6 Travel Essentials for the ‘Airport Theory’ Challenge

How early should one arrive at the airport before a flight? Two hours? Maybe three? While this answer typically varies from person to person, one internet theory posits that you only need 15 minutes to make your flight—and travelers are now risking their seats to put it to the test.

The premise of TikTok’s now-viral Airport Theory is simple: You should be able to walk right up to your gate at boarding time within 15 minutes of your arrival at the airport. The theory suggests that a quarter-hour cushion is enough to make it in time, without having to sit around at your gate before takeoff.

Now, hundreds of thousands of travelers are documenting their Airport Theory attempts every step of the way. While many TikTokers have been able to successfully pull it off by finding ways to save time, like traveling carry-on-only or enrolling in TSA Pre-Check, others have failed, forcing them to scramble to book a later flight.

Considering the exorbitant cost of flights and the general unpredictability of air travel, we’re hesitant to suggest that anyone should test the Airport Theory out for themselves. But if you’re up for the challenge, we recommend enlisting the help of a few time-saving travel essentials. Ahead are six products that can help you shave off the time it takes to get to your gate, including stretchy slip-on shoes, TSA-friendly toiletry sets, and one-and-done airport outfits, starting at $10.

Best Overall Airport Theory Travel Essentials

Trendy Queen Matching 2-piece Set

The Airport Theory challenge is all about finding sneaky ways to save time, and one easy way you can do this is by planning your airport outfit the night before. We recommend opting for something fuss-free and easy to move around in. This stretchy two-piece set from Trendy Queen—complete with flowy, wide-leg pants and a versatile t-shirt you can wear with just about anything in your suitcase—is perfect for the job.

Samsonite Freeform Carry-on Spinner

Checking a bag takes time, so consider going carry-on-only for this challenge. The key is to pack a carry-on that’s both spacious and easy to maneuver. This Samsonite Freeform Carry-on is so roomy, you won’t feel like you’re compromising on space; it expands to accommodate extra clothes, and one traveler shared they were able to fit everything they needed for a four-week trek to Scotland. It’s also equipped with a telescopic handle and four 360-degree spinning wheels that move in every direction, allowing you to zip through your airport terminal quickly.

Tocelffe Travel Toiletry Bottle Set

A clear, travel-sized toiletry bottle set will help you avoid the time suck of getting your carry-on inspected at security. This Tocelffe set includes 10 TSA-approved silicone bottles, plastic jars, and spray bottles so you can bring your favorite haircare and skincare products with you—all packaged neatly within a see-through, zippered travel case.

Waterfly Crossbody Sling Bag

For this challenge, you’ll want to be able to access your electronics, boarding pass, or passport at a moment’s notice. An organized sling bag can help you whip out these items without having to fumble through your carry-on or personal item bag. This Waterfly Sling Bag, on sale for $25, is large enough to fit an 11-inch tablet and is flush with interior and exterior pockets and compartments, providing dedicated spaces for all of your must-have essentials.

Charmast Portable Charger

You’ll want to start your Airport Theory challenge attempt with a fully-charged phone, of course, but you should also have a backup power bank on deck. Even if you’re able to pull right up to your gate with minutes to spare, you may not have enough time to recharge your devices—and we wouldn’t wish an hours-long flight without Netflix on our worst enemies. Keep your phone charged on the go with this Charmast Portable Charger; it’s slim, powerful, and has four built-in charging cables, so you won’t have to waste time fishing around for one in your carry-on.

Skechers Go Walk Flex Hands-free Slip-in Sneakers

Finally, we recommend stepping into a pair of supportive slip-on sneakers before attempting this challenge. Not only will they cut back on the time it takes you to get dressed for your flight, but in the event you have to make a mad dash for your gate, you’ll be able to run there comfortably. These Skechers Go Walk Flex Slip-ins, which have stretchy laces, are a solid choice. They’ve got padded heel pillows to prevent blisters, flexible traction outsoles, and cooling memory foam insoles to help you chill out on the plane (after successfully completing the Airport Theory challenge, of course). 

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