As the holiday season starts, I feel like it brings a beginning to the travel season as well. With holiday breaks from school or work and cold weather, airports are jam-packed with travelers. Even when the holiday season is over, there are times soon after, like mid-winter breaks and spring breaks, that result in busy airports. From my knowledge, a lot of people dread travel days and sit in crowded airports waiting to begin their voyage to their next destination, but there are ways to enjoy those times.
I am an avid airport lover. For my birthday, you could sit me down at an airport for five hours without any destination, and I’d probably be content. A lot of it has to do with my outlook on airports and the excitement and energy I feel that surround them, but nonetheless, there are ways that you may be able to enhance your airport experience.
First, what to bring with you. This is a very important part because it could make or break your experience. There are a few basics that are nice to have with you when you’re stuck at an airport. Firstly, you need at least one portable charger. When you’re sitting in those rows of seats and there doesn’t happen to be an outlet around without reaching over your random neighbor, it’s an advantage to be able to plug in your devices from your lap. My family tends to bring every portable charger we have ever owned when we travel so we are overly prepared, but one is just fine. Next are basic sanitary and beauty items, like hand sanitizer, perfume, deodorant, and a hair brush. These things are probably with you wherever you go, but when you’re sitting at an airport where thousands of people come through, it’s nice to be able to refresh every once in a while. I am also an avid lover of blankets, so I believe that having a blanket or pillow can make you more comfortable while you’re relaxing. Next, airports are known for high prices, so before you get there, having a few snacks and a water bottle is nice to save money to enjoy once you’ve arrived at your destination instead of spending $30 on a candy bar and a water bottle. As a source of entertainment, sometimes an activity book, although funny sounding, is a great thing to have with you. You can buy them at the dollar store or anywhere to add a small entertainment factor to your wait. Finally, it is integral to have your phone or other devices, that you may use for more entertainment and things like easy boarding passes. My favorite thing to have at an airport is AirPods. I almost always have music playing in my ears, and for some reason, it makes it more aesthetic to be there. Even if it’s just to have your movie playing with sound to not disturb your neighbor, headphones or AirPods are very important to bring with you to an airport.
Next is how to prepare. I love getting ready to go to the airport. It is nice to be refreshed before you travel, so taking an everything shower is perfect to start off. Then for outfits, wearing something comfortable will make the experience better. Unless you’re comfortable with jeans, wearing leggings, sweatpants, or any type of activewear is going to set you up for a better experience. I think looking cute makes the experience better and makes my mood better. I love planning out what to wear and I am already brainstorming for my next trip in December. Wearing whatever you’re comfortable in is the best option.
Lastly, finding ways to spend your time at the airport is the final point of enhancing your experience. Starbucks is always a necessity at the airport. Especially since most liquids can’t go through security, once at a gate, getting a fun drink or treat, although pricey, is nice to have and enjoy while you’re waiting, and you can even bring it on the plane. If I’m at a larger airport and I have time, I love walking around and shopping in the little touristy stores or seeing where each gate is departing. Bringing any school work or other projects is a productive way to spend your time. By doing the more boring work at the airport, you can save time for when you’re enjoying your vacation. Many airports will have work areas or a cafe with tables where you can sit to do work. Even just binge-watching a show or movie, playing games, or people-watching can be a productive use of your time. If you’re eager to get to your destination, making plans for what to do when you get there is a fun way to anticipate the adventure. I like making Pinterest boards of my plans and picture ideas. It is an aesthetic and time-consuming activity to funnel your excitement for the upcoming adventure.
The biggest part about airports is the fun that comes with them. It is easy to not like airports; the lines, the waiting, the annoying people talking too loudly, or the crying baby sitting a few seats behind you, but it is not always as hard as it seems to change that unhappy scenario into one of excitement. All you have to do is busy yourself and look to the future, and maybe wear a cute outfit too.
