It might sound obvious but if possible, travel with hand luggage only and check in online before arriving at the airport to avoid queues.
But make sure your hand luggage meets the specific permitted dimensions of your airline, says Jane Hawkes, a consumer expert specialising in the travel industry, as they are not generic.
Other advice when flying includes:
If you do have bags to check in and are staying or living close to the airport, you could try using a twilight bag drop or bag collection service, says consumer group Which?
Arrive at the airport as per the recommended times given – usually around two hours before take-off for short-haul flights, and three hours for long-haul flights
Keep all travel documents handy so they are easily accessible whenever needed
Be “conveyor belt-ready” by taking off belts and shoes and removing laptops from bags in good time, and ensure liquids up to 100ml are in clear plastic resealable bags as appropriate
Ms Hawkes adds that holidaymakers should be prepared for delays due to the sheer volume of people travelling at this time of year, and take adequate provisions.
“Know your consumer rights before you travel so you don’t have to think on the spot in the event of inevitable delays or cancellations.”
Rory Boland, editor of Which? Travel, adds: “If you do find yourself stuck in a queue and your flight is due to depart shortly, make a fuss and ask a member of staff to take you to the front.
“If it looks like you’ll miss the flight through no fault of your own, it is important to tell your airline as soon as you can.”
Credit: Source link
