10 Airport Hacks

10 Airport Hacks
By Mike Miller

Personally I love airports, I know its weird but true. But you either love or hate flying but often its a necessity. Here are 10 Airport Hacks that will hopefully make your next trip easier. 

1 Parking

​Take a picture of your car in the parking lot so you don’t forget where you parked. 

2 Shoes

​Wear loos fitting shoes. You have to remove your shoes at security so wearing flip flops or something you can easily slip off and on will save you time and hassle.

3 Speaking of Security

Now you have to remove any electronic item the same size or larger than a cell phone from your bag. Have these handy and if possible ready to go by the time you reach the scanner. If everyone does this, it will speed up your time getting through security. 

4 Arrive Early

​As with anything, if you cut it too close, something is bound to go wrong. For domestic flights, arrive around an hour and half early and for international, two hours early. This should allow you time to check your bags, get through security and find your gate. 

5 Bring an empty water bottle

​Take an empty water bottle with you when you fly. Once you are beyond security, you can fill it up at the water fountain and avoid paying a fortune for water. 

6 Layovers

​If you find your self on a long layover, find an empty gate where there is lots of seating This will allow you to avoid the crowds. 

7 In-Flight Essentials

During your flight, there are always items you want to have. Unfortunately,, they are often in your bag in the overhead. Pack items like, ear buds, a book and a snack in a small bag you can easily pull out before stowing your carry on.
 

8 Wearing Headphones

I know I and many others like to listen to music, podcast or books while waiting on our flight. Set an alarm on your phone for every so often so you can take off the headphones and check for changes. There are times where a gate might be changed and you might not hear the announcement. 

9 Walk Around

This goes for a long delay at the airport or a long flight. Of course, if you are on the flight, pay attention to the fasten seatbelt signs. Moving around helps with circulation and can also break up the monotony of a long wait. You never know what you might find in an airport. I was stuck in BWI several years ago and found a mini Smithsonian. 

10 Bring Patience

This is very important. Remember, you and others are trying to get home, on vacation or maybe to family so be patient. Be respectful to crew and staff of the airline. They are doing a job just like you at home so treat them as you would want customers to treat you. 

Be sure to check out the TSA Website for rules when flying. If you have your own hacks, please feel free to share in the comments. 

Mike Miller
Travel Adviser
(904) 534-4318