Travel advice rarely comes from a more qualified source than a seasoned business professional who has spent a decade traversing the United States by air. An automotive consultant, known online as "Bubbly-Ambition-2217," has taken to Reddit to share his extensive insights after flying approximately 120 times per year to all 50 US states for ten consecutive years. In a comprehensive Ask Me Anything thread, the forum was quickly flooded with queries from curious travellers eager to learn from his vast experience.
Streamlining the Airport Experience
The traveler emphasised that efficiency begins with minimising baggage. He identified checking a bag and waiting for it at arrivals as one of the biggest hindrances to a swift journey. Consequently, he almost exclusively flies with carry-on luggage, reserving checked bags only for rare occasions requiring multiple suits for networking events. He even noted that he would prefer to rent a suit locally rather than travel with his own to avoid the hassle.
Expediting Security Procedures
Navigating security lanes, often the most stressful part of airport transit, can be accelerated with preparation. The consultant advised having your identification and boarding pass ready before approaching the podium. Furthermore, he recommended having electronics easily accessible, with pockets unzipped and laptops protruding from bags before grabbing a bin. He expressed frustration at passengers who delay the process by searching for items at the last moment, despite queuing for up to twenty-five minutes.
Luggage and Attire Recommendations
For luggage, the traveler relies on a high-end roller carry-on and a backpack, typically limiting himself to two bags. He specifically mentioned using a Rimowa carry-on, priced from $940, and an LTT backpack, from $169, praising the Rimowa's lifetime warranty, which he has already utilised after the suitcase was dented during a forced check-in, damaging an Xbox inside. Regarding attire for meetings, he rarely brings suits, favouring golf polos and vests instead, and utilises hotel irons as part of a personal tradition.
Airport Amenities and Preferences
When questioned about airport facilities, the traveler highlighted the American Express Centurion Lounge bathrooms for their superior cleanliness and privacy. For dining, he named the sweet port quesadillas at Café Rio in Salt Lake City International Airport as his favourite airport food, remarking that the mere thought makes his mouth water. Among smaller airports, he frequently praised John Wayne Airport in Santa Ana, California, describing it as an exceptional hub.
Reducing Travel Hassle and Managing Anxieties
To minimise the stress of organising around 120 flights annually, the consultant optimises his routine by consistently choosing the same seat, airline, hotel chain, and rental car. This strategy reduces decision-making and surprises, cutting out any friction. Despite his extensive flying, he admitted to retaining a fear of flying since childhood, experiencing heart rate spikes and anxiety during turbulence, though it has improved over the years.
Airline and Hotel Loyalty
Delta is his preferred airline due to their planes and customer service, with American Airlines as his second choice. For accommodations, he favours Marriott hotels, appreciating access to Ritz properties and their international presence. When asked about specific amenities like water pressure, he noted it varies, but his bias leans toward Marriott. He also shared a bed-bug detection routine, checking sheet seams and pillows, though he has never found any bugs in hundreds of hotel stays.
Maximising Loyalty Points and Destination Favourites
To optimise loyalty points, he advised picking one airline and one hotel chain, booking directly, always attaching your membership number, and using a single travel card for all work-related expenses. He cautioned against saving points indefinitely, recommending using them for personal trips or upgrades. While he couldn't select a single favourite state or city, he listed Chicago, San Diego, Denver, Seattle, Boston, New York City, and Austin as enjoyable destinations for their walkability, food, nightlife, and lack of confinement. Colorado, California, Washington, Utah, and Massachusetts stood out as states for their consistency and ease of planning.
Maintaining Health and Routine on the Road
Staying fit while constantly travelling is challenging, so the traveler focuses on healthy eating rather than rigorous exercise. He prioritises protein at restaurants, opts for vegetables or rice over fries, and keeps hotel meals simple with yogurt, eggs, fruit, and oatmeal. He also cooks on the road with grocery store items like rotisserie chicken and pre-made salmon. To cope with the taxing lifestyle, which affects sleep, joints, and immunity, he walks near hotels, uses hotel gyms, and maintains dietary discipline, acknowledging that this pace is sustainable only for a limited time before establishing roots.
