Alaska Airlines from Columbus to General Wayne A. Downing Peoria International Airport

If you're a fan of reality TV shows about crab fishing or ice road trucking, you've probably toyed with the idea of visiting Alaska. As someone that just went through the thrilling process of booking flights from Columbus to General Wayne A. Downing Peoria International Airport, let me give you the lowdown in my best and humorous narrative style.

First off, it’s important to know that direct flights are as rare as polar bear sightings in Florida. You'll probably have to make peace with the fact that you will have a layover. Think about it as a chance to wander around airports, buying things you don't need from airport gift shops or getting into a debate about the best kind of cheese with a stranger at a bar.

Speaking of layovers, apparently, red-eye flights were invented by an evil genius who also found joy in creating lessons on patience. Trust me, there's nothing more enjoyable than arriving at your layover destination in the middle of the night. On the bright side, the sweet airport muzak and glow of vending machines start to take on a magical quality around 3 am.

However, while you chew on some overpriced airport snack, be consoled by the thought that once aboard Alaska Airlines, you could be kicking back in business class or premium economy. Or, if you're really feeling fancy (or you've won the lottery) in first-class. Not that we're being classist here, but really, who wouldn't want a fluffier pillow and a warm blanket?

Aren't you curious about baggage allowance? Alaska Airlines endorses the philosophy of “less is more.” So, unless you're planning on carting around a baby polar bear or an iceberg as souvenirs, you should be fine. You may just have to play a real-life version of Tetris with your luggage, but hey, that's what makes traveling an adventure, right?

Alaska Airlines also has a great frequent flyer and mileage program. If you’re anything like me and your main hobby is daydreaming about far-off destinations, you might find yourself visiting Alaska more than once! However, don't forget to keep an eye out for flight deals. It’s like an adult version of treasure hunting, and just as exciting.

You might now be wondering about the best time to book. The answer is as unpredictable as the Alaskan weather, my friend. Some say it's Tuesday at 3 p.m., some swear by Sunday nights. All I can recommend is to have your credit card ready at all times. They should really teach that in school.

If you do book a flight, can you cancel it? Yes! Alaska's flight cancellation policy is as generous as it gets. They really understand that sometimes, life throws us curveballs. Or that sometimes, we just wimp out. Either way, it's comforting to know we have a safety net.

It would be unfair to finish without mentioning their in-flight services. You haven't truly tasted luxury until you’ve shamelessly asked for a second bag of pretzels from the flight attendant while watching the third sequel to a mediocre movie. But, hey, at least the view is amazing!

Before we go, here's the random fun fact about Alaska you've been waiting for: It's the only state that can be typed on a single row of a keyboard. Go ahead, test it out, I’ll wait. Pretty cool, right? And if you find yourself on a flight heading to this impossibly long-keyboard-line-typable place, remember to pack a sense of adventure and a sturdy suitcase. Alaska awaits!