7 Steps to a Stress-free Airport Experience

If you’re planning an upcoming travel experience, relaxation is probably one of the things you’re most looking forward to. But getaways often begin with air travel, and airports can feel more stressful than everyday life! What if there were a way to sidestep some of the most common airport annoyances, so that your vacation gets off on the right foot? We’ve put our travel expertise to work for you in these practical tips that will help you glide through any airport with grace and ease.

Preparation Tips - from Packing to Punctuality:

1. Apply for TSA Pre-Check. This expedited screening program for trusted travelers is now available at dozens of airports nationwide. It allows you to speed through Security, often without removing your shoes. If you travel often, it’s well worth the $85 fee (good for five years).

2. Check in Online. Many airlines encourage you to check in for your flight up to 24 hours before it departs. Print or download your boarding pass before leaving home. No printer or smart phone? No problem: simply print it out from the kiosk at the airport. Inside tip: If you have no checked bags, this will still save you from standing in a long line, and let you go straight to the Security checkpoint.

3. Think ahead. Program the customer service numbers of your airlines into your phone. Should your flight get cancelled or delayed, calling is often a faster way to get information than waiting in line for an agent. Inside tip: Having these numbers handy also allows you to easily check flight status updates in the 24 hours prior to your trip.

4. Downsize. Pick up some 3.4 ounce (100 ml) bottles from the corner store and fill with your favorite hand cream, mouthwash etc. This will save you from the mistake many travelers make of bringing full-sized, mostly-empty containers with them (reasoning they must be permissible as there are only a few ounces left) as this is strictly unallowed. Pack the regulation-sized bottles in a zip-top bag and make sure they’re easily accessible in your carry-on, as you’ll be asked to take them out during the screening process. Inside tip: The best part is that these small plastic bottles can be discarded at the end of your tip, which creates more room in your luggage for souvenirs!

5. Arrive (a day) early. Depending on factors like traffic, flight times and how far you live from the airport, you may find it worthwhile to arrive a day early and spend the night at an airport hotel. This can mean the difference between a free, 5-minute shuttle ride direct to departures’ curb, and having to fight rush-hour traffic as you worry incessantly over missing your flight.

6. Pack a lunch. While the quality of airport food has improved vastly in the last decade, it certainly hasn’t gotten less expensive. Bringing a favorite sandwich with you (made just how you like it), along with snacks from home, can provide a comforting feeling in the midst of an unfamiliar environment…(plus save you $15)! Just be sure everything is well-wrapped and padded. Inside tip: Leave beverages at home as these won’t make it through the security checkpoint.

7. Dress smart. The Security Checkpoint can be more easily navigated when you’ve dressed for the occasion. Avoid wearing belts and excessive jewelry, or pack them in your carry-on until you’ve made it to your gate. Slip-on shoes are preferable to lace-ups or boots, and an easy-on/easy-off zip-front jacket is a must. Inside tip: Be sure to wear (or bring) socks. Not only will they keep your feet clean while walking through the checkpoint without shoes, your toes will stay nice and toasty on the air-conditioned plane.

Do you have tips for hassle-free airport navigation? Please share them by leaving a comment. We hope your next trip will be stress-free from door to door, and that you’ll join us soon for an exceptional Christian travel experience.