Now that the holiday season is in full swing, you might find yourself frequenting the airport over the next few months. Holidays in the airport usually means long queues, unpredictable weather, and full flights.
Here are a few of my tried and true tips that will help keep the airport time to a minimum and allow you more time to enjoy the holidays. Win-win.
Enroll in TSA Pre-Approval or Global Entry
Make it through security in less than 10 minutes and US Customs in less than 5. Don’t believe me? Ask any person standing in the TSA Pre-Approval line. I think it might be actual magic.
Cozy up in an Airline Lounge
If you do find yourself with a long layover or cancelled flight, make your way to an airline lounge. For $50 (or so), you buy a one time membership for the day. Although this might seem steep up front, lounges are equipped with free (quick) wifi, unlimited drinks and cocktails, and snacks/food galore. Plus you’ll quickly discover yourself lounging in a plush chair with plugins. Lounges manage to make extra time in the airport a little more manageable.
Save your Boarding Pass in Passbook
Or if you have an Android, screenshot your boarding pass. Quick retrieval for scanning. Everyone in line behind you will love you a little more.
Take a Picture of Your Luggage
It may seem a little ridiculous, but if your baggage becomes “misplaced” you’ll be thankful you can provide the airline a photo. They will file the picture with your claim and gives you a better chance at a faster reunion.
Book an Early Morning Flight
Early morning flights are proven to have less turbulence. So if flying brings you anxiety (read: me), a morning flight will make the holiday travel a little more enjoyable.
Choose your Seats with SeatGuru
Nothing is more upsetting than arriving to your seat to realize it’s by the restroom, doesn’t recline, or has no overhead storage. Enter SeatGuru. After booking your tickets, you can check out the seat map for your exact flight. They highlight the best seats, the worst seats and any seat with mixed reviews. If this isn’t enough information, they explain EXACTLY what is wrong with the seat. It’s become a go-to website for me.
Invest in a 360° Rolling Suitcase
I see too many people struggling with their luggage. I know that weekender bags are the current fashion, but during the holidays, it may make more sense to bring your roller. With extra bags, your winter coat, etc. you will appreciate the arm room that your roller will provide. You’ll be amazed how much you can stack on your bag!
Roll Back your Computer’s Clock
I think this is one of the best, maybe the BEST, airline trick I’ve discovered. Using the free wifi at the airport is great, but you are usually limited to only one hour. When you find your first hour about to run out, switch your computer’s time back and hour, and voilá, you’ll find the timer resets itself.
Do you use any of these airport tips? Do you have any tips of your own?
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