As we begin to put winter in the rear-view mirror, millions of Americans are preparing to hit the skies. As relaxing as sitting on the beach in Florida may be, navigating a busy airport can be just the opposite – stressful.

This month, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is expecting an increase in passenger volume by 5% with some reports expecting more than 170 million passengers catching a flight.

Save time and eliminate stress this season when you travel from Chicago Rockford International Airport (RFD), which serves as a great option for a spring break getaway.

RFD offers several destinations, perfect for a spring break vacation including Cancun, and Rivera Maya in Mexico, Ft. Myers, Punta Gorda, and Sarasota in Florida, Phoenix, Arizona, Las Vegas, Nevada, Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic, and Costa Rica.

Beyond offering great international and domestic spring break destinations, RFD provides exceptional services to enhance the traveler experience. As part of the global Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program, RFD helps passengers discreetly signal their need for extra time due to hidden disabilities. Additionally, RFD participates in the TSA Cares Program, which offers security procedure guidance to assist travelers with disabilities, medical conditions, or other special needs in preparing for screening.

Whether you’re traveling from RFD or flying out of any other airport in the country, this blog provides tips to ensure you don’t spend precious relaxation time dealing with the challenges of traveling.

1. Pack Smart: Efficient packing reduces the number of bags you need, saving money on baggage fees. Smart packing also makes it easier to navigate crowded airports and minimizes stress by ensuring you have all your essentials.
2. Have a valid ID: It’s crucial to have an acceptable form of identification, such as a U.S. passport or a valid state-issued ID. Spring break may also be a great time to obtain a REAL ID, as starting May 7, 2025, it will be required for all domestic flights in the U.S. A REAL ID not only speeds up the check-in process by meeting federal security standards but also eliminates the need for additional documents.
3. Pack your patience: With more than 170 million people taking to the skies, prepare for busy airports and follow TSA guidelines to expedite the process. In addition to busy airports, travelers could experience traffic and transportation delays.
4. Arrive Early: Allow yourself plenty of time to get through security, especially during peak hours. Some additional advantages to getting to the airport early include giving yourself more time to handle unexpected delays, avoiding the stress of being rushed, and giving you a chance to get a last-minute bite to eat before onboarding begins.
5. What to Know at RFD: It has never been easier to fly out of RFD, as soon as you arrive the benefits begin with complimentary shuttle services and short lines. RFD also offers express lanes that allow travelers and their families to pick up or drop off passengers at the curb directly in front of the terminal. For parking, RFD offers advanced and drive-up booking options as well as valet parking and full-service car washes. Unique services like the Hidden Disabilities Program and TSA Cares add an additional level of customer experience.

RFD is a great travel option for spring break 2025. Travelers will save time, money and avoid much of the stress that traditionally comes with flying during one of the busiest times of the year.

While some travel challenges are unavoidable with millions taking to the skies, keeping these tips in mind will help ensure your trip feels like the getaway you deserve.