufthansa). Disembark the plane in Johannesburg. Once inside the terminal building, go through passport control, and collect your luggage  Check in for your flight and wait for the gate to open. Board code share flight  LH347/SA327 (South African Airways)  to Cape Town

The time you spend at the connecting airport is called layover time.
Your travels status is "in transit"

Disembark (to get off) the plane
Disembarking the aircraft can be done in two ways
- Via aircraft bridge: You will go from the plane directly into the terminal building
- via mobile staircase: You will climb down stairs and be transported to the terminal building via a bus service. At smaller airports you can sometimes walk from the plane to the terminal building. Watch a Video of Mobile stairs being attached to an aircraft after landing.

Passport Control
The area inside the airport where passports are checked and stamped by Immigration control.
Your passport gets stamped when you leave or enter a country.
When you are a foreigner, you need to adhere to immigration control rules, and have the relevant visa to enter the country.

Transit
Passengers who stay at the airport for a short period, with the intention of proceeding to their final destination

Toiletry bag

I always take a small toiletry bag with me when travelling, filled with all kinds of goodies to make the journey more pleasant.

Remember to always adhere to the LAG (liquid, Aerosols and Gels) rules for hand luggage. For more information on LAG rules look at these websites: TSA Carry on's or ACSA LAG's

Here is a list of the items I like to keep in my toiletry bag

 

Soft Earplugs	Try to find Ear Planes - they can equalise the pressure in your ears and prevent ear pain caused by changing cabin pressure.  Earplugs also help eliminate cabin noise.  Noise cancelling earphones is a better but more expensive option to eliminate cabin noise.
Inflatable Travel pillow	I prefer an u-shaped neck pillow with a flat back
Soft and thick Eye mask	Most airlines provide you with an eye mask, but I prefer using my own.
Anti bacterial wet wipes	Individually packed if you can find
Packet of tissues	Pocket size
Travel size toothbrush	Try to find one that has a cover over the bristles
Travel size toothpaste (less than 100ml)	Look for them at pharmacies, cosmetic stores or travel accessory shops.
Lip balm
Travel size hand lotion	Look for them at pharmacies, cosmetic stores or travel accessory shops.
Small mirror
Herbal sleeping tablets	To help me sleep on long haul flights. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice before using any medication
A couple of headache tablets	There is a variety of medication available to avoid motion sickness. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice before using any medication
Travel sickness medication	Ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice before using any medication
Two band aids
Small comb/brush combo	Look for them at pharmacies, cosmetic stores or travel accessory shops.
Chewing gum	Chewing gum or sucking on a mint can help alleviate ear pain during cabin pressure changes e.g. when descending to land
Mints	To freshen your breath

Travel size perfume

Available on some flights during in-flight shopping or at cosmetic stores.

• If you suffer from dry eyes, consider taking eye drops, as the air inside the aircraft can become very dry
• If you need to redo your make up prior to landing consider makeup removal wipes - keep the queues at the toilet in mind, there should be bathroom facilities at your arrival airport, and if possible you can freshen up while waiting for your luggage.
• For the men that needs to shave, pack in a razor and travel size shaving cream. Only safety razors are allowed - see Prohibited items.  Razors that can be opened and the razor blade removed are not allowed. Razors that have the blade set into a plastic moulding are not prohibited. Some airlines provide razors on board, find out more from your travel agent or airline.
• Be careful when opening makeup/lotion stored in a tube as the cabin pressure can cause it to spill.
• Please consider your fellow passengers before putting on perfume in a confined space, rather wait until you are at the airport.