Eager sun-seekers preparing to jet off this summer have been issued a checklist before they head to the airport amid the travel chaos that many are facing.
Holidaymakers have been experiencing difficulties at some airports due to low staff and a surge of customers. At the same time major airlines have been forced to cancel and reschedule flights due to staffing issues and a range of other issues.
Some travellers who had already arrived in the airport were only given short notice when being told that their flight was cancelled. And as the summer holidays kick off in Scotland today, the UK Government issued a checklist to help travellers avoid disruption where they can.
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The Department for Transport has offered clear advice for people to try to help them avoid problems before they travel, when they get to the airport and when they return to the UK.
Before arriving at the airport
Check your passport
After the pandemic, this will be the first year for trips abroad for many and since 2020 a new Brexit rule has thrown some holidays up in the air. Since then, the passport office has urged holidaymakers to check the expiry date and it can take up to 10 weeks to renew your passport.
You must renew your passport before you can travel if either:
- Your passport has expired.
- You do not have enough time left on it.
Renew or apply for a passport here.
Depending on the country you visit, decides how much time you need on your passport.
If you are traveling to an EU country (except Ireland), or Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Andorra, Monaco, San Marino or Vatican City, you must follow the Schengen area passport requirements. Your passport must not be older than 10 years on the date you travel. It must be valid for at least 3 months from the date you intend to return home.
Check your documents
Even though the UK have lifted their covid restrictions and entry requirements, some countries still require a covid test or proof of vaccine. Make sure you have the correct documents for your destination. For example, visa, ESTA, or coronavirus related documents such as vaccine certificates, negative pre-departure tests or proof of recovery from covid.
You can check the travel advice for each country here.
Arrange any special assistance you may require
Special assistance is available to passengers who may need help to travel, including:
- The elderly.
- People with a physical disability, such as wheelchair users.
- People who have difficulty with social interaction and communication, such as people with autism or dementia.
You should ask for assistance either when you book or at least 48 hours before travel.
Check when to arrive at the airport
Airports have seen large cues at check-ins and at security. Airports are urging travellers not to arrive too early, pointing out some airlines won't let you check in your luggage early. The Department of Transport is urging people to check with their airline on when to arrive.
While you shouldn't arrive earlier than the earliest time advised by your airline, as this can cause congestion and delays, allow for longer check-in times as airlines may need to check Covid-19 related documents.
At the airport
At check in
Have the following ready to show to staff when you reach the check-in desk:
- Your ticket.
- Your passport.
- Any COVID-19 related travel documents required for the country you are travelling to.
Check in online
Most airlines allow you to check in online and this can save lots of time. If you check in online, have your boarding pass and do not have a bag to drop off, you can go straight to airport security.
Get ready for airport security
Edinburgh Airport have reminded customers on what exactly can and cannot go through security. Carry only essential items in hand luggage and have your boarding pass ready for inspection. Your passport is not required at security.
Liquids must be no more than 100ml and then they must be put into a clear resealable plastic bag which holds no more than one litre. Take the plastic bag out of your hand luggage while queueing, ready to put them in the security tray.
Remember that liquids may include items such as make-up, toiletries, hand sanitisers, ect. Coats, watches, belts and other metal items must also be removed, including certain shoes with a heel. Along with electrical items such as phones and laptops, these must be ready to go through security and be removed from hand luggage.
Retuning to the UK
Using eGates
Passengers aged 12 and over with a biometric ePassport from the UK, EU and some other countries can use an eGate by removing the passport from its cover opening it at the photo page.
Travellers are told to put mobile phones or tablets away before you reach the eGate. Take off hats, headphones, sunglasses and face coverings. To use the e-gates, stand on the markings, hold the passport down firmly and keep looking at the camera until it finishes processing.
Travelling with children
If you are not the child’s parent or may appear not to be the parent, it may help to carry evidence of your relationship with the child or the reason why you are travelling with the child. This could include:
- A birth or adoption certificate showing your relationship with the child
- Divorce or marriage certificates if you are the parent but have a different surname to the child
- A letter from the child’s parent/s giving authority for the child to travel with you and providing contact details if you are not the parent
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