Whether you're traveling for a Vegas Golden Knights road game or checking out a new town, traveling can be fun. You can see the amazing views and nature before checking out a hockey game. However, there's one problem: Getting to the airport.
If you're driving to a place like Los Angeles or Phoenix, this isn't a problem. All you do is get gas money and cue up Google Maps for a trip. Nothing more. Oh, and make sure your hotel's confirmed. Some places don't accept Booking.com or Trivago reservations. It's such a cruel world.
So what's wrong with traveling to the airport? Well, you're trying to get a ride there. However, many people have plans and don't want to take you there. It's either that or there's an added stipulation. Regardless, you can't win no matter how hard you try. Then there's TSA.
Imagine someone who looks like they could block for the Las Vegas Raiders screaming at you as you put your stuff through the scanner. You also get patted down all over the place. That's the horror of going through TSA on the way to your next destination. For younger folks, it damages your psyche badly and can leave you traumatized.
There's also the overpriced food as you wait for your plane. At least there's Vegas Born Bar and Grill that's near Gate D51 on United. But you also have to worry about airlines like Southwest charging you for everything under the sun, including checked bags. So what can you do to avoid the airline blues (Rhymes Like Dimes!)?
Tips for easier travel as a Vegas Golden Knights fan
First, get headphones whenever you can. Gum chomping annoys the hell out of me and will drive me through a roof. Get yourself some headphones that'll cancel out the noise (and the offender's uncouth ways). That way, you don't have to strangle somebody on the flight and get kicked out.
Second, get there at least two hours early. For me, I like getting to Harry Reid International Airport by four. That's because I get paranoid about being behind the 8-ball for anything. It doesn't matter if it's traveling or arriving to work. I pride myself on getting to my destination earlier than anticipated and you should, too.
Also, avoid big bags if you're planning on traveling for three days. It's not worth carrying a bunch of luggage around and paying $100 just to develop anxiety about losing your belongings. Many airlines allow a backpack on the flight for you to put your essentials in. Be sure to take advantage of this whenever possible.
Don't forget to wear socks! Nobody wants to see your bunions and corn on your toes. We're here to fly and see Mark Stone, not the hospital. Also, don't forget to feed your pets or have someone look after them if you're leaving for a week. It's always good to have that friendly neighbor that watches after Ginger and changes her litter. She's not changing her box by herself, after all.
Finally, have fun! Be sure to take as many pictures while you're traveling and take a break from life. It's not worth fretting over the small details like re-routed flights or delays. Sure, it's a good story to tell how you missed the Vegas Golden Knights game because Spirit can't get its act together. But you're traveling to escape life. Enjoy it!