April 29th, 2010 - Getting Through The Airport Quickly And Without A Headache
If you have traveled lately, you likely had the opportunity to hear people complain about how air travel is not what it used to be. It seems like people increasingly complain about how the airport is full of hassles and how air travel is an inconvenience. Some of this is accurate, but some of it is exaggeration.
There are a few objective changes. Now only travelers can go to and from the gate - your loved ones can’t meet you or drop you off right at your flight. You also will have longer lines at security because of heightened security measures. But these two changes do not make for the purported decline of the airline industry. Other travelers may point to flight delays as proof of worsening conditions, but this is not the case - there have always been delays.
Why not make your travel experience as easy and pleasant as you can? Here are some secrets to help you get through security efficiently and onto the plane with a minimum of stress and delay.
Pack light: There’s packing light, and then there’s packing light. If you are the type who thinks that only bringing four pair of shoes and three dresses is packing light, this tip may shock you. Try to do away with your checked suitcase completely.
This leaves you with the carryon as your only bag. Pack only those items that will reasonably fit in the carryon; think of items that you can wear multiple times or different ways to stretch your options. Pull this off and you won’t have to check a bag at all, which will make life much easier.
This is because checking a bag takes time, and generally means waiting in line. Checked bags also have to be picked up at baggage claim, whereas your carryon is right at your feet under the seat in front of you. Finally, if you don’t have a carryon you may be able to check in online before even arriving at the airport, avoiding still another line.
Pack safe: Don’t bring anything that will complicate getting through security. This means leaving behind anything that can be seen as hazardous.
Your bag should not contain metal items, matches, sharp items (scissors, knives, etc.). All toiletries should be travel-sized and should be stored in a clear ziplock bag.
See various other articles written by this very writer regarding products like roller ball pens and gel pen refill.
