• When booking flights, opt for connections with reasonable layover times. While shorter layovers can be convenient, they leave little room for delays and may result in a stressful dash through the airport.

Gather Important Documents

• Before heading to the airport, make sure you have all your necessary travel documents in one place. This includes your passport, paper boarding passes, and any relevant visas.
• Keep them in a travel wallet or a designated compartment in your bag to avoid last-minute panic of trying to find them at the check-in counter or security.

Online Check-In

• Save time and skip long lines by taking advantage of online check-in options offered by most airlines. Check-in through the airline's website or mobile app 24 hours before your departure. 
• If you didn't get to choose your seat when you purchased your ticket, this is the time when you can also select your seat. The later you wait to check in, the greater the chance that you'll get stuck with a crummy middle seat. So, be sure to check-in as soon as the window opens.  

Packing Smart

To make getting through security checks easier, pack your belongings in an organized fashion.

• Use packing cubes to keep your items organized. 
• If you are bringing electronics like laptops or tablets, make sure you store those in an easy-to-get-to place in your bag. You'll need to quickly remove these at the security line. 
• Store all liquids in a quart-size bag. Follow the 3-1-1 liquid rule. More information at this link. Keep these at the top of your bag too since you need to remove them for inspection at security. 
• Don't bring any forbidden objects with you either in your carryon or your check in bag. Check out the TSA's website for a full list.

Dress Smart

• Don't wear gaudy jewelry on the day of travel. You'll just need to remove it at the security check and that will be a hassle for you and everyone else in line.
• Preferably wear shoes you can easily get on and off. However, DO NOT wear shoes without socks. There's nothing grosser (in my opinion) than walking around the security area barefoot. Yuck!

Give Yourself Plenty of Time

• If you're going on an international flight, it's often advised that you get to the airport 3 hours in advance. Domestic flights are around 2 hours. Check on your specific airport to see what they recommend. It's better to be early than to miss your flight, or have to run through the airport to try to catch a flight! At peak travel times, lines at security and check-in can be LONG. Even if you have TSA PreCheck (see this link on how to apply), they can still be a nightmare. Also, some of the budget airlines do not joke around and if you miss their check-in window time, you're out of luck and cannot fly. 

Curbside Check-In

• If you're checking a bag, consider using curbside check-in if possible. Just bring along some small bills to tip the attendant. It's recommended that you tip $2 for the first bag and $1 for every additional bag. Oversized or heavy bags should be tipped at $2 per bag regardless. Check out this article for more information. 

Choosing the Right Lines

• When going through security or customs, look for lines on the far left or right. Most people tend to choose the middle lanes, so these outer lanes often move quicker.

• I highly recommend paying for these. Remember that Global Entry includes the TSA PreCheck benefits, so you don't have to get both. I personally feel that Global Entry is the better deal since it's only about $22 more. With these clearances, you get to have a "fast pass" at the security lines in the USA. 

Making Use of Technology

• Utilize airport apps and digital maps to find your way around the terminal. These apps provide real-time information on gate changes, security wait times, and restaurant options, helping you make informed decisions on the go.

Hydration and Snacking

• Stay hydrated by carrying an empty reusable water bottle through security and filling it up afterward.
• Pack some healthy snacks (that are liquid free) to keep your energy levels up during your journey.

Entertainment Essentials

• Load up your tablet or e-reader with your favorite movies, TV shows, books, or podcasts. This will keep you entertained during waiting times and flights.

Finding Quiet Corners

• Airports can be noisy and crowded, but you can often find quieter corners away from high-traffic areas. Seek out empty gates or airport lounges to unwind and relax before your flight.
• I personally love having access to airport lounges. Currently, I have a credit card (with an enormous annual fee) which provides me with access, and I feel like it's totally worth it. This pass doesn't give me a lot of benefits in the US, but in international airports I have been able to use it almost every time I have flown. What's so great about lounges? Well, they offer comfortable seating, complimentary snacks, drinks, and often, faster Wi-Fi. Sometimes they even come with free showers, workout spaces, and cozy sleep dens, too. Just be sure to watch the time and make your way to your gate close to your boarding time. There might be important announcements about your flight that you don't want to miss.