Whether you travel for business, leisure, or a bit of both, being a frequent flyer means learning how to navigate the skies smarter, faster, and with less stress. Frequent flyers are always on the lookout for clever ways to streamline the travel experience—from skipping long security lines to scoring flight upgrades and making the most of every mile.
This guide is packed with tried-and-true travel hacks that will help you save time, money, and energy while making your trips more enjoyable and efficient.
1. Enroll in TSA PreCheck or Global Entry
One of the best investments for frequent travelers is joining trusted traveler programs.
Why It Matters:
- TSA PreCheck: Speeds up domestic airport security with shorter lines and less hassle
- Global Entry: Offers expedited customs clearance for international travel
Bonus: Global Entry includes TSA PreCheck benefits.
2. Use Packing Cubes and a Personal Item Strategically
Efficient packing can be a game changer.
Tips:
- Use packing cubes to stay organized and save space
- Bring a backpack or tote that fits under the seat but holds essentials like tech, snacks, and a change of clothes
- Keep chargers and toiletries in easy-to-access compartments for security checks
Streamlined packing helps you breeze through airports and settle in faster.
3. Stick to Carry-On Travel When Possible
Avoid the baggage claim—and the fees—by traveling light.
Benefits:
- Faster airport exits
- No risk of lost luggage
- Greater flexibility when changing flights
Use compression bags and versatile clothing to maximize space.
4. Sign Up for Frequent Flyer Programs
Loyalty always pays off.
Top Programs to Consider:
- American Airlines AAdvantage
- Delta SkyMiles
- United MileagePlus
- Alaska Mileage Plan
Even if you’re not a brand loyalist, accruing miles adds up over time. You can earn points through flying, shopping portals, credit cards, and hotel stays.
5. Leverage Airline Credit Cards
Many airline-branded cards offer serious perks.
Perks Include:
- Free checked bags
- Priority boarding
- Companion passes
- Access to exclusive lounges
Some cards also provide generous sign-up bonuses that can cover entire flights.
6. Use Google Flights and Flight Alerts for the Best Deals
Being flexible and informed helps you score the lowest fares.
How to Hack It:
- Set price alerts for multiple destinations
- Explore the map for the cheapest dates and routes
- Book flights midweek for lower prices
Compare across platforms like Skyscanner, Kayak, and Momondo before booking.
7. Know the Best Time to Book Flights
Timing can drastically impact your airfare.
Tips:
- Book domestic flights 1–3 months in advance
- Book international flights 2–6 months ahead
- Avoid booking on weekends when demand is high
Flying on Tuesdays and Wednesdays typically yields better deals.
8. Sign Up for Travel Deal Newsletters
Let the deals come to you.
Recommended Sites:
- Scott’s Cheap Flights (now Going)
- The Flight Deal
- Secret Flying
These services find error fares, flash sales, and discount alerts you might otherwise miss.
9. Choose Your Seat Wisely
Not all seats are created equal.
Seat Selection Hacks:
- Use SeatGuru to research the best seats on your aircraft
- Book seats closer to the front for quicker deplaning
- Aisle seats offer more flexibility, while window seats are great for sleep
Consider upgrading to premium economy for more space on long-haul flights.
10. Pack a “Plane Comfort Kit”
Frequent flyers know the value of comfort during a long flight.
Kit Essentials:
- Noise-canceling headphones or earplugs
- Travel pillow and eye mask
- Hydration tablets and lip balm
- Snacks, hand sanitizer, and face wipes
Being comfortable helps reduce jet lag and fatigue.
11. Use Lounge Access Wisely
Airport lounges can transform your layover experience.
Ways to Access Lounges:
- Airline status or premium ticket class
- Credit cards like Amex Platinum or Chase Sapphire Reserve
- Day passes or lounge memberships (e.g., Priority Pass)
Lounges offer free food, drinks, Wi-Fi, and a quiet place to recharge.
12. Download the Right Travel Apps
Your phone can be your best travel companion.
Must-Have Apps:
- FlightAware or Flighty (real-time flight tracking)
- TripIt (travel itinerary organizer)
- LoungeBuddy (find and access airport lounges)
- Airline-specific apps for check-in, boarding passes, and updates
Having all your information at your fingertips keeps your travel experience smooth.
13. Set Up Automatic Travel Notifications and Backups
Stay ahead of delays and disruptions.
Smart Moves:
- Enable push alerts for flight changes
- Keep copies of important documents in the cloud
- Screenshot QR codes, confirmations, and hotel directions
Redundancy is key to avoiding stress on the road.
14. Join Hotel Loyalty Programs Too
If you travel frequently, hotel perks can be just as valuable as airline miles.
Top Hotel Programs:
- Marriott Bonvoy
- Hilton Honors
- IHG One Rewards
Frequent stays can lead to upgrades, free nights, and late checkouts.
15. Know the Tricks for Flight Upgrades
Scoring an upgrade isn’t always about spending more.
Upgrade Tips:
- Dress neatly and be courteous to gate agents
- Travel during less busy times
- Use points or bid on upgrades through your airline’s app
- Achieve elite status for better upgrade priority
Upgrades can make long flights much more enjoyable without breaking the bank.
Being a frequent flyer means mastering a set of skills and strategies that make travel more efficient, more comfortable, and more rewarding. Whether you’re a seasoned globetrotter or just starting to rack up the miles, these hacks can help you travel smarter, save money, and arrive feeling more refreshed. With the right tools, planning, and mindset, every flight becomes an opportunity to elevate your experience in the air and on the ground.