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- Before you leave, check that everyone has their tickets, passports, insurance policies, and airline tickets. The same rules apply when you return from your holiday!
- Pack light. If you can travel with just hand luggage (which is possible for trips of less than one week), you will save both time and money. Check the hand luggage weight and size limits of each airline, as they vary widely. Make sure that all electronic devices that you carry in your hand baggage are fully charged. You should always carry some medication in your handbag if you take any.
- You can avoid a large check-in fee by weighing your luggage before you travel or booking and paying for extra bags.
- When driving to the airport, make sure there aren’t any roadworks and allow extra time for travel during busy seasons. Check for engineering work if you are using public transportation. They’re usually scheduled on weekends and bank holidays to avoid interfering with commuters’ journeys to work. You can save money by booking your airport parking ahead of time. Consider travelling to the airport a day in advance. Many hotels near the airport provide a stay-and-park service, and most airlines allow you to check in the night before so that you can go straight to your departure gate on the next day. Checking in online will save time at the airport.
- The exchange rates at airport bureaux de change are not competitive. So, it is best to buy your foreign currency in advance.
- Prepare yourself for the security check. Remove your jackets, belts, and coats. Also, remove all electronic items from their covers and bags BEFORE you reach the security personnel. Remember that liquids (including toothpaste) can only be taken in 100ml bottles and must be in a clear plastic bag. These simple steps will help you and others in line move faster. You can charge your laptop or smartphone in many UK airports. Or, you can purchase a portable charger.
- Although UK airports are working towards introducing new scanners and security checks, many UK airports will not be fully up and running for travel this summer with the latest scanners. ABTA advises travellers to continue following the existing rules regarding liquids and removing electronic devices when preparing for their trip. For more information, please see our advice about the new UK airport scanners.
- Bring along the essentials such as diapers, wipes, etc., and to keep your children entertained, a selection of games, crayons, and colouring books.
- Most people, especially nervous flyers, will drink some alcohol at airports. Do not drink too much alcohol, as the airlines can refuse you entry if they believe you are drunk.
- Finally, if your handbags and coats are too big to fit in the overhead lockers, don’t put them up. Other people will need the space for their bags, and it will slow down everyone’s take-off.
- Remember to have enough money to cover any possible departure taxes.
