The three mistakes you’re making at airports that could see you miss your flight
A TRAVEL expert has revealed the three mistakes that most people make at airports that could prove costly.
Delays while passing through security can result in passengers missing their flights if they aren’t careful, so it’s good to be as prepared as possible.
Lisa Farbstein, spokesperson for the American Transportation Security Administration (TSA) revealed three ways in which passengers can speed up their security checks.
The first of those is wearing the wrong shoes.
Anything that’s difficult to take on and off could be a big problem at airport security, as most places now ask all passengers to remove their footwear.
Lisa told travel magazine AFAR: “Wear something you can easily slip off and on.”
Her advice was backed up by founder of Sole Bliss, Lisa Kay, who said wearing trainers at airports is a mistake.
She said: “I’m going to be controversial and say that traditional trainers are NOT the perfect footwear for the airport – and there’s a couple of reasons as to why.
“They can actually become a bit of a hindrance when you’re moving through airport security.
“Taking them on and off means un-tying the laces and then re-tying them back up again, which can make you feel a bit rushed and flustered as you gather your things.”
It’s not just footwear that can hold passengers up either – other clothes can cause big problems with airport scanners.
Lisa Farbstein recommends checking your outfit for metal before you set off to the airport, to make sure you won’t set off the scanners as you pass through.
She said: “Many travellers can get held up at security because they forget about metal buttons in their shirt or metallic studs in jeans. Even underwire bras can get flagged by metal detectors.”
Finally, bad packing is a major way in which people can get snagged at airports, with some people asked to empty their bags by security guards.
Having to repack afterwards can be a big problem if you haven’t organised your bag properly – and can add precious time onto your trip through the airport.
Lisa suggests: “Anything you might have to take out quickly during security checks, like a laptop or toiletry bag, be sure it’s not buried in the middle of your bag.”
These aren’t the only airport mistakes that could ruin passengers’ holidays either.
George Hammerton is director of Caribbean rental home provider Hammerton Barbados and knows a lot about holidays and how to make them run smoothly.
One of his top tips is to fly from a smaller airport if possible, rather than a huge travel hub.
He said: “While flying from smaller airports can sometimes involve paying a little extra, they can sometimes ensure a more relaxed and less stressful airport experience.
“With a fraction of the number of passengers and much smaller in size, you are likely to enjoy shorter queues and may even be able to spot your gate straight out of security.”
Meanwhile, another mum revealed the big errors that parents make when travelling with children.
And an easy plane ticket mistake could end up costing you money.