Travelling is so much fun, whether you’re embarking on a short weekend getaway, or you’re in it for the long haul with a one way flight somewhere far and exotic. However, there’s one element of vacationing that isn’t quite so much fun, and that’s the experience at the airport.
So, you’ve booked your flights, using the handy Bravofly iOS app, and you’re getting ready to set off on your adventure. But how do you take the strain out of your time at the terminal? We’re here to help…
Bring a clear bag for your liquids with you
Whilst most major airports today like London Heathrow provide passengers with free clear plastic bags to take liquids in inside your hand luggage, a lot of the smaller airports – London Luton, for example – charge for them (£1 for 2!). If you want to same time, money and effort at the airport, prepare your liquids for your hand luggage in a clear plastic ziplock bag from home. Here’s some useful info regarding hand luggage restrictions at UK airports.
Pack some snacks
Food and drink at airports and on planes are notoriously expensive, so if your flight doesn’t come with a meal included, or if you have a fairly short flight, pack your own food and snacks beforehand to keep you going, and to avoid paying the sky high prices.
Make the use of your flyer miles
If you’re a frequent flyer, you’ve no doubt totted up a fair few flyer miles along your travels. You should check out ways in which you can use them at the airport, other than just using them towards other flights. Some airports for example enable you to use VIP lounges with your points, so check out your options before you go.
Know the best times to fly
No one likes queuing and waiting around at airports, so to give yourself the best chance of avoiding the hustle and bustle, you should think about flying at certain times, and on certain days. If you don’t mind flying at night, departing after approximately 10:30pm is usually the best bet for when it comes to the busyness of the airport.
Take your hotel toiletries home with you
Even if you’ve used up the contents of the hotel toiletries, it might be a good idea to take the empty bottles home with you, especially if you’re planning on flying somewhere else fairly soon. They make the ideal containers to take liquids on in your hand luggage, and will save you having to buy the expensive little travel versions of all of your favourite products.
Ensure your luggage stands out at baggage claim
Baggage claim is also not very fun, but there are things you can do to make it easier. If you have a dark suitcase, tie something brightly coloured around it or around one of the handles to ensure you’ll be able to spot it easily. Or, if it’s time to update your suitcase, why not opt for a brightly coloured one so you’ll have no trouble finding it.
