Summer may be winding down, but it’s never too early to start planning another vacation.

With air travel comes plenty of things that can cause frustration, including long lines, lost luggage and paying for things that used to be free. Experts have some tips to make travelling a little easier.

Allison Wallace with Flight Centre says one of the biggest mistakes people make is not giving themselves enough time.

“If you’re travelling in peak season times -- and that would be anytime the kids are out of school, so think summer, Christmas holidays or spring break -- you'll want to give yourself more time than you’ll even think you’ll need,” she said. “Planes are full. Security lineups are full. Everything’s going to take a little longer.”

Consumer Reports also says that airlines will often release seats they haven’t sold or were cancelled 72 hours ahead of the flight, so there’s a chance that if you try within that window, you could get a good free seat.

Passengers can also check SeatGuru.com for more information about airlines’ seating plans that show leg room, size and limited reclining ability.

“If despite your best efforts you’re still in a cramped seat or your flight is over four hours, get up frequently and stretch your legs and feet to avoid blood clots,” said Consumer Reports’ Amanda Walker.

Consumer Reports also recommends leaving at least two hours between domestic connections and four hours between flights if you’re travelling overseas. Sitting at the front of the plane can also save you as much as 15 minutes when deplaning and it can also be a good idea to avoid booking the last flight of the day.

“If you’re stuck in a security lineup, that’s not the airline’s problem, it’s yours,” said Wallace. “And if you can’t get on the next flight, it could be a long time.”

Wallace also says that booking a full fare ticket can be even better value than booking with a low cost carrier.

“By the time you add the checked bag, the meal, the entertainment service, you could actually end up paying more by paying for each one independently,” she said.

Travellers should also always double check their tickets before their trip.

“An average of three people miss their flights at YVR every day and the reason is because they have the date or the time wrong,” said Wallace.

However, Wallace emphasizes that even though travel can be stressful, there are plenty of things within your control that you can do to help make the process more enjoyable.

“Travel should be fun,” she said.