Nothing is more frustrating than missing your flight. Depending on the airline’s generosity and flight availability, you could end up significantly out of cash or waiting for hours for the next seat, resulting in missed vacation time or important appointments. That is why it is critical to plan ahead of time and do all possible to prevent missing your flight.

Continue reading below as this post discusses things to do to avoid missed flights and ultimately answers the question, “The time of my flight was changed: what can I do?” Whether you’re a frequent flier or a casual traveller, these fail-safe practices will help you bid farewell to the stress of missing flights and hello to easier, worry-free journeys.

1. Double-check your details

When you book a flight, you should make sure to add the details to your phone’s calendar so you know exactly when you need to arrive to check-in. Flight times may change owing to operational reasons, weather, or other concerns, so check your flight details online the day before you fly to see if they’ve changed. In case things change, keep an eye out for any last-minute messages or e-mails from the airline.

2. Don’t get held up at security

Avoiding missed flights requires efficient airport security navigation. First, organize your belongings by designating a pouch for documents and electronics. Wear shoes that are readily removed, and keep your accessories to a minimum. To breeze past screening, familiarize yourself with TSA (Transportation Security Administration) guidelines. Choose security-friendly clothing and be proactive in removing objects while in the queue. Arrive prepared, with liquids in a clear bag. These procedures not only speed up the security process but also reduce stress, allowing you to arrive at your gate on time and avoid the anxiety of a missed flight.

3. Book your parking space in advance

Book your airport parking place ahead of time to ensure your peace of mind. Many airports provide online reservation options, allowing you to choose from a selection of parking services tailored to your particular needs. Reserving ahead of time offers a guaranteed place, removing the stress of last-minute parking searches. It also frequently has cost-cutting advantages.

Depending on your needs, you can use valet services, covered parking, or long-term parking. By planning ahead of time for your parking needs, you not only save time but also improve the overall efficiency and smoothness of your journey, lowering the likelihood of missing your flight.

4. Finish packing the night before you travel

Don’t wait until the last minute to pack, even if your flight is in the afternoon. You’ll feel hurried and agitated and will have to rush out the door at the last minute. The night before, pack your bags and lay out your clothing for the flight. In that way, you won’t have to rush about searching for everything when you wake up, eat breakfast, and finish any last-minute tasks.

5. Arrive at the airport early

Being a little bored when you go to the airport early is preferable to having to spend hundreds of dollars when you miss your flight. Generally speaking, you should arrive three hours in advance for international travel and two hours in advance for domestic travel; however, if the airport is huge or the time of day is really crowded, you may want to take extra time. If you’re using public transport, remember to factor in traffic and crowded services.

Nobody wants to deal with the stress of missing a flight, so follow the advice above and find more useful works on Travel WiseWay to reduce the likelihood of doing so.