Know this about navigating the airport: Time is your friend. Time can save the day. Time eliminates stress. Give yourself the gift of time!

Arrive early. Really early - at least 60-90 minutes earlier than the airline suggests. You have special needs, make sure you have time to address them. Check in online or at the ticket counter, check your luggage, and get through airport security. There is nothing worse than finding out there is a problem with your flight, ticket, or luggage and then rounding the corner to see a LONG line at airport security, the whole time wondering if you will make the flight. When traveling with disabilities, extra time is a must.

Consider staying at a Park 'n Stay hotel. These near-the-airport hotels allow you to start your vacation one day earlier. Arriving at the hotel the night before a flight enables you to start the travel day with a clear mind and ready for the adventures of flying! Take a deep breath, no worries about traffic delays or parking; most hotels allow 7-10 days of FREE or discounted parking. Take the hotel shuttle to the airport and arrive early. Since most hotels are near the airport, take a moment to appreciate the miracle of flying as the large jets zoom overhead. Start your journey by leaving behind your home routine mindset - you are a traveler now and life is different on the road.

• Even though you are allowed to bring liquids/equipment (needed for medical reasons) through airport security, you still must declare it (tell the agents and show them the liquid/equipment). Pack all declarable items in a clear bag (gallon ziploc works good) for easier viewing. Then place that bag in an easily accessible area of your carry-on baggage. It is better to be up front about everything. NEVER try to hide something from airport security agents.
• Understand the airport security rules. Become familiar with www.tsa.gov. Pay close attention to items that apply to your specific needs. Here is one link for TSA guidelines for special needs travel http://www.tsa.dhs.gov/travelers/airtravel/specialneeds/index.shtm
• Will you be carrying medical equipment or medication? On the day prior to travel, print out any material that applies to your needs. (This information can change without notice). Travelers with disabilities or medical conditions are allowed to bring water, juice, liquid nutrition or gels through airport security and onto the plane.

• If you need assistance getting to the gate, request it at the ticket counter. If possible, ask a friend or relative (or traveling companion) to escort you to the gate. Ask the ticket agent for a security pass for the escort. They must show identification to receive the security pass.
• Keep an eye on the monitors; those gates can/do change!
• If traveling with your wheelchair or stroller, do not check it with your luggage, keep it with you and gate check it. Obtain gate check tag when you arrive at gate (60 min. prior to departure). Don't wait until boarding to ask for this tag.
• Arrive at your gate at least one hour before your flight departs. Speak directly with the gate agents and be patient until they are able to assist you. Confirm what your needs are and if you will need assistance in transferring to the airplane. Aisle chairs are used on the planes to get you to your seat.
• Pre-board when possible so you are able to get settled before the other passengers board. This way if you need assistance you also do not have an audience staring at you. The "quiet before the storm" is a good time to chat with the flight attendants, informing them of your needs in flight.