BLOG

12 Airport Hacks Anyone Who Loves To Travel Needs To Know

As any travel buff will attest, the airport becomes a kind of second home when you’re always on the go. It just comes with the territory.

And so we must deal with it.

But even though they can seem intimidating, airports are totally hackable places. And with the right set of tricks, you can make your travel experience as painless and simple as possible.

Here are 12 life-changing airport hacks that anyone who loves to travel needs to know.

1. Know your flight’s gate and terminal information BEFORE leaving for the airport.

Did you know there is a mysterious, secret terminal at New York’s LaGuardia Airport? I found that out the hard way when I almost missed my flight because I had to take a shuttle to this random terminal. But I learned a valuable lesson: Before you leave your apartment, check and double-check where you are going at the airport. Save the spontaneity for when you get to your destination.


2. TSA PreCheck is everything.

TSA PreCheck is the best thing that’s ever happened to frequent travelers.

Why? You get to use a different, faster security line; you don’t have to remove your laptop or liquids from your bag; and you can keep on your belt, shoes and light jacket. It’s airport security without the hassle.

Here’s how you get it: Fill out the TSA PreCheck application online, pay an $85 fee and schedule a follow-up interview to confirm your identity and provide fingerprints. Once your approved, you’re good to go.


3. If you travel internationally, you NEED Global Entry.

Global Entry is a must-have for anyone who travels abroad.

Here’s why: After you’ve returned to the US, you get to skip the long lines and head straight to the customs checkpoint, where an officer will quickly double-check your credentials and send you on your merry way. As an added bonus, Global Entry approval also comes with TSA PreCheck, so you’re basically getting a two-for-one deal.

To apply, you simply fill out the online Global Entry application, pay a $100 fee and wait for conditional approval (usually around 3-4 weeks) before scheduling your follow-up interview.


4. Pack snacks.

Airports are notorious for jacking up the prices on everything, especially food. Avoid spending an arm and a leg by packing your own snacks. Go for protein bars that are high in fiber. In the event of delays or long layovers, you’ll be grateful you brought something to eat.


5. If you’re delayed, find an airport buddy.

Airports typically don’t offer free Wi-Fi, so in the event of a layover, canceled flight or overnight campout, finding someone to hang with is essential. Look around your gate. Try to locate someone who looks roughly your age. Head over and say something like, “Ugh. I can’t believe we have to sit here for six more hours. Have you ever been to Bangkok before?”

I’m sure you’ll have a friend in no time.


6. If you’re being picked up at the airport, meet your buddy at departures.

A trick of the trade: Tell whoever picks you up from the airport to meet you at departures instead of arrivals. It’s so much less hectic up there! All you have to do is run upstairs and hop in the car. Say goodbye to waiting in impossibly long lines of traffic.


7. Download your preferred airline’s app.

This way you can get push notifications for your flight, see your plane’s seat map and check for upgrades. It makes everything so much more convenient. After all, you want to know what’s happening before it affects your trip.


8. Always have an empty water bottle on hand.

FACT: Staying hydrated while flying is IMPORTANT. And while you could buy a bottle of water at the airport, you’re a regular travel junkie, so the last thing you want to do is waste money on anything other than experiences. To get around this problem, bring an empty or reusable water bottle with you. That way, you’ll never find yourself high (in the sky) and dry.


9. Kindness is key.

Kindness goes a long way at airports. And landing that complimentary upgrade could come down to the difference between a good attitude and a bad one. BIG SMILES. ALWAYS. Remember to be sweet to the flight attendants and the rest of the crew, and be respectful to other travelers. Apart from increasing your chances of landing in first class, it’s also just the right thing to do.


10. If you have too many outfit changes, overstuff a duffle bag.

I have a confession.

Even when I pack so much that my bag possibly  exceeds the airline’s carry-on size restrictions, I bring it with me through security, anyway. I know. I’m so bad, but I’ve never been stopped!

But here’s the REAL trick (and where that good attitude we talked about before comes in handy): More times than not, the flight crew will check the bag through to my destination at the gate for free. See ya, checked bag fees!


11. Take advantage of duty-free shopping.

International travel means getting access to that duty-free store, my friends. Use the opportunity to stock up on all your favorite necessities — without having to fork over more of your hard-earned cash to the man!


12. Choose a go-to travel outfit.

You need an outfit you love to travel in, one that seamlessly blends comfort and functionality. That means you should wear comfortable yet chic clothing, and opt for an ensemble with high utility. My go-to travel wear includes a fitted jacket with six pockets that hits on every travel pain point: It keeps me warm during cold flights, has lots of extra space for my stuff and is super cozy.

Tips for Decorating Your Next Event
21 Apr, 2024
When it comes to hosting an event, the power of decorations cannot be understated. They transform spaces, set the atmosphere, and ensure that your celebration leaves a lasting impression on your guests. From elegant gatherings to whimsical soirées, the decorative details are what bring a party's theme to life. Whether planning an intimate dinner party or a grand wedding reception, these tips will guide hosts through the decorating process, helping meld creativity and practicality to fashion an unforgettable event.
Hosting Unforgettable Parties
15 Apr, 2024
Throwing a party that leaves a lasting impression on guests involves much more than just gathering people in one place. It's about creating a unique and memorable experience that stands out. From selecting the perfect venue to crafting a captivating theme, every detail plays a pivotal role in the success of the event.
Perfect Party Playlist
07 Apr, 2024
Creating the perfect party playlist is more art than science, involving a keen understanding of the event's atmosphere and the guests' varied tastes. Music sets the rhythm of the night and plays a pivotal role in transforming a gathering into an unforgettable experience. Whether it's an intimate birthday celebration or a grand wedding reception, the soundtrack of the evening has the power to evoke emotions and get people onto the dance floor. This guide provides valuable insights into selecting the right genres, establishing a musical pace, and the benefits of entrusting the playlist to a professional DJ, ensuring every moment resonates with the party's vibe.
Themed Parties
14 Mar, 2024
Planning the perfect themed party can seem like a daunting task, but with the right approach, it can be both manageable and enjoyable. From selecting a theme that excites you to decorating your space and choosing activities that complement the theme, every step offers an opportunity to spark creativity and fun.
07 Mar, 2024
Weddings are a symphony of moments and memories, not just for the couple but also for each guest attending. A well-managed guest experience adds harmony to this symphony, ensuring that the celebration is as joyous for the attendees as it is for the hosts. Effective guest management involves meticulous planning, from the precision of the guest list to the comfort of seating arrangements, adapting to special needs, and finally, to the infusion of engaging entertainment. Crafting the Perfect Guest List The journey to flawless guest management begins with crafting the guest list . It requires a delicate balance between the couple's vision for their special day and the practical constraints of their budget and venue capacity. Establishing priorities for the guest list is pivotal. Immediate family and closest friends form the inner circle, and from there, the list can expand based on the importance of each potential attendee's relationship to the couple. As the list takes shape, categories emerge. Dividing guests into groups such as family, friends, colleagues, and acquaintances can streamline the process. Couples must remember that each addition to the list can impact the dynamic of the event. The goal is to create an atmosphere where guests can share in the joy without feeling lost in the crowd. Designing Seating Arrangements Seating arrangements are an art form, blending social harmony with logistical necessity. The goal is to ensure that each table becomes a microcosm of the wedding's broader conviviality. To start, identifying a focal point for the seating—the head table or sweetheart table—grounds the arrangement. Then, organizing guests into tables by relationships or common interests fosters comfortable interactions. Just as a painter works from the background to the details, couples should layout the general seating before delving into specific assignments. This approach allows them to visualize the flow of the space and the proximity of each guest to the essential happenings. Once the broader picture is set, they can match guests to tables and positions that will enhance their experience. Accommodating Special Needs A key aspect of guest management is anticipating and accommodating special needs. This includes dietary restrictions, mobility issues, and other personal considerations. Engaging with guests prior to the event to inquire about any accommodations can prevent discomfort or exclusion on the big day. For dietary restrictions, liaising with the caterer to provide alternative options is vital. Moreover, ensuring that the venue is accessible for guests with mobility issues demonstrates thoughtfulness and care. Providing clear information in the invitation about accessibility and meal options can reassure guests that their needs have been considered. Infusing Engaging Entertainment Entertainment plays a crucial role in elevating the guest experience. Companies like Mystical Entertainment Group specialize in curating entertainment that complements the ambiance and keeps guests captivated throughout the event. From live music that sets the tone during dinner to a DJ that draws every guest onto the dance floor, the right entertainment has the power to create an electrifying atmosphere. The key is to tailor the entertainment to the guest demographic. An eclectic mix that spans genres and eras can appeal to a wide age range, while interactive elements like dance-offs or photo booths can add a spark of fun. Professional entertainers can read the room and adapt to keep the energy high and the memories flowing. Providing Welcome Bags Welcome bags greet guests with a personalized touch that sets the tone for the celebration. These bags, filled with thoughtfully selected items, can range from practical to whimsical. Essentials like a schedule of events, local maps, and transportation information provide logistical support, while local treats, personalized trinkets, or hangover kits add a playful element. Creating a welcome bag is an opportunity to infuse the couple's personality into the guest experience. Customized items that hint at the couple's story or wedding theme can make guests feel connected to the celebration even before the events begin. Personalizing Guest Experiences Individual attention to each guest's experience can transform a good wedding into an unforgettable one. Personalized touches, whether in place settings, individual notes, or specific shout-outs during speeches, make guests feel valued and included. Photographs of the couple with their guests, placed at each table or incorporated into the décor, can be a powerful way to personalize the space. Acknowledging guests' contributions to the couple's life and their effort to attend the wedding can leave a lasting impression. Welcoming Out-of-Town Guests Special attention should be given to out-of-town guests, who have invested additional time and resources to attend the wedding. Providing information on accommodations, organizing transport from the hotel to the venue, and suggesting activities for their stay can make a significant difference in their experience. Arranging a welcome gathering or a farewell brunch for out-of-town guests not only extends the celebration but also shows appreciation for their effort to be part of the couple's day. It is also an excellent opportunity for the couple to spend quality time with guests they may not see frequently. The Grand Finale As the wedding draws to a close, ensuring guests depart with positive memories is as important as their initial welcome. Farewell gestures, such as thank-you notes, small parting gifts, or a memorable send-off, can encapsulate the warmth of the event. The departure experience should be as smooth as their arrival, with organized transport and clear instructions to avoid any confusion or inconvenience. Ultimately, weddings are a testament to the couple's relationship and the community of people who support them. Mastery in guest management lies in recognizing that each wedding attendee plays a part in the tapestry of the day. Through a combination of thoughtful planning, personal touches, and professional entertainment, couples can craft an event that is enjoyable for all and leaves guests feeling not just as attendees, but as cherished participants in the celebration.  Ready to transform your wedding into a day of enchantment with the perfect entertainment? Mystical Entertainment Group specializes in creating unforgettable events with DJs that do more than play music—they craft an immersive atmosphere. Contact us today to discover how we can make your special day resonate with every attendee. Let’s make magic together!
Modern Wedding Manners
22 Feb, 2024
In today's fast-paced world, where traditions blend with contemporary values, understanding the do's and don'ts of wedding manners is more crucial than ever. This section is all about guiding you through the nuances of modern wedding etiquette, ensuring you can navigate this joyful event with confidence and grace. Whether you're part of the happy couple, a member of the bridal party, or a guest, we'll provide straightforward advice to help you celebrate the special occasion with proper decorum.
Wedding Planning
14 Feb, 2024
Wedding attire holds profound significance across cultures, often embodying centuries of tradition and the essence of a heritage. In many societies, the garments worn on a wedding day carry as much symbolic weight as the ceremony itself. Consequently, couples today are inspired to honor their roots by integrating traditional elements into their wedding apparel. Modern weddings present a canvas where cultural attire can be re-imagined, blending ancient motifs with contemporary fashion. For those with diverse backgrounds, the wedding ensemble becomes an artful meld of patterns, fabrics, and accessories, each piece a tribute to a shared ancestral tapestry.
Eco-Friendly Wedding Guide
08 Feb, 2024
In recent years, eco-consciousness has woven its way into the fabric of daily living, including milestone celebrations like weddings. For couples who are mindful of their environmental footprint, planning a wedding that aligns with their values is not just a wish but a significant aspect of their special day. We will explore the avenues available to those seeking to minimize waste and make environmentally considerate choices throughout their wedding planning process. From invitations to decor, and catering, there are numerous opportunities to make a wedding more sustainable without sacrificing elegance and personal style. Furthermore, we will delve into how the Mystical Entertainment Group plays a pivotal role in creating a sophisticated and eco-friendly atmosphere.
Perfect Wedding Backdrop
22 Jan, 2024
Embark on a captivating journey with this all-encompassing guide, as it unravels an array of options and empowers you to navigate the enchanting world of wedding venues effortlessly and confidently. From breathtaking outdoor gardens to grandiose ballrooms, this guide offers invaluable insights for selecting a venue that perfectly aligns with your aesthetic preferences while catering to your logistical needs and budgetary considerations.
Countdown to 'I Do'
14 Jan, 2024
Embarking on the path to matrimony is a thrilling journey filled with love, joy, and a fair share of planning. A detailed wedding timeline is not just a schedule; it's the blueprint for your perfect day, ensuring that every petal and playlist is in place when you walk down the aisle. This guide lays out the critical milestones in the countdown to 'I Do', providing a pragmatic approach to what can seem like an overwhelming process.
More Posts
Share by: