Approximately 1.25 million passengers are expected to pass through Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) during the Undas holiday travel rush from October 27 to November 4, prompting airport operator New NAIA Infra Corp. (NNIC) to step up preparations for the busy period.
These include round-the-clock monitoring, additional personnel and passenger assistance services, and tighter security measures to manage the expected influx. October 30 is projected to be the busiest day, with around 149,000 passengers.
But with airport terminals expected to be packed this holiday weekend, what can travelers do to prepare? Here are eight travel hacks to help make your departure during Undas more manageable.
Hack 1: Check your flight details and head to the airport early
Getting to the airport early is especially important this weekend, as travelers may encounter heavier road traffic and longer queues at airport checkpoints.
NNIC advises passengers to arrive at least two hours before domestic flights and three hours before international flights. However, Cebu Pacific recommends arriving three and four hours early, respectively, during the peak travel season.
Before leaving home, verify your flight schedule and assigned terminal, and check for any last-minute changes. Plan your transportation accordingly, allow extra time for possible road congestion around NAIA, and follow your airline’s latest travel advisories.
Hack 2: Keep your travel documents organized and accessible
Keeping your travel documents in a secure, easily accessible pouch can make airport checkpoint verification much smoother.
Saving digital copies of your boarding passes, booking confirmations, and other travel documents can also serve as useful backups. However, these should not replace required original documents, such as passports and physical IDs. For international flights, check your destination’s visa requirements, including whether it accepts printed or electronic copies.
For families, it can be helpful to designate one adult to organize everyone’s travel documents. Just make sure each passenger’s paperwork is readily available for individual verification when needed.
Hack 3: Check in online before going to NAIA
To simplify check-in, use your airline’s website or mobile app as soon as the service becomes available.
Once you’ve done so, save your boarding pass on your device and keep an offline copy for easy access. If you have checked baggage, check whether your airline offers dedicated baggage-drop counters to speed up the process.
However, online check-in does not always eliminate the need to visit an airport counter. Passengers with checked baggage will still need to drop off their luggage, while international travelers may require additional document verification.
Hack 4: Complete your eTravel registration ahead of time
This next hack is for international travelers only.
Filipino passengers departing the Philippines, along with most passengers arriving from abroad, must complete their eTravel registration within 72 hours before their scheduled departure or arrival.
Registration is free through the official eTravel website or the eGovPH app. After registering, download the generated QR code or take a screenshot for easy presentation when airline or airport personnel request it.
Take note that domestic flights do not require eTravel registration.
Hack 5: Settle applicable travel taxes before your flight
For passengers traveling abroad, check whether the Philippine travel tax is already included in their airline ticket.
If it is not included and you must pay, you can settle the amount through TIEZA’s official online travel tax system before heading to the airport. Keep your payment receipt in case the airline requests verification.
The standard full economy-class travel tax is P1,620, although exemptions and reduced rates are available for eligible travelers.
If online payment is not possible, passengers can also pay at the appropriate airport counter. However, settling the tax ahead of time can help avoid another queue during the holiday rush.
Hack 6: Secure and identify your luggage
Always check your luggage before leaving home.
Any seasoned traveler will tell you that luggage can take a beating during transit, whether at the airport or while being loaded onto an aircraft. That’s why you should inspect your bags for damage, especially the wheels, handles, zippers, and other openings.
Using a luggage lock can help deter tampering, although bags may still need to be opened for inspection. Attaching a recognizable luggage tag, strap, or accessory can also make your bag easier to identify at baggage claim.
Weigh your luggage before heading to the airport to ensure it meets your airline’s baggage allowance. Also check for prohibited or restricted items, especially in your carry-on, to avoid unnecessary delays during screening.
Hack 7: Pack your pockets and dress for security
For a smoother experience at security checkpoints, consider transferring loose items such as keys, watches, and other accessories into a small, secure pouch inside your carry-on before joining the queue. This way, you can keep your belongings together instead of emptying several pockets when it’s your turn for inspection.
Wearing joggers or trousers that do not require a belt can also make the process easier. The same goes for comfortable shoes that are easy to remove and slip back on if security personnel request additional screening.
Of course, always follow airport security instructions, as certain items may still need separate inspection.
Hack 8: Prepare for long waits and possible delays
With the large influx of passengers expected this weekend, airport processes may take longer than usual. So it’s best to prepare for longer waits and unexpected delays.
A little patience and something to keep yourself entertained can go a long way. Bringing a book to read is always a good idea. If you prefer digital entertainment, download movies, music, or podcasts beforehand so you can enjoy them without an internet connection.
Just be sure to charge your devices before leaving home. If you plan to bring a power bank, pack it in your carry-on and check that it complies with your airline’s restrictions.
Lastly, remember to stay fed and hydrated while waiting for your flight, and follow airport rules on food and liquids.
Don’t forget to prepare your home before leaving
This last point isn’t much of a travel hack but rather an important precaution before heading out on your trip.
Home security should always be a priority when going on vacation. Before leaving, make sure your doors and windows are locked, unnecessary appliances are unplugged, and water and gas connections are safely turned off where appropriate. If you’ll be away for several days, consider asking someone you trust to check on your home from time to time.
Pet owners leaving their fur babies behind should arrange a trusted caretaker or check them into a reputable boarding facility.
Preparing for a trip can be stressful, especially during a busy holiday weekend. But taking these extra precautions can go a long way toward making your journey smoother and more enjoyable.