It’s no secret that airports are busier and more chaotic than ever. Any vacationer you ask would tell you that the most stressful part of their travel experience was exactly that: the travel. Lines at TSA, flight cancellations and delays, extra fees, lost luggage, the list goes on.
Unfortunately, airports and air travel as we know it will not change any time soon. Fortunately, we are here to help! Here are 6 ways to reduce that airport-induced stress we all fear, and make the most of your hard-earned trip:
Before You Fly
Tip #1: Sign up for TSA PreCheck, Mobile Passport, or Global Entry
The beauty of travel in 2023, is the amount of options available to optimize your travel! The terms “TSA PreCheck”, “Mobile Passport” or “Global Entry” may sound like they are items reserved for only fancy diplomats or government officials, but they are available to the general public provided you meet some basic requirements! Each of these programs allows for a more seamless or expedited security process in or out of the U.S. (each program varies slightly). Check out any of the resources below and apply today:
Tip #2: Avoid Overpacking
There is a reason the internet is overflowing with blogs on packing tips, influencer videos showcasing their packing process, or ads highlighting their ultra-efficient packing cubes. It is because packing is an art. To avoid overpacking, having to pay an overweight luggage fee at check-in, and not being able to buy that cute souvenir or token because it won’t fit in your luggage, plan and pack ahead of time. Some favorite methods of ours include
Plan out your outfits, or make a list before the clothes go in your suitcase
Only pack what you need; Pack, then remove any “on the fence” or “extra” items
Packing cubes (these really do work)
If you can, try to pack just a carry-on! This also cuts out the process of checking a bag, baggage claim, and the extra airport steps
Tip #3: Check-in Online
Particularly if you are not checking a bag, checking in online is a significant time and stress-saver! Almost every airline today has a mobile app where you can check in to your flight approximately 24 hours ahead of time, or you can check in from the airline’s website. By checking in online, you can:
Save time by skipping the check-in lines (you know the long, winding, painfully slow ones) at the airport
Download your boarding pass directly to your mobile device! Say goodbye to long lines and flimsy paper boarding passes you’ll mistake for trash.
Choose your seat assignment and ensure you get a better choice of seat
Travel Day
Tip #4: Seamless Security Screenings
Whether or not you opt for TSA PreCheck, you must go through security in one way or another. While TSA PreCheck expedites your process further, you will still be asked to present identification and a boarding pass. It’s important to keep these documents organized, and in an accessible location so you are not digging through your bag when the time comes. If you opt out of TSA PreCheck, you can expect that and more. Often you will be asked to remove your shoes, large electronics, metal jewelry, keys, liquids, and more before going through security screenings. We recommend that you do a number of things here:
Wear comfortable, easy-to-remove shoes
Keep your liquids (under 3oz. each) in one bag where it’s easy to grab
Keep electronic devices organized and easily accessible
Remember that no one is rushing you! It’s like putting your change back in your wallet at the grocery store - take a deep breath and your eyes on the prize - VACATION!
Tip #5 Monitor Your Flight Status
It may seem obvious, but once you have checked in, it is important to keep an eye on your flight’s status. You can do this easily via your airline’s mobile app, or website, or by making a point to check the departures list at the airport. If you opt for the airline’s mobile app, you can turn on notifications so that you receive a ping every time there is a gate change, delay, or cancellation to your flight! With the app, you can also make last-minute seat changes when available! By regularly monitoring your flight’s status, you are less likely to miss a flight and are one step closer to your dream destination.
Tip #6: Check Your Gate & Treat Yourself
Once you have made it through security and checked your flight’s status, your next step is to check your gate! It is often useful and creates peace of mind when you immediately visit your gate after security to “make sure it’s there”. In other words, go and find your gate to make sure it lists your flight’s information. Once you’re in that area, we recommend staying nearby so you can hear any last-minute announcements or changes. The odds are also high that there is an airport bar or cafe nearby where you can treat yourself to a fancy latte, kick back, and wait for the plane to board!
Ready to fly through the airport (pun intended)? Schedule your FREE Travel Consultation today and the ELx Travel team will plan your next dream getaway!