Holidaymakers are still facing airport delays and lengthy queues during the big summer getaway. However there are a selection of easy hacks to make sure the journey goes as smoothly as possible - and that begins before a passenger even reaches the airport.
According to Google trends data, there’s been an uplift of 9,500 per cent in searches for “best flight tips” in the past month. Low-cost European carrier Wizz Air has put together some top tips to make a flight a more pleasant experience.
Here are the guidelines from the airline, which operates from several UK airports:
Plan ahead
Check-in online 24 hours in advance. Get a paperless boarding pass and take a screenshot of it, just in case you can’t get online and get to your emails. Bring snacks. Schedule your arrival to the airport; make sure you know how you’re getting there as well as how to get to your destination after your flight. Wear shoes that can be easily removed to get through security quickly.
Know your hand luggage limits in advance
If you have any liquids in your hand luggage, remember to keep them separate so you don’t have to dig around for them in your bag when you go through security. Make sure your hand luggage fits the size allowance and remember that some airlines will allow a small suitcase plus a small bag.
Choosing the best seats
If you like to get up and stretch your legs on a longer flight, like the UK to Tenerife which is around four hours 30 minutes, go for an aisle. Mid-week or evening flights are usually less crowded, and if the flight isn’t full, you may be able to move to a different seat to be more comfortable. On a shorter flight, go for a window seat and take advantage of the views.
Pack emergency hand luggage
Pack some toiletries like face cleanser, toothpaste, and deodorant in case you want to refresh during a long flight. Wear glasses instead of your contacts or take eye drops.
Download the apps
The easiest way to keep flight information in one place is by downloading the app of the airline or tour operator. This allows passengers to keep boarding passes and check-in details in a single location, as well as looking out for delays and cancellation information.
Other travel apps like App in the Air are great for frequent fliers, where you can track itineraries and even get airport tips. SeatGuru allows passengers to pick the perfect seat by looking at every detail and rating of the various options on board.
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