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…and that’s just a partial list.

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.Follow these simple tips and your airport experience will hopefully be a bit less stressful:

1. Do Your Research - When planning your trip, research your airline.If there’s more than one company that flies to your destination, check if any of them have a history of frequent delays and avoid using them if possible!

2. Travel Insurance - Travel insurance is a must in uncertain weather.Make sure your policy covers 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 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.  An airport like Heathrow or Gatwick will always be more prone to 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.If you get stuck at the airport due to an unforeseen delay, you’ll be glad to have it.

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, charge up that phone before setting off!

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.Simply visit the airline’s flight desk or ring your travel insurance provider for advice.

10. Consult Your Airline -Lastly, remember to ring your airline or check their website before you set off.If there are major delays the airlines should know about them well in advance, and you’ll be better prepared to deal with potential issues.

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.

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