Every second counts when you’re at the airport. Whether you arrive early or are running late, the smallest holdup could cause you to miss your flight. Luckily, frequent fliers have accrued a slew of airport tips to save time and get you to your terminal faster. While every facility is different, some expert advice might come in handy the next time you’re battling long lines and eternal wait times.
1. Time It Right
One of the best frequent flyer tips is to only fly on the quietest travel days. If you time your flight right, you should enjoy a nearly empty airport and shorter lines. Which day is the least busy? The answer will vary depending on where you are, where you want to go and which airports are close by. However, you can typically count on Tuesdays and Wednesdays to offer cheaper travel and quieter terminals.
If you can’t find a midweek flight, try booking one with an early departure time. Typically, anything at or before 8 a.m. will ensure fewer people and shorter lines so you can spend more time relaxing at your gate.
2. Study a Map
You’ve probably already perused a map of your destination, but have you studied one of the airport? Looking it over before you pack your bags will help you prepare a route so you can get to your gate faster.
It’s also wise to familiarize yourself with layover and destination terminals, especially if you’ve never been to that particular airport before. Look up maps of each airport along your route and figure out which amenities are available in each one. The more you know, the quicker you’ll be able to get to use the restroom, buy some food, find your gate and board the next flight.
3. Go Digital
Odds are you have some sort of smartphone. Why not put it to good use by downloading an app for the airline you’re using? This way, you’ll be the first to know if your flight is early, delayed or canceled. Plus, you can download your ticket so you aren’t holding up lines with a chaotic search for your boarding pass.
Frequent travelers are also used to checking in online before they even get to the airport so you can skip the line. Some airlines will even allow you to choose or change seats when you use their app or website to check in.
4. Travel Light
Learning how to save time at the airport begins at home when you pack your bags. Fees and extra charges can add up quickly, especially if your luggage is over the weight limit. Plus, if you want to save a few bucks, you’ll have to rifle through your bags and put on your heaviest items, which can take some time and even send you to the back of the line. Therefore, it’s best to pack fewer items and weigh your bag at home.
Are you embarking on a long journey that requires lots of luggage? Lighten your load by wearing your bulkiest items. Layer on that sweatshirt, parka and fluffy hat and pay less for lighter bags. You can always take these items off once you get on the plane, and they can make room in your suitcase for souvenirs on your return flight.
5. Stay Organized
Another one of the best airport tips is to stay organized from the get-go. Pack the clothes you’ll need first at the top of your suitcase and place a bag between each layer of clothing to easily remove each one. You can also stow jewelry in pillboxes, shoes in resealable bags and dirty laundry in compressor bags to further organize your suitcase. This will also help you save time when you reach your destination.
Keeping your documents organized is a great way to save time while traveling as well. When you know where your boarding pass, passport, driver’s license and other paperwork are, you’re less likely to waste time fumbling around for them. Keep these important papers in a money belt or a specific pocket to avoid losing one or all of them.
6. Pay for TSA PreCheck
If you had to pay extra to fly first class, choose your seats and check a bag, you probably aren’t looking to spend any more money on your flight. However, paying for TSA PreCheck is one of those savvy traveler tips that’s more than worth the cost, especially if you fly on busy days.
This optional membership costs $85 for five years and expedites the security screening process so you can get to your terminal sooner. If you fly international, you might opt to purchase Global Entry instead. This membership is more elite and costs $100 per year, but comes with all the benefits of TSA PreCheck plus expedited U.S. customs screening.
Happy Travels
The less time you spend stressing at the terminal, the more time you’ll have to enjoy the ride. Incorporate these expert airport tips the next time you hop on a plane and embrace the joy of traveling again.