Want to breeze through airport security? 12 essential airport tips you need to know

▲ Airport (Image / courtesy / illustrative photo)

By Rita

Navigating airports isn’t rocket science, but finding your flight at an international airport does require some knowledge and experience.Fodorshas compiled 12 must-know airport tips—armed with this basic info, getting in, boarding, and disembarking will be much easier.

1. Confirm the terminal and gate first—some airports are so big you might need a shuttle
You might think it’s just a matter of walking to a certain terminal’s gate, but at some large international airports, you may need to take a shuttle to reach certain terminals. Don’t let these small details affect your boarding.

2. Frequent flyers should consider TSA PreCheck
TSA PreCheck is a U.S. domestic airport expedited security screening program. Frequent flyers might want to join to breeze through long lines—you can apply online.

3. Apply for Global Entry for fast clearance
This is another fast-track clearance system available to frequent travelers to the U.S. You can apply online, and signing up for this also grants you the benefits of TSA PreCheck (from point 2).

4. Bring some snacks
Airport food prices are often outrageously high. Carry some small snacks, especially during flight delays or layovers, to stave off hunger.

5. When flights are delayed, chat with others to kill time
This depends on personal preference. These days, with Wi-Fi being so convenient, you can always browse the internet to pass the time.

6. If someone is picking you up, arrange to meet them at the arrival gate
The departure gate area is often crowded with people waiting to pick up passengers, sometimes creating quite a mess. Meeting at the arrival gate means you can just find your friend after clearing customs.

7. Download your airline’s app in advance
This way, you can receive the latest updates.

8. Always carry an empty bottle
Some airports have water fountains, which are much more economical than buying bottled water. Plus, the cabin air is dry, so it’s important to stay hydrated.

9. Stay polite
Respect the cabin crew. Flight delays or cancellations are airline decisions—taking it out on them won’t do you any good.

10. Building on that
The author notes that a good attitude might make cabin crew more lenient about overweight luggage. (This varies from person to person.)

11. Make the most of duty-free shops
You can find some genuinely good deals, like on cigarettes or alcohol.

12. Dress appropriately
Wear more practical clothing, such as items with lots of pockets and made of good-quality material.