Holidaymakers are often told to arrive at airports around two to three hours before their flights, but being prepared doesn't guarantee an easy journey.
Thankfully, a travel expert has shared top tips to help you avoid the long queues on your next trip to the airport.
The advice comes from company director at eShores, Gavin Lapidus, who suggested ditching check-in luggage, downloading travel documents digitally or even purchasing fast-track tickets to make the process easier.
Gavin said: “With just a bit of planning, you can seriously cut down your time in airport queues. Simple things like flying at quieter times or downloading your boarding pass in advance can make a big difference, especially during peak season.”
Only taking carry-on luggage can make it quicker to get through airports
|GETTY
Bring hand luggage only
Sticking to hand luggage will allow you to arrive at the airport later and avoid queues at baggage drop-off. It also saves time at the other end as you won't need to wait at the carousel for your luggage.
The expert added: "You also benefit from the peace of mind of having your belongings with you at all times.
"Most airlines allow you to take two bags on board – a handbag or a backpack and then also a smaller suitcase, so make the most of the free bags. Airports also have shops after security where you can pick up your liquids if you’re struggling to pack them within the allowance."
Purchases fast-track security tickets
If you are really short on time, a fast-track pass could be the best option. Gavin explained: "Fast track security passes give you peace of mind if you are running late, or if the queues are exceptionally long, especially during peak summertime.
"Purchasing fast track tickets online in advance from Luton airport, for example, starts from £4 per person, while Manchester airport's prices start at £5.49. This may be a great option for families who are looking to make the process as easy as possible and minimise wait times."
Download travel documents
Most airlines allow you to check in online ahead of time; in some cases, this is the only option. Having all your documents ready to hand will help you breeze through security.
The travel pro said: "By checking in online ahead of the flight and securing your boarding passes digitally, it will mean you don’t have to queue at the airport when you arrive, meaning you can proceed to the next stage.
"Make sure your documents are easily accessible and organised according to each leg of the journey. You can easily download boarding passes to your phone wallet, so you don’t need to rely on having internet, too."
Know what you can and can’t pack
Airport security requirements have changed in some UK airports, so knowing what you need to unpack will save you time when it is your turn to have your luggage checked.
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Know what you can and can't take through security
| GETTYHe added: "Many UK airports no longer require you to take liquids and electronics out of your bags, but not all of them. Before travelling, check out the airport website for their security rules so you can be prepared.
"It’s also important to do this for your return flight, as the airport you fly home from may have different rules to the one you flew out of, and you don’t want to be left scrambling for your liquids at security."
What you can bring also varies between airports, as some - like Edinburgh airport - have scrapped the 100ml liquid rule altogether. This doesn't apply everywhere, however, so be aware.
Gavin continued: "To prevent your bag from being searched at security, make sure all of your items are allowed. For example, a portable power bank is a travel essential for many, but most airlines only allow those with a capacity of up to 100Wh in your hand luggage, and they must be packed in your carry-on, not checked baggage. Always check the specific rules of your airline, as limits and requirements can vary.
"To combat potential sunburn, many travellers pack aloe vera gel, but despite its thick consistency, it’s still classified as a liquid under airport security rules. This means it must be stored in a container of 100ml or less, and failing to do so could result in delays or the product being confiscated."
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