Always be prepared: TPG employees share how they make their travel days easier.

Since many TPG employees are often on the move, we each set our own route for an easy travel day. Every trip, from packing to negotiating airports, has become second nature. And in this guide, four TPG employees weigh in on their favorite travel tips.

You’ll see some familiar tips like Priority Pass lounge access, but we’ll also cover some lesser-known tips on when to withdraw cash from an ATM without a fee.

So without further ado, let’s dive in.

Ryan Smith, Credit Cards Writer

Most people will tell you to mentally dress while packing so you don’t forget anything. Shoes, socks, pants…so the story goes.

I use the same concept when carrying my handbag. I visualize the trip and think about what I need and in what order I will use it. The first items I put in my bag are the ones I won’t need any time soon. The last items – those that I can easily access – are the items that I need to use between my home and my final destination.

This includes my headphones, phone charger and wallet, for example. You’ll need to get your ID or passport at the security checkpoint, so packing these items first (buried deep in your bag) doesn’t make sense. It slows you down at security, it slows you down when you’re trying to buy an abundance of airport coffee, and it makes you sad when you’re digging through your carry-on bag for those elusive headphones during your flight.

Think about what items you won’t need on the day of your trip and put them in your carry-on bag first. The last items you pack will be the easiest to access. These should be things you need on the road: ID, wallet, medicine, phone charger, etc.

Katie Genter, high points and miles reporter

Regardless of my trip, many of my travel habits are the same. For example, I always set an alarm on my Fitbit and phone if I need to get up at a certain time. To pack on the day of my trip, I leave only the items I want to use in the morning and pack what I can at night.

If I’m flying, on my way to the airport, I check what airport lounges are available at my departure and connection points. And if I’m driving, I look at my route and think about where I want to stop for food and rest before hitting the road.

Upon arrival at the airport, I check the priority lines I can use for check-in, security and – if I’m traveling internationally – immigration. Sometimes my status, fare type or even credit card can open up shorter lines. Then I head to the lounge or find a seat in the terminal to do some work and last minute work.

For example, if I’m traveling internationally, I check that my Airalo Discover Global eSIM covers my destination before boarding my flight. In that case, I’ll check the Airalo app for the network name covered and take a screenshot of the settings I need once I get to my destination. If not, I wonder if buying a separate SIM makes sense for my trip.

If I have a long layover at my departure or connection point in a lounge or airport terminal, I’ll set an alarm on my Fitbit about 15 minutes before my scheduled boarding time. This time, I reach a stopover in my work and grab a last snack to make sure my flight is on time.

If I’m at my destination and need money, I’ll visit an ATM (especially if it’s in a country that uses my currency). Fortunately, my Charles Schwab debit card pays at ATMs around the world, so I don’t have to worry about the high fees that airport ATMs often charge. If I’m traveling internationally, I can price out local SIM cards at the airport and buy one if the price is right.

Once at my landing, I unpack and walk around the property and – unless it’s late, unsafe or too hot – camp. Especially for longer stays, getting used to your accommodation and neighborhood on your first day will make the rest of your stay smoother.

Emily Thompson, Credit Cards Writer

I usually leave early on my travel days, so most of my prep is done in the evening.

Before I go to bed I double check my packing list and circle anything I need to take care of in the morning. I make sure I have the right credit cards in my wallet and enough snacks in case of unexpected delays. Finally, I took out my ID and set up my coffee maker for a few minutes before leaving the next morning.

When I wake up on the day of departure, I make sure my flight is on time. Then I check my bag again for essentials: ID, headphones, book, water bottle and laptop. I pour my coffee into a disposable cup to drink in the car on the way to the airport, so I get my caffeine fix even if the airport coffee shops aren’t open yet or have long lines. And trust me, I don’t want to order coffee on the plane.

I make sure I fill up my water bottle when I get to the airport and go through security, and I often buy more. Never skip a travel day moisturizer!

Kyle Olsen, points and miles reporter

I generally plan my flight in the afternoon to maximize the start of my day – whether it’s work or leisure.

I take public transportation to the airport whenever possible, so I check Google Maps and Citymappers to see my options. Alternatively, I call Lyft to take me to the airport, where I pay 2 Delta SkyMiles per dollar and 10 Chase Ultimate Rewards per dollar on my Chase Sapphire Reserve card.

I do my best not to check my luggage. If you check bags and your flight is delayed or canceled, there is no guarantee that your bag will arrive on your next flight. Don’t think you’re out of the danger zone by gate-checking your bag – I had to wait several days to get a gate-checked bag after the plane had a maintenance issue and all passengers were boarded. He was arrested again.

Anyway, thanks to my Premier 1K status with United, I have complimentary Clear membership. Combined with TSA PreCheck, I’m generally through security in less than five minutes.

Years ago, credit card lounge access could be trusted, but with full American Express Centrion Lounges and United Clubs, I’ve started looking for lesser-known ways to “kill” time in airports. In the case of Star Alliance Gold, I often look at partner lounges because they have access to almost anything. But United Club as United Premier Gold or above. Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) has an Air Canada Maple Leaf Club in the terminal next to United – it’s always quiet. Another good bet is the Turkish Airlines lounge at Dulles International Airport (IAD). If you get there, try the mouth-watering baklava.

Mine Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card It gives me access to the Plaza Premium lounges. Some of my favorites include the Virgin Atlantic lounges at IAD and San Francisco International Airport (SFO).

On a recent visit, I was blown away by the Capital One lounge at Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport (DFW). There were plenty of locally inspired choices, including plenty of grab-and-go options. After lunch, I took to the pedals on a peloton bike overlooking the taxiway at DFW. I left the Capital One lounge and found a long line leading out of the Admirals Club.

No matter what, I always check LoungeBuddy to see what lounge I can find (you can type in your airline status and credit cards for a personalized list). And soon, it’s time to board. If you can, make sure you get on board before the overhead bins fill up.

I use the app on Air to notify me of flight updates via text message. Often times, I am notified of flight delays before the gate agent or pilot takes the PN. The app also has an elegant interface that lets you track your flights in the air, giving you a great way to see your mileage statistics and flight patterns.

at last

Game planning before your travel dates is the secret to a stress-free and enjoyable experience. And part of that game plan is contingency planning when things don’t go to plan. When is the next flight? Are there other salons you can access?

Before long, you’ll settle into a routine that’s comfortable for you. And who knows, if you’re like us, maybe you’ll start enjoying it.