Airport Hacks to Save You Time

Categories

It seems as though the security lines at the airports just keep getting longer and the stress of making it to your flight on time goes up exponentially with the length of the lines.  So how can you beat the security lines?  There are some very simple and easy steps you can take to reduce your stress and sail, relatively speaking, through security.

 

Before booking your flight, look for flights that are less popular.  Not only will you save money on the airfare, but you will have less competition in the security lines.  Sounds simple but it can be a bit tricky.  The morning and evening flights are the most popular.  Try to find flights in the middle of the day that might be a bit awkward for departing but will save you money and time.

 

Apply for a Known Traveler Number or better yet, get a Global Entry Card.  If you plan on doing any foreign travel the Global Entry Card will become your best friend.  Not only do you automatically get a Known Traveler Number but you get to breeze through customs when traveling overseas.  How does this all work?  Easy.  With the Known Travel Number, you get to go through TSA Pre-Check.  You have seen the signs but do you know the benefits?  With TSA Pre-Check you no longer have to remove your shoes, jacket, or belt when passing through security.  You get to keep your laptop packed away and your liquids that are 3-1-1 compliant stay packed away as well.  The Global Entry Card is good for 5 years and allows you to use the Kiosks when re-entering the country from foreign travel saving you more time.  You still have to pass through customs but the process is streamlined and expedited.  One card gets you both privileges.  That is something to get excited about.  If you are never going to do any foreign travel, then the Known Travel Number is all you really need.

 

So, you have your great ticket, the Known Travel Number, and now you are ready to travel.  So what more do you need to do to keep your security experience bearable?  Get there early.  I know, it sucks to be at the airport but there are reasons for going early.  We have all heard the recommendations; 2 hours early for domestic and 3 hours early for foreign travel.  These are great recommendations but they don’t always work.  Know your airports and allow plenty of time especially if it is a notoriously busy travel day.  If you just can’t bear the thought of being stuck at the airport for that long, consider purchasing a day pass to one of the airport lounges.  Each airline usually sells passes to these lounges for a discounted rate when purchased through them. 

 

Who knew you could beat the lines and enjoy your experience all at the same time?  Well, we did!  If you have travel in your future, contact your travel agent for some great tips and tricks to make your travel experience the best it can be.  Don’t have a travel agent?  Contact us!  We are your travel experts and always willing to help you plan the perfect trips whether it be a sophisticated luxury celebration, a family adventure, or a bucket list dream we do it all and tailor it just for you!