The abundance of UK snow has made many people long for warmer climes, so here’s some advice for making a trip to the airport less stressful.

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...

The hostile conditions are perhaps most disappointing for those of you who are trying to escape to sunnier shores, only to find your plans scuppered by the very weather you're trying to escape. Take heed of these 10 helpful tips and avoid a stress overload at the airport:

1. Do Your Research – When planning your trip, research your airline.If your destination is served by several companies, check around to see if any of them have a history of frequent cancellations or delays and avoid them if possible!

2. Travel Insurance – Another thing to keep in mind when in the planning stages is travel insurance.Make sure flight delays and cancellations are covered. Also, check if your covered for necessary expenses caused by delays, like hotel stays. [Remember, as an IAPA member you can upgrade to IAPACare Plus which covers these incidents - find out more!]

3. Avoid the Crowds – Don’t book a flight during peak travel times. Tuesdays and Wednesdays are the best days to travel. 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 an “originator” flight (the first timetabled flight for that airplane 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 – Use a smaller, regional airport. Larger airports such as Heathrow and Gatwick are far more likely to experience delays than an airport like Southampton.

6. Lounge Access – If you travel from the same airport on a regular basis, consider buying a membership card giving you priority access to the airport lounges. You’ll be glad to have it if you get stuck at the airport due to flight delays. [Remember, as an IAPA member, you are entitled to 25% off Priority Pass membership - find out more!]

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 yes, don’t forget to charge up your mobile 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 - Remember to pack some snacks. Have you seen the cost of airport food recently? If you’re delayed for more than a couple of hours, the airline might be obligated to provide you with a food voucher. Check with the flight desk or call your insurance company for advice.

10. Consult Your Airline - Lastly, be sure to call your airline before you set off for the airport. That way you’ll find out about any existing problems you may run into, and if there are serious delays the airline should know about them well in advance.

Source: http://www.dudegeek.com/the-top-10-tips-to-make-escaping-the-uk-snow-stress-free/