Airport tips and tricks from a world traveler…

Top Airport Travel Tips

Start your vacation out with a great experience at the airport

It really is possible! There are three things that can make an airport experience fast, easy, and even fun… taking carry on luggage, TSA Precheck, and having an airport Lounge Club card (or another airport club card.)

It’s my favorite way to start a trip- taking my bag with me and getting through security fast, then having lots of time to relax, drink, eat, and think about my exciting adventure

#1: Take a Carry On Bag Only

I am a huge advocate for taking carry on bags only. There are few reasons to I avoid checking my bag. I like to avoid those long lines, extra fees, and the stress of my bag being overweight, or even worse, checked and lost!

It is very important to check the baggage size (and weight) restrictions on the airline’s website, so when you get to the gate, you don’t get your bag taken and checked by a gate agent.

Check in online so you can go straight to security. When you arrive at your destination, just grab your bag from the overhead bin and you are set to go.

Click here for the Best Carry On Luggage

Get the Ultimate Carry On Packing List

Get a FREE Carry On Packing Checklist download by signing up on my email list to the right→↑

#2: TSA Precheck

Years ago, when I got my new Chase Saphire Reserve Visa, one of the benefits was free TSA Precheck. I immediately went through the quick process and got my traveler ID’s.

I had no idea the countless hours that this would save me in the U.S. airports.

You just check in online, go to the airport with your carry on bag, and then straight to security. As you walk past the long line of people waiting to get through the standard security, go to the TSA section where the line is shorter and moves much faster.

Most often, it isn’t necessary to take off your shoes, take the ziplocks (with liquids) out of your bag, or take your phone out of your purse. It is usually seamless and quick.

TSA Precheck makes the airport process so quick and easy. I highly recommend spending the $85 (or getting a credit card that reimburses you for it), for the 5-year benefit. Apply for TSA Precheck

#3: Airport Lounge Club

My credit card also comes with the added benefit of Priority Pass Lounge Clubs cards. These clubs are at many airports around the world. Some are large and luxurious with fresh food, drinks, showers, and even spas. Some are small and simple and there is everything in between.

All of the clubs (as well as other airport clubs) provide a nice, and sometimes even peaceful place, to wait for a flight. For family travel, it’s a great benefit- everyone gets on the plane hydrated and usually well-fed, with a few snacks and drinks packed up for the trip.

Priority Pass membership includes anywhere from one guest to limitless. Some airports include meals at restaurants for the cardholder and a guest. A member and guest can eat at each restaurant listed at any airport! For families, you can pay for another cardholder on your account, and they also get a Priority Pass membership with all the same guest perks.

So relax at a club with all of the extra time you will have by not checking bags and waiting in long security lines!

Book your next trip!

Save time and money by using the best companies! For a list of all of my favorite travel-related companies, check out Top Travel Resources
Book your flight with Skyscanner or read 8 Ways to Find a Cheap Flight
Book your accommodations with Booking.com
Take carry on bags only! Get my ultimate Carry On Packing List, and learn how and what to pack for your trip!
Get inspired by 66 Quotes About Travel