Something about TSA lines, queueing inside the airplane before takeoff, and dragging my luggage around the airport irks a new chord in my soul. Why does it have to be so long? Why does it have to be stressful? Why does it have to be so excessive?
Well, it doesn't have to be.
Little tips and tricks here and there will make your life 10x easier the next time you take to the skies. Regardless if you're a seasoned traveler or an in-flight newbie, getting to your destination will now be as smooth and turbulent-free as it can be!
1. Get pre-checked for security
The Travel & Security Administration has a cool feature on their website that will allow you to submit an application to be pre-checked for the security line. What does this mean? You can now keep your shoes on, keep your laptop in your bag, keep your jewelry on, and more. Life is so much simpler when you don't have to put on a strip show for your local TSA agent.
2. Roll your clothes
3. Use a carry-on when you can
Speaking of saving space... that above clothes trick will allow you to use a carry-on for trips less than 2-3 weeks in length! Carry-ons aren't charged a fee unlike a roller bag, which usually costs $25-$50. Plus, your day will be stress-free by avoiding the luggage corral.
4. Keep an empty water bottle
Save $$$ by refilling at water fountains and avoid pricey airport beverages. A bottle of water once cost me $6 in Atlanta's airport...never again.
5. Avoid the airport shops
6. Wear slip-on shoes
Even if you don't get pre-check on your boarding pass, taking off your slip-ons will save time and hassle in the security line. Who wants to deal with tennis shoes, boots, or (God forbid) strappy sandals? Not me. Make sure they're comfortable and blister-free too, people! Blisters are real and very painful— they'll ruin the upcoming trip if you're careless about them.
7. Look chic and comfortable
Regardless if you're traveling for 3 hours or 13, you want to feel good and look good, point blank. I always cringe when I see people in tattered sleep pants, hoodies, and slippers in the airport. I understand the comfort aspect, but do you really want to look like that in such a public place? As an alternative, jeggings, joggers, or any comfortable material will be your best friend. Pair with lots of layers on top— you're going to be exposed to a multitude of temperatures that day, be prepared.
8. Stay hydrated
I feel like I write about water in every single article— that's how important it is! Flying dehydrates you profusely: recycled air in the cabin is drier than the air that normally surrounds us, making our skin susceptible to dryness, flakiness, and more. The body works better when it's hydrated, so keep that water bottle filled at all times and pop on a sheet mask if you're on a long-haul flight! Even though it's old in terms of internet history, Michelle Phan has a great in-flight beauty routine video. Always keep a good hand moisturizer in your bag as well.
9. Breathe
If you suffer from travel anxiety as well, Ingrid Nilsen has a great video regarding that topic. I know some people freak out during takeoff, turbulence, and landing but the situation doesn't have to be that extreme. Take deep breaths, make sure you're in a calm state even before you get to the airport, and keep yourself occupied or focused on a task. Find ways that work for you.
10. Say adiós to germs
Keep hand sanitizer and wet wipes near you at all times. Airplanes and airports are NOT the cleanest places, making you susceptible to getting sick. Wash your hands frequently, keep your hands out of your mouth, and be mindful of the surfaces around you.
11. Keep your checked bag secure
Use zip ties as a makeshift lock to secure your belongings if you do decide to check a bag. It gives you peace of mind and is a lot less expensive to replace if TSA does need to get into your bag.
