Page 19 - AreaNewsletters "Sept'19" issue

HEALTH • WELLNESS • LIFESTYLE
How to breeze through
your next airport security screening
We all know how it is. Any mention of the state of airport travel today — especially the lines and the TSA — will inevitably elicit groans of frustration, eye rolls, and a raft of stories of security nightmares.
by Joy Ross, Travel Journeys
Get Organized - Sounds like stock advice, right? Here are some speci cs that can shave precious minutes and hassle o your wait time.
Download a smartphone app like Tripit that will automatically notify you of any changes to your itinerary.
• Check in to your ight online 24 hours prior. This is especially helpful if you are not checking any bags!
• Before you leave for the airport, put everything essential you need to check in and get through security — your ID, credit card and boarding pass, etc. — in an easily-accessible part of your wallet or bag.
• Especially for men: take your watch, loose change, and any other small items you have out of your pockets and put them in plastic baggies in your carry-on.
Get On The List - No, not THAT list! The TSA has a trusted traveler program, available in most airports across the country, that has perks like not requiring shoe or laptop removal for a speedy trip through security.
• Program the numbers of your travel agent, airline, car rental service, hotel, and any other contact info into your phone.
Get Zen – or whatever your version of that is
When you are organized and you’re ready to go, and all there is left to do is wait in line, make the most of it. Focus on the excitement about your vacation. Talk to your kids. Take deep breaths. Be positive and productive and set the tone for your trip. Focus on what’s working and what you’re thankful for.
And, we know it’s tough sometimes, but don’t forget the one travel essential you cannot live without: PATIENCE.
Attitude can make a di erence. A smile and a “thank- you” never hurt! Imagine people, including myself, who’ve gotten unexpected happy surprises (baggage fees waived, bump up) just for being polite when everyone else was falling apart. See where it gets you!
Are you looking for help planning your next vacation? I can help you with security line advice AND everything that leads up to it and everything after! Contact Travel Journeys so we can get started planning your best trip yet – to reach me, just click here.
ORGANIZATION TIP: Temporarily organize these important contacts under one name.
For example, assign the “last name” of each item as “Mexico Trip 2020,” and they’ll all appear listed in one spot in your contacts for easy access.
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Castle Rock “AreaNewsletters • September 2019