The Roaming BoomersHow to Survive Busy Airports
How to Survive Busy Airports
Want to know how to survive this summer’s busy airports? Let me share a few essential tips.
Airports will be exceptionally busy this summer. A record 271 million passengers are expected between June 1 and August 31, a 6.3% increase from last year.
Major airlines are boosting flights to meet demand, but travelers should prepare for potential delays due to air traffic control shortages and weather disruptions.
How to Survive This Summer’s Busy Airports
Download Airline Apps: Make sure to download the apps for all the airlines you’ll use during your trip. These apps allow you to check in for your flights, access digital boarding passes, and receive important notifications. The airline will alert you through the app if your flight is delayed. In the unfortunate event of a flight cancellation, many airline apps now offer convenient rebooking tools, saving you from waiting in long lines with hundreds of other stressed passengers. Having these apps on your phone can make your travel experience much smoother and less stressful.- Prepay for Airline Parking: Prepaying for airport parking is a smart strategy when traveling through busy airports. Many airports offer discounted rates for travelers who book their parking in advance online. This saves you money and guarantees a spot in the parking lot or garage, eliminating the stress of searching for a space upon arrival. Prepaid parking often lets you choose your preferred lot, whether close to the terminal or more budget-friendly. Plus, you can typically cancel your reservation if your plans change.
TSA PreCheck and CLEAR: TSA PreCheck and CLEAR are two programs that can significantly speed up your airport security experience. TSA PreCheck allows you to use a dedicated security lane, keep your shoes and light jackets on, and leave laptops and liquids in your bag. CLEAR uses biometric data to verify your identity, allowing you to skip the document check line. While both programs require an application and fee, they can save you valuable time during peak travel seasons.- Global Entry: Global Entry is a program that expedites the customs and immigration process for pre-approved, low-risk travelers entering the United States. Members can use dedicated kiosks at major U.S. airports and select preclearance locations, reducing wait times and paperwork. The program also includes TSA PreCheck benefits, allowing faster security screening. While there is an application fee, Global Entry’s five-year membership can save frequent international travelers significant time and hassle, making it a worthwhile investment.
Airport Lounges: Airport lounges offer a welcome respite from the chaos of busy terminals. These quiet spaces provide comfortable seating, complimentary food and drinks, and amenities like Wi-Fi and charging stations. Some lounges even offer showers, spa services, and nap rooms. Lounge access can be especially valuable during flight delays or long layovers, giving you a place to relax and recharge. Many credit cards and airline loyalty programs include lounge access as a perk, making it more accessible to frequent travelers.- Arrive Early: Arriving early at the airport is crucial during the busy summer travel season. Aim to reach the airport at least two hours before a domestic flight and three hours before an international flight. This extra time allows you to navigate parking, check-in, and security without the added stress of rushing. Remember that airports will be more crowded than usual, so expect longer lines and potential delays. Arriving early ensures a smoother start to your journey. If you’re flying through a particularly busy airport, consider adding another hour to your early arrival.
Apple AirTags: Apple AirTags and similar tracking devices can be a lifesaver when it comes to keeping track of your luggage during busy travel seasons. These small, battery-powered tags can be placed inside your suitcases and linked to your smartphone, allowing you to monitor your bags’ location in real time. If your luggage gets misplaced or lost, you can use the app to locate it quickly. This technology provides peace of mind and can help you avoid the hassle of lost luggage.- Travel Brand Emergency Phone Numbers: If your airline tickets were booked through a cruise line or another travel company, make sure you have their air department’s emergency contact information on hand. While some travel companies provide better support than others, their air desk might be a helpful resource in addition to your airline’s app if your flight is delayed or canceled. However, remember that the airline controls your booking once you’ve checked in. In most cases, contacting your travel agent won’t be as effective as dealing directly with the airline or the travel company’s air department.
- Know Your Rights: The U.S. Department of Transportation recently announced new rules to protect airline passengers. Airlines must now provide automatic cash refunds for flights delayed by 3+ hours domestically or 6+ hours internationally. Refunds must be prompt within 7 days for credit card purchases. Airlines must also disclose all fees upfront when selling tickets. These changes expand passenger rights and hold airlines more accountable, though some exceptions for weather delays may still apply. To learn more, please CLICK HERE.
In conclusion, navigating busy airports this summer may seem daunting, but with the right strategies and tools, you can make your travel experience smoother and less stressful.
By downloading airline apps, prepaying for parking, utilizing programs like TSA PreCheck, CLEAR, and Global Entry, and taking advantage of airport lounges, you can save time and minimize hassle. Arriving early, using luggage tracking devices, and knowing your passenger rights can further enhance your travel experience.
Remember, a little preparation and patience can go a long way in surviving the summer airport rush. So, plan ahead, stay informed, and embrace the journey. Happy travels!
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One further tip: Don’t dress like a bum. If you look like a medium to high net worth individual the airlines may treat you like one. They don’t like to P.O. rich or influential people, and you might be one.