Go For The Left Line at the Airport Security Checkpoint

Every day, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) sifts through a staggering 1.4 million bags, resulting in typically two massive lines at the airport security checkpoint. But the burning question is, which line should we join: the left or the right? And more importantly, does it matter?

Opting for the left security checkpoint over the right can help to decrease waiting time at the airport. This is because the majority of people are right-handed and, therefore, subconsciously gravitate towards the line on the right. As a result, the typically shorter line on the left often proves to be the savvy choice!

Travel With a Portable Charger

At most airports, charging points are plentiful, but they're typically located far from the waiting areas. Therefore, it's crucial to pack a portable charger while traveling to prepare for any unforeseen circumstances. Nothing could be more nerve-wracking than being stranded at the airport with a dead phone. Can you imagine the stress of being offline while abroad?

Whether you require the time, boarding passes, a rideshare, or just some mobile entertainment, one thing is certain: without a phone, the airport can be an unbearable place. Thankfully, decent portable chargers are available for purchase at under $20, offering a cost-effective solution.

Be Prepared With Some Ziploc Bags

Being well-prepared is crucial, particularly when traveling. To prevent time wastage and hassle at the airport, it's advisable to pack your liquids in Ziploc bags in advance. Attempting to do so at the security checkpoints can be messy, stressful, and very frustrating for TSA personnel.

All you require is to purchase a set of Ziploc bags and put any liquid-containing items inside. These can also come in handy to store other goods, such as small items. Another significant advantage is that these bags can be useful later on, as they can be used temporarily to store food and cosmetic products.

Complete the Check-In Beforehand

Airports can be incredibly trying on one's patience, with lines extending everywhere, be it at security checkpoints or while buying giant chocolate bars at the airport gift store. Fortunately, modern technology provides a way to circumvent check-in lines altogether by checking in online 24 hours before the flight. And it's super easy!

The majority of airlines offer their passengers the chance to check in up to 24 hours in advance of their departure, so it's essential not to miss this opportunity. The greatest aspect is that the entire procedure takes less than five minutes and can be done using just a phone.

Pack Some Headphones

Embarking on an exciting journey to a distant land is an experience unlike any other. However, the challenge with far-off destinations is the extended duration it takes to travel there, even by airplane. Fortunately, there's a simple solution to keep entertained during a 20-hour flight: snub the low-quality (and expensive) airplane headphones and bring your own!

This suggestion may seem apparent, but it's not only a money-saving technique but also an excellent way to combat boredom. With a pair of headphones, one can comfortably browse through the airline's collection of music and movies, providing a much-needed break during long airplane journeys.

Just Ask For Free Stuff!

Airline companies seldom advertise their complimentary offers and upgrades, yet they do exist. Many airlines, including United Airlines, have a range of complimentary benefits available to their passengers. The only requirement? Passengers must ask for them instead of waiting for them to be offered.

This is why we must never hesitate to ask for freebies at the airport or while on the flight. Flight attendants are delighted to inform us about everything their airline has to offer, so it's just a matter of gathering the courage to ask questions and being aware of what options are available. Staying silent won't get you anywhere!

Snap a Picture of Your Luggage

Anyone who has checked in their luggage at the airport is familiar with the challenge of distinguishing between a simple black bag and a slightly larger, equally simple, and equally black bag. To avoid mistakenly taking someone else's baggage after disembarking the flight, we should snap a picture of our luggage as soon as it's checked in.

Why is this tip so vital? For one, it serves as evidence if our bag gets lost at the airport—something more prevalent than many people realize. Additionally, it's an excellent way of confirming the appearance of our bag or bags, allowing us to spot them easily amongst similar-looking luggage.

Frozen Liquids Pass Through Security

Since the summer of 2006, people have been prohibited from carrying liquids on airplanes due to a failed terrorist attack in which a group plotted to detonate liquid explosives on multiple flights (as reported by CNN). However, there is a clever technique for ensuring that liquids make it through the security checkpoint.

The next time we feel the need to bring a bottle of water on our flight, we can freeze it entirely and pack it in our bag before heading to the airport. As long as it's entirely frozen, the bottle of water will effortlessly pass through security control.

Find the Right Seat

The SeatGuru website is no longer accessible. It was a valuable resource that provided a plethora of useful information and tools regarding all things airport-related, and it was especially beneficial for locating the best possible seats on an airplane. However, that does not mean we should overlook seat selection entirely. Selecting the correct seat on the plane can mean the difference between a relaxing journey and an unpleasant flight.

Individuals who prioritize their comfort should think about paying a little extra to secure the best available seat while completing check-in. What's the point of going on vacation if we're going to spend the first few days struggling with back pain?

Clean Up With Hand Sanitizer and Wipes

It is crucial to have two essential hygiene products, wet wipes and hand sanitizer, in your bag at all times. These products come in handy for cleaning dirty surfaces at the airport and on the plane. Additionally, they can be used to eliminate viruses and bacteria, as we learned during the aftermath of the 2020 travel ban.

Having wet wipes and hand sanitizer in your bag ensures that you can clean your hands after eating an in-flight meal or sanitize the toilet seat before using it. During a long flight, you will not regret having these ready-to-use products with you.

Morning Flights Are the Least Turbulent

Although turbulence during a flight is generally harmless, it can have a profound psychological effect on some individuals, particularly those who are afraid of flying or suffer from motion sickness. Fortunately, there is a simple way to decrease the likelihood of experiencing turbulence. All one has to do to avoid in-flight stress is book a morning flight!

Since the air is typically smoother in the morning (which is when the atmosphere is cooler), early morning flights are normally less turbulent. In contrast, mid-afternoon flights are usually the most turbulent, meaning that those who are not comfortable with air travel should avoid them if possible.

Night Flights Are Perfect For Relaxing

If you want to have a peaceful flight without the disturbance of loud conversations, then traveling at night is your best option. Night flights can provide a sense of calm and tranquility, which is perfect for those seeking peace of mind.

Most airlines create a soothing atmosphere during night flights, with dimmed lighting and an emphasis on quietness. In contrast, daytime flights are often filled with excited tourists, screaming children, and stressed-out airline staff. At night, the environment is more relaxed, making it easier to catch some sleep or just get some rest. Additionally, time seems to pass more quickly.

Learn About the Airport Shops and Restaurants

The old adage, "knowledge is power," even applies to seemingly trivial matters, such as selecting the right shops and restaurants at the airport. Since prices for goods and services are often inflated at airports, it is wise to be informed about the best places to dine and purchase souvenirs for loved ones.

However, this advice isn't solely beneficial for saving money. It's also the optimal way to enjoy your airport experience to the fullest. Instead of settling for a greasy burger, consider reserving a table at a quality restaurant, and conduct some preliminary research to discover the best airport deals.

An Empty Bottle of Water Will Help You Stay Hydrated

When people are dehydrated, their ability to think clearly is compromised. As per the NHS website, symptoms of dehydration can include dizziness, tiredness, and a dry mouth, lips, and eyes. Consequently, failing to drink enough water in a setting like an airport can be a recipe for disaster. It's therefore imperative to always have drinking water on hand.

However, bottled water can be prohibitively expensive at airports. That's why it's highly beneficial to carry an empty water bottle with you at all times. Simply visit the restroom and fill up the bottle with tap water whenever you're feeling thirsty, and it won't cost you anything.

Check the Flight Status Before Leaving for the Airport

Modern technology has revolutionized the airline industry and made air travel accessible to more people. In addition to enabling online check-ins and purchasing tickets from the comfort of one's own home, the internet also permits passengers to verify their flight status days before departure.

Checking the flight status before departing for the airport is critical since unexpected changes are more frequent than one might assume. While this airport recommendation may not appear significant, it can prevent individuals from waiting at the airport for hours due to a flight cancellation that occurred the day before. It's a game-changer and a time-saver!

Pack Some Hotel Toiletries

Hotel toiletries: it's the name given to the miniature bathroom amenities that are typically provided for free in most hotels. These products include small bottles of essential items like toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, and deodorant. For frequent travelers, it's highly advisable to amass a collection of hotel toiletries at home, as they can be very useful during air travel.

These products are perfectly sized to pass through airport security and are ideal for storing cosmetics for a week-long vacation. They're also excellent for maintaining hygiene, such as during layovers at the airport. Additionally, these toiletries are authentic freebies, adding to their appeal.

Go VIP

The acronym VIP stands for "Very Important Person," but one need not hold a position of high power, such as the President of the United States, to become a member of an airline's VIP program. Any individual can enroll in an airline's VIP membership, which typically includes access to an airport lounge and other perks. While VIP status may not be worthwhile for those who fly infrequently, it can be a game-changer for frequent flyers.

In addition to providing a comfortable lounge experience, VIP passengers generally enjoy additional benefits, including reduced wait times, priority access to the airplane, and even discounts on popular hotels and rental car services.

Call the Airline and Avoid Airport Hell

While some people may have never experienced it, many can relate to the concept of airport hell, which involves being stranded at the airport after a flight has been canceled by the airline. This situation often leads to chaos among passengers as they rush to the counter to get re-booked. However, there is a better solution to this problem.

Instead of joining the long queue, passengers should call the airline directly to re-book their flight. This simple tip can save a lot of time and help avoid the stress and frustration of waiting in a never-ending line at the airport.

Get Sharp With a Nap

Airports can be stressful places that can quickly wear people down. People rush everywhere, worry about their flights, and become easily irritated. Fortunately, there is a simple way to relax and release stress while waiting for a flight: taking a power nap. Just remember to set up an alarm and avoid oversleeping!

According to the Mayo Clinic, taking a nap is an effective way to refresh the mind and body. Napping offers many benefits, such as reducing fatigue, promoting relaxation, increasing alertness (which can be particularly helpful in the airport), and improving mood. Napping can also improve memory and reaction time.

Have Your Laptop Close By

Let's consider the example of Carl and Sara, two fictional travelers. Carl is an experienced traveler and he is flying with a well-organized portfolio bag that holds his laptop. He can effortlessly reach for his laptop whenever he needs to work or browse his favorite sites. On the other hand, Sara didn't pack as efficiently.

Whenever Sara needs her laptop, she has to rummage through her luggage, and it takes a while for her to find it. Putting it back is also a hassle. To prevent being like Sara, it's best to keep one's laptop in an easily accessible spot.

Take a Photo of Your Parking Spot

To prevent getting lost in the massive airport parking lot after a tiring journey, it's recommended to take a photo of the parking spot before heading off. This is especially useful since almost all airports in the world have huge parking lots, with some being large enough to fit tens of thousands of vehicles.

For example, the Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport features the third-largest parking lot in the world (according to WorldAtlas) that can accommodate around 11,500 cars. By taking a photo of the parking spot, one can easily locate their car and avoid the frustration of searching for it.

Make the Most of the Available Space

For some people, packing before a long trip can be a stressful experience. One of the most common and frustrating issues is not being able to fit all the necessary items inside the bag. However, are we making the most of the space available to us? Often, we forget that we can use ourselves as an extension of our luggage.

For example, if a jacket doesn't fit inside the bag, wear it to the airport. If your favorite beach reads are too heavy, try carrying them in your pockets. In essence, make the most of your body's available space to carry all the items and clothes you need.

Customize Your Luggage

Instead of just relying on taking a photo of your checked luggage to avoid losing it at the airport, why not make your luggage unique in the first place? While wrapping luggage can be a certified way to keep it safer, there are also free alternatives to explore.

You can make your bags unique in various ways, such as personalizing them with bright colors, adding unique tags or stickers, and using distinctive luggage accessories. The more distinct and recognizable the luggage is, the easier it will be to identify it and avoid it getting lost. This simple step can save you from the super hassle of losing your luggage.

Join TSA PreCheck

Becoming a TSA PreCheck member is highly recommended for American citizens or frequent fliers to the United States. The application process is relatively simple, with a $78 fee for a five-year membership. For the affordable cost, members enjoy a host of travel benefits.

One of the most significant benefits is expedited access to all airport security checkpoints. TSA PreCheck members do not have to remove their shoes and belts, making the security process much quicker and hassle-free. But there's more: members can carry laptops and some liquids in their carry-on bags, which can be a game-changer, especially for frequent travelers.

Use the Revolut App

Several apps offer excellent banking services for tourists, but Revolut is the most popular and can be a real game-changer for your next trip abroad. What makes Revolut so beneficial for frequent travelers? Well, to start, it provides free exchange and receipt of over 30 currencies. But that's not all.

Revolut also allows users to send and receive money from other users without incurring any fees. Additionally, it provides access to a vast network of ATMs worldwide that can be used without any transaction fees—a tourist's dream come true. In summary, Revolut is the ultimate all-in-one banking solution for travelers.

Avoid Getting Lost By Being Noticeable

While traveling solo can be a transformative experience, many people prefer exploring new destinations with friends and family. However, traveling in a large group (even as few as four or five people) can be aggravating due to someone always lagging behind.

To avoid wasting time and confusion, it's best to wear clothing that stands out and makes it easy to be found in a crowd. Due to its long wavelength, red is one of the most visible colors in the spectrum. Experts recommend wearing red shirts as they are easily noticeable in a sea of people. With this tip, no one in the group will be left behind.

Enjoy Free Wi-Fi

Using mobile data overseas can be complicated due to high international fees and confusing rules. One moment you could be browsing for the best ramen shop in Tokyo, and the next, you're hit with a shocking data roaming charge.

The best way to avoid this is to understand how mobile data operates in the country you are visiting, but alternatively, you can limit your use of mobile data and rely on free Wi-Fi whenever possible. It's always a good idea to take advantage of free Wi-Fi, particularly during air travel. Just be careful, as free Wi-Fi can sometimes pose a few cybersecurity risks.

Drink Coffee Before Entering the Plane

Healthline notes the benefits of consuming caffeine, including improved athletic performance, increased metabolism, and heightened alertness. These qualities are particularly useful when waiting for a flight. However, is purchasing overpriced airport coffee or settling for subpar airplane coffee the best solution?

For caffeine enthusiasts, the best coffee can usually be found at home. Before embarking on the next trip, individuals should stock up on tasty, affordable coffee far from the airport to replenish caffeine levels. Of course, this tip may not apply to those who don't enjoy coffee. It's essential to remember that caffeine is addictive, so individuals who don't typically consume caffeine may want to avoid it
altogether.

Liquids and Electronic Devices Should Be Easy to Access

Rather than a travel hack, this tip is more of a general rule that if every passenger follows, it could significantly reduce waiting times at TSA checkpoints. Many travelers forget that they will be asked to remove electronic devices and liquids from their bags during security screening and pack them deep in their bags.

If everyone stored their electronic devices and liquids in the top pocket of their bags, where they are easily accessible, security checkpoints would move much faster. While it may not always be the case, we should follow this rule to save time and hopefully inspire others to do the same.

Buy Flights On Tuesdays or Wednesdays

Buying flights on Tuesdays and Wednesdays can be a great way to save money on travel. A study conducted by CheapAir, a travel agency company, found that these days of the week are the cheapest for booking flights. On average, travelers can save up to $73 per ticket by booking on these days.

Additionally, January and February are the cheapest months to travel, while the summer months tend to be the most expensive. By booking a flight on a Tuesday or Wednesday at the beginning of the year, travelers can double their savings and make the most of their budget.

Get a Portable Weight Checker

Small devices known as portable weight checkers are readily available from most online and physical retailers and can be attached to one's luggage to accurately measure its weight. These devices cost as little as $11 and are an essential item to have when traveling through the airport to avoid any potential trouble.

Weighing one's luggage using a bathroom scale can sometimes be risky as there is no way to prove to airport staff that the luggage was weighed and passed the required test. Attempting to board with luggage that exceeds the weight limit can result in hefty fines, so it's best to come prepared with a portable weight checker.

Turn Off the Music

While it's great to have headphones for a long flight, it's important to stay alert and aware before boarding. Airports make important announcements frequently, and flight schedules can change at the last minute. It can be easy to get lost in the music and miss important information, so it's a good idea to turn down the volume or take a break from the tunes to stay attentive.

Even though music can help people concentrate while performing tasks such as studying, it's not exactly great for listening to what's happening around them, especially in a spot as noisy as the airport.

Get the TSA App

The Simform Blog reports that the average person has 40 apps on their phone, most of which they don't use. However, frequent travelers should make some space on their devices and download the MyTSA app to receive important airport updates and avoid long waiting lines.

If you travel often to and from the United States, it is highly recommended to download the MyTSA app. This app is so helpful that it was recognized as the "Best Government App" by the American Council for Technology and Industry Advisory Council. So, it's time to say goodbye to "Pokémon GO" and hello to smoother travels with the MyTSA app.

Avoid Stress During Boarding

When it comes to boarding a flight, people tend to worry about many things at the airport, such as missing their flight or overspending at the airport shops. However, rushing to be the first one to get inside the plan is unnecessary. It makes no difference whether you board before or after others, as the airplane won't leave until everyone is on board.

Besides, each passenger already knows their assigned seat and luggage area for their carry-on bags. So, why stress about being the first to board? Just take it easy, even if you're at the end of the line!

The Carry-On Bag Should Be Packed With All Your Essential Products

The carry-on bag is a passenger's personal luggage that stays with them throughout the flight. To avoid the possibility of lost luggage, it's important to pack essential items in a carry-on bag. Although lost luggage is relatively uncommon, major American airlines still mishandled over 680,000 bags in a six-month period, which is around 0.7% of all luggage.

By packing important items in the carry-on bag, travelers can ensure they have everything they need upon arrival. People should prioritize essential items, keep a change of clothes in their carry-on, and travel with all the things they need to perform their job.

Travel With a Power Strip

We have previously discussed the importance of having fully charged electronic devices while at the airport. However, portable power banks are not the only solution to low-battery problems. A great alternative is to pack a power strip that can charge multiple devices simultaneously.

Although power strips require access to an electrical outlet, they can be paired with power banks to create the perfect airport-hack combo. In addition, carrying a power strip can help you make new friends, as it can be shared between several people. When shopping for one, look for a compact and convenient option to save some much-needed luggage space.

Avoid Back Pain With a Laptop Stand

A laptop can be a useful tool to have at the airport for checking last-minute details and making reservations, as well as for remote work, watching videos, and listening to music during the flight. However, there are downsides to using laptops, including the potential for eye strain and back pain.

To prevent these problems, it's advisable to use a laptop stand and maintain a good posture. With some laptop stands costing as little as $1, it's a small investment that can help avoid the discomfort and risks associated with prolonged laptop use. A laptop stand is a great accessory for anyone who spends a lot of time on their computer.

Sit at the Front

The needs of passengers can vary greatly during a flight. While some people can easily fall asleep, others may suffer from a fear of flying or motion sickness. Choosing the right seat on the airplane can help minimize these issues. Aerophobia, or the irrational fear of flying, is just one example of a problem that can be alleviated by selecting the proper seat.

Motion sickness, which can cause dizziness, nausea, and vomiting, is another issue that can be avoided. Passengers who are prone to fear or motion sickness during a flight are advised to consider seats near the front of the plane, as they are less affected by pressure changes.

Rent a Car Before Going On Vacation

Traveling by airplane can be frustrating, especially when it comes to waiting in long lines. While some queues, like the TSA security lines, are unavoidable, there are ways to eliminate others with a little preparation. Waiting in line to rent a car at the airport, for instance, can be avoided by renting a car online beforehand.

Renting a car online has several benefits beyond skipping lines. Travelers can select the car they want, know the exact amount they'll spend on the rental, and make the car rental staff's job more comfortable. This is an excellent hack for any traveler looking to save time and stress.

Paper Boarding Pass Can Be a Lifesaver!

As technology advances, more and more important documents are available in digital format. This means that people no longer have to carry around stacks of paper, which helps to reduce paper waste. However, when it comes to boarding passes, it's not a bad idea to print them out.

This is especially true for solo travelers, who could be left without their boarding pass if they lose access to the internet (e.g., phone battery dies, computer malfunctions). Since accidents can happen, it's important to print your boarding pass before heading to the airport. Prioritize using the digital boarding pass, but keep the paper one just in case.

Switch the Contact Lenses For Glasses

Airplane travel can be dehydrating, leading to dry throat and eyes due to reduced humidity and oxygen levels at high altitudes. People who wear contact lenses are especially prone to dry eyes, which can cause serious health issues like eye infections, inflammation, and corneal abrasions.

To avoid such problems, it's advisable to switch to glasses while traveling by airplane. This is a simple yet effective way to keep the eyes moist and avoid the risk of eye-related health issues during and after the flight. Even though most contact lenses-related risks are caused by poor hygiene, contact lenses are generally less safe than glasses.

Socks!

Wearing socks during air travel is a simple yet crucial hack that often gets overlooked. Socks not only provide comfort and protection to our feet, but they also regulate temperature and control moisture. Moreover, wearing socks allows passengers to take off their shoes without offending others, especially during long flights. After all, who enjoys looking at the sock-free feet of other people?

While going shoeless on a flight may come off as impolite, it is perfectly acceptable as long as one is wearing socks. Wearing shoes for extended periods can be uncomfortable, making socks a must-have for any long-haul flight.

Keep Your Focus By Avoiding Dehydration

We've already discussed the impact of the dry air inside the airplane on the body, which can lead to dry throats and eyes. While the airline typically offers water during the flight, it's still crucial to stay hydrated and avoid harmful behaviors.

Of all the common hydration mistakes, drinking alcohol before the flight is the worst. Alcohol is a diuretic, which places a significant burden on the renal system, causing the body to lose fluids more rapidly than other liquids. Flying under the influence may be tempting, but it's critical to stay hydrated while traveling, as it can be a tiring and stressful activity.

Release the Pressure With Some Gum

To prevent ear pain caused by pressure changes during flights, a simple and effective hack is to bring and chew on some gum. The change in air pressure between the ear cavity and airplane cabin can cause discomfort, but chewing and swallowing gum helps to clear the middle ear and get rid of ear wax.

This is especially useful for children who are more susceptible to ear pain from pressure changes during air travel. According to the KFL&A Public Health website, children's ears are more sensitive than adults' ears because they have smaller ear canals, which can be easily damaged by loud sounds.

Leave the Belt at Home

Belts serve the purpose of keeping our pants in place, but are they really necessary when traveling through the airport? The most suitable airport attire should be comfortable and warm, and belts do not belong in that category. It's not only because belts can be uncomfortable at times, but also due to the TSA security checkpoint.

At the security checkpoint, passengers wearing a belt are required to remove it so it can pass through the TSA machines. If everyone avoided wearing belts to the airport, the wait time would be significantly reduced. So it's time to ditch those jeans for a comfy pair of sweatpants!