The enjoyable time people have on vacation is always something to look forward to; however, the trip there, is not. At least that’s what most people think.
Airports have a reputation for being overcrowded, having long lines, crazy people, and expensive food. It' time to put these impressions aside and learn the tricks to avoid the chaos and make your time in the airport more enjoyable.
1. Check-in Online
This is especially convenient for those doing carry-on. Travelers are often given a whole new boarding pass once they check their bag. Instead of waiting in that long line to check-in, check-in online so you can go straight to security, grab a coffee and get to your gate within a 45-minute window.
2. Know the Carry-on Restrictions
Going with carry-on luggage is always convenient because you have quick access to your things during the flight (like all of the snacks you brought) and don’t have to worry about the possibility of your bag being lost. Plus, once you arrive to your destination, you can skip having to wait around for your luggage at baggage claim. With all the luxuries of bringing your bag on flight, there is a catch. Know the rules or you can’t bring your luggage on board! Here are the regulations and restrictions for carry-on:
- The size of your luggage, including handles and wheels, may have a combined length, width, and height of 45 inches. An exception to this is if you have a small musical instrument that can fit in the overhead compartment or under the seat in front of you.
- Your luggage must also be able to easily fit into the Carry-on Baggage Check. You can find these nifty items next to the check-in counters near the front of the airport.
- Each traveler traveling in the US is allowed one quart-sized bag for their items containing liquids. Containers for liquids are limited to 3.4 ounces for each liquid item.
- Your luggage can weigh no more than 50 pounds.
3. Organize Your Carry-on
Most travelers have to go through security before reaching their gate, so you always want to make the process swift and effortless for yourself and everyone else still in line behind you. To do this, make sure to keep your ID, boarding pass, and passport (if needed) in your hand so you have it ready by the time you reach the front of the line to hand it to the airport staff members. Also, electronics and quart-size bags for liquids need to be outside of your luggage when you go through, so make sure to either keep them on top of all of your clothes or in a pocket on the outside of your bag so that you can quickly grab it.
4. Check The Status of Your Flight
Flights are notorious for being canceled or delayed. Try to consistently check your flights status to save yourself from waiting around longer than you need to be.
5. Wear Comfortable Clothes!
I often arrive to the airport in a cute pair of pajamas or sweatpants. Whatever attire you choose, make sure that it is comfortable so you can stay relaxed amidst the hectic scene around you.
6. Know The Layout
Especially if you’re in a big city, airports are enormous. With all of the different internees, gates and terminals, it’s too easy to get lost. Walking around the airport is sometimes a nice way to pass the time, but you don’t want to wander so far that you’re late to your flight. Look at the map of the airport either online or when you first get there to avoid missing your trip!
7. Bring Your Own Snacks (Lots!)
No matter what you’re looking for, everything is more expensive in the airport. And if you’re like me, eating always helps to pass the time. Plan for delayed flights and hungry stomachs and bring some food for yourself and your group to munch on.
Despite all of the “negative” stereotypes about the airport, always try to lighten the mood by reminding yourself that the moment you step off that plane, you are finally on vacation.
