Transportation service for travelers at Tampa International Airport

Getting around Tampa International Airport
With millions of people coming through TPA every year, the facility has its work cut out for it. On a daily basis, Tampa International breaks an impressive sweat, yet still manages to come out on top as one of the most diverse and professional airports in the country. With close proximity to downtown and several architectural awards, the time you wait for a delay will fly by. Whether it’s your first time visiting the city or your first time flying in general, there are a few things to remember before boarding.

Prepare for Airport Security
Don’t let stress hit you when you get to security, instead doing your part so the whole process moves faster. Do so with a bit of planning, whether it be through simple measures like taking your shoes off before stepping through TSA or helpful gestures like making sure your bags are packed and organized in case you get stopped by security for random screening. Either way, consider any delay or wait a benefit toward you and those around you. Be sure to also remove all metals before entering the line as well as putting your ID and boarding pass somewhere safe.

Make a Checklist
The best way to keep up with what you need to do is through a checklist. Write yours a day in advance of your trip, allowing yourself to get ahead of the curve. If you’re flying abroad, check the international rates of your mobile carrier, making sure each minute you spend on the phone doesn’t cost you an hour of work. Be sure to also bring important prescriptions you may need, and think twice about all documentation, whether it’s a student ID that could get you a discount or an official government document you need to board the flight. Make paper copies of everything so you have back-ups.

Basic Travel Tips
Board your flight easily by following some basic tips that are sure to steer you in the right direction. One of the most helpful tools today is the assistance of modern technology, which allows you to check in to your flight through your airline’s app, most of which are available through the iTunes or Android App stores. Another important thing to keep track of is time - arrive early, at least an hour, giving yourself a moment to breath so the rush of getting to the airport doesn’t stop you from smelling the flowers.

Retail Shops
Nothing satisfies boredom like the art of shopping. Take advantage of your surroundings, whether you’re waiting for a ride to pick you up or a steel bird to whisk you away, by spending some time in the Main Terminal. While you’re there, enjoy the nifty devices from tech on the go, or pick up a local hand-crafted bracelets from Shalimar’s Jewelry. If you find yourself in Concourse F, pick up a local souvenir from Gulf Coast Mercantile, a gift-shop that also provides basic flight necessities. For local headlines, walk over to Concourse E, home to The Tampa Bay Times Store as well as exclusive gifts.

Restaurants
Balance everything out with a well-balanced meal from any of the local eateries scattered across TPA. Eat some fresh Mexican at Qdoba in the Main Terminal or sit-down for a star-studded meal at Hard Rock Cafe next-door. If you need a pick-me-up, pick up some local coffee at Bay Coffee and Tea Company, located in Concourse A. If you need a bring-me-down, grab a beer and catch the game at Ducky’s Sports Lounge next-door. For some local Italian, head to Bavaro’s Pizza Napoletana & Pastaria, or enjoy some creative seafood at RumFish Grill, located in the same food court. Top off a meal the right way with something sweet from Yogurtology, a local dessert shop located in Concourse F.

Services
Nothing makes traveling easier than the helpful services from Tampa International’s award-winning staff. If you have any questions, ask a Guest Service Representative at the information kiosk located in the center of Level 3 of the Main Terminal. Currency Exchange is in the same area. The airport is also home to the USO Welcome Center, which honors every military family with a private lounge near Level 2’s Ticketing Level. If you’ve lost something important, contact your airline to be directed toward their Lost & Found division. The airport is also home to public art program that’s been relaxing passengers with the magic of local creators for decades past and decades to come.