April 22nd, 2010 by admin

Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) is one of the largest airports in the United States and serves as primary gateway for United Airlines and American Airlines. It’s also one of the busiest airports in the world, ranking second behind London Heathrow Airport (LHR), so it’s

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Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) is one of the largest airports in the United States and serves as the primary gateway for United Airlines and American Airlines. It’s also one of the busiest airports in the world, ranking second behind London Heathrow Airport (LHR), so it’s no wonder many travelers experience a high level of stress and frustration upon visiting. While the airport has been voted among the best in North America, it does have many drawbacks.



Fortunately, there are some ways to save time and look forward to a less harried experience. Here are some simple strategies for saving time at Chicago O’Hare International Airport.

1. Reserve an airport shuttle or taxi ahead of time.

When you’ve confirmed your flight’s landing time st O’Hare, make a reservation for a taxi or shuttle service so you don’t have to wait in line for ground transportation. If you don’t have a reservation, you’ll either have to hail a cab from the designated taxi area or wait in line at the reservation booth. O’Hare Chicago and American Taxi are just two of the leading taxi and transportation companies that service the airport.

2. Download a map of the airport.

Get a head start by downloading a map directly from websites such as Fox World Travel. Print out the terminal map and pack it in your carry-on so you don’t waste time navigating crowds en route to the right concourse.

3. Use the virtual kiosks for local information.

O’Hare International Airport has set up several Virtual Concierge kiosks in each of its baggage claim areas that provide airport information in eight different languages, weather updates and information about local events and attractions. If you need the latest updates about Chicago and the surrounding area, head to one of these terminals for a quick status check.

4. Make use of valet parking if you’re running late.

Chicago O’ Hare International Airport offers valet parking and free shuttle bus and transportation to each terminal. If you’re running behind schedule, consider requesting valet service so that you don’t miss your flight. Navigating through the hourly and daily parking lots on your own can add several precious minutes to your trip.

5. Head straight to the terminal before making a pit stop for snacks.

You’ll find food and drink vendors in every terminal at Chicago O’Hare International Airport, so don’t spend time in line at one of the food courts that aren’t in your concourse or near your final destination. Make getting to the terminal your top priority, then head to the food vendors to make purchases.

6. Ride the EL train.

The EL train is an elevated railroad that runs through Chicago every day and makes a stop right at Chicago International Airport. You can avoid paying high taxi cab fares or fees for car rental if you have just a few bags, light carry-on luggage and don’t mind using public transportation. It’s a cheap and efficient way to get yourself into the city when you’re short on time, and it’s also one of the most reliable forms of transportation in the area.



7. Track your flight online.
Most flights are listed on Chicago O’Hare’s website, so you don’t have to spend time trying to find a monitor when you arrive at the airport to see if your flight is on time. Log onto the airport’s website using your PDA device or from an Internet connection at your hotel to keep your schedule on track.

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