From Airport to Air: 7 Tips for a Stress-Free Travel Experience
Whether you're traveling solo, with young kids, or with a group of seasoned travelers, the airport can sometimes be more stressful than expected. Here are seven easy ways to reduce stress and make your travel experience smoother from start to finish.
Check Your Flight Details Early As soon as you book your trip, check your airline’s app to see all your flight details. This simple step helps you stay updated on any schedule changes, delays, or cancellations, saving you unnecessary stress at the airport.
Choose Your Seats Ahead of Time If possible, book your flight early to snag the best seats. If extra legroom or wider seats matter to you, consider upgrading. A little extra investment can make a big difference in your comfort, especially on long flights.
Know Your Airline’s Baggage Policies Each airline has different baggage rules, especially for international vs. domestic flights. Pro-tip: Even if you're familiar with an airline, check their policy before packing. For instance, Allegiant recently changed their weight limit. Stay informed by checking the airline’s app or website.
Pack Entertainment in Your Carry-On Having distractions on hand can make a world of difference during delays or long flights. Download movies, music, or books ahead of time, as Wi-Fi isn’t always available or reliable onboard. This ensures you’re entertained, even without internet access.
Arrive Early and Skip the Stress This one can be tough, but arriving early is key to avoiding unnecessary anxiety. You never know when security lines might be longer than expected or if there are fewer TSA lanes open. Trust me, I’ve been “warned” that my luggage might not make it onboard due to late check-ins—lesson learned! Pay attention to your boarding time as well as your departure time. Did you know there is an app to check TSA wait times? Download it.
Bring Your Own Snacks and Water Bottle Airport food and drinks are notoriously overpriced. Bring your own snacks and a refillable water bottle to save money and avoid any food delays. You can use that saved cash on more enjoyable experiences at your destination!
Practice Patience and Kindness Remember that not everyone is as prepared as you. From stressed-out parents to infrequent flyers, the airport can be overwhelming for many. Show grace, be helpful if you can, and most importantly, stay calm. The travel experience is better when we all tap into our human side.
Bonus Tips for Frequent Travelers For those who travel often or are willing to invest in convenience:
Global Entry/TSA PreCheck or CLEAR: Skip the long lines with these programs, which offer faster security screening.
Use Airport Lounges: Especially during long layovers, lounges provide a quiet and comfortable space to relax. Just be aware that lounge access may come at a cost or require special membership.
