To the first time traveler, an airport can be somewhat of a daunting place. A seasoned globetrotter may have somewhat of a different experience, already used to what to expect, and how airports operate to get everyone safely to and from their various destinations. Whether you’re the former or the latter, being reminded about some of the do’s and don’t when you’re in an airport in 2020 can mean the difference between a happy experience, and one that is memorable for all the wrong reasons. Here are some suggestions to help ensure that your next airport experience sets your travel plans off on the right note.
Airport Do’s & Don’ts in 2020
Consider Best Buys at the Airport
Firstly, remember that an airport is a great place for you to do some duty-free shopping. This can be significantly beneficial if you’re looking for a present for a loved one, have forgotten to buy yourself something memorable from the trip, or if you’re looking to get a few items that are typically more expensive in your home country. What you shouldn’t do when it comes to making purchases, is a bank on buying essential travel items at the airport. This includes locks for your bags, hand sanitizer or power converters for the region you will be visiting. These are bound to be way overpriced and will put your budget at a deficit even before you depart.
Following The Rules At All Times
Whether you’re waiting to check-in, heading through security or about to board, remember that it pays to follow the rules of the airport at all times. Keep an eye out for signs, listen for prompts over the speakers and be mindful that you are in a space where a multitude of cultures are coming together. Respect is the name of the game, and you don’t want to be “that guy” who makes a bomb reference as a joke, only to end up spending a day in an airport jail cell. Don’t take any chances, like having one too many pints before you board, or you may even be asked to leave. Spend your time getting excited about the trip, and asking others around you about where they are heading, rather than getting into unnecessary trouble.
Following The Rules At All Times
Planning & Connecting Flights
If you’re going to be spending some time at an airport as you wait for a transfer or a connecting flight, make an effort to plan in and around your sleeping arrangements, especially if the wait will belong. Some institutions offer access to lounges for passengers in this position or even give you the opportunity to overnight at a nearby hotel for a fraction of the cost. If you’re not someone who is used to roughing it, don’t take a chance. Talk to the airport staff about their facilities, do some research beforehand, and don’t bank on “winging it” when you get there. These days, you’ll be able to find a host of options just by doing a basic search online.
Always Staying Connected
When it comes to staying connected with your loved ones, and having access to basic services like Uber when you arrive at your destinations, it pays to have your devices charged up. Some airports offer stations to do this for you, while others will ask for a fee to do so. Check-in with the airline as well about their charging ports on the plane, as well as whether wifi is available. When you’re spending time in an airport, staying connected can make a world of difference if you run into a tight spot, or if you’re just looking to share your next memory. Don’t be the guy who arrives with a dead battery, and has his family putting out a missing persons report two days later when he’s actually just been offline due to poor planning. Here’s to your next journey being an enjoyable one.