From exploring new surroundings to engaging with different people and embracing adventure, there’s a lot to enjoy about traveling. Except for airports and flying – these can be such a pain! All the security checks and long lines can make the travel experience hectic and exhausting. Luckily, it is possible to have a hassle-free trip, and this is what this blog is all about.
Read our 7 airport tricks to make your next trip more enjoyable.
Table of Contents
Check in online
Checking in for your flight in advance can help ensure you’ll have a seamless airport experience. You can do this 24 hours before your flight, as most airlines provide this option. This way, you won’t have to wait in line once you arrive at the airport, which will save you time. Moreover, you’ll also grab a great seat assignment – if you didn’t already select one when booking your ticket. With your password and booking reference number, you can head to the airline’s website and complete the check-in. Keep in mind that this isn’t always a time-saving measure – in some cases, it is a requirement, and if you don’t check in before you arrive at the airport, you may be charged a fee.
Pack wisely and weigh your luggage
You have to be mindful when packing, as there are restrictions regarding weight and dimensions. For instance, the maximum volume for liquid containers is 100 ml, while some items are strictly prohibited in carry-on luggage. Make sure to consider these aspects to avoid wasting time unnecessarily unpacking at airport security. Having to pay a considerable fee because your luggage exceeds the maximum weight allowed is any traveler’s nightmare – it only adds to the travel costs and slows down the check-in process. To prevent this, weigh your luggage before arriving at the airport. Luggage scales can help you to this end, as they are portable and reasonably priced. If you don’t have one, use bathroom scales instead – they will do the trick.
Research the airport
Suppose you aren’t familiar with the airport. In this case, you want to take the time to figure out where’s everything from the terminal and check-in desks to the security checkpoints and toilets. This will help you navigate the airport as efficiently as possible and is particularly beneficial if you must change terminals. If you don’t know where to start, consider looking on the airport website. Travel forums can also be incredibly helpful, as travelers who’ve already been there can provide the information you need.
Arrive early
The saying better late than never may apply in certain life circumstances, but not when it comes to flying! So, make sure to arrive early at the airport to get through the check-in and security processes successfully and not miss your flight. If you’re driving to the airport, you’ll have to find a parking spot; however, these tend to be pretty expensive, so a practical tip is to research airport parking in advance and book online. For instance, boston logan airport parking has different rates that depend on factors like where and how long you stay. Prices can range from $10 to $50 daily, and different options are available for both short-term and long-term parking. As a rule of thumb, you should arrive at the terminal two-three hours before the flight, but this depends on the airport and the time you’re traveling – if your vacation is scheduled during the peak season, it’s best to get at the airport even earlier, as the place will likely be crowded. This is particularly important if the airport is usually busy, such as JFK airport in the US. The demand for jfk parking tends to be high, but if you pay for your spot before arriving at the airport, you’ll save time and money.
Get travel insurance
Even if you plan your trip carefully, unforeseen events can still occur – for instance, your luggage may get lost, the flight may be canceled, and so on. Therefore, you should prepare for these situations by getting travel insurance. This will provide assistance during emergencies and prevent financial losses. While travel insurance may be a bit costly, it will be beneficial in the long run by saving you money – and headaches! Just keep in mind to check out the travel insurance policy before buying one to find out what kind of coverage and protection it offers.
Wear comfy clothing
When traveling, it’s best to wear comfortable clothes – by doing so, you’ll have a more pleasant flight and get through the security process quicker! Opt for trousers without a belt and easy-to-remove shoes. Also, avoid clothes with buttons or metal clasps – they will only slow you down by setting off security detectors. Dressing in layers may also be a good idea, as airports tend to be extremely hot or incredibly cold. Consider having a designated airplane outfit to avoid fretting because you don’t know what to wear during the day of your flight! You can never go wrong with clothing items like a lightweight hooded sweatshirt, leggings and a coat (if you’re traveling somewhere cold).
Bring snacks
Food prices at the airport are exorbitant, so if you don’t want to end up spending too much money unnecessarily, don’t forget to bring your own snacks. Consider packing dried fruit and nuts, as they are tastier, filling and above all, healthy! Air-popped popcorn is also an excellent snack food choice, especially if you want to satisfy your buttery or salty cravings during the flight. Plus, packing a bag of popcorn is incredibly easy, as you can simply put it in your bag. A Cliff Bar is a great source of nourishment for mountain climbers and hikers, but also for tired travelers, as it can provide the much-needed energy when you’re sitting for hours in the plane – plus, it is super tasty!
The bottom line
Traveling may sometimes seem stressful, but it doesn’t have to be that way! These practical tips will make your trip much more comfortable, so you can sit back and enjoy the flight!
k, relax and enjoy your flight!
