Navigating an airport can definitely be a stressful experience. After all, airports are really large, and it can be difficult to figure out where you need to go to be absolutely sure that you’ll make it to your flight on time.
Whether you travel by air often or rarely, check out the five tips below, which are designed to help you get through the airport more quickly so you can have a less stressful experience the next time you travel.
5 Tips to Help You Get Through the Airport Faster
Follow these strategies to breeze through the security checkpoint and eliminate painful lineups.
1. Avoid Checking Any Bags
Make it a point to travel as lightly as possible so that you don’t have to waste any time checking your bags prior to getting onto your flight.
By not checking your bags, you can save time when you arrive at your destination because you can simply be off on your way, rather than having to wait for your luggage to be taken off the plane.
After all, you don’t want to have to spend extra money checking your bags when most hotels such as ihg.com, will provide you with soap, shampoo, conditioner, and lotion, so you don’t have to pack these items.
2. Check In on the Internet
If your airline allows you to do so, you should simply check in online roughly 24 hours prior to your flight.
This will save you plenty of time, and you can put your boarding passes onto your smartphone or print them out instead.
Most airlines have their own apps that you can download for check-in, and, bonus: they’ll update you on flight status and reminders straight to your phone.
3. Stay OrganiZed for Security Checks
When going through the security line at the airport, if you can be organized, you can save a lot of time.
This means placing items like your mobile phone, wallet, and wristwatch into your carry-on bag.
Empty out your pockets prior to going through the security checkpoint, and place those items into your carry-on bag.
Of course, you should read your airline’s policies on what items are allowed into your carry-on so you don’t end up wasting any time putting problematic items into your bag. Be aware of restrictions on traveling with vitamins and supplements, and make sure prescriptions and liquids are packed properly in your carry-on.
4. Have All of Your Necessary Documents Ready
Rather than having to fumble for important documents when you’re at the airport, have them ready as soon as you get to the front of the line.
Have your boarding pass, your passport and ID, and your credit card all stored within a really easy-to-access part of your bag or purse, or pack a travel wallet to organize your documents.
This tiny detail will make a big difference and save you time, while also ensuring you don’t leave any of these documents at home by accident.
5. Know Your Gate
Finally, make sure that you take a quick look at the airline’s departure times and gates. In this way, you’ll know the exact time and the right gate that your flight will be leaving from. You can be prepared if a delay occurs, and you’ll be able to get to your gate on time without being on the wrong end of the airport.
If you follow the above tips, you’re guaranteed to make every airport experience a smoother and quicker one.