How to Navigate Any Airport Like a Pro
10 tips to make your experience at any airport less stressful
Whether you’re headed to Los Angeles, Lisbon, or Louisville, there’s one universal truth: airports are a necessary evil. But they don’t have to suck the joy out of your travel day. With the right game plan, you can move through even the most chaotic terminals confidently and comfortably.
Here are my 10 tips for navigating any airport:
1. Be Early, Not Stressed
Yes, I know “arrive two hours early” sounds dramatic. But nothing raises the blood pressure like airport sprints or long security lines. Extra time means you can hit the bookstore, grab food that isn’t a sad pre-made wrap, and use the bathroom without panic. Always arrive early (yes, even at smaller, local airports).
2. Book Smart
If you're connecting internationally, pick flights with more extended layovers. Short layovers are a gamble, especially in airports like Frankfurt, London Heathrow, or Charles de Gaulle in Paris (translation: bring running shoes!). Always aim for early morning departures—there will be less of a delay domino effect. Getting stuck in an airport for hours is no fun!
3. Download the App
Always download the specific airline app for the carrier you are flying (United, Delta, American, Southwest, etc.). It’s not just for mobile boarding passes. If the travel gods are smiling, you’ll get real-time gate changes, delay alerts, baggage updates, and the occasional upgrade notice.
4. Carry-On is King
Stick to carry-on unless you're checking a bottle of olive oil or packing for a destination wedding. It's faster and cheaper, and you won't spend an hour watching the baggage carousel spin like a sad game show.
5. PreCheck, CLEAR & Global Entry = Worth It
If you fly more than twice a year, investing in at least one of these programs can significantly enhance your travel experience. For domestic travel in the U.S., you have the option of TSA PreCheck or CLEAR, and if you travel abroad frequently, it’s worth getting Global Entry. Here’s a quick breakdown of the three programs:
TSA PreCheck gets you through security faster—shoes stay on, laptop stays in the bag. The cost is $85 for a 5-year membership. Note several credit cards (Chase Sapphire Reserve, Capital One Venture X & AMEX Platinum) provide up to a $100 statement credit every four to five years when you use the card to pay the application fee.
CLEAR is like the express lane before the express lane. You skip to the front of the security line entirely, just by scanning your eyes or fingertips and it’s available at most major airports. Yes, it’s an extra fee of $189 annually - but if you hate lines, it can be worth every penny (it saved me once from missing a flight!). Note some credit cards, such as AMEX Platinum, offer up to $189 in statement credits per year for a CLEAR membership.
Global Entry gets you back into the U.S. with almost no wait at customs (seriously, you just scan your face and walk out!) and includes TSA PreCheck benefits. The application fee is $120 for five years.
6. Know the Layout
Download the airport map or use the Flighty app. Knowing where security lines are shorter or where your favorite coffee shop lives (looking at you, Peet’s in SFO T2) can save you time and sanity.
7. Pack Your “Personal Item” Thoughtfully
Whether you are bringing on a backpack or large purse as your “personal item” on the plane, be sure it is stocked with a phone charger, your electronics, a refillable water bottle (empty through security), snacks (protein bar, nuts, etc.), earplugs, headphones, chapstick, your meds, a notebook, and a pen (for customs forms, crossword puzzles, doodling, or journaling).
8. Lounge Life
Priority Passes or day passes can be a lifesaver during long layovers or delays. With free Wi-Fi, outlets, snacks, and clean bathrooms… it’s basically adult daycare with hummus (ha!). Note that if you hold an American Express card, you can use their Lounge Finder to enjoy access to 1,400+ lounges around the world.
9. Always Check the Gate
Airports love to move gates with zero fanfare. Double-check monitors or your app, especially if you’re people-watching (like me!) or hunting down a last-minute sandwich or coffee.
10. Be Kind to the Crew
Gate agents and flight attendants are human. They're also your best shot at seat changes, upgrades, and info. A smile (and a little patience) goes a long way. Even when stressed about a travel situation totally out of your control, always take deep breaths and be kind to all.
Airports will never be your favorite part of the trip. But with a few tricks up your sleeve, you can turn a day of lines, crowds, and delays into something close to efficient. Maybe even, shall I say, pleasant.
Got your own secret airport hack or tip? Let me know in the comments below—I’d love to hear it!
Excellent post with so many great tips! I experiencing a 5 hour delay at the airport right now and the Amex centurion lounges have been a game changer!