Your Trip Could Be More Memorable Than the Destination - How to Meet People While Flying

How can you turn routine or even annoying air travel into something you look forward to? If you like people, I've got 10 tips that will make almost automatic connections for you, so that even an introvert will find someone to talk with at the airport.

I've air-commuted every week from Boston to D.C., made regular trips to Europe, and taken business trips across the U.S. Even when I'm in a hurry, it really helps to encounter another human being and exchange a few words in passing, a little kindness amidst the hassle. By reaching out, you're helping yourself and you're also making life better for a few other people. Go ahead! You'll be surprised where it can lead.

1. Carry a conversation starter - something cute, symbolic, if you're a frequent traveler you may find people remember you. An easy way is to make it something that hooks onto your bag, from a troll doll to Hello Kitty.

2. Bring a magazine, newspaper or book in your language, or one you like to speak. This is especially good if you're traveling internationally, when people don't know what language to use to approach you.

3. Instead of flirting with the opposite sex, establish rapport just like you would with anyone, talking about common interests. You'll find if there's chemistry it just happens, and a lot more naturally. A great time to ask for a number is when you are parting company, and don't forget, email might be easier.

4. Many people wear clothes with their hometown, college, or favorite vacation spot as an invitation to conversation. Not everyone! But why not see? If you know the inside story about a unique shirt logo, that's a great opportunity.

5. If you're in the departure lounge or on the plane, you know one thing you have in common - your destination! Think of questions, and ask someone if they know where a good restaurant or club is, or where the best pizza or local specialty can be found.

6. Frequent travelers are often easy to talk with, because they are used to getting to know people while on the go. You might not need to "warm up," if you click you can just go with it, its'a different kind of culture.

7. Keep a single parent company! You can help to corral the kids, or just provide some adult-world conversation for a moment.

8. Shopping, you can talk about what you're looking for, or what unique items you see. Each airport has shops with a local flavor, you could explore those with a newfound friend while you're both waiting for your flights.

9. Bar conversation. If you're not good at it, this is a great chance to practice without being afraid you'll find the same people next Saturday night. Just enjoy, maybe try on a new persona, be mysterious or innocent, whatever is new for you!

10. Many times you'll have pilots and crew traveling but not on-duty. Lots of them enjoy conversation and have lots of tales to tell, tips to give.Once you've started a conversation, remember: if you're interested in what the other person is talking about, that will make the conversation enjoyable and keep it going. It will also help you keep from getting self conscious! Good luck, and enjoy your trip.