The summer of 2023 is proving to be a challenging time for air travelers, with airports plagued by long lines, flight delays, and cancellations. However, with some expert tips and hacks, you can minimize the hassle and stress of traveling through crowded airports this season.
Do Thorough Research Before Heading to the Airport
One of the best things you can do is make sure you understand all the latest requirements for your destination before leaving home. Requirements related to passports, visas, vaccinations, and health documentation can change frequently, so double-check everything a few days before your trip.
This is especially important this summer, as disruptions like the European wildfires have impacted travel rules. For example, research how the wildfires may affect your plans if heading to destinations like Greece, Italy, or Spain. Being informed ahead of time prevents problems at check-in or immigration.
Print Out Your Documents for Smooth Sailing
While electronic tickets on your phone seem convenient, printed documents can actually save time when traveling in 2023. Long lines mean check-in agents and officials need to move fast. Handing over a folder with printed tickets, passport, and other paperwork can expedite things versus scrolling through phone apps.
Printouts also ensure you have what you need if your phone loses battery power while waiting in airport lines. Prepare paper copies of all essential documents before your trip.
Strategically Pack Luggage to Avoid Lost Items
If traveling as a couple or family, use a strategy of packing items across multiple suitcases. This way, if one bag gets lost or delayed, you’ll still have access to some of your belongings in the other bags as needed.
Spreading out important items across luggage protects you from having nothing to wear or use if a bag goes missing in the airport chaos this summer.
Stick to Carry-On Restrictions to Speed Check-in
Many travelers try to avoid checked bags, but then overstuff their carry-on, which can cause issues. If your carry-on is overfilled and bulging, it likely won’t fit in the sizing box at check-in, meaning you’ll still have to check it.
Pack carefully within your airline’s stated carry-on allowance to avoid headaches. Measure your bag before leaving home and weigh it to ensure you meet all restrictions. This saves frustration at check-in and at the gate when boarding.
Order Liquids for Pickup to Avoid Security Hassles
If you want to bring liquids over the 100ml limit allowed in carry-ons, skip wrestling with bottles at security. Instead, order them online for airside pickup at World Duty Free or Boots once past security.
They offer items like large shampoos, skin care products, and baby necessities for easy airport pickup when you arrive. This simplifies traveling with only hand luggage this summer.
Dress for Airport Comfort and Efficiency
Skip complicated outfits and items like strappy shoes that you’ll need to remove for security lines. Opt for slip-on shoes, layers, and comfortable travel clothes to sail through airport screening quickly.
Dressing practically prevents frustrating pat-downs, shoe removals, and other annoyances. It also lets you adjust to temperature changes in the airport and aircraft for optimal comfort.
Have Security Items Ready in Advance
Don’t wait until you reach the front of the security line to start preparing. While waiting, remove shoes, take laptops and liquids out of your bag, and gather items from your pockets. Use an organized flight bag with designated compartments.
Being proactive shaves precious minutes off the security process for you and those behind you in line. This prevents pileups at the checkpoint during the busy summer travel season.
Pack Entertainment Essentials in Case of Delays
Even if you don’t end up needing them, always bring entertainment options in case of lengthy flight delays or cancellations. Pack headphones, books, snacks, or anything else to keep you occupied at the airport.
Download podcasts, movies, or playlists to your phone using home WiFi before heading out. This entertainment prepares you for unexpected airport downtime this summer.
Don’t Forget Your Chargers and Backup Batteries
In an era of phones holding all your vital travel documents, a dead battery causes big problems. Pack a fully charged portable charger or power bank and don’t forget the charging cable.
This prevents you from draining your phone battery as you manage travel delays or cancellations. You’ll also stay connected for any last minute gate changes or rebooking needs.
Utilize Packing Cubes for Organization
Packing cubes help maximize space in luggage while keeping items neatly organized. Clothes stay wrinkle-free and sorted, especially helpful when packing across multiple bags.
Packing cubes also make unpacking at your destination much easier. Identify cubes for outfits, underwear, accessories, etc. to stay organized when traveling this summer.
Bring a Travel Pillow for Unexpected Overnights
With lots of cancellations and delays, there’s always a chance you could get stranded at the airport overnight this season. Bringing a compact, packable travel pillow allows you to get rest anywhere needed.
Having your own pillow means you don’t have to painfully sleep upright in airport seats during lengthy delays. It’s a simple item that enhances comfort significantly.
Invest in Noise-Canceling Headphones
You may encounter noisy travelers or crowded waiting areas at airports this summer. Drown out annoying noises with over-ear or around-ear noise-canceling headphones.
Quality headphones from Sony, Bose, or other brands block out external sounds. This allows you to focus on podcasts, music and rests when stuck at the airport.
Fill Up Your Reusable Water Bottle
Stay hydrated on the go and save money by packing a refillable water bottle. Fill it at home and finish it before airport security to avoid dumping it out.
Once inside, look for water stations to refill it before boarding. This prevents buying endless overpriced bottles when traveling this summer.
Show Kindness and Patience
Frustrations inevitably happen amid summer travel chaos. But simple acts of patience, empathy and kindness go a long way towards improving the situation for everyone.
Remember delays are often due to genuine safety issues, and airport staff are doing their best to accommodate travelers this season. Showing humanity and compassion makes travel easier for all.
By being prepared, patient, and proactive, you can take the stress out of summer airport travel this year. Use these expert tips and hacks to breeze through check-in, security, and time in the terminal. With the right mindset and packing strategy, you can still experience smooth sailing despite the chaos. Stay organized, entertained, hydrated and comfortable to start your trip off right, even with the crowds.