10 Hacks to Save Time and Money at the Airport
Airports aren’t exactly known for their comfort or affordability. Between security lines, overpriced snacks, and overcrowded gates, many travellers see them as the dreaded limbo between home and their destination. But with some strategic planning, tech tools, and a bit of creativity, your next airport visit can be smoother and less costly.
1. Plan Ahead to Save Time
Your airport journey should start well before your departure day. Begin by checking in online 24 hours in advance, paying any baggage fees early to speed up your time at the counter, and signing up for flight alerts by text or app.
Next, figure out your timing. The general advice is to arrive two hours before a domestic flight or three hours before an international one. That gives you enough time for check-in, security, and boarding, especially if you don’t have a fast-track option.
Use map apps a few days before you fly to gauge how long it typically takes to get to the airport. Some airlines even list current wait times for security on their websites. If you're checking luggage, note the cutoff times (usually at least 45 minutes before domestic flights) and plan accordingly.
2. Speed Through Security
Signing up for expedited screening programs can drastically cut down your wait time. TSA PreCheck members generally clear security in under 10 minutes, and the five-year membership costs between $76.75 and $85.
Global Entry, which includes TSA PreCheck and helps you move faster through U.S. customs, costs $120 for five years.
CLEAR, though pricier at $199 a year, gives you access to faster lanes at security checkpoints in 59 airports across the U.S.
3. Catch an Earlier Flight
If you happen to breeze through check-in and security, consider flying standby on an earlier flight. According to airline industry analyst Brian Sumers, airlines have made free standby an option again post-pandemic. If seats are available, you could get to your destination ahead of schedule.
4. Bring Your Own Snacks
Airport food is infamous for its high prices. A sandwich that would cost $5 at a supermarket could be twice that inside the terminal. Packing your own snacks and meals can save you a surprising amount of money.
Just make sure your food passes security—yogurt and other liquids over 3 ounces can be confiscated. Also, bring an empty water bottle to refill once you’re past security checkpoints.
If you can’t pack food, Harriet Baskas of Stuck at the Airport suggests looking for appetizers or child-size meals at airport restaurants to keep spending low.
5. Power Up Smartly
While many airports now offer charging stations and outlets, they’re not always reliable or available. Baskas once spent time working on her laptop only to discover the outlet wasn’t actually functioning.
To avoid similar headaches, bring your power bank, and consider packing a power strip to share a plug with other travellers if outlets are scarce.
George Hobica, founder of Airfarewatchdog, recommends a high-capacity external battery that can charge multiple devices at once.
6. Stretch and Move
Use airport wait time as a chance to get moving. Walking through the terminal offers a bit of light exercise that helps reduce stress and stiffness.
Family travel blogger Colleen Lanin used to motivate her kids to run laps around the yard before flying, rewarding them with spending money for airport gift shops. She also recommends playing simple games like Simon Says or Red Light Green Light during long layovers.
7. Find Peace at Quieter Gates
If your gate is overcrowded, find an empty one nearby and monitor your boarding status through the airline’s app. This gives you a chance to relax and find a seat without the stress of the crowd.
8. Tap into Airport Amenities
Explore airport websites to discover amenities that can make your wait more enjoyable. You might find yoga rooms (San Francisco), art galleries (Philadelphia), live music (Austin), rooftop terraces (Denver), or even butterfly gardens (Singapore Changi).
If you’re not sure what’s available, stop by an information booth. Staff are often happy to share tips—and sometimes even hand out crayons or collectible trading cards, no matter your age.
9. Rebook Smarter
If your flight is delayed or cancelled, don’t just wait in line to speak to a gate agent. Open the airline’s app and search for rebooking options yourself. Often, the same seats visible to the agents are accessible to passengers via the app.
Brian Sumers says that availability can change minute by minute, so stay alert and act fast.
10. Treat Yourself During Delays
Delays can be frustrating, but a small indulgence can help turn things around. Harriet Baskas keeps $30 in her wallet to spend on something comforting, like a dessert or a good book, during long waits.
“It makes me feel better in the moment,” she says, “and I won’t have a credit card bill reminding me of the stress later.”
Travelling through airports doesn’t have to be a hassle. With a little foresight and a few tricks up your sleeve, you can save both time and money, and maybe even enjoy the journey.
