Which Airports Are Particularly Hectic?

Though these airports are often busy due to the large amount of air traffic going in and out, there are others that are busy for reasons you may not have considered.

"Los Angeles and Houston have very busy airports," states Garita. "Any places that have a lot of international travel are going to be hectic."

"Miami is a very huge airport with a lot of traffic coming in from the Caribbean and South America. So many people come in through there," she adds, "and there is always more security when dealing with international traffic."

International travelers must go through customs, adding to the confusion at these types of airports.

If you wish to avoid a busy airport, there are some things you should consider when booking your flight. Certain holiday times are also extremely busy and you should avoid those if you can.

"A busy time, for example, would be during spring break. Any time children are not in school is not good, because that's when families take a lot of vacations," says Garita. "Thanksgiving is the busiest time of the year at airports. Then, Christmas would be next," she adds.

If there's nothing you can do to avoid a busy airport or a busy time of year, there are other things you can do to make your time spent in the airport a little less stressful.

"First of all, always listen to airlines recommendations about size and weights of luggage. That probably one of the most important things," says Garita.

Timing is also very important.

"Always be on time. When the airline advises you to be at the airport a certain amount of time before your flight, it is important to do so," says Garita.

This helps you to get through security with plenty of time to catch your flight. Be aware that security procedures have changed in recent years.

"Airlines no longer have any control airport security," says Garita. "They cannot interfere if you are caught in security searches to get you on your plane. Airlines still have their own security, but they cannot interfere with new security measures."

You never know when you may be singled out for a thorough search. If you are, don't take it personally.

Garita says, "Searches are random. You may be searched at any time and this might make you miss your flight."

It's good to remember that at a busy time, you will have a longer wait at ticket counters and at baggage claim.

"The employees at any particular ticket counter may be checking in many flights, not just yours," says Garita. "This will add to the time you will be in line to get processed."

When you to get confused or lost at a busy airport, there are always people who can help you. If you are having trouble related to your flight, visit your airline's ticket counter or service area.

"At continental there are service centers in our hubs," Garita says. "There are one or two controlling airlines in each airport. They will have the more public service centers."

If you are having trouble navigating the airport, there are many places you can go for help.

"There are information centers in each airport that will direct you to baggage, restroom, or restaurants," says Garita.

Some airports are more hectic than others, but your actions can make the experience less stressful. Arrive early, be mindful of your luggage, and ask for help when you need it. These combined will make for a smoother trip through the busiest of airports.