How to make your airport experience less stressful
So, you’ve just booked your trip to that sunny destination you’ve been dreaming about for years. It’s been a long time coming and you can’t wait to be on your way! However, there is something you’re not looking forward to, that dreadful part of the journey that most people dislike, the thing that’s between you and your dream holiday: the airport.
The long queues, large crowds, grumpy people and overpriced meals are something that starts to make you feel stressed and overwhelmed even before you’ve reached the airport. But what if I told you that there are ways to make your airport experience less stressful and even … pleasant?
Let’s take the introductions out of the way. At Aviation Spares, we’ve been supplying aviation equipment to airports and airfields all across the globe for over 30 years. In that time, we’ve travelled countless times and gained a great amount of knowledge on how to enjoy the airport experience. So, we’re here to share some tips with you to, hopefully, improve this part of your journey.
- Preparation is key.
First and foremost, it’s important to pin your travel information right after booking. This will ensure you’re not having to dig through all your emails to try and find the booking information when the time comes.
Then, as Brianna Meighan, author of How to Fly With a Baby, mentions on an article on NEA Member Benefits, checking in online will save you a lot of time, especially if you’re not checking a bag. By checking in online, you’ll be able to stop worrying about rushing to the check-in desk and head straight to security.
- Pack light.
An article on the Opposite Travellers blog can’t stress this enough. “Whether you’re travelling for two days or two months you can survive with just carry-on luggage.” They promise and we can attest.
And never packing at the very last minute. I can feel your stress levels increasing. What if I’m missing something? What if I forget that really important thing that I can’t even remember anymore? Remember to make a list of the things you need for your upcoming trip and get everything together a couple of days before the big trip. No more last-minute stress!
- Don’t get hangry.
Don’t be another grumpy passenger and make sure that you’ve had some food before heading to the airport. Or at least, pack some snacks!
- Arrive early.
It’s advisable to show up to the airport early. As an article on Best Life mentions, you should give yourself two hours before your flight to get a meal and unwind instead of rushing through security and stressing about finding your gate.
- Take a deep breath.
Once you’ve been through security, there is plenty of time before you have to board your flight. This means you can sit down, relax and take a deep breath. If you can’t seem to find a place to sit that’s not super crowded, head to an empty gate or even the airport’s prayer room. If you need a distraction, don’t forget to download a film or your favourite series on your tablet.
How do you make your own airport experience less stressful?
Kate Davis-Holmes
Award-winning writer, blogger, social media consultant and charity campaigner. Social Media Manager for BritMums, the UK's largest parent blogging network Freelance clients include Firefly Communications and Save the Children UK. Works with brands on marketing projects. Examples include Visit Orlando, Give As You Live, Coca-Cola and Kodak. Cambridge Law graduate with many years experience working across three sectors in advice, media relations, events, training and project management. Available for hire at affordable rates.
