Let’s be real: missing a flight can ruin your trip, not to mention set you back significantly financially. It’s poor planning. So, if you’re about to take a vacation or go on a work trip, here’s no-nonsense guidance to ensure you don’t find yourself trapped in an airport terminal, watching your airplane fly away.
- Beauty Sleep Works Wonders
Hearing it may sound pretty self evident, but let me explain. Not getting enough sleep has become one of the main reasons people miss flights. So in this case, it makes sense to hibernate for a night or skip that night out on the town, or maybe those last few Netflix binges. Ensure you eat a decent meal, don’t use up all your energy, and set at least two alarms to get you up. Remember, sleepy travelers equals missed flights.
- Stop All Unnecessary Faffing After Security
No one is denying how tempting airport duty-free shops and cafes can be. However, once past security, go straight to the gate and don’t get distracted. If you’re gonna pick up snacks or coffee, make sure you are very aware of the time because one long line can make boarding very difficult.
- Make Use of Online Check-Ins
For a lot of us now being able to check in online is a prerogative that airlines offer that comes with its own set of benefits. It’s a lifesaver for people who like to have control over their boarding experience. With online check ins you avoid long check in lines, know your seat and gate, thus being able to relax with no worry provided you have luggage which in that case all you have to do is drop it at the counter.
- Everything You Need in One Location
Emergency cash alongside your passport, ID, and boarding pass can be kept in a pouch or travel wallet of your choice. Looking for your passport while standing in a security queue isn’t the most efficient use of your time. Furthermore, searching for items in bags can be quite time consuming.
- Know Your Means of Transportation
Making assumptions is never a good idea, so never assume that you will arrive on time. Consider planning on how you will get to the airport. You can check for train or bus availability, schedule a taxi, or Uber days in advance.
- Avoid Using Other Metallic Accessories
Don’t make security checks more difficult than they need to be. Remove any heavy jewelry, belts, or jackets that you may need to take off. Unless you want to have a difficult time, wearing comfy clothes while traveling is always recommended.
- Monitor the Airport Displays
Gates, flight boarding statuses, and times can change at any given moment. So arrive at the airport as early as possible. Gate A12 might switch to B19 half an hour later.
- Arrive at the Airport Early—No Excuses
I… Yes, yes, we do get told this frequently, however, we suggest turning up at least 2–3 hours prior to your scheduled flight. It helps you manage delays, long waiting lines, or even wanton gate changes without having a full-blown anxiety episode.
Travel doesn’t have to be a source of distress, and if effort is made, missing a flight is totally avoidable. Simple planning goes a long way. The trick is to plan in advance and not treat an airport like a place designated for running late.
Traveling is fun, but don’t be late.
