How to Get to the Airport on Time
Facing an upcoming trip can put anyone into a tizzy, even seasoned business travelers. Most of that stress comes from worrying about making it to the airport on time. Whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure, missing your flight is the last thing you want to do. So, how can you make sure you make it there on time, every time? From valet parking to online check-in, here are some travel hacks to reduce your stress.
1. Hire a Chauffeur
Driving yourself to the airport may seem like a quick way to save a buck, but may actually end up costing you a lot more than money. Hire a car service or limo to pick you up at home or the office at a pre-determined time. Then let them take care of the rest so you can relax on the way to the airport. You get peace of mind knowing they will show up on time, and navigate all the traffic so you don’t have to pull your hair out.
2. Pack Early
Don’t leave packing for the morning of your trip, or even the night before. This is a surefire way to be late, as you’re throwing clothing in your luggage at the last minute. Start packing the preliminary items a few days before, saving only the essentials like phone chargers and toothbrushes for the night or morning before. Having your bags packed and ready at the door is a huge time saver.
3. Clear Your Schedule
If your fight is in the late afternoon or evening, don’t schedule anything for earlier in the day if you can help it. Consider it a travel day and leave your schedule open so you can concentrate on tying up loose ends and gathering last minute documents before you head to the airport. If you schedule yourself right up till the time you have to leave, you’ll just add to your stress level and increase the chances of getting tied up.
4. Check In Online
Most airlines allow you to check in online within 24 hours of your flight. You can even print out your boarding pass while at home so you don’t have to stand in line once at the airport. If you are unable to print at home, head to a check-in kiosk instead of standing in that long line.
5. Don’t Check Luggage
Obviously, you can’t bypass luggage if you’re taking off with the family on a two-week trip to Disney World. But if you’re traveling light, such as on a business trip, and are only staying a couple of days, save yourself a lot of time and don’t bring luggage that you have to check. This makes packing a breeze, to be sure, plus it ensures you can zip on and off the flight quickly and easily.
Understand Parking Options
Most larger airports like DTW offer many parking options. You could park close to the terminal but you will pay more. Or, you could park far away and pay less but this will take more time because you have to take a shuttle. Knowing your parking options beforehand will help you arrive to the gate on time.
Or, you could take the smart route and choose valet parking from Valet Connections DTW Parking, where you can secure your parking space ahead of time – spaces that are extremely limited during peak travel times. Plus, we offer free shuttles 24/7 that run every five to 10 minutes so you never have to wait to get to your flight! You can also use our free app to manage your reservations and save even more time.
Learn more when you contact us at 734-992-4946.