Airports are inherently stressful places, filled with security guards, lengthy checking processes, and literally hundreds of other people all going through the same motions and hoops as you – it’s enough to drive a person to drink!
It seems so counter-intuitive that something as inherently relaxing as a vacation would begin on such a negative note, but with the following tips and tricks, you can find ways to avoid these stressors without having to turn to alcohol. You could even use the extra money you save to invest in TSA locks for your luggage, further reducing the number of things you need to worry about.
Plan Ahead
This may be a derivative piece of advice regarding almost any event or activity in life, but the more you anticipate and plan, the less likely you are to encounter problems during your trip. Knowing what could go wrong – and how to fix or avoid these problems – ahead of time alleviates much of the stress of travel. Ensuring you have all the correct documents easily to hand, that you have snacks and entertainment available for your kids, that your luggage is secured with TSA locks, can all lessen the stress involved with your next trip.
It seems simplistic, but knowing that you’re going into your journey well-prepared really can help to ease your nerves and ensure you enjoy your vacation a lot more. That’s why it’s our first tip in learning how to relax at the airport.
Board last, disembark first
When booking your flight, keeping your seat in mind is a good idea not only for making sure you have enough legroom, but for reducing stress during the travel experience itself. Try to get a seat near the front of your section, as this will allow you to leave before any of the other passengers behind you, and cause you to beat the crush that always follows in the wake of a hundred or more bodies trying to leave a confined space when you reach your destination.
Conversely, waiting for the crowd to die down when initially boarding the plane has the same effect, as everyone will already be in their seat, getting themselves ready to depart, giving you all the time and space you could need or want to get yourself equally prepared.
Enjoy inclusive luxuries
Finally, when you’re figuring out how to relax at the airport, remember that many airline companies already know your pain. These industries understand the stress of travel, and sometimes offer their customers the opportunity to add various perks to their services in the form of exclusive lounges, which offer a little safe-haven from the general chaos of the airport’s main concourse. Though it may be an additional cost to your budget, the amount of stress it can reduce during your trip will be worth the money, after all, why not go all-out for the sake of relaxation?
Fewer occupants make these lounges generally quieter, snacks available on request ensure you don’t have to pay exorbitant prices in the various cafes, restaurants and shops, and exclusive bathrooms make for a far less daunting experience when nature calls.
