Actually, there are a few things you can do to make this whole process a little faster and less painful. Below, I outline over 10 travel tips that can help you get through lines faster and be prepared when things go wrong. A few additional tips for carry-on and checked bags will help you avoid further airport drama.
Carry-On Bags
If you must valet check your bag (it gets checked at the airplane door), especially on regional or full flights, be sure to remove your laptop. Your bag will go in the luggage hold with everything else, increasing the chance it will get damaged. Getting a smaller bag that works better for full flights and fits regional jets can help you avoid valet check-in.
Also, try to place your bag within viewing distance of your seat, allowing you to keep an eye on it as people deplane. This can help you avoid the unlikely event of someone accidentally taking your bag.
Checked Baggage
Put large, unique marks on your bag(s), making them easy to identify at a distance. When bags begin coming off the carousel, they can all look alike. If your bag stands out, you’ll see it from a distance and can go over and grab it, rather than waiting for it to come around. This also lessens the chance that someone will accidentally walk off with your bag.
Be sure there isn’t anything in your bag of value because there is a chance security will open it and go through your bag.
Consider shipping anything of value by carrier (USPS, FedEx, UPS, etc.) with insurance.
Airports aren’t fun but you can improve the experience by following these tips, which are simply meant to prepare you for various scenarios. Luggage can be lost, laptops can get damaged, and passwords can be stolen on airport Wi-Fi. Hopefully now you are a little more prepared to avoid (or worse, handle) those scenarios.
