Travel expert warns luggage mistake could get you stuck longer in airport queues
A travel expert has warned Brits going on holidays to avoid some common airport mistakes – or risk facing longer queues at security.
There are lots of rules we have to remember while passing through the airport and onto the plane, whether that’s ensuring your passport is valid, sticking to one litre of liquids or keeping your luggage under a certain weight it’s all vital when travelling. But, it seems there are not only official rules that Brits going on holiday should abide by.
Plenty of us are apparently committing social faux-pas while travelling that could cause inconvenience for fellow flyers and annoyance to the staff. A study of 2,000 UK travellers has revealed the biggest bugbears people have when travelling by plane, with passengers having too much to drink at the top of the list. But that wasn't the only big mistake that Brits make while jet-setting off.
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The research, conducted by Skyscanner, included some of the most commonly cited faux pas at the airport and on the plane include 'double arm rest hoggers', removing shoes and socks during the flight and standing up as soon as the plane has landed.
Skyscanner’s Expert Laura Lindsay explained some major no-nos that Brits are committing that irritate staff and fellow passengers. Not separating your liquids was top of the list. Laura advised: "Picking up your toiletries after security saves you space and weight in your checked bag. Even better, you can save time by using in airport pharmacies (such as Boots’) who offer a click & collect service.
"This is available from selected airports in the UK, including stores after security, which should mean you don’t pay airport prices. It also ensures that you can plan ahead, avoiding a stressful dash around the shop looking for your go-to shampoo. This is also handy for heavy non-liquid items, like baby formula, as it doesn’t count towards your luggage allowance."
Also on the warning list is not having your passport and travel documents to hand. The travel pro explained: "Some countries have programs to make getting through border control a breeze. Some examples are Global Entry (US) and DigiYatra (India). These usually involve pre-approval and clearance to enter, so you can spend less time at the desk. There are usually faster queues for passengers signed up to these programs, too."
As for your luggage, check your airline's rules before heading to the airport at all – and avoid the awkward panic of trying to shove items into your hand luggage or face a hefty fee for exceeding the rules around weight. Skyscanner experts suggest that you should always make a list ahead of putting anything in your suitcase – that way you know everything vital is included and any extras are optional.
Plus, rolling and vacuum packing clothes can make them take up less room in your bag so you can take all your favourite outfits. Laura also recommended that readers download books to an e-book or their phone ahead of a trip – that way chunky books aren't taking up too much space.
Top 15 travel faux-pas:
- Drinking too much alcohol on the flight (48 per cent)
- Queue-cutters (43 per cent)
- Reclining your seat while the food and drinks are served (43 per cent)
- Reclining your seat back at any point during the flight (40 per cent)
- Using gadgets without headphones (35 per cent)
- Standing up as soon as the plane lands (33 per cent)
- Leaving bags on the seat to get comfortable when you’re trying to sit down (31 per cent)
- Double arm rest hoggers (31 per cent)
- Draping hair over the back of the seat (28 per cent)
- Taking up multiple seats in the departure lounge (28 per cent)
- Not separating liquids before security and causing a hold-up (27 per cent)
- Not having passports or boarding passes to hand and holding up the queue (24 per cent)
- Taking shoes or socks off on the plane (22 per cent)
- Blocking escalators/travelators so you can’t walk past (22 per cent)
- Over-packing and holding up the queue while they sort their bags out (21 per cent)
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Skyscanner’s new Travel Hacks Hub is key resource for travellers looking for the latest tips and tricks for making trips as seamless as possible. Or, you can check out all the Daily Star's hacks, tricks and problem solving tips on our Travel Hacks page.
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