Flying is always stressful, even for those who aren’t afraid of airplanes. And it’s not surprising since you have to plan everything in advance, pack your bags, arrive at the airport on time, and pass all of the necessary procedures that often make even the most experienced travelers feel dizzy.

Bright Side presents an interesting article about travel.

Everyone loves traveling, so today, we want to tell you about some of the mistakes that you might not even know you’re making at the airport.

12. Putting documents in a small bag

Some people put all of their necessary documents in a small bag so they can always have them by their side. It’s better to put your ID card or passport in the pocket of a larger bag and put small amounts of money in different places.

11. Forgetting to find out how to get to the airport in advance

If you want to go to the airport using public transport, don’t forget to find the schedule for that. Some night routes are often canceled or don’t exist at all, so you may have to find another option to get to the airport in the evening. On the other hand, in some cities, there are aero-express trains that run 24 hours. So if you have heavy luggage and you live near a station, you can avoid spending money on a taxi.

10. Failing to manage your time wisely

If you experience time management problems, try using flight apps. They can inform us when the boarding is open. And if you arrive at least 1.5 hours earlier, you won’t be late, especially if you do check-in in advance.

9. Not checking-in online

Many airlines provide an opportunity to check-in online because it’s economically beneficial (they don’t have to hire more employees.) What’s more, some airlines, especially low-cost ones, even “punish” those who don’t register online. For example, Wizzair charges a €30 fee before checking you in at the airport.

8. Spending the night at the airport

This is the worst idea you can have as a tourist. Most airports aren’t supplied with “overnight” seats, they only have uncomfortable chairs. You won’t really have a chance to relax and get some rest, and the next day will be just awful. You’ll simply fall asleep instead of enjoying your vacation.

If you don’t want to sleep on your bags, you can do some research on the prices at first-class departure lounges. As a rule, the prices aren’t that high and you’ll have a chance to spend time in a more comfortable space.

7. Paying for overweight luggage

If you don’t have an opportunity to weigh your suitcases, you have to do it at the airport. Airports are always supplied with scales and sometimes passengers are charged for this service, though they can also go up to a check-in counter and weigh their own belongings there for free.

6. Wrapping your suitcases

Those who worry that their suitcases will get dirty usually buy reusable covers, but it’s said that they usually tear easily. Apparently, bags that can be washed are the best option.

5. Getting into the first 2 security checkpoint lines

As a rule, first 2 security checkpoint counters are the most crowded. Try to go further and you’ll find out that the lines aren’t that long there.

4. Forgetting about the rule regarding liquids in your hand luggage

Containers cannot be bigger than 3 fl oz, and in total, all containers together cannot be more than 33 fl oz (1 liter). Also, they should all be packed in a transparent bag. Additionally, some airports have even stricter rules. For example, in Warsaw, you have to put your makeup products (creams, eyeliners, mascaras, etc.) into transparent bags.

3. Relaxing after passing the security checkpoint

It’s better to find your gate in advance and check to see if the destination is correct. Even after you find the gate, you should check the information on the screen from time to time since the gate could be changed at the last minute, leaving you no time to find it.

2. Trying unusual dishes before a flight

When you’re abroad you always want to taste the local cuisine. But it’s not recommended to eat a lot of exotic food before a flight since you don’t know how your stomach will react to these unusual dishes. Indigestion and other stomach issues can spoil your journey or even affect your health if the sickness is caused by dangerous pathogens.

1. Panicking

Even if something goes wrong and your flight is delayed or canceled, if you get lost, or if you lose your documents, panic will definitely worsen the situation. In these instances, you need to take a deep breath and turn to airport officers for help. They’ll give you all the necessary instructions for what you need to do.