If you’re getting ready to travel and it’s not your first time pulling into the airport, then the chances are you’ll have some idea of the frustrations you can expect to face. Before you can even start to think about the excitement of arriving at your destination, you’ll need to get past the long lines, parking nightmares, security concerns, and various other annoyances that wait for you before the departure gate.
Fortunately, if you’re looking for ways to handle airport hassle, you’ve come to the right place. A little bit of extra planning, some foresight, and an understanding of the technology you can use to improve your experience could help to reduce the strain of a trip and even make your next airport visit into something you can look forward to.
Handle Airport Hassle: Know the Rules before you Go
One of the biggest threats to a smooth and simple travel experience is naivety. Making sure that you understand the airline baggage rules, fees, and check-in policies before you even leave your home can be a good way to handle airport hassle before it even happens. Try to plan for worst case scenarios, as too many people look at their bags and simply assume they’ll be allowed to carry it on, regardless of the rules. Take a second to measure the size of your hand luggage, weigh your suitcases and take any other steps that can help you to avoid extra fees and arguments at check-in.
Handle Airport Hassle: Be Prepared for Security
The security part of travelling isn’t something that many of us look forward to, but it’s necessary in making sure our airways remain as safe as possible. The best thing you can do to make the experience go faster is quit complaining about the wait, and do your part. Have your boarding pass and ID ready when you need it, and make sure you’ve put a TSA-approved padlock on your case in the event that an agent needs to go through your luggage. Not only will using TSA-approved security make the travel experience easier, but it will also mean that agents won’t have to cut off your padlocks and leave your luggage unprotected.
If you’re not sure what to expect when you head into airport security, try doing a little research before you’re scheduled to go on your trip. For example, it may help to learn what you’ll be allowed to keep in your hand luggage, and what you’ll need to present to agents during screening.
Handle Airport Hassle: Check in Immediately
Want to save some time and effort when you’re rushing through to the departure lounge? Check in to your flight before you even leave to get to the airport. Today, many organizations allow for passengers to do this from their computer or phone, and it means you’ll have one less thing to worry about when you arrive. You can print your boarding pass from your home computer before you leave, or download an electronic version onto your smartphone. What’s more, if you notice any problems, you’ll have an opportunity to make changes to your seats or request cabin alterations long before the actual departure time for your flight.
