7 Tips for a Stress-Free Airport Experience
Flying can often be a stressful experience. From the long lines to the hectic airport atmosphere to all of the different restrictions and requirements that must be met — it's enough to make anyone's heart race.
But it doesn't have to be that way! Here are seven tips for having a stress-free airport experience so you can start your holidays off on the right foot.
1. Understand the Travel Requirements
The first step towards a stress-free airport experience is understanding what travel requirements must be met.
Are you travelling internationally? Will you need a passport or visa? Is there any additional paperwork that needs to be filled out?
Knowing what each destination requires will help ensure your trip goes as smoothly as possible.
2. Arrive at the Airport with Plenty of Time
Planning ahead is key when it comes to air travel. Showing up too late could mean missing your flight or having to wait in line for hours.
Give yourself plenty of time before your flight leaves so you don't have to rush or worry about making it on time. If possible, arrive at least two hours before departure time to give yourself plenty of wiggle room just in case something unexpected happens.
3. Ensure the Journey to the Airport is Stress-Free
Whether taking public transportation or driving yourself, make sure you plan ahead for your journey from home to the airport. You could even treat yourself to a first-class train ticket to the airport.
Have a map handy, so you know exactly which route you should take and how much time it will require (especially if traffic conditions could affect your arrival).
You may also want to call ahead and find out if any road closures or construction could impede your progress—this will help save valuable time and avoid added stress on your way there.
4. Check In Online
Checking in online is one of the easiest ways to avoid lines and hassle at the airport.
Most airlines allow passengers to check in 24 hours before their flight takes off, meaning they can print boarding passes from home and skip all those long queues at check-in desks. Or you the app on your smartphone.
If this isn't an option, consider using self-service kiosks at the airport. Many airports now offer these convenient machines, making checking in much faster and less stressful than waiting in line with everyone else.
Plus, most kiosks have helpful customer service personnel nearby who can assist with any questions or concerns you may have while checking in.
5. Pack Light
Packing light means avoiding extra fees (if applicable) and saving valuable time when going through security checks at the airport.
The fewer items in your carry-on bag, the less likely they are to get flagged by security personnel—so try limiting yourself only to essential items like passports, tickets, wallets/purses, etc., unless necessary.
6. Get Ready for Security
Finally, make sure you wear comfortable clothes when travelling so that taking off jackets/shoes, etc., won't be necessary during security checks — this will save valuable time.
You should also put away any electronics such as laptops/tablets/phones before entering security checkpoints, so they don't get flagged unnecessarily.
Lastly, keep an eye out for any special instructions given by staff members at these checkpoints and follow them carefully. This will help ensure everything goes as smoothly as possible during screenings.
7. Enjoy a Snack Before the Flight
Airports can be busy and overwhelming, so forgetting to eat before your flight is easy. Eating a snack can help you feel more relaxed and less irritable.
Look for healthy snacks like fruit, nuts, or a sandwich. If you have time, treat yourself to a meal at a sit-down restaurant. This can help you feel more relaxed and refreshed before your flight. Add a glass of wine or cocktail as needed.
Final Thoughts
Follow these steps correctly and enjoy a smooth journey from start to finish.
