Airports can be both exciting and stressful places. While they offer the promise of adventure and new experiences, they can also be overwhelming and anxiety-inducing. From navigating security checkpoints to dealing with flight delays and cancellations, there are countless sources of stressors that can make your airport experience feel like a nightmare. Even seasoned travelers can feel the strain of long lines, crowded terminals, and unexpected challenges. However, there are several ways to make the time spent at airports less stressful. So, grab your carry-on and let’s dive in.
- Ensure your luggage meets TSA and airline guidelines
Avoid hold-ups at security by ensuring that your checked luggage is at the correct weight. Most travelers already know this. As an avid traveler, a luggage scale is an inexpensive item to have.
It is assumed that the general rule of thumb is 50 lbs but this is not always the case, especially for budget airlines. For some, such as Spirit airlines, the maximum weight is 40 lbs! Discovering this at the airport leaves you with 2 options. The first being repacking. This may require you to leave some of your packed items behind. Second, you can pay an exorbitant overweight fee which can be up to $100!
For carry-on items, you must ensure that it fits the dimension requirement for your specific airline. There are certain items that must be in your checked bags such as lithium batteries while others are not allowed such powders (grounded coffee, etc.) or liquid over 3 oz.
The last consideration for your luggage is that when traveling you’d want to purchase items while overseas. Local clothing, art, permitted food items, liquor, etc. These tend to be heavy. Plan ahead and leave extra space / weight accommodations if shopping is a part of your travel do list. Carry a small hand held luggage scale or inquire at your accommodations if you can have your luggage weighed. - Reduce your time at TSA
There are ways to reduce your time at the TSA check-points. You can apply to be pre-checked by either applying to TSA and or Global Entry. Both require a quick interview but it’s a small inconvenience for years of benefits. Being pre-checked, travelers are allowed to keep their shoes and belts on as they go through the metal detector, and they don’t have to remove laptops and liquids from their carry-on bags before they are scanned by the X-ray machine.
Alternatively, if you do not qualify for the above programs, Clear does not require an interview and may be done at the airport. Clear does not have as many benefits as TSA precheck and Global entry. Clear allows you to bypass the long line to get to the TSA officer to have your documents checked. Following this, you will still have to follow the typical security checks (remove shoes, belts, laptops, etc.)
There are a variety of credit cards that waive the Clear, TSA precheck or Global entry fees as a benefit. - Arrive early
It is recommended that travelers arrive at the airport at least two hours before a domestic flight and three hours before an international flight. Arriving early will give you plenty of time to navigate security and find your gate without feeling rushed or stressed.
For international travelers, duty free shopping is a perk. Nowadays, airports have evolved and now offer unique amenities to keep travelers occupied!
If you meet the requirements you can also enjoy lounge benefits ranging from massages, cocktails, food, etc. If your ticket class does not include lounge access you can still get access as a benefit from certain credit cards or you can apply for the Priority Pass Program which gives you access to a plethora of lounges worldwide! - Use technology
Many airlines offer online check-in, which can save time and reduce stress at the airport. Additionally, downloading a mobile boarding pass can save you from having to stand in line at the check-in counter. - Download Airline App
Your digital boarding passes can be stored in your mobile wallet for quick access through security or when boarding the plane. This is convenient but the downfall is that the pass will not update in real time in the event that there is a gate or time change. To avoid this inconvenience download your airline’s app and turn notifications on so that you can receive updates in real time.
When booking your flight, when available allow your phone number to receive SMS flight updates. - Stay comfortable
The TSA security checkpoint is chaotic and very high energy so it leaves room for many things to go wrong.
Wear comfortable clothing and shoes that are easy to take off during your TSA security check. Minimize accessories that you wear. If possible, do not wear belts, lots of jewelry including watches (sometimes it triggers the scanners and you will have to remove them). You will have less items to collect and/or put on after being scanned. If you need some of these items, pack them in your carry-on and put them on after the checkpoint. This will save time and prevent losing items left behind at the conveyor belt.
Bring or wear socks and a jacket or sweater since the airport and plane can be chilly. The socks can be important when going through the TSA checkpoint. You can keep them on when you take your shoes off so you won’t have to stand on the floor bare footed. - Stay hydrated before your flight
The humidity levels in an aircraft can be as low as 10-20%, which is much lower than the normal humidity levels on the ground. When the air is dry, it can cause the body to lose moisture quickly which can lead to dehydration. To prevent dehydration when flying, it’s important to drink plenty of water before, during, and after the flight.
For immediate relief and comfort during your flight, travel with a medicated lip moisturizer such as Aquaphor and TSA approved travel size dry skin relief lotion for your body and face. - Keep yourself entertained
Bring a book, magazine, or download movies or TV shows onto your electronic device to keep yourself entertained during a long layover or delay. Make sure you pack headphones that have a 3.5mm (USB C to 3.5mm male or Apple Lightning to 3.5 mm) or bluetooth adapter since most airlines don’t allow bluetooth connection to their infotainment system. - Relaxation
Many airports now offer relaxation rooms or spaces where travelers can unwind before their flight. These spaces may include yoga studios, massage chairs, or quiet lounges. Take advantage of these amenities to stay calm and relaxed. - Food and drink
As previously stated, arriving at the airport ahead of time provides ample opportunity to accomplish various tasks prior to your flight, such as dining. A brief online search can unveil numerous tasty dining choices, eliminating the need to rely on fast food restaurants. We also recommend carrying a few snacks for the flight because it’s more expensive to buy them at the airport or during your flight.
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