If you've been through an airport lately, you have witnessed the usual long lines and waiting times that can occur for a variety of reasons. From anti-terrorist tactics to weather conditions, delays are to be expected at most air travel terminals.
When planning an air trip, here are a few suggestions that may help to make the process a little less tiresome:
1. Plan well in advance of your trip. Buy tickets at least two weeks before your departure, if possible. Early purchase not only ensures a better price, it means you can avoid that long line for buying your ticket at the airport, and possibly missing out if all tickets for your flight are sold before you reach the counter.
2. Call ahead to see if your flight is on schedule. Some flights can be delayed for hours or even cancelled, depending on certain conditions. Find out in advance if yours is still on time. If it is running late, you may be able to leave for the airport a little later and not spend so much time waiting.
3. Find out in advance where to park and where your gate is located. If this is your first time at a particular airport, or if you have not been there in a while, call ahead for information about parking locations and the terminal layout. You can avoid long delays in airport traffic when you know where to go instead of relying on signs when you arrive. Knowing where your airline's gate is at the terminal will help get you there pronto instead of stopping to ask someone for directions.
4. Get a pre-mailed boarding pass if possible. Not only is buying tickets in advance a good idea, find out if you can get a boarding pass, if one is required, sent ahead by mail. That will omit another long line of waiting when you arrive at the terminal. Have your luggage marked with personal identification information, your ticket (and passport if needed) secure in a safe place, and you will be ready to board when your flight number is called.
5. Find out how to pack to sail through inspections. Don't carry metal objects in your pockets or a purse or wallet, as x-ray machines may interpret these as objects of violence, further detaining you. Have papers ready for getting through customs in a foreign country in a hurry. Ask ahead of time what will be needed so you can pack those documents in a carry-on bag or in your wallet.
6. Bring something to pass the time. Some delays are to be expected, so pack a favorite book or pop on headphones with relaxing music or a radio talk show. The time passes much more quickly when you relax with a favorite hobby than when you pace the corridors or waiting area.
Travel should be fun. Plan ahead to make your trip smooth and minimize your airport waiting times. Take only what you need, and have it ready for display when asked. Bon voyage!
