22 Airport Hacks to Remember Before Your Next Flight

Since TSA requires you to separate your liquids into clear plastic bags, it is always a good idea to bring spare Ziploc bags in case you lose one or if you're buying tiny travel liquids last minute. For carry-on bags, TSA has a 3-1-1 liquids rule and you are only allowed to have one quart-sized clear plastic bag.

If you don't have a laptop case, invest in one. Security usually makes you scan your laptop separately, so always have it in an easy-to-reach spot of your bag or suitcase.

Like snacks, water usually costs a lot more at airports. The best way to cheat the system is to bring an empty water bottle or canteen and fill it up once you get past security checkpoints.

Make your suitcase easily identifiable by tying brightly colored fabric or ribbon to the handles. You'll be able to spot it amid all the black suitcases rolling out.

If you can, you should avoid buying snacks and drinks at airports because they're overpriced. Instead, pack your own travel snacks, like nuts, cereal bars, candy, and other dry goods, to munch on while you wait for your flight.

Some airports, like London's Heathrow, offer sleeping pods where you can catch up on rest between long flight transfers. Pay around $50 for four hours (minimum) and you can take a shower (body wash and towels are provided) and enjoy a comfortable nap (not on the airport floor). If you're traveling internationally, check to see if your airport location offers this sleeping amenity, or just get comfy in a quiet spot and snooze.

If you hate waiting in line or you're in a rush to make your flight, research shows that most people are right-handed and tend to turn right first, so do the opposite and go left. For more on how to find faster airport security lines, follow these tips.

Always expect an airport or plane to be cold. Bring a light blanket or extra sweater, hoodie, or scarf to keep yourself warm before and during the flight. Even if you don't wear it, you can use it as a pillow if you want to nap on your flight.

Especially when it comes to flight upgrades. Take advantage of special events; if you were recently married (on your honeymoon) or have a birthday, tell the airline staff — they may be willing to upgrade you. Traveling alone also makes it easier to ask for a flight upgrade as well as just simply asking! Do so quietly, and the worst that can happen is a polite no.

Worried about your carry-on going over the weight limit? Wear the heaviest items and wear layers to get past security. Then head to the nearest bathroom and switch out of the clothes.

Bring hotel toiletries with you next time you travel. These mini bottles are the perfect carry-on items, and you won't have to shell out the extra money for reusable bottles or travel liquids.

Many airports offer unlimited for free, while others allow you to sign in for certain increments of time.

If you wear contacts, you'll notice how your eyes often get really dry during the flight (as well as the rest of your skin). Glasses may not make a fashion statement, but you'll be comfortable, and you can always switch into contacts once you land.

Check out the local transportation systems at your airport destination. See if there are air trains you can take to a regular metro or a bus that will take you to your destination. Avoid taxi services if you can, but if you really want to travel via car, check out services like Uber or Lyft (which can be a lot cheaper in European countries).