You’re balancing a coffee in one hand, rolling your suitcase with the other, and checking your flight info as you walk. The airport is buzzing, and you still have to find your gate, grab something to eat, and maybe even figure out where the bathrooms are. Sound familiar? Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) can be a lot, especially if you’re short on time or energy.

Maybe you just dropped off your Seattle airport car rental or hopped off the light rail, ready to check in. Either way, getting through the airport smoothly is all about knowing the little tricks that can make a big difference. Here are 5 easy ways to make traveling through Seattle Airport a whole lot better.

1. Skip the Long Security Line with SEA Spot Saver

Security lines can be the worst part of flying, but not at SEA, thanks to Spot Saver. This free service lets you reserve a TSA screening time in advance. You’ll glide past the general line and head straight to screening at your chosen time. It’s available from 4 a.m. to 10 p.m., and you don’t need any special membership or account. Simply book online and present your confirmation when you arrive. Done and done.

2. Take the Light Rail and Avoid the Traffic

If you’re coming from downtown Seattle or nearby areas, the Link Light Rail is your best friend. It’s fast, clean, and gets you to the airport in about 40 minutes without sitting in traffic or searching for parking. The SeaTac/Airport Station connects to the terminal through a covered walkway, so you’re protected even in classic Seattle drizzle.

3. Order Your Food in Advance with OrderSEA

Hate standing in food court lines when you’re already hungry? Use OrderSEA, a mobile ordering service that works with restaurants inside the airport. Just browse the menus online, place your order, and pick it up when it’s ready. It’s a great way to grab a fresh meal without wasting time or running the risk of becoming “hangry.”

4. Use the Underground Train to Move Faster

SEA is a big airport, and you’ll probably need to get from one terminal to another at some point. That’s where the SEA Underground comes in. It’s an easy-to-use train system that runs frequently and connects all the concourses, including the North and South Satellites. You’ll save time and energy — no need to speed walk through crowds.

5. Plan Parking or Rides Ahead of Time

The on-site parking garage at SEA fills up fast, especially during busy travel seasons. If you’re driving, check space availability online or book off-site parking that includes a shuttle. Not driving? Rideshares like Uber and Lyft are convenient, but it’s helpful to know where the pickup zones are located. Or you can just take public transit to skip all of it.

Final Approach: Your Smooth SEA Experience

Now you know how to make traveling through Seattle airport easier. With these five tips, you can avoid the usual stress and actually enjoy your time at SEA — maybe even with enough breathing room to browse the shops or relax before your flight.

The next time you’re flying into or out of Seattle, you want to do your best to keep things simple. A little prep goes a long way, and your airport experience doesn’t have to be a scramble. Simply get your boarding pass ready and use these tips to breeze through SEA like a pro!