Navigating your way through an airport experience can be one of the most stressful (and dull) parts of travel, but we all have to do it if we want to see these world. Follow these airport tips to make your time at the airport as calm and easy as possible.
1. Leave plenty of time
When it comes to stress free travel, time is your most powerful weapon. As long as you give yourself plenty of time to get to the airport, check in your luggage, get through security, and board your flight, very little can go wrong.
To save yourself time waiting around at the airport, check in beforehand and weigh your luggage before you leave home to avoid any problems with it being over your allowance.
2. Keep documents organised
Your check-in luggage should be neatly organised so that when you’re asked to present documents at each stage you’ll know exactly where it is and be able to pull it out quickly. Designate a specific pocket in your luggage for storing your documents – that way you’ll know exactly where they are at all times.
These documents include your passport, booking information, boarding pass, and for when you reach your destination, any visa of travel insurance information you might need and car rental documents if you’re picking up a ride at the airport.
3. Pack light
Dragging heavy luggage around an airport is one of the greatest nuisances, so try to pack as light as possible. Get rid of any checked bags as soon as you arrive, and master the art of manageable hand luggage so you can swan around the airport at your leisure.
Not only will light luggage make your airport experience easier, but also when you transfer to and from your hotel or other places you might be going on your travels. Use these packing tips to sharpen up your skills!
4. Set aside some airport money and relaxation time
There’s always going to be some waiting around time when you’re at the airport, so make the most of a bad situation and do your best to enjoy it. Set aside some of your vacation money for a drink at one of the bars, take a stroll around the shops, or grab a bite to eat.
This is especially good to do if you’re heading off on vacation – sometimes the airport can be half the fun and is the perfect place to get amped up for your adventures, especially if you’re with friends!
5. Book seats ahead of time if possible
If they don’t book one for you, many airlines allow you to choose your seat ahead of time. This saves you rushing to your gate and getting in a long queue to wrestle all the other passengers for an aisle or window (God forbid you should be left with the curse of the middle seat!) If you’ve already got a seat booked, you can take it easy safe in the knowledge that your seat is yours no matter what.
Unfortunately, some budget airlines will charge you for booking your seat – and just about anything else they can think to charge your for – but if you want legroom or prefer a specific place on the plane, sometimes it’s worth paying for it.
6. Plan to keep the kids entertained
If you’re traveling with children, the key is to plan ahead to keep them entertained at the airport. Download some shows or games onto a tablet give it to them when you’re waiting around to board, or stand at the windows with them watching the planes take off and land (a sight that never gets old if you love travel!) Also keep a few snacks and drinks handy just in case you’re delayed and waiting around in departures for longer than anticipated.
