Airport amenities exist

I know it’s a little early to be saying this, but so far, 2008 has been a good year for travel—especially for frequent travelers. I say this because airports, more and more, are developing ways to appease the frustrations people have with airports altogether. You’ll see several more amenities reach your nearest airport. Here are some few that’ll definitely perk your interest.

More and easily accessible power outlets

You’re at the airport, sitting aimlessly waiting at the gate. Why not make a phone call or text your friend that will pick you up at your destination? Wait, the dreaded “low battery” notification has just popped up on your home screen and you feel your world crumbling down on you. Well, not really. Power hungry travelers and their gadgets, be it at laptop, MP3 player, iPod, PDA, camera or cell phone are always in need of a convenient power outlet. Not too much to ask for, right? Lucky for you, charging stations are popping up at the masses. Occasionally, you might have to pay a minor fee to plug in, but it’s trending more towards free plug in stations and power-outlet work stations supported by advertising dollars. Visit your airport’s website for such locations and power up.

Lockers

Post 9/11, the FAA ordered airports to shut down all lockers. However, since then Smarte Carte has developed a locker system approved by the TSA, which would require a fingerprint scan to rent. Only four airports so far have re-implemented the self-service lockers though. You can find them in Minneapolis, Las Vegas, Portland and Atlanta.

Free Wi-Fi

Airports in Las Vegas, Pittsburgh, Orlando, San Diego, Fort Lauderdale, Denver and Portland, Oregon let you surf the web for free. However, you’ll be asked for a credit card number if you’re in Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, San Francisco or Washington, D.C. You’d think that every airport would offer free Wi-Fi, especially with the increase in flight delays and security screening lines. Check out some Wi-Fi locator websites online to see whether your airport has added free Wi-Fi into the mix.

Massages and manicures

Manicure stations along with day spas and massage bars that offer aromatherapy, oxygen treatments and a full list of salon-style services are making their way into airports as well. They’ve actually become the fastest growing category of airport amenities. More and more branches are opening up weekly so check your airport website for the latest openings.

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