Mastering the Airport
How to Travel Like a Pro and Get Through Efficiently and Smoothly
Airports can be overwhelming, but with a few tips and tricks, you can get through them like a pro. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or a first-timer, these strategies will help you get to your destination efficiently and stress-free.
Check-In on Your App Ahead of Time
Many airlines offer the option to check in 24-hours before your flight through their app. By checking in ahead of time, you can save time and avoid lines at the airport. You can also save your boarding pass to your phone, so you won't have to worry about misplacing a piece of paper. Additionally, if you don’t have any bags to check, you can skip the counter and head straight for security.
Weigh Your Luggage Before Leaving for the Airport
If you’re checking your bags, it's a good idea to weigh your luggage at home before heading to the airport. This way, you can avoid any surprise fees for overweight luggage and ensure that you're within the weight limit for your flight. You can easily weigh your luggage using a luggage scale, which is a small, portable scale that you can bring with you on your trip.
Get There a Bit Early
Arriving at the airport a bit early is a great way to avoid stress and ensure that you have enough time to get through security and to your gate. This is especially important if you're traveling with children or have a tight connection. By arriving early, you'll be able to relax and grab coffee or snacks before heading to your gate.
Digital Boarding Passes
Gone are the days of printing out boarding passes and carrying them with you. With digital boarding passes, you can access your boarding information directly from your phone. Not only does this save paper, but it also saves you time and ensures that you won't misplace your boarding pass. Simply save your boarding pass to your phone and have it ready when you arrive at the airport.
Global Entry and TSA Pre
One of the best ways to streamline your travel is to enroll in either Global Entry or TSA Pre. These programs allow you to speed through airport security and customs, so you can get to your gate faster and with less stress. Global Entry also includes TSA Pre, so you'll be able to enjoy the benefits of both programs.
Get Through Security Quickly
Getting through security quickly can be the key to a stress-free trip. First off, if you have TSA Pre or Clear, you’ve already made getting through security much easier on yourself. These programs allow you to keep your shoes on, leave your laptop in your bag, and often have shorter lines.
If you don’t have TSA Pre or Clear, be sure to do a little prep ahead of time to help yourself out. Wear slip-on or easy to remove shoes, remove all items from your pockets, and take your laptop out of its case. You should also be prepared to take off your coat and remove small liquids from your carry-on bag. By being prepared and moving quickly, you can get through security in no time.
Mobile Order Starbucks
If you're an avid coffee drinker, you know how precious time can be in the morning. That's why it's worth taking advantage of Starbucks' mobile ordering feature. By using the Starbucks app, you can select the nearest Starbucks store or stand to your gate and place your coffee order once you’ve left security. It will be ready for you when you arrive and you won't have to wait in the long lines!
*Not all airports have Starbucks. If having coffee for your flight is important to you, check out what coffee shops are available at your airport ahead of time and plan accordingly.
Bring an Empty Reusable Water Bottle
Bringing an empty reusable water bottle to the airport is a smart move. Not only will you be able to fill it up once you pass security, but you'll also save money on drinks while you're waiting for your flight. Make sure your water bottle is empty before you arrive at the airport, as liquids are restricted in carry-on bags.
In conclusion, mastering the airport requires a bit of preparation and planning. By taking advantage of programs like Global Entry and TSA Pre, using mobile order Starbucks, checking in ahead of time, weighing your luggage, using digital boarding passes, and getting to the airport early, you'll be able to travel like a pro and get through the airport efficiently and smoothly. ✈️