If you are traveling this season, be sure you are prepared for your trip. Here are 5 ways to be a smarter traveler:

1. Pack important items in your carry-on bag, especially medication or technology items.

2. Always travel with identification and boarding passes in hand to avoid checking in at the counter and make your way through security checkpoints more quickly.

3. Prepare for TSA security screenings by removing items like electronics, liquids, gels and aerosols from carry-on baggage before you arrive at the checkpoint.

4. Arrive early for your flight to ensure you have enough time to get through check-in and security screening procedures before your flight departs.

5. If you have travel questions or need help during your trip, contact airport customer service representatives at the airport information desk, curbside check-in area or inside the terminal near ticket counters and gates.

It is not uncommon to see a person running through the airport to catch their flight. What’s even more common is that person showing up at the gate with an armful of bags, barely making it on time before the door closes.

Here are five ways you can be a smarter traveler at the airport to ensure you get on your plane on time:

• Pack light: This is one of the easiest ways to make sure you’re not late for your flight. The lighter your bags, the easier it will be for you to navigate through the airport and have time to grab a bite or do some shopping before you board.

• Know what you can and cannot bring on a plane: Make sure you look up TSA’s list of prohibited items. You don’t want to be that person who has to throw away their favorite lotion because they forgot about this rule!

• Check in early: Although checking in early does not guarantee an aisle seat, it does give you the opportunity to choose your seat ahead of time. Checking in early will also help avoid long lines at check-in counters, so you don’t miss your flight!

• Show up early: If you have never been to Tampa International Airport, we recommend showing up a

We’ve all been there rushing around the house at the last minute, trying to find our phones, passports and all those other essentials. Then we arrive at the airport and realize we forgot underwear. But with just a little preparation, you can make sure you won’t have to shop for your basics in the airport gift shop. Here’s how to be a smarter traveler:

1. Have a travel document organizer.

Keep all your travel documents, IDs and tickets together so they’re easy to find when you need them. A simple accordion file can do the trick, or you can keep them all together in a handy travel wallet that has room for cash and credit cards as well.

2. Pack an extra set of clothes in your carry-on bag.

You never know when something will happen that delays or cancels your flight—and if you’re stranded overnight, it’s good to have something clean to wear in the morning. Don’t forget to pack underwear too!

3. Put together a travel first aid kit.

Include bandages, pain reliever, antibiotic ointment and anything else you might need for minor injuries or illnesses that could arise on your trip. Don’t forget any prescription medicines or over-the-counter drugs

It’s a great time to be a traveler, but there are many things to think about when you’re getting ready to head out of town. Here are five ways to make your life easier at the airport.

When going through security, put your keys and other heavy metal items in a plastic bin before sending them through the x-ray machine. This keeps you from having to take off your belt or jewelry when going through security.

When packing, keep all of your liquids in one container in a resealable bag. This way you can quickly pull it out and place it into another bin while going through security.

If you are traveling with children, make sure they have identification that includes your name and phone number. It’s also a good idea to give them some cash for emergencies. They should carry this money in an envelope or small pouch around their neck or waist where it is not visible.

Be sure you have all of your travel documents with you before getting on the airplane. These include boarding passes, passports (if required), visas (if required) and any other documents needed for entry into the country where you are headed. For example, if you are traveling across borders into Canada or Mexico then bring ID as well as proof of citizenship such as copies of

Ready, set, travel!

We are happy to see you at Tampa International Airport. Since you are here, we wanted to send some travel tips your way that will help make your trip a success.

Plan ahead.

Whether you’re vacationing in Orlando or visiting family in New York City, plan ahead for your trip and arrive at least two hours before your flight departs for domestic flights and three hours for international flights.

Check the status of your flight before you head out to TPA.

With 10 airlines serving more than 80 nonstop destinations, there’s a good chance TPA is on the way to where you’re going. But if it is not, check with your airline on the best way to get there from Tampa International Airport. We have several ground transportation options available on our website.

Have your boarding pass ready when you get to the airport.

If you are checking luggage, be sure to tag them before getting in line at the ticket counter or kiosk. Check with your airline on how much luggage you can bring and whether any items are prohibited on board the plane.

You can always check what is allowed through TSA screening on their website here or by downloading their mobile app here.

1. Know the TSA Rules – Get a head start by knowing what you can and cannot bring through security.

2. Arrive Early – Allow yourself plenty of time to get through the airport.

3. Check Your Bags – Avoid extra fees and stress by checking your bags at the ticket counter instead of at the gate.

4. Know Before You Go – Visit the website for your airline to find out if there are any airport delays or cancellations that may affect your flight.

5. Don’t Forget About Parking and Pick-Ups – Check out our parking options and services to make sure you have a hassle-free departure and arrival.

1. Be prepared with the right travel documents.

2. Know your airline’s baggage policy.

3. Check in online and print your boarding pass before getting to the airport.

4. Arrive at the airport with plenty of time to check in, go through security, and get to your gate.

5. Listen for announcements regarding your flight.