Travel Tips: Ways to Breeze Through The Airport

Everybody wants a break from the stress of real life, that's why you take a vacation right? But if you're like me, most of the time it can be very stressful getting to your destination. Anxiety can get the best of you but if you are prepared before getting there, tensions don't tend to flare last minute.

My "super" goal in life is to see every state along with as many countries as I can. I am an avid traveler, taking five or more vacations a year to grow my list of destinations visited. I have learned throughout the years that there are many ways to make your trip to the airport way less stressful or virtually stress free. Here are my personal tips that I live by to breeze through the airport!

Tip #1 - Pack light

As much as this seems like a no-brainer, most people tend to over pack. Don't over think it- you probably won't be changing three times a day and you definitely won't need those couple extra pair of shoes "just in case". Simplify your wardrobe when you are on vacations. Keep yourself from adding in those last minute things, it's easy to say "well I might wear this" or "what if I need this". I promise you won't.

Packing light will possibly keep you from needing to check a bag. Taking a carry on instead of checking a bag will save you money (because almost every airline now charges for bags unless you have their credit card) and also save you time by not having to wait in their long lines at the counter.

Tip #2 - Sign up for TSA Pre-Check and Clear

Aside from long lines at the ticket counter, there are also long lines at the security check points. It's tedious to take off your shoes, belts, coats along with taking all your extra electronics out of your bags. TSA Pre-Check is an advanced version of security. You no longer need to remove any part of your outfit to get through the checkpoint. It tends to run you about $100 but it is worth it. Once you are verified you get a Known Traveler Number and add it into your information when booking the flight.

Clear is also a way, not to just get through security quicker, but TSA as well. Clear is a new system that uses biometrics to scan your face and and eyes to make sure you are who you say you are and you'll no longer need to get your government issued ID out and get that scanned by the agent. It's free to sign up and only takes a couple minutes to enroll.

"Experienced travelers use three secret weapons to speed through airport security and make screenings less intrusive: TSA PreCheck, Global Entry and CLEAR®" – Forbes

p.s.a.- Global entry is only recommended for people that plan to consistently fly outside of the United States.

Tip #3 - Add that boarding pass to your wallet

Paper boarding passes seem to be a thing of the past- which is fine with me. Once you get checked into your flight, it asks you if you'd like to pull up your boarding pass- do it because it gives you the option at the bottom of the screen to add to you wallet. (Apple wallet for iPhone uses and Samsung or Google wallet for Androids). By doing this you no longer have to go up to the ticket counter or the computer machine to get a pass printed. Saving you time, energy and keeping your interactions to a minimum.

I have ran into a problem with Frontier Airlines letting me do this, but every other airline doesn't seem to give me any issues.

Tip #4 - If you like an airline, stick with them

Most airlines have a specific portion in each airport and if it's big enough they have their own wing. If you like a specific airline, try to stay consistent with them because the terminals the airlines are designated to do not change. Consistency gives you the comfort and familiarity in where you are going and lowers your chances of getting lost on your way to the gate. Just another way to possibly save you time.

Along with saving time, sticking with the same airline can also give you perks and save you money for whatever future endeavors you plan on partaking in.

Tip #5 - Don't forget airport rules

All airports have specific rules to keep you safe and to keep things running smooth. Whether you fly frequently or are a first time flyer, there are rules that you might not know. Here are some just in case:

• 3-1-1: liquids such as aerosols, creams, gels, pastes can not be more than 3.4 oz in weight

• No food, drinks, powders are allowed on carryons because they can obstruct x-ray machine images

• No razors or batteries allowed. These are considered weapons and hazardous

• Firearms are only allowed in checked bags and must be unloaded and declared with your airline

• If you have a pet, it has to be approved by the airline before the flight. Most airlines require your pet to be a service animal or emotional support. If it's not, then it must stay in a carrier under the seat or in the cargo (where checked luggage goes) at all times. Bring a leash for when security is scanning the crate/carrier.

Airports do not have to take up your time!

Follow these tips and I promise you, your time in the airport will be quick, easy and painless! Safe and happy travels! Don't forget to leave comments about your thoughts, questions and more possible tips!