To ensure a stress-free and enjoyable vacation from the moment you arrive at the airport, we have compiled some helpful tips that will prevent anxiety from building up.
The days of showing up just an hour before your flight are long gone. It's important to give yourself ample time to account for any unforeseen circumstances.
We've witnessed people anxiously waiting for shuttles in the parking lot, worried about missing their flights if the van doesn't arrive soon.
That's why we always make it a point to arrive three hours early, regardless of our destination. I can't recall the last time I felt concerned about missing my flight.
Tip: If you want to avoid the hassle of dealing with shuttles, consider utilizing the Valet Service. By opting for valet parking, you can simply drive up to the terminal, drop off your keys, and proceed to check-in.
Thanks to our American Express Platinum Card, we enjoy complimentary valet service at Toronto Pearson, along with a 15% parking discount. With this benefit, we receive elite service without the need to accumulate miles for elite perks.
We used to struggle with packing light, but now we are strong advocates of the 'carry-on only club' for short trips.
If possible, try to pack light and travel with just a carry-on bag.
By avoiding checked bags, you'll save a significant amount of time at the check-in counter.
You can simply walk up to the check-in kiosk, complete the process, and breeze through security in no time.
Trust me, lugging around a heavy bag can be quite stressful.
You'll discover that you don't actually need half the things you usually bring, and you'll feel more relaxed and happier without the burden of unnecessary belongings on your vacation.
When it comes to packing, less is more. Additionally, having fewer items will make it easier to store your bag on the plane.
I've witnessed countless people struggling to cram their oversized bags into the overhead compartments while I'm already comfortably seated, ready to enjoy a movie.
Checking in 24 hours in advance can greatly save you time at the airport.
Our preferred method is to check-in online and either print out our tickets or save them on our smartphone.
By doing this, we can bypass the check-in counter altogether and head straight to security upon arriving at the airport.
If you don't have access to a printer or smartphone, don't worry. You can still check-in online and then print out your boarding passes at a self-service kiosk when you arrive.
Even taking this extra step will save you valuable time, as you won't have to go through the process of checking in at the counter.
The security line at the airport can often be a time-consuming process.
For frequent travelers, gaining elite status on airlines can be a valuable way to skip the security line and enjoy priority access.
However, for those who don't travel frequently, there are other options to access expedited security lanes. Many credit cards now offer status perks that include the ability to skip to the front of the line.
For example, select cards like The American Express Platinum Card provide Cardmembers with benefits such as priority security access at Toronto Pearson through Cloud 10.
Being able to bypass the regular security line can be a great relief, saving you time and reducing stress. It's a fantastic feeling to watch others waiting in line while you move quickly through the dedicated priority security lane at the airport.
It's important to be well-prepared when going through airport security to make the process smoother and quicker.
To save time and avoid delays, have all the items that need to be screened readily available. This includes ensuring that liquids (100ml or less) are packed together in a clear plastic bag, removing computers from the front of your carry-on bag, and emptying your pockets.
When you reach the conveyor belt, you can swiftly place everything in the bins, knowing that you have prepared in advance. By avoiding belts, spare change, and metal jewelry, you can breeze through the scanner without any issues.
Additionally, it's recommended to wear easy slip-on shoes, as they will need to be taken off during the security check. Avoid wearing hats or jackets that may need to be removed as well.
By being organized and following these tips, you'll find yourself through security and ready to go while others may still be figuring out the process.
Once you've completed the check-in and security procedures, it's time to find a place to relax and unwind before your flight.
Take a quick glance at the departure gate area to familiarize yourself with its location, and then make a beeline for the airport lounge.
While we may have lost our lounge access in most airports due to a change in elite status, we have an alternative solution: the Priority Pass Card. This card grants us access to Plaza Premium Lounges in 11 countries.
Lounge access provides a much-needed escape from the bustling airport environment. Inside, you can enjoy complimentary food, beverages, internet access, and various lounge amenities, such as comfortable seating, large-screen TVs, and a selection of magazines and newspapers.
Lounges create a peaceful and calming atmosphere, allowing you to relax and unwind before your flight, away from the noise and crowds of the airport.
Prior to boarding, we practice the habit of assembling all the essential items we'll require during the flight and keeping them in a separate small bag that remains with us in our seat.
By utilizing this care package approach, our flying experience has become significantly more enjoyable.
Having all our necessary items easily accessible means we don't have to constantly reach into our carry-on luggage or overhead compartments. Instead, everything we might need is conveniently within arm's reach throughout the flight. Here’s a list of what we put in our flight bag:
By having all our essential items within reach, we eliminate the need to rummage through the overhead storage compartments during the flight. This allows us to sit back, relax, and daydream about the adventure that awaits us at our destination.
Remember, the goal is to make your entire travel experience pleasant, starting from the moment you arrive at the airport. Travel doesn't have to be stressful, even in today's world. With a little preparation and organization, it can be comfortable and enjoyable.