Travel

TikTok’s Airport Theory Reeks of Privilege (And It’s Terrible for Parents)

Race you to the gate, said no mom ever

Rachel Bowie

By Rachel Bowie

Published May 19, 2025

During a late night scan of TikTok, I happened upon a growing trend: Airport Theory, the idea that you can show up to the airport just 15 minutes before boarding begins, breeze through security and still make your flight. One TikTok user—who accomplished this feat thanks to TSA pre-check—bragged that he even had time to pick up a couple of in-flight essentials before arriving at his gate. This seems…insane.

Senior Director, Special Projects and Royals

Rachel Bowie

Senior Director, Special Projects and Royals

  • Writes and produces family, fashion, wellness, relationships, money and royals content
  • Podcast co-host and published author with a book about the British Royal Family
  • Studied sociology at Wheaton College and received a masters degree in journalism from Emerson College

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