Top 10 Tips To Stay Safe At The Airport

1. Try to not overpack

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This might not sound like a safety tip, but it's actually in your best interest to pack light. When you have a ton of stuff in tow, it's easier for you to get distracted, for you to lose items, or for you to become a target of a pickpocket. Traveling can be long and stressful, and if you have a million things to carry, it's only going to make it worse. Put as much as you can in your checked bag, while putting essentials in your carry-on (more on that later). This will help you stay fresh and alert, which is important to airport safety!

2. Keep your luggage tags hidden

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Luggage tags can come in handy if you need to quickly identify your bag. They're also great if your bag is lost, as it increases the odds of the bag being successfully returned. However, on the negative side, luggage tags can make you more vulnerable to becoming a victim of robbery. When you're traveling, make sure you have the type of luggage tag where your personal information is covered. If you're anxious, you can leave your address off the tag all together. There have been instances where burglars obtain addresses of people they know won't be home to target their property.

3. Pack essentials in your carry-on

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This is considered one of the oldest and truest pieces of advice when it comes to traveling. Nothing is worse than getting to a destination and realizing your luggage has been lost, and you have nothing that you need. Expert travelers say to save yourself the headache and keep your essentials with you in your carry-on. This way you can keep an eye on important things like medication, additional identification, diapers, and more. It's also smart to put at least one change of clothes in your carry-on too in case your luggage takes a minute to get back to you!

4. Use discernment in who you talk to

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When you're traveling, it's easy to feel comradery with fellow travelers, especially if your flight is delayed. Perhaps you strike up a conversation with those around you at the gate. But the unfortunate truth is that not everyone in the airport is a good person. If you trust someone too quickly, you could find yourself in a bad spot. After all, these people are strangers! Be careful about sharing your final destination or day-to-day plan. Also never share where you live in any specific way. It's also smart to never leave your personal belongings, even for a quick bathroom trip.

5. Be vigilant

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It goes without saying that staying alert at the airport is a key component of maintaining airport safety. The unfortunate reality is that even after going through security and TSA checks, airports can never be 100% safe. We know it's easy to zone out with your headphones while you're sitting at the gate. But safety experts say it's important to try to not be overly distracted on your phone and keep an eye on your belongings as well as anyone you're traveling with, especially children! Kids have been known to wander off because of all the distracting stores and people at airports. So keep your eyes peeled!

6. Don't carry large sums of cash

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While it's smart to carry some cash on you in case of an emergency, be mindful of how much cash you're keeping on your person when traveling. A lot of places require you to declare any amount of cash once it's above a certain limit. But there are also a lot of reported incidents where cash stored in bags has been stolen by airport workers. It's just the sad reality of the situation, and it also makes you a target for a robbery. While we always want to believe the best in people, it's important to be vigilant and not put yourself in a bad situation!

7. Take photos when you get to the airport

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This is especially important if you're traveling with your family. But people who travel a lot say that when you arrive at the airport, you should take a quick photo of everyone you're traveling with. This can come in handy in case, god forbid, someone gets lost. It means that you'll have an absolutely up-to-date photo of that person, including what they were wearing when they went missing. It can come in super handy to show airport security or the police. It's one of those things where it's better to have it and not need it than to not have it at all.

8. Research where you're going

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If you are traveling to another country, it would serve you well to take a bit of time to research where you're going on their airport practices. You may find that the country you're traveling to is known to have corrupt airport security. It's also good to know ahead of time what will be expected of you for customs and any duties or fees that you might be subjected to. If you don't take the time to learn these things, you could end up paying fines or being charged for something that you shouldn't.

9. Make airport personnel aware of your child

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If you're traveling with young children, one of the best things you can do when you get to the airport i show them where the police officers or security are located. This helps your child identify who is considered trustworthy and safe at the airport in case something were to go wrong. You should also explain to your child what the different airport employees do, again, so they know where to turn if there's an issue. It could also come in handy in the long run, if something went wrong, and people around the airport recognize you and your child.

10. Avoid using rideshare services

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We know that they're so convenient and easy, but when you are leaving the airport, it might not be the safest idea to jump into a taxi or rideshare without looking into it first. These types of services are prone to having illegitimate drivers picking up unsuspecting passengers, which can put you at risk. If you research ride-shares, you might want to choose to pre-book. Always double check the number plate and driver before entering. But your safest option is to use a local limousine or driver service with good ratings to pick you up.

11. Wear your backpack on your front

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We know it looks weird, but it could end up being your saving grace. We already told you to put your essentials in your carry-on and you listened. But now your passport, paperwork, chargers, and valuables are in your backpack. When you're walking through the airport and it's super crowded, it's smart to wear your backpack on your front. It's easier to keep an eye on your bag and all the zippered compartments. When you wear it the normal way, you might become a target of theft. So yes, it looks a little silly, but just try it. You won't regret it!

12. Report suspicious activity

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They say it a million times when you're in the terminal at the airport. If you see suspicious activity, report it to someone! See something, say something! When you're at the airport surrounded by hundreds of people, it's really important to stay alert to what's going on around you. If you see anything that looks like terrorism or crime, it's important to report it immediately. Better for it to be a false alarm than to regret it later. This means if you see unattended bags, suspicious behavior or people sneakily taking photos, report it!

13. Don't leave your baggage unattended

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Along the same lines as above, the airport speaker literally reminds you of this. Don't leave your baggage unattended! We want to believe the best in humanity, but unfortunately, it's just incredibly risky to leave your baggage near the water fountain when you run into the bathroom. Not to mention, because of the aforementioned reporting of suspicious activity, it could even be ILLEGAL to leave your bag with strangers or on its own. Someone could steal your stuff, or airport security could take it away and hold it in custody. Either way, it's just not worth it. Haul it into the bathroom with you!

14. Pay for the travel insurance

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We know that it seems like a waste of money, but it's one of those things that if you need it, you'll be so grateful you have it. Planning a trip takes a lot of time and money, and insurance can help you out if you run into an unfortunate circumstance. It will help cover you if your bag is lost or stolen. It will also help if you experience credit card fraud while you're out and about. If you suddenly have to cancel your trip at the last minute, they can help with that as well. One of the biggest perks is that they will help you cover food and accommodation if you have a delayed flight of more than six hours and are stuck somewhere.

15. Don't sleep in the airport

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Traveling can be absolutely exhausting, and then your flight gets delayed or cancelled and you're stuck trying to get some shut eye in the airport. If you can avoid it, please do! But if you MUST sleep at the airport, there are a few things you should make sure of first. Sleep in a public place - of course, it's going to be louder, but it also is going to be safer. If you can't hold all your luggage while you sleep, maybe rent a locker or ask to store it somewhere. If you end up sleeping there overnight, make sure to let security know.

16. Practice good hygiene

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This is for your safety as well as everyone around you. When you're at an airport, it's important to practice good hygiene. While the pandemic is not as severe, it's still good to be mindful of your health when you're around so many people. This means that where you can, it's good to give people personal space. Wash your hands frequently, and try not to put your hands on high-touch areas like railings and handles without washing them afterwards. Definitely don't touch your eyes, nose, or mouth once you've touched one of these high-touch spots.

17. Be careful where you place your bags when you're in the bathroom

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If the bathroom stall is open at the bottom or the hook on the door is too high, avoid placing your bag on the floor or the hook. If you place your bag on the floor, people can easily grab it from the next stall, and if you place it on the hook that's too close to the top of the door, someone can reach over and take your stuff. Airports have reported this being the most common ways of theft to take place within the airport! Of course, there aren't a ton of options for where to put your bag when you're peeing, but just be mindful of it and try to keep a handle on your stuff!

18. Stay connected to people

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If you're traveling by yourself, then you should be sure that someone knows where you are at all times. It's really important to share your itinerary and flight information with family or friends so that people know where you should be and when they might hear from you next. Take time to research before you go to ensure that your cell phone will work at your destination so that you can check in with people along the way. Make a plan on what to do if you don't check in at the appropriate time. Also make sure your social media posts don't reveal your exact location!

19. Pay extra attention in these areas

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According to studies, we now know that if a terrorist attack is going to take place at an airport, the most common locations for that are ticket counters, self-service kiosks, and baggage claim. While everyone needs to visit these areas while traveling, it just means to pay extra attention when you're in them. You want to stay in public, well-lit places, but avoid overly crowded spots as much as you can. One of the biggest security tips experts give is getting through security faster with TSA Pre-Check and walking to the baggage claim belt until it starts moving.

20. Trust your instincts

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One of the biggest things about traveling is listening to your gut. If something feels off, trust what your instincts are telling you. Never feel bad moving to a different location or removing yourself from a particular situation if it feels off. Try to stay in public areas or near a group of people as much as possible. These areas tend to be well-lit and better monitored by security. Never tell others that you're traveling solo, and be mindful of how much alcohol you consume while waiting for your flight!

21. Don't zone out at the ticket counter

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When you get to the ticket counter, make sure you're ready to go. Have your ID ready and research the weight limit for your bags before you get there. This might seem more like convenience than safety, but it's actually both. If you are prepared, then you won't feel as rushed or flustered when you're traveling. When you are rushing or dropping things along the way, it makes you an easier target for people who might not have good intentions. So be prepared, stay calm and pay attention to people around you!

22. Try to book morning flights

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Depending on where you're headed, you should try to book morning flights or flights where you will arrive at your destination while it's still light out. This might mean that you have to take the earliest flight out, but it will keep you safer when you arrive! If you're traveling to somewhere new, take time to map out travel from the airport to where you're staying. Arriving in the daylight means that you will be surrounded by more people and in well-lit areas to help ensure your safety. Check your accommodations when you arrive to make sure they feel secure.

23. Prepare for the necessary security checkpoints

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Whenever you're traveling, in order to maintain the highest airport safety possible, take a second to learn what's required of you at security checkpoints. This can vary from country to country and even state to state. Overall, the more prepared that you are for your trip, the safer you'll be able to be, because you'll be able to focus on what's happening around you rather than feeling flustered. Take some time to look into what you need to do to prepare to pass through security at each destination you're traveling to and from.

24. Be mindful of the valuables you have with you

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While you probably wouldn't go around waving a wad of cash at everyone you pass in the airport, you might not think about flashing your credit cards or passport when you're stopping for a snack on the way to the gate. Just be mindful of what you have with you, because it could make you a target. Travel experts say that you should always have copies of your travel documents stored in a separate location, and depending on where you're going, you might want to look into an anti-theft bag for some added protection.

25. Take your kids into the bathroom with you

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When you're traveling with kids, never leave them outside the restroom at the airport. It can be strange or uncomfortable, but take your kid into the bathroom with you. Try to not use the handicap stall, but it's still better than leaving your kid unattended. This is also something you can plan ahead of time if needed, because a lot of airports have family bathrooms now where it will be easier to have your child accompany you for a quick bathroom trip. The bottom line is that there are thousands of people passing through the airport, and you want to keep your kid near you at all times!

26. Don't accept help from just anyone

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We know that most people in this world are generally kind and genuinely helpful. The reality is, though, that when you're traveling, especially solo, you're open to being taken advantage of by anyone who sees you as vulnerable. This means that you should use your discernment when it comes to accepting help from strangers, whether it's helping you with your bags or giving you directions. Be sure of their intentions before accepting help, and when in doubt, ask an official employee for assistance instead.

27. Be careful where you park your car

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If you're driving yourself to the airport and using a long-term stay lot, be sure to prepare your car before you go. This means that you should remove valuables from your car and make sure that anything expensive isn't visible from the outside of the car. Take pictures of your car when you leave it, and be sure to park in a lot that is secure. Disable sat nav in your car, as experts say that robbers sometimes break into your car and use the sat nav to learn where you live, knowing that you're away!

28. Don't personalize your luggage

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This goes along with the earlier note of making sure your luggage tags are hidden. We know it feels cute and fun to have your luggage personalized with your name, but in reality this could make you a target. It's an easy way for someone with bad intentions to get too familiar with you and who you are. This is especially true if you're traveling with kids. If a predator has access to your child's name, they will unfortunately take advantage of it. So be mindful and keep your name off your luggage!

29. Get through security as quickly as possible

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When you get to the airport, don't hang out too long in the pre-security part of the airport. The airside (post-security) part of the airport is less likely to experience terrorism and crime. Experts say that you should focus on checking in and getting through security as quickly as you can. In order to do this, when possible, only travel with carry-on luggage. You can also check in online for most airlines and flights these days, using your cellphone for your boarding pass. Head directly to security and then enjoy the waiting time inside the terminal where there are plenty of restaurants and lounge areas for you to relax in and wait for your flight.

30. Put your phone down

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We talked about this a bit already when we discussed being alert to your surroundings. But everyone these days can be so dependent on their phones, so we wanted to reiterate. While it's important to have your phone and make sure it's charged, it's unsafe to keep your head buried in your phone the whole time you're at the airport. You're not paying attention to where you're walking or who you're cutting off in the process. The text you're dying to send to your crush can wait until you're seated. It could also lead to you ending up somewhere you're not supposed to be because you're not paying attention.

31. Here are some airport hacks to make the process easier, too! Pay for your airport parking way in advance

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It's very unlikely that airport car parks are ever going to be fully booked - they're huge! - but that doesn't mean that you shouldn't book far in advance. Sure, you can book a few days before you go, but if you want a great hack to save you money, it's better to give yourself time to compare parking prices ahead of time, because some car park comparisons sites could let you book car parking a whole lot cheaper than directly with the airport car parking service. And the earlier you book, the more chance you have at getting better rates!

32. Get your travel-sized items in advance

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We all know about the rules for size of toiletries and liquid amount allowances that are going to be checked during the airport security process, but it's so easily forgotten about for certain items, and you don't want to risk the stress of having to throw things away or forgetting about key items. It's much better to buy all your travel-sized items in bulk ahead of time so you know exactly what you need, and also avoid the stress and drama of realizing you've made a toiletry mistake when you get right to the security queue!

33. Consider paying more for lounges if you're a family

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Airports can be stressful even for a single traveler, especially if you're waiting around for flights and need food and drink and something to keep you entertained. When you're a family with young children to keep occupied (and keep an eye on) it gets even more difficult! You might then want to consider paying extra for a family lounge to pass the time in. Club lounges will have family rooms where you can relax, watch TV and use the WiFi - not only perfect if you have a family, but ideal if you're a family that likes to get to the airport early!

34. Get airline apps to stay updated

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Everything is electronic these days, unless you're still someone who prints off the boarding pass to feel better about it, and that includes airports and airlines having their own apps so that you can keep track of everything. The speaker announcements in the airport will keep you updated with what's going on, but for a more detailed account and real-time updates in terms of your personal booking, your flight and everything else, installing the app and getting set up ahead of time is a great idea to stay in the loop.

35. New travel-friendly items are being invented all the time!

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When you fly so often, you might think you've exhausted the supply of travel-friendly items to help make your experience at the airport easier - we all know about neck cushions and inflatable items to pack in your carry-on, after all. But most of us forget that travel accessories weren't a one time invention that stayed the same all the time - new things are being developed all the time, so before your next trip to the airport, do some Google research on new travel hack items that you might want! You never know which new item you might not have seen before.

36. Prepare your celebratory alcohol in advance

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You might not have known that you're actually allowed to pack alcohol on your carry-on and take it on the plane (at least by TSA rules, so you might want to double check before any trip you take), it's just that the rules say you can't drink your own alcohol on the plane, because you have to buy the airline's supply of alcohol from a stewardess. But if you're flying for a celebratory reason, like meeting up with friends or having a party at the accommodation when you land, you could plan to pack your alcohol for the flight so it's there ready when you land - and so you don't have to go searching for some!

37. Take as many photos as you can for reminders

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When you're excited for a trip and going to the airport, reminding yourself of the million things you need to know (where's my passport, where do I park, what time is my flight etc.) it's easy to overlook things that are going to make it a whole lot easier for future-you when you arrive back from your trip! Taking a photo of where you parked your car is a huge one, because you don't want to be searching for it with jet lag when you have no idea where you parked it! Anything else you think you might need to know for the way back, take a picture of it!

38. Hydration is going to make so much difference

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Long trips through airports and even longer flights are bad news for your body's hydration. The whole flight experience is taxing on the body anyway but even worse when you're not getting enough water - and it's easy to realize you haven't drank any in 10 hours because you've been so distracted with what you're doing! The key to hydration is to drink water whenever you can during the airport and flight process. Down some water before you have to get rid of any bottles going through boarding. Drink water in the airport before your flight. On the flight, make sure to be ordering drinks that keep you hydrated and not just going for alcohol or caffeine.

39. Do what you can to avoid holding up the line

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It's so easily done, but it's amazing how the simplest thing can hold up the busy security line. A metal belt, tons of accessories and jewelry that you normally wear everyday anyway and didn't even think about it until it's taking you 10 minutes to take off and load into the security tray! Any little thing like this - especially if every single person is doing it - is going to make big delays through the security line, so do what you can in advance. Either don't wear anything like jewelry or belts just for this flight, or take it off well in advance of the line so it's ready!

40. Weigh your suitcase at home

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You might have a standard suitcase and think if you pack it to the brim, it totally counts because it's just an average suitcase. We all know what the baggage allowance weight is but because it's just a number, it's very hard to comprehend when your suitcase - and what you've put in it - might be a little bit over the weight allowance. The last thing you want is to have your suitcase too heavy when you're checking in. The best thing to do is weigh it at home. Even if you think 'oh I'll just sneak one more pair of shoes in there!' this could be the thing that pushes it over the limit.

41. Pack your snacks!

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This one is important for two reasons. One, because snacks and food is ridiculously expensive at the airport because they know you don't have a choice! This is bad enough for a person traveling on their own, but if you've a family to feed for hours when everyone's bored anyway, it's going to get expensive. You're allowed to pack dry snacks for your carry-on, so this is the way to go. And two, it's very easy to get headaches or lack energy when you're going through the airport, and during flights, because of lack of proper eating. Pack snacks to give you a boost!

42. Choose unique-looking luggage

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It's very easy to underestimate just how much luggage is on a flight until that carousel starts up - and then you have a family of 4 kids with 6 bags to their name alone. Nothing worse than trying to identify your plain looking suitcase or bag when it just looks like everybody else's! The best thing you can do is try to make your suitcase as unique as possible. And don't just think 'I'll buy a bright color' because that's what everyone else will be thinking, too! Choose something that's unique to you. Draw or paint something on it, stick stickers on it... anything!

43. Check in online and choose your seat

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Honestly, online check in before you even get to the airport was one of the best things to be invented - and if you've never done it before, now's the time to start doing it! It only takes a few minutes but it'll really help to make your journey a little easier. Just find a time you can sit down and do a few clicks on your laptop or device and you're done! Especially easy if you've a few people to check in if you're going as a group. Not only that, this also gives you the opportunity to pick your seats, which is a really good idea to avoid the extra stress of being given a middle seat!

44. Choose the right airport shoes

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Most people want to look good at the airport, especially if it's a quick flight and they're getting off to go somewhere straight away. So you might end up dressing as you normally would if you were going out - but this is where shoes can easily become an issue, as stupid as it sounds. Some security checks will have you remove your shoes to go through security (oftentimes this can be bigger shoes with heels). To save the stress of taking off the shoes that take you ages to lace or buckle back up again, just wear some shoes that are plain and easy to slip on and off. Hey presto, it'll be quick to do - or, you won't be asked to take them off at all because they're just simple slip on ones!

45. Don't neglect the left-hand queue!

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Studies have actually shown that most people veer towards the right hand queue when there are two, because a lot of people are right-handed and that feels like the natural direction to head for. The thing that happens with this is that the right hand queue is now notoriously longer (and takes longer) than the left one. So if you can, go for the left one - even if it looks like the longer one at first - because chances are, this one is going to move a lot more quickly than the other one! Of course if everyone starts cottoning onto this fact the left one is going to get busier...

46. Layer up!

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Everyone wants to be comfortable at the airport and for a flight, which can lead a lot of people to wearing not much at all because they don't want to carry anything. But layering is a great hack, because it basically prepares you for any weather, temperature or comfort levels during the whole process. Layer up and then if you get too hot, you can take off layers. Get too cold, you can put a layer on again. You can even use a balled up hoody as a cushion on the plane if you need to! Do a couple of layers (not just a thin vest and massive hoody) so you have a few different options rather than being either far too cold or far too hot!

47. Think ahead about skincare and personal hygiene

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Your normal skincare routine and popping some deodorant and perfume on is all well and good before you're heading off to the airport. But you realize 7 hours into your flight that your skin is still full of makeup, you're starting to smell and you need a wash! This is where you need to get creative with airport or flight self care, but it's easily done if you think ahead! Pack your toothbrush in your carry on so you can clean your teeth in the airport bathroom. Take skincare products in your bag so you can keep moisturized in your plane seat, or wipes to take off your makeup or just a general freshen up. Keep deodorant with you!

48. Try to avoid the heavy meals!

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Because you know that the airport process and flight is going to be a long, energy-draining one, it's understandable why you might think filling up on huge, heavy meals is the way to go, to keep your energized and to stop you from being hungry during a long flight. Actually, this could be one of the worst things you can do! This is because your body can't digest food easily when you're sat so high up in the sky, and sat still in your seat. Digestion is going to take longer and make you feel more bloated and sluggish. You're much better with lighter meals that are packed with nutrients, like fruit.

49. Avoid keeping your headphones on

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One thing that can get you through the busy and loud airport process is your favorite playlist loaded up on your streaming service - and not least the playlist that's going to get you in the mood for your vaycay! But wearing headphones, or earphones, for the entirety of your airport experience is going to make you unaware of what's going on around you - including flight announcements happening over the speaker that are going to tell you about any delays, information or when it's time to board. So save the music only when you know you're sorted and can relax.

50. You don't need to rush to board

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Everybody has a different view on this. Some travelers can't believe the mania of people rushing to board while they say relaxed in their lounge seat. Others can't believe people can comfortably sit there without forming a queue before they've even announced that it's time to board! No matter what you think about this, the reality is is that there's a system the airline will use to get everyone on board in the best way based on seat number. So even if you do jump up and rush to queue, it's probably not going to make a difference.