Surviving Airport Stress

Traveling is great: you get to visit other locations, experience different cultures, and create memories that will last a lifetime. A downside to the otherwise wonderful traveling experience can be the lengthy layovers or tight flight connections you may have to endure in the process. Although the time spent enduring such annoyances will probably be minuscule when compared to the overall length of your trip, both occurrences can be frustrating, stressful experiences in the moment. Some of my friends detest these potential airport traumas to the point where they try to avoid air travel at all costs! I understand their feelings; however, I still believe that air travel can be a convenient, quick means of getting from Point A to Point B. More importantly, a plane can take you just about anywhere, whereas other means may leave you with limited options. Allow me to share some tips for minimizing airport related stress!

Security is a necessary evil. The process doesn't have to be excruciating, though. Plan on arriving at least two to three hours prior to your scheduled departure. Arriving early will ease the potential stress that may be caused by long waits in the security line. Make sure you are up to date with airport regulations. (Liquid limit) The most current information can be viewed at TSA's website: http://www.tsa.gov. Try to avoid wearing anything that may set off the metal detectors and cause an unnecessary delay. Notify security personnel beforehand if you have a medical device (such as a pacemaker) that may cause a problem. Wear shoes that are comfortable and easy to slip on and off. None of this is meant to eradicate the nuisance that is the security checkpoint; this advice will, however, help to facilitate your journey and make things less stressful in the long run.

If you have children then plan on bringing some entertaining toys, books, or activities that will alleviate boredom during a layover or on the actual flight. Older children will probably be alright as long as they have a book, a portable music device, and/or a portable video game system. Younger children will be a little more difficult, and will certainly require more effort on your part. Try to assemble an "entertainment pack" with items tailored to your child's unique interests; a young artist may be enthralled by a new coloring book and some crayons. It may require a bit of planning, but the end result is much preferable than the alternative: chasing the little one all over the airport terminal.

Pack a healthy snack in case you need a quick energy fix. Traveling can be exhausting, especially when a time change is involved in the process. You never know when your energy level will crash. Try to select snacks that are healthy and high in proteins, natural sugars, etc. Trail mix is a handy solution. You will also want to make sure that the snack is easily accessible. Few things are worse than being exhausted, stuck in an unfamiliar airport terminal, and having to spend a lot of time rummaging through your luggage in an effort to find your snack. You can always purchase a snack at the airport; just keep in mind that the food is going to cost quite a bit more than you would pay if you were to prepare something in advance.

Try to familiarize yourself with an airport prior to traveling. This will enable you to prepare for any unusual situations, such as construction in certain areas of the airport. Most airports have websites; use these as your starting point in researching any unfamiliar airport territory. If there is construction in one terminal, for example, you may be able to plan an alternate route. This will enable you to reach your connecting flight (or the baggage claim) much quicker. The airport websites may also have information regarding the transportation services that are available. If you're staying at a nearby hotel, you may also want to check with the hotel to see if they offer a shuttle service. Sometimes it's free, sometimes there is a fee. Mapping out a strategy will enable you to plan ahead, to an extent. Still, you may want to "expect the unexpected"- after all, anything can happen!

Above all else, try not to stress out! You can plan as much as you'd like, but things aren't necessarily going to happen as you would expect. If you remain calm and take things as they come, your trip will flow a lot more smoothly in the long run.

Traveling should be a memorable, relaxing experience. However, even the best of times can bring hefty amounts of stress. By utilizing these tips you may be able to handle any stressful situations that come your way. The most important thing to remember is that you are traveling for fun; try to enjoy the experience. Don't let minor, stressful occurrences define your entire trip. Take everything in stride and maintain an optimistic attitude. The memories you will create are worth a few bumps in the road.