YOUR GUIDE TO STRESS-FREE SUMMER TRAVEL

Sidestep key dates

We have already seen the chaos at airports caused by a surge in passenger numbers without staff and systems to match. The real test this summer will be the weekend of July 23/24 when state schools break up – one of the busiest of the year. The August bank holiday week will also be a major stress point, so avoid these if you can

Timing is everything

Try to travel midweek and in the middle of the day when airports are quieter. If you can, fly to smaller airports where there is less pressure of numbers. This is also true of ferry travel. You are likely to find it easier on the longer Channel crossings from Portsmouth, say, rather than going via Dover

Book a package

If you do face delays and cancellations, you will be in a stronger position if you have booked a package of flights and accommodation through a tour operator, which is legally bound to look after you until you return home. If your holiday is cancelled, you will get your money back in one go rather than having to reclaim each element

Check in early

Consult your airport’s website the day before departure and see how far ahead you should be checking in. You may need to allow more than the usual two hours. Consider also paying for fast-track security. At Stansted, it costs £7 per passenger and takes away the stress of long queues to get into the departure lounge

Mind how you pay

You will have far more protection against the financial failure of an operator or airline by paying with a credit card than with most debit cards. Paying through a direct money transfer is the least secure method