10 airport survival tips for Cairns flyers

Known as the Gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, Cairns is a popular tourist destination.

But for those of you who live there, it’s nice to head further afield every now and again in search of new places.

This is exciting, but it means first encountering the chaos that is the airport.

So before you jet off from Cairns, here are 10 terrific airport survival tips.

1. Airport Ambassadors

If you run into any problems at Cairns Airport, the Airport Ambassadors have all the solutions. These knowledgeable volunteers are on hand to see you through the airport with ease and deal with your queries.

2. Download your entertainment

Airport wi-fi is well known for playing up, so you’re better off downloading your entertainment and accessing it offline. This way, you’ll be able to enjoy your films, TV shows and books at anytime and keep yourself sane at the airport and beyond.

3. Grab some grub

Once you’ve passed through the queues at Cairns, go and grab some grub (if time allows). This will give you something nice to look forward to as you enter the dreaded airport. You can browse the airport food outlets on the Cairns Airport website.

4. Watch the time

With shops to browse and restaurants and cafes to enjoy, it’s easy to lose track of time. So make sure you set an alarm on your phone to remind you to head to your gate. It’s also worth locating your gate in advance so that you know exactly where to go.

5. Wear loose clothing

When you’re rushing around airports and sitting for long periods of time, loose clothing is your best friend because it gives your body room to breathe.

6. Pack light

Airports are busy places, so the last thing you want is to be weaving your way through crowds with heavy luggage. So pack light – with a lighter load to carry, you’ll be a lot less stressed.

7. Pack patience

Installing some mindfulness and meditation apps is a great way to calm your nerves and ease your mind at the airport. There are plenty to choose from – this meditation apps article on Mellowed reviews the best.

8. Have a pen and paper to hand

With a pen and paper to hand, you’ll be equipped to deal with any travel paperwork that comes up. It’s also handy for when you arrive at your destination airport, in case you need to write down any directions or instructions.

9. Research

Ever heard the saying ‘know your enemy’? Well the same applies to the airport. Researching Cairns in advance will allow you to navigate and overcome any obstacles that might come your way.

10. Book your parking early

If there’s one thing guaranteed to get your airport experience off to a bad start, it’s extortionate parking fees. However, if you book Cairns Airport parking on Looking4.com, you’ll find some excellent early-bird deals.  

That’s our list! Share your airport survival tips in the comments section.