20 Legal Airport Hacks to Make Your Travel Experience a Breeze

Traveling can be a very exciting experience, whether it’s for business or pleasure. However, the process of getting from one location to another can often be a stressful and tedious task. Long lines, crowded spaces, and the endless list of rules and regulations can leave many travelers feeling overwhelmed and frustrated. Fortunately, there are many ways to make traveling a lot easier, and they’re all legal.

Here are 20 legal airport hacks that can help make your travels much smoother:

1. Get Cheaper Parking Before You Head to the Airport to Save Money

Airport parking lots can be quite expensive, but with a little bit of research, you can save yourself a lot of money. There are many park and ride websites that can help you find better rates than the airport’s own parking lots.

2. Buy Travel-Sized Items in Advance to Avoid Worrying About TSA Rules

To avoid any issues with TSA rules, buy travel-sized toiletries in advance. This way, you won’t have to worry about pouring out or throwing away any of your products at the checkpoint.

3. Use the Family Room in the Club Lounges to Watch TV and Use Wi-Fi

If traveling with children, arriving at the airport early can be quite stressful. However, lounges like the United Club lounge offer family rooms with TVs, DVDs, Wi-Fi, and other snacks to help calm down the entire family before a long flight.

4. Update Yourself on the Newest Items Designed to Make Travel Easier

When it comes to traveling, manufacturers are always coming up with new products to help lighten your load. Take advantage of these new inventions and devices to make your trips easier and less stressful.

5. Get a TSA Pre-Check for Speedier Screening

The TSA Pre-Check program is a great option for frequent travelers who want to breeze through security checkpoints more quickly. It’s easy to apply for, and saves a lot of time and hassle.

6. Go for Global Entry for Faster International Travel

For those who travel internationally regularly, the Global Entry program is a must-have. This program allows expedited clearance back into the United States.

7. Check the “My TSA” App for Current Wait Times to Plan Your Trip

To avoid getting stuck in a long security line, use the “My TSA” app to check the current wait times at your airport. This will help you plan your trip accordingly and avoid any delays.

8. Find the Best Seats on the Plane Before You Buy to Have a Better Flight

To make your flight more comfortable and enjoyable, use Seat Guru to find the best seats on the plane. This site provides information on legroom, power outlets, and other amenities that can make your flight more comfortable.

9. Bring Booze in Your Checked or Carry-On Bags to Get the Party Started When You Land

The TSA allows travelers to bring alcoholic beverages onboard flights as long as they abide by the rules. However, you can’t drink any alcohol that’s not served by the airline during the flight.

10. Snap Photos of Your Parking Space to Help You Remember Where You Parked

To avoid the frustration of trying to find your car in a busy airport parking lot, take photos of your parked car’s location to help you remember exactly where you parked.

11. Hydrate Inexpensively Before, During, and After the Flight

Staying hydrated during your flight is essential, but airport prices for bottled water can be steep. Instead, bring an empty water bottle and fill it up after passing through security. Also, drinking orange juice and club soda can help you stay hydrated during the flight.

12. Move All Contents from Your Pockets to Your Carry-On Before Security to Prevent Delays

To avoid any delays at the security checkpoint, transfer all loose items from your pockets to your carry-on bag prior to going through security.

13. Ask the TSA for a “Hand Scan”

If you have any physical conditions or medical devices that may interfere with a regular scan, notify security in advance to get a hand scan instead.

14. Weigh Your Bags at Home to Prevent Extra Charges

To avoid any extra fees, check the weight of your luggage at home before heading to the airport. This way, you can remove any excess items before checking in.

15. Book a Private Jet to Avoid Commercial Flight Crowds

Although private flights can be expensive, apps like JetSmarter offer affordable options for groups of travelers looking to avoid the crowds and hassles of commercial flights.

16. Secure Your Luggage with Trackers

To help prevent your bags from getting lost or stolen, use advanced technology like luggage trackers and crush-proof, locked bags. This way, you can track your luggage’s location and ensure that it arrives safely.

17. Bring Frozen Solids on the Plane to Keep Your Meds Cold

If you need to keep medications or other health items cool while traveling, TSA allows frozen solids to be brought on the plane.

18. Go to the Left Because Most Travelers Steer to the Right-Hand Checkpoints

Since most people are right-handed, studies show that the lines on the left side of security checkpoints tend to be shorter and move more quickly.

19. Avoid High-Cost Airport Food and Pack Dry Snacks

To save on food costs at the airport, pack dry snacks like nuts, granola bars, or candy in your carry-on bag.

20. Take a Rest in the Chapel During Flight Delays

If you need some quiet and peaceful time away from busy airport crowds during flight delays, locate the nearest chapel and wait there while keeping up with your flight status.

In conclusion, traveling can be a stressful experience, but these 20 legal airport hacks can help make it much smoother and enjoyable. With proper planning and a few tricks up your sleeve, you can spend more time enjoying your destination and less time worrying about the journey.