7 Game-Changing Airport Travel Hacks
Did someone ask for airport travel hacks? Well, you’re in luck because I am here and ready to tell you my tips! The airport is the most stressful place to be. Unless you’re on the plane with the doors closed and everything – it’s all fair game. In essence, anything can happen, but we don’t want to leave it to chance. These top airport hacks will ensure that you’ll dodge every obstacle that the airport throws at you. At the airport, there are still a few things that you’ll need to do so let’s dive right in!
Airport Travel Hacks: Timing
- Arrive at your flight 2.5-3 hours before for international flights & 1.5-1hr before for a domestic flight. If you are just bringing a carry-on you might even be able to arrive later than that. Boarding happens typically 30-50 minutes before your flight so there’s no need to be there more than you need to.
Airport Travel Hacks: Layovers
- If you have a layover in the same country, the rule of thumb to arrive at the airport 2.5-3 hours before the flight does not apply to you. On my flight to the Bahamas, I had a layover in Miami and didn’t need to go into international customs UNTIL then. I stayed in the airport way longer than I needed to so this was something that I learned the hard way.
- Be aware of the airports you’re transferring to. If you’re transferring to Atlanta, the biggest airport in the USA, you’ll want to keep in mind that you’re most likely going to have to sprint from one gate to the other. Likewise, if it’s a smaller airport- don’t stress!
- If you’re connecting flight is cutting it close with delays, you’ll want to tell the flight attendants. Let the flight attendants know of any issues you come across. Letting them know if your first flight is delayed is crucial. In some instances, the pilot will ask those individuals to get off first.
Packing
- If you bring a carry-on, sometimes airlines will let you check it in (and even pay you to do so). If the plane is too small, there isn’t enough room for everyone to put their carry-on overhead so they will ask for volunteers. In instances where you aren’t in a rush and if you have a group that will have you board last, chances are your luggage isn’t fitting overhead anyway. In JetBlue’s instance, they’ll offer you a stipend for helping them out (which definitely comes in handy the next time you’re planning a trip!)
- Eat before: I usually get a deli sandwich right before arriving at the airport. Why you might ask? Airport food tastes bad and is overpriced. There is no reason why a chicken wrap with half a chicken costs upwards of $20USD. No reason at all. While you’re at it you can bring your favorite snacks.
- Travel pillows, do you really need one? –Inflatable travel pillows are a great hack for finding a travel pillow that’s compact and will fit in your carry-on/luggage.
There You Have It
The frequent flyer in you is thriving now that you have all the latest tips and tricks. As you know, airports are annoying and I hate them. I try not to be there as early as they say because it’s not a great use of my time. With these tips, you’ll be fully prepared for anything that comes your way!
what do you think?