There’s not long to go now until the school Easter holidays. Two weeks of no school means that lots of parents will be taking their children abroad to grab some longed-for sunshine.
If you’re off on holiday this Easter be prepared for busy airport terminals, busy public transport and, of course, queues.
Below is a list of tips that could save you time and hassle this Easter:
1.Getting to the airport
Plan how you are getting to the airport well in advance. If travelling by public transport, check the timetable, and book your seats. Remember that over the Easter holiday services may be limited due to public holidays.
If travelling by taxi, book it in advance, don’t call up an hour or so before you wish to leave and expect to get a taxi straight away. Book in advance, and call the night before to confirm the booking.
If you plan to drive, make sure you plan your route in advance. Even if you use satellite navigation, check the route and put a map in the car just in case.
Allow plenty of time to get to the airport. Don’t forget, the roads will be just as busy with holiday travellers as the airports, so allow extra time in case of delays.
2.Parking your car
Remember, if you are driving yourself to the airport you will need to use airport parking. Always book your airport parking in advance, never just turn up at the car park as you could find the car park is full, and prices are always more expensive if you pay on the day. Sometimes you can find savings of up to 60% when booking online compared with gate prices.
3.Check-in
If you have the option of checking-in online, do so. By printing off your own boarding passes you will only need to drop off your baggage, if you have any, and the queues for baggage drop are usually much shorter than the check-in queues, saving you loads of time.
4.Luggage restrictions
Check luggage dimension and weight restrictions prior to packing. Some airlines have changed their luggage restrictions in the past year so check before you pack. Don’t just guess or think that this year’s limits are the same as last year’s. You don’t want the hassle, expense and inconvenience of having to pay expensive excess baggage fees.
5.Hand luggage restrictions
Check your hand luggage entitlements before you travel. Note the restriction on weight, size and liquids in hand luggage. Don’t forget the 100ml liquids-in-hand luggage rule also covers gels and pastes. If you plan to carry presents in your hand luggage this Easter, make sure they are not wrapped as these may be subject to inspection at security.
6.Travelling with children
Make sure you are carrying enough items in your hand luggage to keep your children entertained at the airport and on the plane. Better still, give them their own small bag / backpack so that they can carry their own book, snacks, electronic toy etc., effectively making them self-contained travellers.
7.Foreign currency
Get organized early and buy your foreign currency before you reach the airport, not only will this save you time at the airport, you should also secure a better rate. Check online for the best rates, or visit the high street to compare rates and commissions.