Whether you fly, drive or catch a train, there will come a point when everything grinds to a halt and you are stuck waiting in a queue. It is annoying, frustrating, and in some instances, worrying. Sadly, negotiating queues at the airport is a necessary evil unless have some insider tips. Here is a quick guide to help you avoid long, interminable airport queues. You might not reach your final destination any faster, but at least you will be less stressed!
Avoid Checked Luggage
Standing in the airline desk check-in line or waiting for baggage to appear on the carousel always leads to long delays. One way to avoid this is to stick to carryon luggage instead. Pack everything you need into a small but sturdy wheeled case from charlesfordlondon.com. You will save heaps of time at the airport by sailing past all the people queuing up to check their huge cases in. Head straight to the security control and look forward to a relaxing wait in the departure terminal instead.
Be Prepared
Be prepared for your trip and you can avoid queues. Before you reach the security scanners, remove shoes, belts, jewellery, electrical goods, liquids, etc. Otherwise you will have to do it at the last minute, which only causes delays for you and everyone stuck behind you.
Book a Fast-Track Service
Fast-track services allow travellers to bypass the usual queues. Pay a small fee and you can cut through the crowds and access a dedicated check-in desk, in much the same way First Class and Business Class travellers do. The same thing happens when it is time to head through security. To take advantage of this service, book it when you book your flights, or ask for an upgrade before you travel.
Check-In Online
Always check-in online if at all possible. This simple service saves so much time at the airport, and it takes minutes to complete. Most airlines open their online check-in 48 hours before the flight departs, but you should receive an email notification anyway. To check-in online, all you need are your e-ticket number or a booking reference, plus your passport details. Answer a few security questions, choose your preferred seat, and print off your boarding pass. Or, if you don’t have a printer, head to a check-in machine at the airport to print off your boarding pass.
Fly Off-Peak
Flying at an unsociable time is never much fun, especially if you have children, but it will save you a lot of time at the airport. There are usually fewer people around late at night or very early in the morning, so queuing is minimised. The only real downside is that the shops and cafes may not be open and you will lose out on some sleep.
Queues are boring, but if you do find yourself stuck in one, try not to get too wound up. There is nothing you can do to change the outcome, so sit down and chill until you reach the front.
