Christian Little

The abundance of UK snow has made many people long for warmer climes, so here’s some advice for making a trip to the airport less stressful.

The UK snowfall this winter seems to have taken everyone by surprise, and the resultant snow and ice have caused problems for everyone; local councils are dealing with road grit shortages, commuters can’t get to their jobs, rubbish isn’t being collected in some areas…and that’s just a partial list.

The hostile conditions are perhaps most disappointing for those of us who are trying to escape to sunnier shores, only to find our plans scuppered by the very weather we’re trying to escape. That’s why, out of the goodness of my heart, I’d like to offer some practical advice for avoiding travel delays this winter.Follow these 10 helpful tips and ease your stress at the airport:

1. Do Your Research – When planning your trip, research your airline. If several companies provide service to your destination, find out if any of them have a history of frequent cancellations or delays and avoid them if possible!

2. Travel Insurance – Travel insurance is another thing to keep in mind when planning your trip.Make sure your policy covers flight cancellations and delays. Also, check if your covered for necessary expenses caused by delays, like hotel stays.

3. Avoid the Crowds – Try to avoid peak travel times.Planning to travel on a Tuesday or Wednesday is best. You’re far more likely to have to deal with crowds and chaos Mondays to Fridays, from 07.00 to 10.00 and 16.00 to 20.00.

4. Get the First Flight – Try to book the first flight of the day, because as the day goes on delays become more likely.If possible, try to get the first timetabled flight for that aeroplane for the day. This means you’re not waiting around for it to fly in from somewhere else. Always try and avoid the last flight of the day, so if your flight is cancelled you’ll have a chance to make it onto a later one.

5. Size Matters – Use a smaller, regional airport. An airport like Heathrow or Gatwick will always be more prone to congestion and delays than an airport like Southampton.

6. Lounge Access -If you use the same airport regularly, think about buying a membership card that gives you priority access to the lounges.If you get stuck at the airport due to flight delays, you’ll be sitting pretty whilst your fellow passengers try to get comfortable in those standard airport seats.

7. Crucial Phone Numbers – Store any important numbers (your hotel, car hire company, etc) in your mobile phone, in case you need to advise them of a delay.Oh yes, don’t forget to charge up your mobile before setting off!

8. Keep the Kids Happy – If you’re bringing the kids along, don’t forget to stow a few things to keep them amused at the airport.Something as simple as a colouring book can keep them from telling you how bored they are every five minutes.

9. Bring Your Own Food – Pack some snacks.Have you seen how much food costs at the airport now?If you’re delayed for more than a couple of hours, the airline might be obligated to provide you with a food voucher. Check with the flight desk or call your insurance company for advice.

10. Consult Your Airline -Lastly, be sure to call your airline before you set off for the airport.If there are major delays the airlines should know about them well in advance, and you’ll be better prepared to deal with potential issues.

So, there you have it. Follow my advice and you might not avoid delays 100% of the time, but if you do run into a problem, at least you’ll be better-prepared to deal with it calmly and efficiently.

*****************************************

If you’re looking for Liverpool Airport parking, Manchester Airport parking or Belfast Airport parking, you can save a bundle by booking in advance instead of paying the daily gate price.