Airports are stressful enough without making things harder on yourself. Every day, travelers fall into the same traps that lead to delays, frustration, and unnecessary chaos. The good news? A smidge planning goes a looong way. Here’s what not to do so you can move through the airport smoothly and start your trip on the right foot
1. Digging for Your Passport, ID, or Boarding Pass at the Worst Possible Time
You will need these more than once before takeoff. Check-in, security, the gate. If you have to stop and dig every time, you’re slowing yourself down and probably holding up the line. Keep your passport, ID, and boarding pass in an easy-to-reach pocket or travel wallet. You’ll feel much more put together when it’s your turn to scan and go. I use something like this, as printed paper tickets are kind of a thing of the past. Grab and go and doesn't take up too much space!
2. Wearing Shoes That Are a Struggle to Take Off
Security lines are not the place to deal with fussy laces or stiff boots. If you have to unbuckle, untie, or do an awkward balancing act, you’re making this harder than it needs to be. Slip-on shoes make security a breeze, and they’re a lot easier when you’re sitting in a cramped airplane seat too. And don't forget to wear socks! No one wants to walk around barefoot in the security line!
3. Ignoring Baggage Weight Limits and Hoping for the Best
Most airlines allow 50 pounds for checked bags, and they will weigh it. Over the limit means paying an extra fee or frantically repacking at the counter. OMG I remember doing this coming home from my honeymoon. Weigh your bag at home so there are NO surprises. If you’re close to the limit, wear your heaviest shoes and layer up.
4. Holding Up the Security Line Like You’ve Never Flown Before
Security moves quickly until someone forgets the rules and holds everything up. Have your liquids in a clear bag and your laptop ready to go before you reach the conveyor belt. Double-check your pockets. That lip balm or loose change can and will set off the scanner. Don't forget to empty that water bottle!
5. Crowding the Baggage Carousel
Trust me, your suitcase is not going to come out faster just because you’re standing inches away from the carousel. If everyone steps back, it’s easier to see and grab your bag when it actually arrives. It also keeps the area from turning into a gridlock of rolling suitcases and frustrated travelers. Bonus if you have an apple airtag, then you can actually go grab a coffee or freshen up and you'll know when your bag is actually close by without hovering!
6. Skipping the Bathroom Before Boarding
Thinking you’ll just go after takeoff? That’s a risky game. Once the plane levels out, there is usually a line, and if the seatbelt sign stays on longer than expected, you might be stuck waiting. Then, right when you get ready to exit your row and head to the loo, grandpa wizzes by and you have to wait for him, too! Do yourself a favor and make a quick stop before boarding. You will be glad you did.
7. Plugging Into Free USB Charging Stations
It is tempting to plug in, but public USB ports are not as harmless as they look. Hackers have found ways to sneak in and grab your data, and no one wants to kick off a trip with a compromised phone. Bring a portable charger or your own wall adapter and power up worry-free.
8. Trusting That Your Flight Will Leave on Time
This is a funny one. Flights get delayed all the time, and no one likes to be stuck unprepared. Pack an extra set of clothes in your carry-on along with any essentials like toiletries, medication, and chargers. Download your airline’s app for real-time updates. If your delay stretches on, check with the airline to see if you’re entitled to a meal voucher or hotel stay.
9. Booking a Layover That’s Too Short
A 45-minute layover might seem fine until your first flight is delayed and you are sprinting through an unfamiliar airport hoping the gate agent takes pity on you. Give yourself at least an hour for domestic flights and 90 minutes for international, or two hours if you need to go through customs. Remember, boarding usually begins 30 to 40 minutes before departure for domestic flights and 45 to 50 minutes for international flights, with boarding doors closing 10 to 15 minutes before takeoff, leaving little room for error.
10. Assuming Airport Food Will Be Fine
You might think you will just grab something when you get there, but delayed flights and limited options can leave you stuck with a sad granola bar and an overpriced water bottle. Packing snacks is always a good idea, especially for long flights. If you want a real meal, check the airport restaurants ahead of time so you know where to go. And that fast food burger that sounded like the perfect pre-flight treat? It may come back to haunt you at 35,000 feet!!
Want to Actually Enjoy Your Travel Days?
Avoid these mistakes, plan ahead, and you’ll be that amazing traveler who moves through the airport with ease while everyone else scrambles.
Now that you’ve got airport strategy covered, let’s talk about your next trip! Email me at shauna@fancyfoxtravel.com and let’s make it happen!
xo
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