Flying is now a more affordable and easy way to travel than ever before, but it means airports are also increasingly busy. All the convenience and speed of a quick flight can be lost if you get stuck in a jam at the airport. You can avoid time-wasting and stress on your journey with a little forward-thinking, just follow these simple tips:
1. Manage your journey online
When at all possible, aim to book a flight outside peak hours. These are usually early in the morning (before 9.30am) or in the afternoon to early evening (3.30pm to 7.30pm). If you can travel outside these times, the airport will be quieter.
Check in online, in the comfort of your home, to avoid queues at the airport. You may also choose your seat in advance online, to avoid the stress of rushing to get a good one on the day.
Always check the status of your flight before leaving for the airport, too. It might not save you time boarding, but it’ll give you more time if the flight’s delayed, and saves a wasted journey if the flight is cancelled.
2. Dress appropriately
The airport is not always the best location to express your personality in clothing. Dress practically, considering security protocols. Avoid any clothing with a lot of metal, and wear as little jewellery as possible. Be aware of any metal items that you do carry and make sure they can be easily removed, including belts. Try to avoid bulky clothing or too many layers, as you will likely have to remove all coats and jackets at the security gates. Consider your footwear, too: the easier to slip on and off, the better.
3. Pack appropriately
Check the airline guidelines for what you can and cannot carry, both in your cabin-luggage and your hold-luggage. Weigh your packed bags to make sure they fit the airline’s guidelines. Always double-check the airline’s guidelines, as these details can vary between providers, and between international and domestic flights. Title your luggage clearly with labels, or other obvious marks, so that you can spot them immediately at the other end of the flight.
Pack neatly, avoiding clutter, especially with your cabin-luggage, in case you need to get something or the bags are inspected. Pack anything you are likely to need near the top, for instance reading material for the flight. Make sure your travel documents are easily accessible: if possible, carry them on your person rather than in your luggage.
4. Research the airport layout
Modern airports can be large and confusing, so check maps before you arrive. Make a note of your flight’s terminal and any relevant check-in areas and possible gate numbers before you arrive. The last thing you want when flying abroad is to check the departure boards and find the international and domestic flights areas are in completely different zones of the airport.
You can find maps of airport layouts online, familiarise yourself with them. Make sure you know where to go before travelling to the airport to avoid time pressures on the day.
5. Make use of your queuing time
Even if you’re fully organised, queues at the airport are often unavoidable. Use your time efficiently, especially when approaching the security gates. Before arriving at checkpoints, have your travel documents out and ready and your belongings prepared for security. Remove belts, shoes, jackets and everything from your pockets whilst queuing and you will get through security quicker: don’t wait until it’s your turn. It will also speed up the process for everyone else.
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