10 Tips for a Seamless Airport Experience

My travel schedule has been packed lately – such a blessing – and I can’t help but share some of the most important lessons I’ve gained from years of airport hopping. If one thing is true about travel, a seamless airport experience is the best way to start your trip on the right foot! Here are 10 tips for air travel that have helped save my time, money and sanity.

Slip Ons – Depending on where you’re from, airport security can take 30 minutes or 3 hours. Make it easier for you and other travelers, by wearing slip-on shoes like these from Target!

Choose Comfort – There aren’t many priorities above our personal comfort when it comes to air travel. Jeans or tight clothing can make everything more difficult in shoulder-to-shoulder arrangements. Unfortunately for businessmen, there is no escaping the suit and tie, but for women traveling on business, dresses are the way to go. When I’m traveling for pleasure, my go-to threads almost always include leggings or yoga pants, a soft t-shirt and a cozy sweater or light jacket.

Layer Up – Airplanes are notoriously chilly and it’s better to have layers to take off than nothing to put on. If you’re wearing sandals, pack a pair of warm socks in your carry on. A fleece or sweatshirt won’t take up much room in your bag if it isn’t needed. Plus, layering while in-transit saves space in your bag!

Tote or Backpack – Backpacks are perfect for hands-free and no hassle travel. Roll your items to optimize bag space & keep easy access items like your wallet and phone in front or side pockets. For the gals, a structured tote is the way to go! Get the flat bottom tote with closable top for easy organization of laptop, wallet, reading materials and toiletries. The best part about having a great tote for travel is it doubles as a day bag; no need to pack a separate purse.

Pack Light – I almost always end up packing more than I needed. Options are always good, but if you stick to the classics, you’ll have all you need and much less weight to lug around. This will save you time & money by cutting out bag check and claim. My list: Black top, white top, nice jeans, distressed jeans, gray or black sweater, green or tan utility jacket, a day-evening dress, leggings, tennis shoes, black sandals, nude heels & daily under needs.

BYOB – I have saved so much by bringing my own water bottle. Air travel can cause dehydration so drinking lots of water is important. Also, it’s no surprise that airport water is pretty pricey. BYOB and fill up at a fountain or ask your Starbucks barista to fill your bottle when you order the always-necessary travel coffee. Pack a FLPSDE Dual Chamber Water Bottle to keep your water and snacks handy.

BYOF – If you’re anything like me, and need to be diligent about your diet, pack snacks in your carry on. Cocoa almonds, light string cheese, mandarin oranges or granola bars are my go-to and get me through a day of airport tag. Not only is this much healthier, it helps you save your travel cash for the destination.

Sanitize & Moisturize – Let’s be real, airports and planes can be pretty nasty. Transporting thousands of people a day, means international cooties! Keep sanitizer handy for those extra icky situations. Also, since air travel causes dehydration, and sanitizer can dry your skin, pack a small hand lotion and chapstick in your carry on. No one likes having dry skin or chapped lips & no relief!

Extra Copies – Leave a copy of your itinerary with a friend or loved one at home. It’s always good to have someone in the know for emergencies. Also, having a copy of your itinerary & identification in your luggage is a nice insurance policy in the unlikely case that something is lost or stolen.

Isle Seat – Everyone tends to love the window seat, but sitting in the isle is great for 3 reasons: you get more legroom, you get off the plane much faster, and you don’t have to climb over anyone to get in or out. Simply lean forward 4” and you’ll enjoy the same view as the passenger next to you.

Do you have any travel advice worth sharing? Time savers? Stress relievers? Comfort tips? Leave them in the comments sections so we can all benefit from your wisdom!