If the abundance of UK snow has made you long for warmer climes, here are some tips to help you escape.

The UK snowfall this winter seems to have taken everyone by surprise, and the resultant snow and ice have caused problems for everyone; local councils are dealing with road grit shortages, commuters can’t get to their jobs, rubbish isn’t being collected in some areas…the list goes on and on.

The hostile conditions are perhaps most disappointing for those of us who are trying to escape to sunnier shores, only to find our plans scuppered by the very weather we’re trying to escape.  That’s why, out of the goodness of my heart, I’d like to offer some practical advice for avoiding travel delays this winter.  Take heed of these 10 helpful tips and avoid a stress overload at the airport:

1. Do Your Research - When planning your trip, research your airline.  If several companies provide service to your destination, find out if any of them have a history of frequent cancellations or delays and avoid them if possible!

2. Travel Insurance -   Another thing to keep in mind when in the planning stages is travel insurance.  Make sure you’re covered for flight cancellations and delays.  Also, check if your covered for necessary expenses caused by delays, like hotel stays.

3. Avoid the Crowds - Avoid peak travel times, if you can.  The best days to travel are Tuesdays and Wednesdays.  You’re far more likely to have to deal with crowds and chaos Mondays to Fridays, from 07.00 to 10.00 and 16.00 to 20.00.

4. Get the First Flight - Try to book the first flight of the day, because as the day goes on delays become more likely.  If you can, make sure it’s an “originator” flight (the first timetabled flight for that aeroplane for the day).  This means you’re not waiting around for it to fly in from somewhere else.  Always try and avoid the last flight of the day, so if your flight is cancelled you’ll have a chance to make it onto a later one.

5. Size Matters - Try to use a regional airport, rather than a major one.Major airports like Gatwick and Heathrow are always more liable to have congestion and delays than an airport like Southampton.

6. Lounge Access -If you usually travel from one particular airport, consider purchasing a membership card that gives you priority access to the lounges.  You’ll be glad to have it if you get stuck at the airport due to flight delays.

7. Crucial Phone Numbers - Store any important numbers (your hotel, car hire company, etc) in your mobile phone, in case you need to advise them of a delay.  Oh, and remember, make sure your phone is fully-charged before leaving the house!

8. Keep the Kids Happy -   This might be a no-brainer for parents, but if you’re travelling with children be sure to bring some things to keep the little ones amused.Something as simple as a colouring book can keep them from telling you how bored they are every five minutes.

9. Bring Your Own Food -Bring along some nibbles.Have you seen how much food costs at the airport now?  If you’re stuck for more than a couple of hours, you might be eligible for a food voucher from the airline.Check with your airline’s flight desk or call your insurance company to find out.

10. Consult Your Airline -  Last, but not least, ring your airline or at least check their website before you leave the house.You’ll find out in advance about any issues, and therefore be able to plan accordingly.

So, there you have it.  Follow my advice and you might not avoid delays 100% of the time, but if you do run into a problem, at least you’ll be better-prepared to deal with it calmly and efficiently.

*****************************************

When you pre-book Belfast Airport parking, Liverpool Airport parking or Manchester Airport parking, you can save a bundle off the daily drive-up prices.