It’s that magical time of year again! The scent of gingerbread fills the air, festive tunes are playing, and everyone’s gearing up for holiday gatherings. But for many, the excitement of the season also brings the stress of airport travel.
With so many people flying home to family or embarking on festive adventures, London Stansted Airport can get quite bustling! But fear not! Our friendly team is here to help make your journey as smooth as Santa’s sleigh ride. Here are 12 helpful tips to keep your holiday spirit soaring high, even amidst the crowds:
Plan Ahead for a Peaceful Journey
It’s no secret that December is a busy month for airports. Last year, London Stansted Airport saw a peak of 77,000 travelers on the 22nd, 23rd, and 29th. If you’re looking for a quieter journey, consider flying on the 24th, 26th, or even Christmas Day.
While the festive buzz might be part of the holiday magic, being flexible with your travel dates can help you avoid the crowds and ensure a stress-free experience.
Beat the Rush: Time Management is Key
Let’s face it, running through the airport is only fun in a Christmas movie! To avoid any last-minute dashes, make sure to check your airline’s guidelines for recommended arrival times at the airport and for check-in.
While we aim for seamless operations, winter weather can sometimes cause delays. Keep an eye out for updates from your airline and follow our social media channels for any last-minute changes to stay informed.
Keep Your Christmas Presents Unwrapped for Smooth Security
Remember that Father Christmas only wraps his presents after he flies! If you’re traveling on one of our airlines, it’s best to wait until you reach your destination to wrap your gifts.
Security might need to check inside your luggage, including any wrapped gifts, and we wouldn’t want you to have to re-wrap them! Leaving them unwrapped will help you avoid any hassle.
And while you’re at it, why not take advantage of our Duty Free shopping to find the perfect Christmas present for someone special?
Pack Wisely: Be Aware of Festive Restrictions
While the rules regarding what you can and can’t pack remain consistent throughout the year, Christmas brings some unique considerations. Festive jams and chutneys, perfume and aftershave, even snow globes – all these items might require extra attention.
Remember the 100ml maximum rule for liquids passing through security, ensuring they are in a clear plastic bag and placed in your tray. And don’t forget, items like party poppers, sparklers, and Christmas crackers are strictly prohibited.
Dress for Comfort and Ease Through Security
Traveling over Christmas probably means you’ll be bundled up in a warm winter coat. Maybe even a hat, scarf, and gloves! While layering is a great idea, especially if you’re headed somewhere chilly, Security can only scan through one layer of clothing at a time.
Remember to remove bulky outer layers and accessories before going through security and place them in a tray for scanning.
Secure Your Parking: Enjoy Peace of Mind
Don’t let the stress of finding parking dampen your holiday cheer. At London Stansted Airport, we make it easy and affordable.
Our Meet & Greet service allows you to drive up, hand over your keys to a member of staff, and head straight to the terminal. Your car will be securely parked, and we’ll bring it back to you upon your return!
Enhance Your Airport Experience: Start the Festive Season Right
Begin your holiday journey with a stress-free airport experience and enjoy a delicious bite to eat or a festive drink at one of our lounges.
Pre-book your parking and secure the best prices, allowing you to splurge on a holiday treat. Opt for FastTrack security lanes and spend that extra time relaxing in the departure lounge.
