Understanding Priceline's Role in Your Flight Check-In
When you book a flight using Priceline, it's important to understand that Priceline acts as the booking agent. The actual flight service and the crucial check-in process are managed entirely by the airline you are flying with. Therefore, checking in for your flight involves interacting directly with the airline's website or mobile application, not with Priceline itself. This distinction is key to avoiding confusion and ensuring you complete the necessary steps before your departure date.
The primary responsibility for checking in lies with the airline carrier. Once your booking is confirmed through Priceline and you have your airline confirmation or ticket number, you will use that information to access your reservation on the airline's platform. This is where you'll select seats, add baggage, and obtain your boarding pass. Familiarizing yourself with the airline's specific procedures and timelines is paramount for a stress-free travel experience.
Priceline provides the booking platform and facilitates the initial transaction. However, for all post-booking services, including check-in, seat selection, and managing your reservation, you must turn to the operating airline. This direct interaction ensures you receive the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding your flight, especially as check-in windows can vary significantly by carrier.
The process might seem straightforward, but many travelers encounter minor hiccups by attempting to check in via Priceline directly. Recognizing that Priceline is your travel aggregator and the airline is your service provider for the flight itself will orient you correctly. This article focuses on guiding you through the airline-specific check-in methods, leveraging the information you receive from your Priceline booking.
Your boarding pass originates from the airline, not Priceline.
Why Direct Airline Check-In is Essential
The airline controls all aspects of flight operations, including passenger manifests, boarding procedures, and the check-in system. They are responsible for verifying your identity, confirming your ticket status, and assigning your seat. Because Priceline is not the airline, it does not have direct access to these operational systems. Relying on the airline's platform ensures that all information is current and accurate, directly from the source that manages your flight.
Mistakes often arise from a misunderstanding of this relationship. Travelers may look for a check-in button on Priceline's website days after booking, only to find it unavailable. This leads to last-minute confusion and potential delays. Understanding that your airline confirmation number is your key to the airline's portal, not Priceline's, is the first step in a successful check-in.
This direct engagement with the airline also offers opportunities to manage your itinerary more effectively. You can often make changes, add special requests, or upgrade your seat through the airline's portal, services that Priceline typically does not handle after the initial booking is complete. By knowing where to go and what information to use, you empower yourself to manage your travel details efficiently.
What Information You Need from Priceline
Before you can check in with the airline, you need specific details from your Priceline booking confirmation. The most critical piece of information is your airline confirmation number or record locator. This is a unique code (usually 6 alphanumeric characters) assigned by the airline to your reservation. You will also need the passenger's full name as it appears on their government-issued ID, and sometimes the flight ticket number.
After completing your purchase on Priceline, you should receive a confirmation email. This email typically contains all the necessary details: the booking reference number from Priceline, the airline's name, flight numbers, travel dates, and critically, the airline's confirmation number or record locator. It is vital to locate this number carefully, as it is your gateway to the airline's system. If you cannot find it in your email, check your Priceline account dashboard, where booking details are usually stored.
Having your airline confirmation number readily available prevents a common pitfall: searching for your booking using your name or email on the airline's website without the correct reference. This can lead to your reservation not being found, causing unnecessary stress. Always prioritize finding and using the airline's specific reference code when accessing your flight details.
Ensure that the passenger names on your booking precisely match the names on your government-issued identification (like a driver's license or passport). Any discrepancies, even minor ones, can cause issues during check-in or at the airport. It is far easier to verify and have this information correct from the start, sourced directly from your Priceline confirmation, than to try and resolve it at the last minute.
When Can You Check In for Your Flight?
The timing for checking in for your flight is determined by the airline, not Priceline. Most airlines open their online check-in portals 24 hours before the scheduled departure time of your flight. Some may offer an earlier window, particularly for international flights or specific fare types, while others might have a slightly shorter period, such as 18 or 12 hours. It's crucial to verify the specific check-in window for your operating airline.
You typically have until about 60 to 90 minutes before the scheduled departure to complete online check-in and obtain your boarding pass. However, this varies by airline and airport. For domestic flights, the window might be tighter, while international flights often require check-in to be completed well in advance to allow for necessary documentation verification. Always consult the airline's website for precise cut-off times.
Check your airline's website for their exact check-in window.
Common Check-In Timelines by Airline Type
While the 24-hour window is standard for many major carriers, understanding potential variations is beneficial. Budget airlines might have different rules, sometimes requiring a fee for check-in at the airport, making online check-in even more critical. Full-service carriers generally offer more flexibility. For instance, some airlines allow you to check in for your entire itinerary, including return flights, if they are on the same ticket and within a certain timeframe.
For domestic flights, a typical guideline is that check-in opens 24 hours before departure. You should aim to complete your check-in process at least a few hours before your flight, especially if you plan to check bags, to avoid delays at the airport. Boarding typically begins 30-45 minutes before departure, and the gate usually closes 15-20 minutes prior to departure, making timely check-in and arrival at the gate essential.
International flights often have earlier check-in requirements due to additional security and documentation checks. Some airlines may require you to complete check-in 48 hours in advance or strongly advise arriving at the airport significantly earlier. Always confirm these details with the airline, as failure to meet these deadlines can result in your seat being reassigned, and you may even be denied boarding without a refund.
What Happens if You Miss the Check-In Window?
If you miss the online check-in window, it does not necessarily mean you cannot fly, but it can lead to inconveniences and potential extra costs. You will likely need to check in at the airline's counter or a self-service kiosk at the airport. This process might involve longer wait times, especially during peak travel periods.
Some airlines may charge a fee for checking in at the airport if you missed the online window, particularly for economy fares on certain routes. Furthermore, if you were hoping to select a preferred seat, those options may be limited or unavailable by the time you check in at the airport. The most significant risk is that if the flight is overbooked, passengers who have not completed their check-in and arrived at the gate might be considered "no-shows" and their seats could be reallocated, potentially leading to denied boarding.
To avoid these issues, set reminders for yourself when the airline's check-in window opens. Using the airline's mobile app can also provide timely notifications. Prioritizing your check-in as soon as it becomes available is the most reliable way to secure your seat, obtain your boarding pass, and have peace of mind.
How to Check In Online via the Airline's Website
To check in for your flight, navigate to the website of the airline you are flying with. Locate the section typically labeled 'Check-In,' 'Manage Booking,' or 'My Trips.' You will need to enter your airline confirmation number (record locator) and the passenger's last name. Once your booking is accessed, you will be guided through the check-in process.
During online check-in, you will usually be presented with your flight details and the option to confirm your attendance. This is also when you can often select or change your seat (sometimes for an additional fee), declare any checked baggage, and add other ancillary services. After confirming your details and completing any required steps, you can proceed to obtain your boarding pass.
Use your airline confirmation number to access your booking on the airline's site.
Step-by-Step Online Check-In Process
- Access the Airline's Website: Go directly to the official website of the airline that is operating your flight.
- Find the Check-In Section: Look for options like 'Check-In,' 'Manage Booking,' 'My Flights,' or 'Travel Plans.'
- Enter Your Details: Input your airline confirmation number (record locator) and the passenger's last name.
- Review Flight Information: Verify all flight details, including dates, times, and destinations.
- Confirm Passenger Information: Ensure passenger names match identification. You may need to provide passport details or other required information.
- Select Seats and Add Services: Choose your seat (if available and not already selected) and add any checked baggage or other desired services.
- Complete Check-In: Review your selections and confirm your check-in.
- Obtain Your Boarding Pass: You will be given options to download your boarding pass to your mobile device, print it at home, or have it emailed to you.
Mobile App Check-In: A Convenient Alternative
Most airlines offer dedicated mobile applications that streamline the check-in process. Download the app for your specific airline and log in using your airline confirmation number and last name. The app will guide you through the same steps as the website check-in, but it allows you to store your boarding pass digitally, often within a mobile wallet, making it very convenient for airport navigation.
Using the airline's app is highly recommended, as it often provides real-time flight status updates, gate changes, and other important notifications directly to your phone. This is especially useful on travel days when plans can change unexpectedly. The mobile boarding pass is widely accepted at airports worldwide.
Tip: Download the airline's mobile app *before* you travel to familiarize yourself with its features and to ensure you have it ready when check-in opens.
Common Issues During Online Check-In and How to Resolve Them
One common issue is the airline's system not recognizing your booking. This usually stems from entering the wrong confirmation number or misspelling the passenger's name. Double-check these details meticulously. If the problem persists, contact the airline directly. Sometimes, bookings made through third-party sites like Priceline may take a short while to fully populate in the airline's system, although this is rare once the booking is confirmed by Priceline.
Another frequent problem is seat selection. Preferred seats are often assigned based on fare class or are available for purchase. If all standard seats are taken or only paid options remain, it could be due to the flight being heavily booked or your ticket type not including free seat selection. If you need to select a specific seat for accessibility or other reasons, contact the airline's customer service to discuss options, especially if you have a medical condition or special requirement.
Technical glitches can also occur. If the airline's website or app is unresponsive or crashing, try again later or switch between the website and the app. If a critical error prevents you from completing check-in, contact the airline's customer support immediately. They can often complete the check-in process for you over the phone or advise on alternative airport procedures.
Checking In for Return or Connecting Flights
If your Priceline booking includes a return flight or connecting flights on the same ticket, you can often check in for all segments simultaneously during the initial online check-in window. Most airlines allow you to manage your entire itinerary through their system. This means you can select seats, confirm details, and receive boarding passes for all legs of your journey at once.
The key is that all segments must be part of the same reservation with the same airline or a partner airline where codeshares are managed under a single booking reference. If your return flight or connecting flights are booked separately, even if through Priceline, you will need to check in for each booking individually when its respective check-in window opens.
Check in for all flight segments at once if they are on the same PNR (Passenger Name Record).
When to Check In for Connecting Flights
For connecting flights within the same ticket, the airline's system will typically allow you to check in for your entire journey. This means you can get your boarding pass for your final destination right from the start. This is incredibly convenient, as you won't need to re-check in at the connecting airport.
However, it's vital to be aware of the layover duration. If your layover is very long, or if you have separate tickets for different legs of your journey, you may need to collect your baggage and re-check it at the connecting airport, and consequently, re-check in for your next flight. Always confirm with the airline if your bags will be checked through to your final destination when you check in for your first flight.
If you are required to re-check in, ensure you know the check-in times for the second (or subsequent) flight. For example, if your first flight is domestic and your second is international, the check-in requirements for the international leg might be different and require you to be at the airport earlier.
Managing Return Journeys Booked Separately
If your return flight was booked as a separate transaction on Priceline, or with a different airline altogether, you will need to manage its check-in independently. You will receive a separate confirmation email for that booking, containing its own airline confirmation number. Use that specific number to check in with the relevant airline when its designated check-in window opens.
For example, if you booked an outbound flight with Airline A and a return flight with Airline B via Priceline, you must check in for Airline A's flight on Airline A's website and for Airline B's flight on Airline B's website. Be mindful of the check-in opening times for each airline, as they can differ.
Pro-Tip: Add the check-in opening dates and times for all your flights to your personal calendar immediately after booking to avoid missing them.
Potential Pitfalls with Multi-Airline Itineraries
When your itinerary involves multiple airlines, even if booked under separate PNRs through Priceline, it's essential to confirm baggage policies and any potential re-check-in requirements at connecting points. If you have separate tickets, you are essentially treated as two entirely different passengers by the airlines. If the first flight is delayed and causes you to miss the second, the second airline has no obligation to rebook you, as they were not part of the initial booking agreement.
Also, ensure that the connecting airports are correctly identified. Sometimes, a connecting city might have multiple airports, and if your tickets specify different ones without adequate transfer time or transport, it can cause significant problems. Always verify the airport code for each flight segment and plan your transit accordingly. These are often overlooked details that Priceline might not explicitly highlight, making due diligence on your part crucial.
What to Do at the Airport After Online Check-In
After successfully checking in online and obtaining your boarding pass, your airport experience can be significantly smoother. If you are traveling with carry-on baggage only, you can proceed directly to airport security with your mobile or printed boarding pass and your identification. This bypasses the check-in counters entirely, saving considerable time.
If you have checked baggage, you will need to go to the airline's designated 'Bag Drop' or 'Baggage Check' counter. Here, an airline agent will weigh your bags, tag them for your destination, and take them from you to be loaded onto the aircraft. You will need to present your boarding pass and identification at this counter as well.
Carry-on only? Head straight to security with your boarding pass and ID.
Navigating Security with a Digital Boarding Pass
Airport security procedures are the same regardless of whether you checked in online or at the airport. You will need to present your boarding pass and government-issued identification to the security personnel. Ensure your mobile boarding pass is easily accessible on your device, with the screen brightness turned up for scanning. If you printed your boarding pass, keep it with your ID.
Many airports now have advanced scanning technology, but it's always wise to have a backup, either a printed copy or a screenshot of your boarding pass, in case your phone battery dies or the digital pass fails to load. The boarding pass contains all the necessary information for security and gate agents, including your name, flight number, destination, and seat assignment.
Finding Your Gate and Boarding Information
Once you have cleared security, check the departure boards or your airline's mobile app for your gate number. Gate assignments can sometimes change, so it's good practice to verify this information. Your boarding pass will also indicate your boarding group. Boarding usually begins 30 to 60 minutes before the scheduled departure time, with different groups being called sequentially.
Listen carefully to announcements at the gate, as boarding times and procedures can be reiterated. Airlines typically start boarding by calling priority passengers (e.g., families with small children, those requiring assistance) and then proceed through assigned boarding groups. It is advisable to be at or near your gate at least 30 minutes before departure, even if your boarding group has not yet been called, to avoid missing last-minute announcements or gate changes.
What if Your Boarding Pass Isn't Ready After Check-In?
If you completed online check-in but your boarding pass is not available for download or display, there might be a reason. This often occurs when the airline requires further verification of your identity, travel documents (like passports for international flights), or if there's an issue with your booking that needs manual intervention. It could also happen if your flight is significantly overbooked, and the airline is managing passenger assignments manually.
In such cases, you will typically receive a notification from the airline directing you to the check-in counter or a specific customer service desk at the airport. Do not panic; proceed directly to the location indicated. The airline staff will resolve the issue, verify your documents, and issue your boarding pass. It is wise to arrive at the airport a little earlier than usual if you anticipate or encounter such a situation.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Checking In
Mistakes during the flight check-in process can lead to unnecessary stress, delays, or even missed flights. The most common pitfall is attempting to check in via Priceline rather than the airline's platform. Another frequent error is using the wrong confirmation number or misspelling a passenger's name, which prevents the airline's system from finding your booking.
Overlooking the check-in deadlines is also a significant mistake. Airlines have strict cut-off times for online and airport check-in. Missing these can result in your seat being forfeited, especially on full flights, or incurring extra fees for airport check-in. Ensuring you know and adhere to these timelines is crucial for a smooth travel experience.
Never assume Priceline handles the airline check-in process.
Incorrectly Identifying the Booking Reference
Travelers often confuse the Priceline booking reference number with the airline's confirmation number (record locator). Priceline provides its own reference for your entire booking with them, which is used for managing your reservation *on Priceline*. However, the airline requires its own specific confirmation number to access your flight details for check-in, seat selection, and boarding pass issuance. Always locate and use the airline's confirmation number, which is usually found within the Priceline confirmation email or on your e-ticket details.
Using the Priceline number on the airline's website will likely result in an error message stating that the booking could not be found. If you're unsure which number to use, carefully re-read your confirmation documents. The airline's number is typically a series of 6 alphanumeric characters, but this can vary. If in doubt, contact the airline directly to confirm what your record locator is.
Forgetting or Delaying Check-In Until the Last Minute
Waiting until the last possible moment to check in is a gamble. While you might get lucky, you risk encountering issues. Online systems can be busy or temporarily unavailable, your preferred seats might be gone, and if there's a problem with your booking, you'll have very little time to resolve it before the check-in window closes. This is particularly risky for international flights where passport and visa information might need verification.
Forgetting check-in altogether means you'll have to do it at the airport, which can lead to long queues, especially at busy airports or during peak travel times. This can add significant stress to your travel day and might result in missing your flight if you get stuck in line. Proactive check-in, as soon as the window opens, eliminates these potential problems.
P-tip: If you are checking in for multiple passengers on the same booking, ensure all names are entered correctly and that you select seats for everyone together if possible. Sometimes, selecting seats for one person is easy, but then finding adjacent seats for others becomes difficult.
Not Verifying Travel Document Requirements
For international travel, check-in involves more than just confirming your attendance. You must ensure you have the correct passport, visas, and any other required travel documents. Airlines are obligated to verify these at check-in. If you arrive at the check-in counter or gate without the necessary documentation, you will be denied boarding.
Even for domestic travel, especially in some regions or with specific airline policies, additional identification might be requested. Always check the entry and exit requirements for your destination country and any transit countries. The airline's website is usually the best source for this information, often linked within their check-in process or on a dedicated travel information page. Do not rely on outdated information; requirements can change.
Troubleshooting Flight Check-In Issues
When faced with flight check-in problems, the first step is to remain calm and systematically troubleshoot. The most common issues revolve around accessing your booking, technical glitches, or documentation requirements. Understanding the potential causes can help you find a resolution more efficiently and avoid further complications.
It is essential to remember that Priceline facilitates the booking, but the airline manages the flight. Therefore, for any flight-specific issues that arise during check-in, the airline's customer service is your primary point of contact. They have the direct access and authority to resolve problems related to your reservation on their system.
When troubleshooting, always consider the airline as your direct point of contact.
Booking Not Found Error
If the airline's website or app states that your booking cannot be found, re-verify that you are using the correct airline confirmation number (record locator) and the exact passenger name as it appears on your booking. Ensure there are no typos or extra spaces. If the details are correct, try clearing your browser's cache and cookies or using a different web browser.
If the problem persists, it's possible that the booking has not fully synchronized between Priceline and the airline's system. This is rare but can happen. Contact the airline's customer service and provide them with your Priceline booking reference number and the passenger's name. They can usually locate your reservation manually in their system and assist with check-in or provide you with the correct airline confirmation number.
Technical Glitches and Website Errors
Technical difficulties with the airline's online check-in system can be frustrating. If the website is slow, frozen, or displaying error messages, try refreshing the page. If that doesn't work, wait a few minutes and try again, or switch to the airline's mobile app if available. Sometimes, server overload during peak check-in times can cause these issues.
If the problem is persistent and preventing you from checking in within the required timeframe, contact the airline's customer support. They can often complete the check-in process for you over the phone or advise you on how to proceed at the airport. Keep a record of any error messages or screenshots you encounter, as this information can be helpful when speaking with support.
P-tip: If your mobile device fails during check-in or you lose access to your digital boarding pass, go to an airline self-service kiosk at the airport. You can often reprint your boarding pass or check in again using your booking reference number.
Issues with Seat Selection or Baggage Information
If you encounter problems selecting seats or updating baggage information, it may be due to fare rules, availability, or system limitations. For seat selection, ensure you are on the correct page and that the seat you are trying to select is actually available. Some seats may be reserved for elite status members or require an additional purchase.
For baggage issues, confirm the airline's baggage allowance for your fare class. If you need to add more bags than the standard allowance, you will typically do so during check-in or at the airport, often incurring fees. If the system is not allowing you to add bags or update information, contact the airline. They can clarify the rules, assist with adding services, and ensure your baggage is accounted for, especially if you have specific needs like oversized or sporting equipment.
Priceline's Role in Flight Disruptions and Support
While Priceline handles the initial booking and payment, their role in managing flight disruptions or providing direct support for in-flight issues is limited. Once the flight departs, any changes, delays, cancellations, or problems experienced during travel are the sole responsibility of the operating airline. Priceline's customer service can assist with issues related to the booking itself (e.g., confirmation, payment, changes before the flight if permitted by the airline's fare rules), but not with the operational aspects of the flight.
If your flight is significantly delayed or canceled after you have checked in, your first point of contact should always be the airline. They are best equipped to rebook you, provide accommodation if necessary, and explain the reasons for the disruption. Priceline might offer guidance on how to contact the airline or what information to have ready, but they cannot make flight changes or issue refunds for operational issues.
For flight disruptions, immediately contact the operating airline.
When to Contact Priceline vs. the Airline
You should contact Priceline for issues concerning your booking confirmation, payment discrepancies, or if you need to make changes to your itinerary *before* the airline's check-in window opens and if the fare rules allow such changes. Priceline acts as an intermediary and can often help liaise with the airline for modifications or cancellations as per the fare conditions.
Contact the airline directly for any issues that arise on the day of travel, including check-in problems, seat changes after check-in, gate changes, flight delays, cancellations, missed connections, or any problems encountered during the flight. This includes issues with baggage, special services, or any other operational matter. Their staff at the airport or their customer service hotline are the definitive sources for real-time flight information and assistance.
Understanding Airline Policies on Changes and Cancellations
The policies governing changes and cancellations for flights booked through Priceline are dictated by the individual airlines. When you book through Priceline, you agree to the fare rules and conditions set by the airline carrier for that specific ticket. These rules can vary significantly based on the airline, fare type (e.g., economy, business, non-refundable, flexible), and how far in advance the booking was made.
Priceline's website will usually provide a summary of these policies, or at least direct you to where you can find them. It's crucial to review these terms before completing your purchase. Generally, non-refundable tickets are cheaper but offer limited flexibility. Refundable or flexible tickets are more expensive but allow for changes or cancellations with fewer penalties. Always check the specific terms for your ticket, as attempting to make changes or cancel without understanding these policies can lead to unexpected fees or forfeiture of your ticket value.
P-tip: Keep a copy of your e-ticket and all confirmation emails from both Priceline and the airline. These documents are essential if you need to dispute charges or seek compensation.
Rebooking After a Flight Cancellation or Significant Delay
If your flight is canceled or significantly delayed by the airline, they are responsible for rebooking you on the next available flight. Depending on the reason for the disruption (e.g., mechanical issue versus weather), you may also be entitled to compensation or amenities like meal vouchers or hotel accommodation. The airline's customer service or airport agents will guide you through this process.
It is important to know your rights as a passenger. Airlines have varying policies regarding compensation and rebooking, often influenced by regulations in the region of departure or arrival. If you are unsatisfied with the airline's proposed resolution or if they fail to provide adequate assistance, you may have grounds to file a complaint with the relevant aviation authority or consumer protection agency. Priceline typically cannot intervene in these post-flight service issues, but they can confirm your original booking details if needed.
Maximizing Your Travel Experience with Priceline Bookings
Booking flights through Priceline can offer competitive pricing and a convenient way to manage travel arrangements. By understanding the nuances of how Priceline operates in conjunction with airlines, particularly regarding check-in and post-booking services, you can ensure a smooth and stress-free travel experience. The key takeaway is always to direct your flight-related inquiries and actions towards the operating airline once your booking is confirmed.
From checking in online to handling unexpected disruptions, the airline is your primary partner. Proactive preparation, such as gathering all necessary booking information and understanding airline policies, empowers you to navigate the travel process with confidence. By following the steps outlined, you can avoid common pitfalls and make the most of your travel plans booked via Priceline.
Your successful flight experience depends on direct engagement with the airline.
Preparing for Your First Flight Booked via Priceline
For first-time users booking flights through Priceline, the process is similar to any other online travel agency. Once your booking is complete, you will receive a confirmation. Immediately thereafter, locate your airline confirmation number within that document. This number is your key to all airline-specific services, including check-in, seat selection, and managing your itinerary. Download the airline's mobile app and add your flight details to it for convenient access to boarding passes and real-time flight information.
Familiarize yourself with the airline's baggage allowance and any restrictions before you pack. Also, review the airline's policies on travel documents, especially for international flights. Being prepared with all necessary information and documents in advance will prevent last-minute rushes and potential issues at the airport. This thorough preparation is crucial for any traveler, especially when using a third-party booking site.
Leveraging Technology for a Seamless Journey
Modern technology offers many tools to enhance your travel. Beyond airline apps, consider using flight tracking apps that aggregate information from multiple airlines, providing updates on delays, gate changes, and even suggesting alternative routes if cancellations occur. Many mobile wallets can store boarding passes, loyalty cards, and other travel documents, keeping them all in one accessible place.
Utilizing these digital tools can significantly reduce the mental load of managing travel details. They provide instant access to crucial information, often before it's announced verbally at the airport. Ensure your devices are charged, and consider carrying a portable power bank for extended travel days. This tech-savviness transforms potential travel anxieties into a more controlled and comfortable experience.
Final Checks Before Heading to the Airport
Before leaving for the airport, perform a final check. Confirm your flight status through the airline's app or website one last time. Ensure you have your identification (passport, driver's license) and your boarding pass (digital or printed) readily accessible. If you checked baggage, confirm that it is properly tagged and you have kept your baggage claim tags.
Double-check the time you need to be at the airport. This depends on whether you are checking bags, traveling internationally, or flying from a large, busy airport. Rushing to the airport is a common source of stress; giving yourself ample buffer time allows for unexpected delays in traffic, security lines, or at the bag drop counter. A well-prepared traveler is a relaxed traveler.