Once you've arrived at the airport, it can be daunting to see a line of impatient, unhappy travelers tapping their feet at the check-in counter. Even more off-putting are the people who don't know how to use the "quick" automated check-in machines to print their boarding passes. These stressed out travelers add frustration to your day and can add crucial minutes to your travel time. Avoid all of this by printing your boarding passes at home and bringing them with you.
There is no positive aspect to checking bags. Long lines at check-in, ridiculously high prices, arguments over the weight of your bags, and of course, the inevitable lost bags, which is not only annoying, but can ruin your trip. Skip past check-in and the baggage claim by only bringing a carry-on, bringing only essentials and leaving extras at home. You'll feel free and light without having to lug an overstuffed suitcase from car to airport to taxi to hotel, and all of your items will be with you on the plane. Keep in mind that most airlines require your carry-on to be no larger than 22" long by 14" wide by 9" tall. Check your specific airline's restrictions before you pack.
No one likes feeling violated by security checkpoints at the airport, but until a less invasive method is implemented, you have to follow the rules. Wear slip-on shoes and as few layers as possible so there is less for you to remove and put back on. Keep jewelry to a minimum, and don't carry anything in your pockets. If you have a laptop, be prepared to take it out and put it in a separate bin from your shoes, coat and carry-on. Have your liquids ready to place in a bin - remember, you are allowed one quart-sized bag with 3.4 ounces of each liquid. Keep your identification and boarding passes in your hand until you've exited security.
Sailing through check-in and security are a breeze, but when you claim your seat on the plane, you are forced to deal with the other passengers and their drama. Crying babies, overly chatty people, obnoxious teenagers -- at some point, the noise will get to you, no matter how patient and accommodating you are. Invest in an iPod, Smartphone or other mp3 player so you can erase these annoyances from your flight. There is no better way to upgrade your flight experience than cranking up the volume and drowning out the world around you.
All of these tips are for nothing if your flight has been delayed or cancelled. Be in the know before you arrive at the airport by checking your flight status online on your airline's website. If you buy your tickets through Orbitz, you can sign up for text alerts, which is especially helpful if your connecting flight has changed gates while you were up in the air.
