9 Tips for Getting Through the Airport Faster
This guest blog post was curated for Bucky by Kacey Bradley.
We've all been there: racing through the airport as fast as we can to try to get on the flight. Getting through TSA, especially when the people in front of you are fumbling with their passport or gingerly taking all of their items out of their bag, can seem like an impossible feat. However, if you follow these nine tips, you can get through the airport faster and relax more on the way to your destination.
1. Keep Your Passport and ID Out
Keep your passport and ID in-hand during the initial line. It will keep the process moving faster, and you can avoid the angry stares behind you when you fumble around looking for a passport and hold up the line.
2. Sign Up for TSA's PreCheck
TSA's PreCheck is a traveler program available in cities throughout the U.S. at more than 200 airports. When you're a member of the program, you get pre-screened and can go through security without taking off your shoes or removing your laptop from its case. It saves time, especially if you travel frequently.
3. Check Parking Ahead of Time
Parking can be a nightmare — especially if you're traveling during a busy time of year. Many airports will include parking status updates on their websites, or you can call in to hear automated parking information. Check which lots are open ahead of time to save precious minutes and stress when trying to find a spot to park.
4. Wear Comfortable Shoes
One of the biggest hassles is taking your shoes off, only to spend the time tying them again or putting heavy boots back on. Comfortable, slip-on shoes such as mules will make taking off your shoes a breeze and help you look stylish while traveling.
5. Download Helpful Apps
Whenever you purchase a plane ticket, check to see if your airline has an app. American Airlines, Southwest Airlines, Delta Air Lines, United Airlines and British Airways all have apps that give you information on flight delays and gate changes.
6. Keep Your Essential Items in One Place
Packing your carry-on is easier when you put all the essential items in one place. Put items such as moisturizer, chapstick and other toiletries in a ziplock bag in the front pocket of your carry-on. That will make it easier to take it out if TSA wants to look at it, or if you need an item while you're on the flight.
7. Leave Gifts Unwrapped
During the holiday season, it's natural to want to bring gifts home for family and friends. TSA recommends that you leave gifts unwrapped and wait until after you land to wrap them up.
8. Dress in Layers
Traveling in the winter means wearing a winter coat or even other layers if it's chilly inside. Make sure you dress in layers, since the flight may be warmer than the airport itself. Be prepared to take off at least your winter coat to get through TSA.
9. Get There Early
No matter how prepared you are, always plan to arrive at the airport early. You can check screening times on the TSA's website or even look at wait times in Canada through the CATSA site if you want to try to figure out the right time to leave home on the day of your flight.
Whether you travel every week for work or you're taking a vacation abroad for the first time, it pays to travel smarter. Always be prepared for the worst and make sure you set enough time aside to get through TSA, check your bags and settle in for the flight ahead.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Kacey Bradley is the blogger behind The Drifter Collective, an eclectic lifestyle blog that expresses various forms of style through the influence of culture and the world around us. Kacey graduated with a degree in Communications while working for a lifestyle magazine. She has been able to fully embrace herself with the knowledge of nature, the power of exploring other locations and cultures, all while portraying her love for the world around her through her visually pleasing, culturally embracing and inspiring posts. Along with writing for her blog, she has written for sites like U.S. News, SUCCESS, Ruffled, and more!
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Learn how to pack two weeks worth of clothing into your carry on bag in our Minimalist Packing Guide, and find all your travel essentials at bucky.com!