Contributed by Samantha Penn
They say that airports are one of the most stressful places known to man. Long immigration queues, a multitude of security checks, flight delays and lost luggage, it’s no wonder that so many people hate flying. In order to keep your airport stress to a minimum, here are a few tricks to combat all those anxiety triggers.
1. Don’t schedule anything important on the day you’re traveling
Maybe one of the reasons why your heart starts to race the day you have to fly is because you have a million things to take care of beforehand. As James E. Porter of StressStop.com suggests, dedicate an entire day for traveling, no matter how short the flight is. That way, your only task of the day is to get to your destination.
2. Be prepared for security checks
Frequent fliers know the drill as outlined on The Daily Mail: passengers are expected to empty their pockets, remove belts and jewelry, pack liquids in 100 mL bottles in a plastic re-sealable bag and taking out electronic devices. If possible, avoid wearing jewelry or a belt that day, put all liquids in your check-in luggage and make sure your laptop, tablet and phone is easily accessible from your carry-on.
3. Drive yourself to the airport
Instead of paying a huge cab fare or lugging your bags on public transport, leave extra early and drive your car to the airport. Depending on the length of your trip, your chosen car park might be further than walking distance from the airport. In reputable airports across Europe like at London Stansted, Parking4Less assures that off-site parking lots have shuttle buses running every few minutes, so you won’t have to worry about missing your flight.
4. Eat!
Sometimes all we need to unwind is to have a good meal. We all know that the food served on the plane isn’t the best, so treat yourself to something delicious before you head to your boarding gate.
5. Only check your phone if absolutely necessary
Most of work happens over the phone these days, but the whole point of taking a trip is to get away from your usual responsibilities. Checking your Blackberry or iPhone every two seconds is not conducive to a relaxing vacation, says TripBase Blog.
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