If you have never flown out of Newark Liberty International Airport before, then you may be eager to find some guidance that will help to make your travelling experience as seamless and enjoyable as possible. After all, Newark is known for being particularly busy, as it is one of three airports handling all of the visitors coming and going from New York every single day, so you may feel justified in expecting delays, hassle, and stress-induced hair-pulling.
However, there’s no need to worry; just because Newark experiences a lot of the hustle and bustle, doesn’t mean you have to brace for a disastrous trip. Read on for some top tips that will hopefully help you to navigate Newark’s crowded terminals with relative ease.
Beat The Traffic
If you’re worried about getting bogged down in traffic on the way to the airport, there’s an easy way to avoid this potential pitfall: take the New Jersey TRANSIT. You can book a ticket that will cover your journey to the airport and back home again after your trip is completed. Not only will you not have to worry about traffic jams, you will get to sit back and relax, and make the most of your train’s Wi-Fi.
Of course, if you do wish to make your own way to the airport using your car, then a top tip you should use to make the process easier is to arrange low-cost and convenient airport parking while you’re away. Fortunately, Parkway Parking offers plenty of options to choose from within easy reach of the airport; many of which offer a helpful shuttle service.
Breeze Through Security
All seasoned travellers know that your best-laid plans can go awry if you get stuck in a long line at security. Fortunately, you won’t have to worry about getting held up at Newark, provided you apply for a TSA PreCheck.
This process consists of sending in an application form and undergoing a 10-minute screening appointment, during which various checks will be made – including fingerprinting – to make sure you don’t pose a threat to other travellers. You will then be given a Known Traveller Number, which will allow you to make your way through security checks in five minutes or less.
With your Known Traveller Number, you also won’t have to worry about having to take off your belt and shoes, unpack your laptop ready for examination, or decant liquids into containers that fit the 3-1-1 rule.
Grab Some Travel Essentials
If you think you’re running low on some helpful travel items – whether it’s a couple of magazines to read while you’re waiting to board, some refreshments, or maybe even a few cheap and cheerful souvenirs for loved ones, it’s easy to stock up at Newark.
Simply head to one of the airport’s All You Need stores, or perhaps Hudson Nonstop or Shore Points Market, and you will find everything from drinks and snacks to paperbacks and even childcare supplies.
Get A Bite To Eat
If you’re starting to feel the first stirrings of hunger as you’re waiting for your flight, you will be pleased to discover that Newark Airport has a wide range of eateries to choose from, including some rather upmarket options. From the freshest sushi to bagels, pancakes, burgers, barbecued meats and tacos, the choices seem endless, each one more delicious than the next.
Of course, if you’re only in the mood for something light and a cup of coffee to keep you energized for your flight, there are several venues where you can while away half an hour with a steaming hot cup o’ Joe. Options include Bluestone Lane at South Pier, Starbucks, and Dunkin’ Donuts Coffee.
Calm Pre-Flight Jitters With An Aperitif
It’s natural to feel a little anxious shortly before a plane journey, even if you’re a seasoned traveller.
If you do start to feel a little unnerved in the hour before take-off, it may be a good idea to pull up a chair at one of Newark Airport’s popular watering holes, such as the Belgian Beer Café, Oeno Wine Bar, or Proof Whiskey Bar.
A glass of wine, a beer or some whiskey on the rocks might help to settle your nerves and give you some extra confidence about the journey ahead. Just take care to stick to only a glass or two at the most, as too much alcohol can dehydrate you and contribute to the negative effects of airplane travel on your body.
Shop ‘Til You Drop
If you’re a keen shopper, or if you need to pick up some last-minute gifts for friends or family whom you will be visiting when you land, there are a plethora of opportunities to grab the ideal present at Newark Liberty International Airport.
For the special women in your life, you can stop off at Kiehl’s, MAC or L’Occitane to pick up some high-quality cosmetics and skincare products. Meanwhile bookworms are sure to appreciate a novel or the latest non-fiction bestseller from the shelves of Hudson Booksellers, and tech-obsessed teens will be thrilled with an electronics purchase from Sims On The Go.
If You Can – Make The Most Of A Lounge
Newark Airport is home to several airline lounges, including VIP spaces, so if you’re keen to enjoy some relaxation in supremely comfortable surroundings, you may want to take advantage. For travellers jetting off with babies in tow, nursing suites and lactation pods are available where mothers can feed their little ones in peace and privacy to help settle them in time for take-off.
Even better, you may wish to visit the D_parture Spa for a quick mani/pedi or maybe a soothing massage to get you in the perfect relaxed headspace for your flight.
Conclusion
While flying out of Newark may seem intimidating if it’s your first time, the airport offers a range of helpful services and amenities designed to make your travels as convenient and enjoyable as can be. As a result, once you’ve flown from Newark once, you will probably never feel intimidated by this bustling New York airport again.
