top of page
Search

Wheels Up! Smart Tips for a Smoother Trip

  • Writer: Michelle Mushinski
    Michelle Mushinski
  • Apr 24
  • 3 min read

Smooth Travels Start at the Airport: Tips for a Stress-Free Start to Your Trip

Whether you're a seasoned jet-setter or flying for the first time in years, the airport experience can be smoother with a little planning. These tips will help you breeze through check-in, security, and boarding—and maybe even enjoy your time at the gate!


When to Arrive at the Airport

  • Domestic Flights: Arrive 2 hours before departure.

  • International Flights: Aim for 3 hours before departure.

  • Earlier is always better if:

    • You're flying during peak travel times (holidays, weekends, early morning).

    • You're checking bags.

    • You’re flying out of a large or unfamiliar airport.


Checking In

  • Online check-in opens 24 hours before departure—do it! It saves time and may let you choose seats.

  • Print your boarding pass or save it on your phone.

  • Checked luggage? Use the airline’s bag drop line if available—it’s usually quicker than the full-service counter.

  • Tip: Weigh your bag at home to avoid surprises (and fees) at the counter.


Getting Through Security with Ease

  • Wear easy-to-remove shoes and avoid belts, big jewelry, or jackets with lots of zippers.

  • Liquids must be in containers 100 ml or less and fit in a clear, resealable 1-litre bag.

  • Laptops and tablets usually need to be removed from your bag—unless you’re in a special line (like TSA PreCheck in the US or Nexus in Canada).

  • Keep your passport and boarding pass handy—you’ll need them more than once.


At the Gate

  • Try to be at your gate at least 45 minutes before your flight—even earlier for international flights or if you need assistance.

  • Flights start boarding 30–45 minutes before takeoff, and many close the doors 15 minutes before departure.

  • Your gate can change, so keep an eye on the screens and announcements!

Elevation Lounge YYC
Elevation Lounge YYC

What to Do While You Wait

  • Grab a snack, meal, or drink. Many airports have great restaurants and cafés—and if you have a bit of time, why not treat yourself?

  • Check out an airport lounge. This is one of my favorite things to do when I travel. Lounges offer comfy seating, complimentary drinks and snacks, Wi-Fi, and a quiet atmosphere that makes the wait so much more enjoyable. Some are included with certain credit cards or available for a small fee—definitely worth it! Check out my blog all about airport lounges Skip the Chaos: My Love for Airport Lounges

  • Grab snacks or water (after security!)—food isn’t always available onboard.

  • Stretch your legs. Walk around the terminal to keep circulation going before a long flight.

  • Charge your devices. Many airports now have USB ports and outlets at the gates.

  • Download entertainment or offline maps before boarding, especially if you won’t have Wi-Fi in the air.


Bonus Tips from a Travel Pro

  • Bring a refillable water bottle. Bottles of water are expensive to purchase in airports. Most airports have refill stations after security.

  • Download your airline’s app. It’ll send you gate changes, delays, and boarding info.

  • Keep a pen handy. You'll need one for customs forms if you're flying internationally.

  • Pack a carry-on essentials kit with:

    • Medications

    • Phone charger

    • Headphones

    • Travel documents

    • A small snack

    • Anything you cannot risk losing


Final Thought: A little preparation goes a long way. Airports can be busy and unpredictable, but when you’re organized and know what to expect, the whole experience becomes part of the adventure—not a stressful start.


Have questions about a specific airport or what to pack in your carry-on? I’m always happy to help. Let’s make your travel days as smooth as possible!

Email: toesinthesand@tpi.ca  Call/Text: 403-348-1644

 
 
 

Comentários

bottom of page