The Tampa International Airport’s social media team recently asked its Facebook community members to share some of their top TPA travel tips. Hundreds of responses quickly piled up, with several common favorites emerging. Here are four tips pulled straight from commenters to help make your next journey through TPA a little easier.
1. Use those Blue Express Curbsides
If you’re traveling with just a carry-on bag and have your boarding pass ready to go, use the Blue Express Curbside for an easy drop off and pick up. Located on the Blue Side of the Main Terminal, this curbside allows passengers to connect directly from the street to the Transfer Level without mingling with the Baggage or Ticketing levels. No matter which airline you’re flying on (the Red Side is now under construction), this curbside provides a fast experience the next time you choose to fly.
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2. Book parking ahead of time
Commentators suggest parking in the Economy Garage and taking the SkyConnect train to the Main Terminal for an easy experience. Also, they highly recommended pre-booking your spot in order to secure a space and save some money.
If you’re looking for a parking option a little closer to your gate, another user’s hack is to find a spot on the fourth floor of the Long Term Garage. This floor’s walkway to the Main Terminal is the closest and quickest way to get to all airsides. Plus, new moving walkways will have you on your way faster than ever.
3. Check out the private rooms for traveling mothers
A must-know hack when traveling through TPA are the nursing rooms. Traveling mothers looking for privacy will find these nursing rooms located in the Main Terminal and at each airside. These spaces, which offer comfortable seating, outlets, changing tables and sinks, allow mothers to take care of their little ones before their flight in the comfort of a private area.
4. Check your bag ahead of time
TPA has a remote bag check service that offers travelers the option to check their luggage at the Rental Car Center. This eliminates the need to lug bags on the SkyConnect train and through the terminals. This service is free and allows individuals to travel bag-free between the Rental Car Center and the Main Terminal. Click here to watch a short video that highlights this feature.