Airport stress and how to avoid it

In an ideal world you'd have a leisurely drive to the airport
with no sign of road works or heavy traffic, you'd find a parking
space immediately, there would be no queue at the check-in desk, you'd
glide through security without getting beeped, stroll into the
departure lounge grabbing something to eat on the way - without
queuing - then you'd find a seat – a clean one, no stains - and have a
short, relaxing wait to board your flight.

If only getting through the airport was that simple. Unfortunately, we
don't live in a perfect world, but there are lots of areas that, with
a little forward planning, will save you hassle as you negotiate your
way to the departure gate.

Getting to the airport
Plan your journey in advance, check planned road works – the Highways
Agency website has details of planned road works and real-time traffic
information alerting you to emergency road closures and accidents.
Allow plenty of time for your journey, so if you do encounter a
problem on the way, you should still get to the airport on time.

If you want to take an easier option, consider booking an airport
hotel and staying the night before you fly.

Airport parking
Check airport parking options when you book your holiday and book it
at the same time. Don't leave it until the last minute, and never just
turn up on the day – this is too stressful not knowing whether the car
park will have enough space, and definitely the most expensive option.

If you really want the most convenient and stress free airport
parking, choose meet and greet, that way you just turn up at the
airport and hand over your keys to a waiting driver who will park your
car for you. It's also brought back to you at the airport on your
return.

Check-in
Many airlines now offer online check-in, if this is available to you
do it before you leave for the airport. It will save time and prevents
queuing at the airport, just drop your hold luggage at the fast bag
drop when you arrive.

Security
Airport security is there for your safety, but it can be stressful
passing through it, especially if you get frisked or have something
confiscated. To avoid this, make sure you are up-to-date with the
current security restrictions – a copy of which is available on your
airport's website or check with your airline.

Arriving too early / too late
It goes without saying that leaving too little time to get to the
airport and through security can be really stressful, but so can
arriving too early – you'll only prolong the agonising wait in the
departure lounge, leaving you stressed and certainly not in the best
frame of mind to fly.

Waiting for your flight
For me, this has to be the worst part of the journey. Waiting for your
flight in a crowded airport terminal is dreadful, especially at the
height of the holiday season.

To avoid the hassle, consider treating yourself to an airport lounge.
The prices are not as high as you might think and, with complimentary
drinks, papers and access to a television, it can help pass the time
in more comfort.

Queuing for food
Avoid the queues for food by eating a good meal before you arrive at
the airport. Not only does eating before you arrive at the airport
help you avoid the queues it can also break up a long drive to the
airport and makes you feel as though your holiday has started a day
early.

Dealing with children
Flying with children can be a stressful experience. Keep children as
self-sufficient in their travels as possible. Give each child their
own hand luggage – a backpack that's small enough for them to carry.
Include a small cuddly toy, colouring pad, paper and crayons, a book
or whatever is appropriate for their age…and a few sweets. A portable
electronic game or DVD player works well too.

Travelling can be stressful, but with a little planning and by
following the above tips you should find your journey through the
airport a little more enjoyable. Have a great trip.

Article Source: http://www.articlepantry.com

Paula Garrett is a frequently traveller and recommends using Gatwick meet and greet parking , advising passengers to book their Gatwick valet meet and greet parking as early as possible to avoid disappointment.

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