With peak summer travel underway and all international airports in 25 EU member states using EES, airports across the country are reaching full capacity with queues expected.
Worldwide, an average of half a million people pass through airport security every hour. From UK airports alone, the rate is 16,000 per hour. In order to help travellers get through the airport faster so they can enjoy their well-deserved holiday, Gavin Lapidus, Company Director at eShores, has shared five tips and tricks:
- Bring hand luggage only
By only bringing hand luggage, it will allow you bypass the baggage drop queue at the airport, and
it will allow you to breeze through your destination airport upon arrival, having saved you from queuing at the baggage carousel. You also benefit from the peace of mind from always having your belongings with you.
Most airlines allow you to take two bags on board – a handbag or a backpack and then also a smaller suitcase, so make the most of the free bags! Airports also have shops after security where you can pick up your liquids if you’re struggling to pack them within the allowance.
- Purchases fast track security tickets
Fast track security passes give you peace of mind if you are running late, or if the queues are exceptionally long, especially during peak summertime.
Purchasing fast track tickets online in advance from Luton airport for example start from £4 person, while Manchester airports prices start at £5.49. This may be a great option for families who are looking to make the process as easy as possible and minimise wait times.
- Download travel documents
By checking in online ahead of the flight and securing your boarding passes digitally, it will mean you don’t have to queue at the airport when you arrive, meaning you can proceed to the next stage.
Make sure your documents are easily accessible and organised according to each leg of the journey. You can easily download boarding passes to your phone wallet, so you don’t need to rely on having internet, too.
- Know your airport
Many UK airports no longer require you to take liquids and electronics out of your bags, but not all of them. Before travelling, check out the airport website for their security rules so you can be prepared. It’s also important to do this for your return flight, as the airport you fly home from may have different rules to the one you flew out of, and you don’t want to be left scrambling for your liquid at security!
e-Gates are also in place for UK travellers in European airports. These allow passengers to use the electronic gates, as opposed to manual passport checks, which will reduce the queues at passport control. Check before you travel to see if your destination airport uses these.
- Know what you can and can’t pack
To prevent your bag being searched at security, make sure all of your items are allowed. For example, a portable power bank is a travel essential for many, but most airlines only allow those with a capacity of up to 100Wh in your hand luggage, and they must be packed in your carry-on, not checked baggage. Always check the specific rules of your airline, as limits and requirements can vary.
To combat potential sunburn, many travellers’ pack aloe vera gel, but despite its thick consistency, it’s still classified as a liquid under airport security rules. This means it must be stored in a container of 100ml or less and failing to do so could result in delays or the product being confiscated.
“With just a bit of planning, you can seriously cut down your time in airport queues,” says Gavin Lapidus, Company Director at eShores. “Simple things like flying at quieter times or downloading your boarding pass in advance can make a big difference, especially during peak season.”
To ensure your trip goes smoothly from start to finish, eShores offers a range of bespoke holiday packages with expert advice. From passport validity checks to destination-specific guidelines, their travel specialists can help you navigate potential pitfalls and enjoy a stress-free holiday experience. Learn more at https://www.eshores.co.uk/
