Tips to shorten long waiting times at airports

Vacation season is here! Airports are packed full with soon-to-be sunburned faces heading for the palm trees. But before you can relax on the beach with that gorgeous water stretching out in front of you, you have to survive the endless waiting times at airports. Not only can those lines be annoying, you're also wasting precious moments of vacation time. Here are a few tips to save you time at the airport and get you to your destination faster and calmer.

Flight status

Before you head to the airport, you should check the status of your flight. Has your flight been delayed by hours or canceled altogether? If so, you can wait things out in the comfort of your own home instead of spending extra frustrating hours at the airport.

Check-in online

If your airline offers online check-in, you can save yourself a lot of time and sometimes money (if the airline offers a discount). This is especially true if you are just traveling with hand luggage.

Check-in

Get your important documents ready ahead of time and have them in your hand while waiting in line. Also, find out your airline's baggage weight limits and weigh yours before arriving to avoid any additional overweight baggage fees.

Clothing choices

Traveling to some countries requires you to remove your shoes. Your lace-up, knee-high boots should probably be avoided if this is the case. Loose-fitting, baggy clothes can also raise suspicions which may require more extensive security measures. Plan ahead on what to wear.

Security check point

Follow the rules about carry-on liquids. This includes any gels, cremes, and sprays. If you want to be on the safe side, don't bring any of these sorts of products in your bag. Also, be sure to empty your pant and jacket pockets beforehand and avoid wearing any metal accessories.

You're not the only one who can benefit from these tips, the other passengers will also thank you for being so well prepared. In fact, some may even follow your lead, helping everyone get to their destination on time and with less stress.