Not every airport offers the same travel experience. A new ranking of the 20 busiest airports in the U.S. found that Chicago O'Hare is the country's most stressful airport, thanks to frequent delays, expensive parking, and a long commute into the city.

New York's airports also scored poorly. LaGuardia, JFK, and Newark all ranked among the most stressful because of high parking fees, heavy traffic, and regular flight disruptions.

On the other hand, Minneapolis–Saint Paul earned the title of America's least stressful major airport. Travelers benefit from strong on-time performance, reasonable parking costs, and quick access to downtown. Phoenix Sky Harbor and San Francisco International also ranked among the easiest airports to travel through.

While travelers can't always choose which airport they use, those with multiple flight options may want to compare more than just ticket prices. Airport convenience, parking costs, and reliability can make a noticeable difference to the overall travel experience.

The Takeaway: The airport you choose can have a bigger impact on your trip than you might expect. If you have flexibility, consider factors like delays, parking, and travel time—not just airfare—before booking.