New flyer needs help/tips

[dismichelle]

I haven't flown in over a decade, but next week I will fly along with my DH and our 4 kids. Two are tweens, so at least they're self-sufficient and the others are ages 1 and 3.

We're flying Allegiant out of Chattanooga and I've already picked out our seats so that we will have an entire row together.

First, when we get to the airport, my understanding is we go to the Allegiant counter, then what?

I've prepaid to check two pieces of luggage and we will probably have 3 carry-ons as well. Where do I take the luggage that will be checked? Will the luggage be physically "checked" in front of us (I have a few surprises in there I don't want the kids to see).

Also, I want to gate check at least one, if not both of our carseats. When and where do I do this. Can I wrap the carseats in something to keep them somewhat more cared for?

I know that the Chattanooga airport is a small one, so we don't plan on getting there until our 2-hour mark, is that okay?

Once we're through security, what can we do then other than sit/wait and keep the kids calm? I was thinking of bringing breakfast sandwiches from somewhere to eat once we're past security, do you think that's okay?

I'll also appreciate any other tips.
BTW, my DH has flown a few times over the past year and says not to worry and everything will be okay. I just want to be overprepared.

 

[sam_gordon]

My .02...

First, check in the night before online.

If the airport allows curbside check in (with skycaps), I would do that. You should tip them $1-2 per bag. I just hate to wait in lines (yet I'm going to Disney next year, go figure). Although I'm guessing the line at Chattanooga airport wouldn't be bad. We pull the car up to the curb side check in, we all get out, check the bags we're going to check, then DW & kids wait w/carry on luggage while I go park.

Your checked bags are not checked in front of you. They're taken "backstage" and ran through electronic scanners.

I've always used car seats on the planes themselves, but you gate check items at the gate. Go to the gate agent (at the counter where you'll board the plane) and ask for some gate check tags. I recommond finding some bags to put the carseats in (they make them that can be used as backpacks and some have wheels). That will make them easier to carry. I also suggest using the extra space around the car seat for more packing space.

You can check with others who fly out of Chattanooga regularly, but we also are served by a smaller airport (Lexington, KY). When I flew out a couple weeks ago it was 20 minutes between when I got out of my car and was sitting at the gate. That was just me w/no checked baggage. I'd guess you need to allow somewhere between 60-90 minutes.

As far as keeping kids entertained... books, handheld games, portable DVD players, etc. Good luck.

 

[VAN]

We flew Allegiant for the first time in March. We did not pre-select our seats and had to get in the line to check-in. Everything went well, we were seated together; however, seated near the engines. I couldn't believe how loud it was!!! Note to self: Pack ear plugs!!!

Anyway, I always suggest to infrequent flyers with questions about their upcoming flight to CHECK THE AIRLINE WEBSITE for particulars regarding baggage and carry-on rules/restrictions (weight, size, etc). Like you, I don't like surprises once at the airport.

Having said that, flying out of a smaller airport is certainly a lot easier.

Have fun.

Oh ... another tip ... take a couple of empty water bottles through Security and fill them up at the drinking fountain. Saves $$!!

 

[sstephens]

I ran across your post through a Google Alert. I work at the Chattanooga Airport and wanted to give you some input to help make your trip easier!

You will check in at the ticket counter for Allegiant. It is a great idea to arrive early because 1. Allegiant flights are always full and most people show up at the same time and then go through security at the same time and 2. remember that their counter closes 30 minutes before that flight is scheduled to depart to allow the employees to handle the flight. If you are in a different time zone (i.e. Central) remember there is a one hour time difference so keep that in mind so you don't miss your opportunity to board.

You will check your bags at the Allegiant counter and they will be taken through the private screening area and if you are carrying on car seats and strollers, etc., they can accommodate that for you as well at the gate.

Our Airport is fairly small and has a deli-style restaurant before you go through security and a smaller version of the same past the checkpoint. It is only manned by one person and can close for restocking or employee breaks certain times of the day so it's usually best to purchase food before you go through, or ask to make sure it is open before you go through.

We also have Airport Volunteers who will help you with your luggage if needed as we do not have Sky Caps anymore (the airlines streamlined a lot of jobs nationwide as the economy began changing).

If you would like to come in a couple of weeks before your flight for a quick walk-through of the ticket terminal, etc., of the Airport to help you feel more comfortable about the process, I would be happy to meet with you. You can call the Airport's main number, 423-855-2201 and ask for Community Relations.

Hope this helps!

 

[dismichelle]

Thanks so much for all of the tips, especially the one about the time zone.
I didn't think about that difference. I am definitely in the central time zone, and would have been an hour late if I hadn't posted here.

Does anyone know if I should bring birth certificates for any of the kids, especially the lap baby?
I'd much rather leave them at home, especially since it looks like airlines want the official rather than a photocopy.

 

[Alesia]

Thanks so much for all of the tips, especially the one about the time zone.
I didn't think about that difference. I am definitely in the central time zone, and would have been an hour late if I hadn't posted here.

Does anyone know if I should bring birth certificates for any of the kids, especially the lap baby?
I'd much rather leave them at home, especially since it looks like airlines want the official rather than a photocopy.

You will need a birth certificate for the lap baby. Children with their own seats do not need I.D.