With all the rules and regulations set by the TSA, airports and airline travel are becoming more and more stressful than the relaxing experiences they're intended to be. As someone who flies numerous times a year, I most certainly rely on several life hacks to help me get through my travels. Feel free to use any of these airport hacks to simplify and destress your traveling experiences.

1. Electronic boarding passes

One of the most useful features of any current generation smart phone is the ability

to use near-field communication to communicate the same information that is on your boarding pass with nearby receivers at security checkpoints and gates. This not only helps save trees, as it is paperless, but also saves time and stress since all boarding passes and flight information can be found on one single device on your person. Nearly every airline has an app on which these electronic boarding passes can be viewed and Apple’s own “Wallet” even expands this feature by allowing boarding passes and also loyalty cards, gift cards and credit cards keeping everything you need all in one place.

2. Noise canceling headphones

An essential in air travel today, noise canceling headphones can be the difference

between a relaxing flight and a hellish flight. Although modern airplanes are designed to keep engine noise at a minimum, there is no better feeling than drowning out engine noise completely and replacing it with your own music.

3. Skateboard

That’s right, a skateboard is a major key in airline travel and I personally do not leave without packing one with me. With the size of airports such as LAX, Charlotte and Dulles, going from one gate to another can be a rather long walk. Sure those nifty, moving sidewalks can help speed things along but nothing can offer more maneuverability, versatility, reliability and speed than a skateboard. Whether it be a small, penny board or a 40-inch longboard, the choice is up to you. Personally, I find a standard street deck to work the best as there aren’t many cracks and bumps to worry about indoors but to each his own.

4. Playing cards

Very light, cheap and versatile. Airport delays are no match for a deck of playing cards. You can use them to perform card tricks for a variety of spectator, play a quick card game, or even play solitaire in the corner by if yourself, if you choose. I found that playing cards are a great ice breaker and a fantastic way to meet new and interesting people from around the room and around the world.

5. Power sources

Again, small and versatile. A power source is a must have for anyone traveling. A small power bank will make sure that your numerous devices are constantly charged and ready to go on a moment’s notice. Need something more? A power strip or surge protector can definitely handle all of your electronic needs and is a very good way to make friends at an airport.