Rollins's Rules: Los Angeles International Airport
Henry Rollins shares his travel tips for navigating LAX
Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is one of the busiest airports in the world. Punk icon Henry Rollins shares his pro tips for the best ways to navigate through LAX, whether it's during the busy holiday season or any time of year.
"I consider myself a citizen of the world. I am out in it often. While I am gone over 162 days a year traveling and touring, my home base is LA. I spend an inordinate amount of my time at LAX. Here’s a few tips to help you power through and enjoy the ride, even before you board the plane. Let’s hit it!"
1. Arrive Early & Fly Early
Rollins Rule: "LAX is a bustling cultural passageway hosting millions of people a year. That's why I try to arrive early for an early flight. Less lines, less waiting. But really, it doesn't matter when you get here, because you are never alone at LAX."
2. Self Service Check-In
Rollins Rule: "Take advantage of modern technology. Automated check-in - both regular and biometric - is a miracle. If you want to save time and not stand in line, automated check-in is the way to go."
3. Pack Light
Rollins Rule: "Pack light. Only as much as you can run with."
4. Don’t Put Your ID Away
Rollins Rule: "You're gonna want to keep your ID at the ready 'cause you're gonna have to use it at least one more time before you get on the plane. Please don’t make me stand behind you in line as you fish through your cargo pants for your ID."
5. Make Time for Breakfast
Rollins Rule: "You have no doubt had the less-than-great airport meal experience. LAX is turning that on its head with fantastic restaurants everywhere you look. So, next time you come to LAX, get here early, find a seat, and dive into some really good food." Pro tip: Pre-order food for pick-up or have it delivered directly to your gate using LAXOrderNow.com.
6. Make Eye Contact
Rollins Rule: "When you return to America, you're going to be dealing with Immigration. Your passport will be looked at and you will be asked some questions. Answer politely, make eye contact - a smile is OK - but just remember, these men and women work very long hours and it's very intense work. They're looking at paperwork, they're looking at you. Because their job is to keep America safe."
7. Reward Yourself with a Business Class Ticket
Rollins Rule: "I’ve got a lifetime of upgrades and executive lounges. I’ve earned it. Reward yourself for all those years of middle seats with a business class ticket. It gives you exclusive access to LAX’s executive lounges. Hydrate, relax, even try a hot shower."
8. PUP Program
Rollins Rule: "I am always in a hurry. But I always have time for a dog. LAX has therapy dogs to greet you whether you are departing or arriving, in case you feel like giving unconditional affection to a friendly four-legged creature."
9. Global Entry
Rollins Rule: "[Global Entry] is my favorite kiosk. You take the face page of your passport, you put it in, it gets scanned, you follow the directions, you get your receipt, you proceed forward, and within two minutes you're at the baggage carousel. It's the only way to go. Also worth investigating is the Mobile Passport App. It’s free."
"I want to make LA more analog. I want to remind people that LA is a village, a community at heart despite the sprawl. We welcome everyone. And where do we touch down? LAX! Your turn." ~ Henry Rollins