If you’ve travelled through an airport recently you’ll know that in some ways air travel has been streamlined to make life easier. Self check-ins, apps that share up-to-date departure and arrival times and automated passport control all mean some time-consuming issues of the past are faster now.
However in other ways, it seems like there’s always the risk of lost luggage or delayed flights. It’s why the best thing to take to an airport is often a patient, polite and understanding attitude.
Planning ahead and allowing plenty of time are other essentials for making getting through the airport – and to your destination – a breeze.
To further help relieve those stressful situations and ensure you’re not stuck at security for longer than necessary, here are some handy common sense hacks.
Remember, preparation and organisation can significantly improve your airport experience.
Be prepared
Make sure before your date of travel that you’re familiar with the most up-to-date passport, visa, vaccination and health requirements for the destination you’re travelling to.
Download airline apps, airport maps, and transportation apps to stay informed and navigate easily. Have a plan for how to get to and from the airport. Also set a realistic estimation of how long transfers will take. Google Maps is useful for predicting the traffic and travelling times if you’re in an unfamiliar city or location.
Don’t forget to charge your devices and have charging cords or portable charging devices at the ready in your carry-on in case of delays. You may need to unexpectedly recharge your device if you are struck with long delays. However, remember to check your airline’s rules for carrying portable charging devices and power banks. These generally must be carried in your carry-on luggage. Don’t make the mistake of packing them in your checked luggage – they can hold up the flight at best and present a serious safety hazard at worst.
A book or magazine is a good idea too.
Use online check-in
If you can, download your airline’s app. Then you can check in online before arriving at the airport to save time and possibly secure better seat choices. Online check-in often opens long before classic check-in counters and you can be notified of when it is available. It will also allow you to update your booking if you need to and also advise you of any changes or delays to your aircraft.
Use a mobile boarding pass
Forget fumbling around in your bag for your printed pass and holding up the line at the gate. Use your smartphone to store your boarding pass and avoid printing it. Just make sure you have enough battery life left on your device.
Pack light
If you can, stick to carry-on luggage to avoid long wait times at baggage claim and potential baggage fees. For baggage you do have, be aware of baggage allowances in terms of weight limits, size guides and airline policies. Ensure your packed bags fit within these. If you have excess luggage, you can face hefty fees.
Pack across cases
If you are travelling with a partner or as a family group, packing your items across two or more bags. It means if one suitcase does go missing, you’ll still have clothes you can use until you are reunited.
Bring snacks
Pack some light, non-perishable snacks to avoid spending extra money at the airport. Or if you feel hungry during the flight but it’s not mealtime. It’s also a good idea to carry an empty reusable water bottle and fill it after passing security to stay hydrated.
Dress comfortably
Wear comfortable clothing and layers to adjust to changing temperatures and consider avoiding anything on this list of what not to wear! Opt for shoes that are easy to take off and put on during security checks.
Choose flights strategically
Consider flying during off-peak hours like booking early morning or late-night flights in order to avoid crowds and potential delays. Check your dates ahead of time and ensure they don’t fall on public holidays or school holiday breaks.
Whenever possible, choose direct flights to reduce the risk of delays and layover hassles.
Be ready for security
Know the rules around security for the destination you are heading to, When you get to the Security screening, be sure you already are prepared by removing your laptop from its bag, and keep medications, important documents, and essentials in your carry-on within easy reach if you are questioned on any of them. Use a passport holder to keep your passport and boarding pass together and available.
Buy a reusable set of toiletry containers within the size limits. Pack them in a clear bag within your carry-on. This makes it easy to be removed and placed next to your carry-on in a tray on the conveyor belt prior to screening. These toiletries can be a life saver if you bags are unexpectedly lost or to freshen up if you face long unexpected delays.
Stay informed
Keep an eye on flight status updates and gate changes through airport displays or apps. This is particularly important in lounges where it is easy to become distracted away from your gate. It can be helpful to speak to a lounge manager when you arrive. Always ask for a reminder when your flight is boarding if the lounge is a busy destination with many flights.
