1. Get Pre-Check
Pre-Check allows you to keep your shoes, belts and outwear on, keep your laptop/portable devices in your bag, and keep your 3-1-1 liquids in your bag as well. Pre-Check tends to also have a much shorter security line. These simple things make going through security 1,000 times faster.
2. Wear comfortable clothing and shoes
Personally, I always wear leggings, Toms flats in case I do need to take them off, a T-Shirt and I bring some type of pullover in case the airport or plane are a little chilly. If I’m flying somewhere tropical, I’ll throw a pair of shorts into my carry-on so that I can change out of the leggings as soon as I get to my destination.
3. Check to see if the plane will have WiFi a few days before your flight
This way you will know whether to download a movie from iTunes or if you’ll be able to watch all your favorites on Hulu or Netflix during the flight.
4. Follow the TSA ‘What Can I Bring?’ Rules
Check the TSA website for more information about their rules on liquids and all items banned from travel.
5. Bring an empty water bottle through security to fill up and stay hydrated for free on the other side.
6. Download the app Flightview
“Track upcoming and in-air flights and receive status alerts via push notifications.”
Flightview is great for getting instant information on gate or departure changes but I also use it when picking up friends from the airport in order to always be on time.
7. Pack a portable charger for those longer flights
I recommend a portable charger with both USB ports and 3 prong outlets like this one:
8. Arrive at least an hour and a half early, two hours for international flights
This gives you time to go through security, grab your favorite Starbucks drink and a snack, and find your gate with plenty of time until boarding.
9. Invest in some noise canceling headphones
You never know who you will be sitting next to on the plane. Whether your neighbor is an upset toddler or a snoring adult, noise canceling headphones will allow you to sleep, focus on that ten-page paper you have to finish or fall asleep.
Check out these options from Amazon:
10. My last tip is what to throw in your carry-on. Here are my must-haves!
- Wallet
- Hair ties
- Eos
- Advil
- Gum
- Water Bottle
- Apple Headphones
- Beats Headphones
- External Hard Drive
- Phone Charger
- Laptop Charger
- Laptop
- Portable Charger
- Pens
- Hand Sanitizer
- Car Keys