Press Release

Terminal Trauma?

17 July 2008

The key to avoiding a nightmare at the airport this summer is timing and preparation, says Which? Holiday.

Holidays should be about rest and relaxation, but with the summer holidays fast approaching, the thought of being at an airport has many holidaymakers breaking out in cold sweats. But Which? Holiday reports that there are a number of things people can do before they reach the airport to ensure their holiday starts stress-free.

• Check ticket details at the time of booking – you could get turned away at check-in if any of the details are incorrect, for example, passenger names, time of flight and date of flight.
• Advanced Passenger Details – people flying to Spain or the USA should remember to complete Advanced Passenger Details before flying. With some airlines, this has to be done before you arrive at the airport.
• Check hand and hold luggage allowances – airlines all have baggage restrictions, but these differ between companies. Make sure you do not go over weight or size restrictions on your luggage. Also, ensure you are not carrying sharp objects in your hand luggage, such as scissors, as these are considered a security risk.
• Book airport parking in advance – by booking ahead you can save almost half the airport daily parking charge.
• Check-in online – if you only have hand luggage, go to the airlines’ website and check in. This way you can go straight to the security gate and avoid some of the queues.
• Allow enough time to go through security – some passengers queued for 40 minutes to reach the security scanners last summer at Gatwick. The best way of coping with these queues is to arrive at the airport with plenty of time to spare.
• Label luggage correctly – although there is no foolproof method to prevent luggage from going astray, always ensure your suitcase is labelled inside and out. Include name, address and mobile phone details, and also information about your destination airport.
• Airport lounges – for a quiet relaxing wait, book into an airport lounge. Prices range from £12-£19, and snacks and drinks are included in the price.

Lorna Cowan, editor Which? Holiday, says:

“Airports can be stressful places at anytime of the year, but with passenger numbers significantly increasing during school holidays, the next few months will be particularly exasperating.

“The key to surviving the airport experience, and starting your holiday on a high is preparation. A few small steps can make all the difference between a relaxing trip or complete holiday hell.”