The school holidays may be over, but the country is still jam-packed with local and foreign tourists exploring SA. If you find yourself travelling at this time of year, here are a few ways to keep your cool at the airport.

With thousands of tourists and visitors jostling for space in crowded airports travelling by air can get stressful, especially when lots of people are travelling with families, so here are a few tips for avoiding airport angst this festive season.

  • Say goodbye sensibly
     Crowded doorways or the entrances and exits to security checkpoints aren't great places for farewells. Rather get to the airport early and find a comfortable seat in one of the restaurants, coffee shops or public areas to say goodbye to friends or family. Somewhere where you can enjoy those last few special moments, without being jostled by irritated passengers trying to get past.

  • Allow plenty of time
    At peak times it may take longer to get parked, find a trolley, check-in and get through security, so leave yourself plenty of time. The airlines are all very busy so the earlier you check-in the less chance you have of getting 'bumped' off an overbooked flight.

  • Park smart
    It's unlikely you're going to get parking right outside the terminal over the holidays, no matter how long you cruise the car park. Parking marshals will show you where there are bays available. If these are not convenient to the terminal you need, use the park and ride system. If you're dropping off passengers you can use the drop and go system. It won't cost you anything, unless of course you abandon your car, in which case you will be fined as you're preventing someone else using that bay.

  • Be a prepared packer
    Security is an airline's top priority and you will not be allowed to take any sharp or dangerous items through security in your hand-luggage. Amongst others these include items such as nail scissors, tweezers and knitting needles, which should be carried in checked-in luggage. Check with your travel agent or the airline if you are unsure about any items.

  • Don't be delayed by documents Have the documents you'll need ready. Always carry some official form of identity when you're travelling, ideally an ID book. Airlines will demand proof of identity if you're collecting tickets or travelling on an e-ticket. When checking in you'll need to have your tickets ready. After check-in you'll have to show your boarding pass at security, so don't put it at the bottom of your bag with your tickets.

  • Avoid the beep
    To avoid being stopped and searched or made to go through the metal detector again make sure that you are not carrying items such as cell phones, wallets, keys or metal items such as business card holders. You can put these loose items in the trays provided at the x-ray machine.

    By following these simple hints, thinking ahead and using a little common sense, festive holidaymakers can limit airport aggravation. Make sure you leave enough time and plan your journey carefully so that getting away an holiday is part of the fun, and not a stressful rush.

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