Everyone needs an annual holiday, but sometimes the hassle of getting to your destination can make you wonder whether it was all worth while and whether you should just book a holiday at home in future. The prospect of airline strikes, airport queues, security restrictions and now the unpredictable volcanic ash cloud can lead to stress and worry about your travel plans, so what can you do to ease the strain of flying? Below are a few tips to help you reduce the hassles associated with air travel.

1.Book an early flight

When booking flights, if possible, book the first flight of the day, as if there are problems and your flight is delayed or cancelled there’s more chance of you getting booked on another flight later in the day. Booking the last flight of the day could see you stuck at the airport overnight waiting for the next day’s flight and losing a whole day of your holiday.

2.Book an airport hotel

Combine an early flight with a stay at an airport hotel for maximum convenience. If your airline offers twilight check-in it may be possible to check-in your luggage when you arrive and retire to your hotel for a relaxing night prior to travelling. If you are faced with delays you may be able to monitor your flight status from the luxury of your hotel rather than standing around at the airport waiting for information.

3.Fly from a regional airport

Check flight options from your local airport when choosing your holiday. Regional airports offer a quieter, much more travel-friendly option – there are fewer passengers than at a busy hub and less hassle. So if a flight is available from your local airport book it – you’ll have a much shorter journey to the airport too.

4.Book a midweek flight

Consider opting for a midweek flight rather than one at the weekend. Weekend flights are generally more popular and will be much busier. Opting for a midweek flight will mean less people at the airport and less chance of queues.

5.Book an airport lounge

If you are going to be stuck at an airport for any length of time why not take advantage of an airport lounge. Booking an airport lounge allows you to escape the overcrowded airport terminal and relax is style while you wait for your flight.

6.Book a package holiday

Booking a package holiday with a reputable travel agent will give you peace of mind should anything go wrong. If you book flights and accommodation separately and your flights are cancelled due to volcanic activity or any other issue you’ll still have your accommodation in place, paid for and possibly no way using it. If you book flights as part of a package you’ll have more chance of rebooking the whole holiday without excess charge.

7.Book a direct flight

If possible book a direct flight. It’s worth paying extra to fly direct to your destination – it’s much quicker, saves you the worry of missing your connecting flight and you avoid the inconvenience of waiting around at yet another airport.

8.Use valet parking

If you are driving to the airport opt for the quickest and easiest form of airport parking and choose valet meet and greet parking to save you time on your arrival. If you plan to book an airport hotel room for the night before you travel ask about a park and stay valet package. Tying in your airport parking can save you money and, with an on-airport hotel, you should be able to have your car collected on arrival at the hotel instead of waiting until the day of your flight.