Airports are bustling centres of activity, bustling with travelers trying to get from point A to point B as quickly as possible. As much as we enjoy seeing new places, it’s no secret that traveling can be stressful, but did you know there are some things you can do to help the trip go as seamlessly as possible?
Airlines like Southwest may be able to assist you more than you expect, or carrying a few additional items could mean the difference between a bad flight experience and a terrific journey. Even if you believe you have got your airport routine down, these useful hints and recommendations are very much worth considering. Continue reading to learn a few useful tips!
Bring your own headphones
Bringing your own headphones to the airport is highly suggested. They are more comfortable and less likely to fall out of your ears at any time.
Although it is commendable of airlines like American Airlines to supply them, they aren’t exactly of the highest quality. You’re better off staying with your own pair than taking a chance and getting a set of theirs if you want to fully relax and watch the entertainment without interruption.
Ask for a free upgrade
The majority of people are so courteous that they would never ask for something for free, yet this is where we’re going wrong. If announcing that you’re celebrating a special occasion means you’ll be treated better, go for it.
Airlines like United have been known to offer complimentary upgrades to passengers if they are able to, just to make their trip more memorable. Of course, it doesn’t always work, but there’s no harm in asking!
Head to the left checkpoint at security check
We’ve all experienced the agony of waiting in a security queue for hours, but there’s a solution for this. When you go to security, go to the line to the left.
This is based on a simple concept. Because the majority of individuals are right-handed, they proceed to the right-hand checkpoint. By moving left, you’ll be playing the system and will most likely finish the game faster. It will save you a lot of time!
Bring a portable charger
Keeping our technological gadgets charged is a high priority in this day and age. Traveling without access to a phone can be both inconvenient and dangerous. Although airports have charging stations, getting a seat near one is unlikely. Instead, bring along a portable charger.
After you’ve taken off, switch your phone off or put it in airplane mode. If you don’t do this, it may continue to search for a network, rapidly draining the battery.
Bring wet wipes and hand sanitizer
Planes are hermetic close quarters that carry hundreds of people, it is only natural that the risk of catching a bug rises. To be cautious, bring a pack of wet wipes and hand sanitizer with you on your trip.
After a long flight, wet wipes will help you feel refreshed. You won’t be able to shower right away, but you will be able to refresh your armpits and neck. Always do this in the toilet.
Book an early morning flight to avoid turbulence
Turbulence is an unpleasant aspect of flying that no one appreciates. An hour-long turbulent ride isn’t going to do anyone’s nerves any good. But here we bring you a hack.
Because the majority of turbulence occurs in the afternoon, scheduling a flight early in the morning may result in a calmer flight. It won’t completely remove the possibility of turbulence, but it’ll reduce the chances and hopefully allow you to watch a movie in peace.
Bring your own spare Ziploc bags
It’s a good idea to make some room in your suitcase for a couple of Ziploc bags for a variety of reasons.
Even if you have packed all of your liquids, you can find yourself buying something at the airport at the last minute. Also, if you’re going to the beach, putting your electronics in an airtight bag will protect them. If you do not have any at home, you can buy some at Walmart.
Check-in 24-hours before your flight
Online check-in wasn’t even an option a few years ago. However, thanks to current technology, this option is now standard. Up to 24 hours before your flight, you can check in online.
You won’t have to wait in line to have it done for you; instead, you’ll be able to stroll through with your electronic boarding card already printed. There’s a lot to love about the internet, but this is one of the best features.
Take a photo of your checked luggage
There are a lot of people that have the same luggage as you. There are a few things you can do to make your suitcase stand out, making it easier to find. It is good practice to get out your phone and snap a short photo of it before checking it.
You’ll be able to refer to the image while waiting for your luggage at baggage claim, ensuring that you’re picking up the correct one.
Freeze Your Liquids to Bring on Planes
Liquids have been forbidden on planes for a long time, with only tiny containers permitted. You can always freeze your bottle of water beforehand if you really want to bring a drink into the plane and don’t want to go out and buy one.
The only drawback is that when it goes through the inspections with you, it must still be completely frozen. This won’t be useful if you have a long flight to catch.
Find the best seat on the plane before checking-in
Because different airlines have different planes and seat configurations, it might be impossible to know whether the seat you choose will be comfortable. This is where SeatGuru can help. You can use it to look for reviews on your particular seat to see if you made the proper decision.
It’s a revolutionary concept that has aided many fatigued travelers. When you’ve disembarked, remember to return the favor and leave a review for your own seat.
Fly red-eye
Only a few people choose to fly red-eye. It makes sense, given that most of us would rather be sleeping in a warm bed than on an aircraft at night, but if you dislike crowded airports and prefer a quieter flight, schedule a flight that departs late at night and arrives early the next morning.
All you have to do now is read your ebook until you are relaxed enough to take a long nap.
Check which restaurants and shops are at the airport
Not all airports offer a diverse selection of restaurants and retail outlets. Fast food establishments frequently monopolize the airport eateries, resulting in lower-quality cuisine.
Instead of settling for unhealthy food, check what restaurants are available before you leave. You will have more time to look at the menu selections if you know what’s there, rather than getting flustered when you arrive. This way you can avoid panic buying something you do not actually want.
Bring an empty water bottle
People buying snacks while waiting for flights is one of the main ways that airports make money. If you find yourself buying a bottle of water every time you check-in, stop. Bring an empty bottle with you, and once you’ve through security, fill it up with tap water.
You’ll have as much water as you desire without having to pay exorbitant fees this way. This will save you loads of money in the long run.
Always check your flight’s status
Arriving at the airport with plenty of time to spare is great, but there are times when you’ll arrive only to face a significant delay. It’s best to verify your flight status before heading to the airport rather than assume that everything is running on time.
That way, if your flight is delayed for 5 hours, you won’t have to wait in uncomfortable seats. You can unwind a little at home or at a coffee-store.
Collect hotel toiletries
Checking into a hotel is enjoyable for several reasons. Room service, fluffy cushions, and heavy blackout curtains. We also appreciate the tiny selection of toiletries found in most bathrooms. Those are yours to keep, so take them even if you don’t intend to use them on that particular trip.
You may save a lot of money on travel-sized items in the future by stocking up on toiletries from the hotels you stay during your vacations.
Sign up for a VIP airport lounge
The more you fly, the more benefits you’re likely to receive. Airlines naturally want to keep you in the air, which is why many give frequent flyer miles. You can exchange them for VIP lounge memberships to access VIP lounges, which offer comfy chairs, complimentary drinks, and entertainment.
In some airports, you can go into these lounges even if you don’t have frequent flyer miles. You can buy VIP lounge day passes for roughly $50.
Avoid waiting in line to get your flight rebooked
When a flight is canceled due to unforeseen circumstances, everyone rushes to the desk to try to rebook. Rather than joining the crowd, go straight to your phone.
Make a phone call to the airline and speak with a customer service representative who has the same skills as the one at the airport. They will be able to solve your problem in a flash and you will avoid the stressful situation at the service desk.
Take a nap at the airport
Although sleeping on the rough seats is never easy, some modern airports provide sleeping pods for rent. One of them is Heathrow Airport in London, England.
For roughly $60, you may rent your own four-hour pod. Aside from that, you will have access to showers and towels as well. It is a fine way to improve your overall airport experience.
Get a laptop case
How many of us have struggled to take the laptop out of our carry-on bags mid-flight? The solution? Just purchase a laptop case. It makes it really easy to reach for the laptop without struggling.
Laptop cases don’t have to be expensive; some can be found online for as low as $10. A variety of colors and patterns are available.
Take a photo of your parking space
We all know that finding parking space at an airport is challenging. Finding a spot can be difficult, but if you do, don’t just abandon the car and flee.
Take a photo of the area so you’ll remember where it is when you return. Even if you believe you’ll remember, by the time your trip is over, you might forget.
Wear your extra luggage
Instead of giving in and paying additional money to check an extra bag for a few items, be smart about it.
Put on your bulkiest clothes and wear them to the airport. It may be a little uncomfortable, but you can always remove it once you’ve passed through security.
This also works if you’re concerned about your hand luggage’s weight.
Add a colorful ribbon to your luggage
When you have been on a flight for ten hours, the last thing you want to do is waste time at baggage claim trying to spot the bag. If you choose basic black bags, simply tie a brightly colored scarf, tie, or other fabric on the handle.
You will be able to recognize it immediately and not waste precious time.
Sign Up For TSA Precheck
It’s a hassle to be stuck in a long line to be allowed into a country. But, we have no choice but to stand and wait. Thankfully, there is a method around this, but it will cost you a little money.
You could apply for TSA Precheck or Global Entry if you are eligible and don’t mind spending roughly $100.
Always check for free WiFi
A big inconvenience about traveling abroad is determining if you’ll be able to access an internet connection without spending big bucks. If you absolutely must make a call or check your emails, inquire about free internet at the airport.
Even if it isn’t publicized, it’s worth asking around to see if you can get the code of a cafe’s wifi.
Pack liquids and electronic devices at the top of your bag
The Transportation Security Administration has a lot of restrictions concerning what you can and can’t bring into a plane, and even if you’re authorized to bring something, it must be screened.
Organize your liquids and electronics near the top of your carry-on to make things easier for yourself for when you need to take them out to go through security.
Check apps for better deals
CheapAir conducted research and discovered that Tuesday and Wednesday were the best days to book and that you can save almost $73 per ticket. Thursday and Friday were the cheapest days to travel.
It is far more expensive to fly out before the work week begins on Sunday. According to CheapAir, the best months to fly are January and February.
Get a portable weight checker
Nothing is more aggravating than discovering your suitcase has exceeded its weight restriction while dispatching it.
You will be charged an additional $1,000 or will be required to remove stuff until you reach the weight limit. Purchase a portable weight checker to avoid this headache. Check your luggage at home to make sure it doesn’t exceed the weight restriction.
Don’t listen to music
In the airport, it’s tempting to put on your headphones and listen to music to avoid being stuck listening to TSA announcements, babies wailing, and bickering.
But also, Airlines occasionally make crucial notifications. They might, for example, offer a coupon to anyone who agrees to board the following flight. You can also miss announcements about flight delays and transit cautions.
Make use of the TSA app
When most individuals arrive at the airport, they simply hope for the best when it comes to long queues at TSA. Download the TSA app if you want to be more prepared when it comes to security lines.
The MyTSA app can provide you with useful information on wait times, traveler warnings and recommendations, as well as vital news updates.