Navigating the Airport Smoothly

Written by Bobbie

When it comes to air travel the part I dread the most isn't the flying, it's getting through the airport without fear of missing my flight or being caught up in security. After working for a major airline I've heard about everything from passengers that missed their flights, almost all of the situations could have been avoided. Here are some simple tips to get through the hustle and bustle smoothly.

Arrive Early - For many domestic flights it is best to give yourself 1 to 1 1/2 hours at the airport. International travel can range from 2-3 hours early. During peak travel times you would want to add on an extra 30 minutes to an hour. There are days this will be too much time but it's far better to havetime to spare than to watch your plane depart without you. This can also give you a buffer just in case you encounter a traffic problem while on your way.

Check in On-line - If the airline you are traveling with has the option available (and most do), take advantage. 24 hours before your flight go to your airlines website. You will often just need your last name and confirmation number. For international travel you will need your passport number as well. Once you check in on-line you can print your boarding pass out from home. If you are only traveling with a carry on you are ready to head straight to security. If you do have bags you can check them curb side, otherwise you just need to check them inside.

Carry On Only - To some this may seem impossible, but most of us tend to over pack. Most flights from the US have a carry on limit of 52 inches when you total the length, width and height of your bag. The weight wan very but most domestic flights are around 40 pounds. It is best to call your airline, or goon-line to double check. You are also allowed one personal item in addition to your carry on, such as a purse or null bag. If you can learn to pack all you will need in just one carry on per passenger then you can avoid waiting to check in your bags, and waiting to pick them up at your destination. This canalso save you a lot of time and money by not having to worry about your baggage getting lost since it is with you the entire time.

Security - The TSA has the 3.1.1 rule on all liquids and gel's. This means you may have no more than 3 ounce containers, in a single one quart sized plastic bag. This rule is strictly enforced. Even if a container isn't full, if it is a container larger than 3 oz. they will make you throw it away at security, the exception to this is an empty water bottle. The liquid and gel rule extends to food items as well as personal care items. Your best bet is to check the null website before packing to make sure you are not packing any restricted items. Once you get to the security line make sure you have your ID and boarding passready and to save time make sure you have on shoes that are easy to slip on and off. Even if you purchase a pair of shoes that claim to be "Airport Safe" the security agents will most likely make you take them off to be scanned. Make sure when filling the containers with your personal items that you stick your laptop alone in a container, out of the bag you carry it in. There are many signs in security sections of the airports, if you pay attention to them you'll keep that line moving at a smooth pace. If you are traveling with any gifts it is best to take them unwrapped and wrap them at your destination.

Entertainment and Extras - Even if you are not traveling with children it is often a good idea to bring some kind of entertainment. Video games, books, crossword puzzles, a newspaper, even a deck of cards can help pass the time ifyour flight happens to be delayed. Cell phone and computer chargers are things you should make sure to pack in your carry on bag, not your checked bag. This way you have access to them null you do get delayed. Another thing we try to do when we travel is to make sure we have snacks. While you hope you are neverstuck on a plane, it is good to have something to eat if you are. Anything you purchase past security in most US airports is OK to take on the plane, so you may even purchase meals or drinks to take with you as well.

Be Prepared - It is a good idea to have your flight information on hand at all times. This includes your confirmation number and or ticket number as well as all the flight numbers you will be flying that day. It is also a good idea to make sure the people dropping you off and or picking you up from the airports have the same information. This way if a flight is delayed they can call in to check times if you are unable to get a hold of them. The more information you have if you are trying to get help from the airline, the smoother the transaction will go.

While there are always exceptions to every rule, following some or all of these steps can help you navigate the airport smoothly on your next trip. Sometimes a little preparation can save you a lot of time in the long run.