Time saving travel tips
In light of recent events and talk of tightening security measures even further, there's never been a better time to consider ways of cutting back on time spent at the airport, as well as on your overall journey from doorstep to destination.
Cheapflights.co.uk, the UK's leading website for flight search and comparison, helps travellers ensure a smoother journey with these Tested Time Saving Tips.
"With events like Valentine's and half term coming up, airports are about to get busy and recent events have put security measures into focus yet again. Putting a little extra thought into packing as well into time of arrival at the airport can go a long way to ensuring a smoother overall journey," says Nadine Hallak, Travel Expert for Cheapflights.co.uk.
Check in: Save time in the check-in queue by checking in online, printing out your own boarding pass, and securing your seat selection during that process. If carrying hand luggage only, you can bypass bag drop too and proceed to security. Remember that busier airports will have longer check-in procedures, so being familiar with the rules and preparing for them will help save time. Travellers who are flexible with hours should try to avoid peak days and times.
Security check: Dress to avoid the pat down. Metallic items in the form of large belt buckles will set off the detector, and high heeled or thick-soled shoes will mean they have to come off. If they must be worn, then selecting a pair that's easy to remove is the next best option. Additionally, having loose change, keys, mobile phones, watches, and liquid items already placed in plastic bags or in easily accessible places makes them ready for the conveyor, and saves time. Travellers should also avoid over packaging items carried in hand luggage so that everything inside is easily identifiable by the scanner and requires no further inspection.
Bag it well: Bags with easy access flaps and plenty of different pockets make belongings easy to locate if necessary. The currently highly fashionable messenger bag was created for people on the go, and is recommended for time saving and improving comfort.
Apply logic: Avoid carrying forbidden items such as sharp objects in the form of nail scissors as well as aerosol deodorants, lighters and anything else that may not logically pass security.
Rules pertaining to permissible liquid measurements may vary. If in doubt, check both airport and airline websites for security and hand baggage regulations, and remember that rules may vary by airline and airport. Beverages of any kind including water will not be permitted through security, and should be purchased once you have been cleared.
Reduce lotions and potions: Avoid taking unnecessary items such as shampoo, soap, and conditioner as most hotels will provide these. If staying in alternate accommodation, check whether these items are supplied, and, if not, travel sizes can be purchased at the airport once through the security check.
Alternate airports: Save time on the journey by checking whether your destination has more than one airport that may offer closer proximity to your final destination. Istanbul, for example, has both Ataturk International and Sabiha Goken International. The former is located on the European side while the latter is on the Asian side, better situated for those headed to the shores of Marmara. Milan is another prime example for dual airports with Linate located just four miles east of the city centre while Malpensa is located 29 miles North West of it.
For detailed information on airports, visit: cheapflights.co.uk