It’s finally that time of the year we have all been waiting for and many of us are already planning our annual holiday vacation. Despite the festive cheer around us, the holiday mood can quickly turn sour when the overload of holiday flyers leads to overcrowding, long queues at the airport and some tense moments if you get the travel guidelines wrong.

You and your family need not succumb to the stress of the holiday rush because Etihad Airways has got you covered. Follow this easy 7-step travel guide/checklist by Etihad and you and your loved ones can bring in the holiday season without any hassle:

  1. Online Check-In: Online check-in opens 30 hours before your flight and is available online or via our app up to one hour before you are scheduled to fly. When you have checked in, you can simply drop your bags and go at the airport
  2. Verified to Fly: The service helps you validate your travel documents and arrive at the airport with confidence knowing all essential COVID-19 requirements are met. The service is available from seven days before your flight, and you will be able to upload your documents as soon as you’ve received a negative COVID-19 PCR test result. Approved passengers can use fast-track ‘Verified to Fly’ desks at the airport, or the self-service kiosks and skip those long queues at the airport
  3. Economy Smart Seating: Reserve your seat at Manage my booking, when you check in online, at the airport or even on board. Etihad’s Economy Smart Seating, with its unique “fixed wing” headrest makes the long-haul flights even more comfortable. They come with adjustable back support and generous leg room to make your journey seamless and full of comfort. You can also stretch out with extra legroom in Economy Space or keep an entire row to yourself with Economy Neighbour-Free
  4. USCBP facilities: If you are a US bound passenger, you can benefit from the US customs and Border Protection facility (USCBP) by Etihad at Abu Dhabi International Airport, which helps you to complete all immigration and customs formalities before departing. After you have cleared customs and immigrations there would be no need for further checks when you arrive in the US
  5. Destination requirements: Find up to date visa, entry, testing and quarantine regulations for the destinations you’re flying to, as well as any important travel documents you need for your trip. With travel restrictions changing frequently, Etihad recommends visiting etihad.com/destinationguide to check the latest updates before the journey begins
  6. Baggage allowance: the cabin baggage policy is 7kg for Economy class and 12kg for First and Business class guests. Maximum cabin baggage dimensions are; height 50cm, depth 25cm, width 40cm. Alternatively, pre-purchase additional hold baggage at special rates before departure on etihad.com or through the app
  7. Travel Insurance: Purchase travel insurance with Etihad Airways for full protection and peace of mind when you fly, with around-the-clock support and assistance. Whether you’re travelling for business or leisure, we always recommend purchasing travel insurance before your tripetihad.com