E-gate chaos: Travel expert reveals six simple hacks for beating delays this summer 

Recent chaos at the nation’s passport e-gates heaped misery on holiday-makers, with thousands of travellers hit with lengthy delays.

And as we approach peak holiday season, Eurocamp's resident travel expert is sharing their top hacks on how to avoid unnecessary delays this summer.

From the secret psychology behind airport queues to harnessing the power of technology, Lewis Martin offers his advice.

He said: “As we begin the run-up to summer holiday excitement, the recent issues with e-gates are an understandable concern amongst eager holidaymakers. 

“While some delays just can’t be avoided, they needn’t dampen spirits too much, as savvy travellers can take steps to outsmart them with simple, and straightforward hacks. 

“In the event of delays, passengers should always remember to keep in touch with their holiday providers and check with their travel insurance policies to keep any worries at bay.”

Top hacks for beating the delays this summer

1. Embrace your inner ‘airport dad’ 

Whilst a travel wallet may not be the most stylish of travel accessories, it may be the simple secret to success.   

Be more ‘airport dad’ and ensure the whole family’s necessary documents (passports, visas, tickets) are easily accessible and in one place, like a handy travel wallet. 

This will help to avoid delays at security checkpoints and most importantly, side-step the stress rummaging through your bags so you breeze through the beginning of your holiday. 

2. Keep out of reach of the kids

Kids and travel documents are not a good mix. The smallest amount of damage to the biometric chip or personal information pages on your passport can spell e-gate disaster. So however tempting it might be, it’s always safer to avoid giving your little ones their passports to carry.  

3. ’Appy Days

There's a reason they say ‘there’s an app for that’! Be tech-savvy and utilise apps and technology to your advantage. 

Most airlines have their own apps which can give you up-to-date information on your travel. Airports also often have up-to-the-minute details on their websites which can keep you informed about any potential delays. 

Download weather apps to keep an eye on the forecast, and find the app or website for the local transport network providers for your destination, if your trip to and from the airport relies on public transport.

4. Secret psychology 

In the event of lengthy queues in security or e-gate checks, you may be faced with multiple streams of passengers to choose from. However, you can gain a sneaky advantage by harnessing a simple psychological hack. 

Studies show that, as the majority of the population are right-handed, most people will veer right when given the choice, meaning that queues on the left often tend to be that little bit quicker.

5. Have a back-up plan

Be prepared for any twists and turns in your journey and ensure you have back-up plans in place for every stage of your travel. 

This includes having backup options for your transport to the airport, whether it’s via public transport or taxi. Checking your usual route to the airport for roadworks the day before is a great way to avoid any surprises.

6. The early bird catches the worm  

It may sound obvious, but ensuring that you arrive at the airport with plenty of time before your flight is crucial to combatting the impact of any delays you may encounter. 

Whilst for shorter journeys, holidaymakers may allow slightly less time at the airport, we advise that no matter where you’re travelling to, passengers should arrive at least two hours ahead of their flight time. 

ENDS

Notes to editors 

For media enquiries please contact the Eurocamp Press Office at press.office@eurocamp.co.uk.

About Eurocamp

Eurocamp is the UK’s leading European outdoor family holiday specialist. Celebrating over 50 years of amazing getaways, Eurocamp offers over 400 exceptional parcs, each with its own unique personality, from easy-going and authentic campsites to lively, full-of-fun resorts.  Each parc features spacious accommodation, fantastic facilities and activities, and plenty of dining options. And you'll find them in Europe’s most stunning locations. You can enjoy Eurocamp's award-winning holidays in France, Italy, Spain, Portugal, Austria, Slovenia, Croatia, Switzerland, Netherlands, Luxembourg and Germany.

Release date: 21st May 2024