Question 1

How early should I arrive at the airport?

Accepted Answer

For domestic flights, arrive 90 minutes to 2 hours before departure. For international flights, allow at least 3 hours — more if you haven't checked in online or are travelling with checked baggage. During peak periods (school holidays, bank holidays, summer) add an extra 30–60 minutes. Airport security queues are the most variable factor; check your airport's live wait times before you leave.

Question 2

What are the liquid rules for carry-on bags?

Accepted Answer

Under the 100ml rule (UK, EU, and most countries), all liquids must be in containers of 100ml or less, packed in a single transparent resealable plastic bag with a maximum capacity of 1 litre — one bag per passenger. This covers drinks, toiletries, gels, pastes, and creams. Exceptions include essential prescription medication with a doctor's letter, baby food and formula, and duty-free liquids in tamper-evident bags bought after security. Note: some airports (including Heathrow) have introduced 3D CT scanners that allow liquids up to 2 litres — always check your departure airport's current rules.

Question 3

Can I bring a power bank in my hand luggage?

Accepted Answer

Yes, but only in your carry-on bag — never in checked luggage. Power banks are classified as lithium batteries and must travel in the cabin. Banks under 100Wh (roughly 27,000mAh at 3.7V) are permitted freely. Banks between 100–160Wh require airline approval in advance. Anything over 160Wh is generally prohibited on passenger aircraft. Most consumer power banks fall well under 100Wh — check the label for the watt-hour rating.

Question 4

What items are banned from hand luggage?

Accepted Answer

Key prohibited items include: liquids over 100ml (see above), sharp objects such as knives and scissors with blades over 6cm, sporting goods that could be used as weapons (baseball bats, golf clubs), firearms and replicas, flammable materials, and large lithium batteries not in permitted devices. Individual airlines may add restrictions. Always check the prohibited items list for your departure country's aviation authority — the UK CAA and TSA (US) publish comprehensive lists.

Question 5

Can I bring food through airport security?

Accepted Answer

Solid foods generally pass through security without issue and do not count against your liquid allowance. Semi-liquid foods such as yoghurt, soup, jam, peanut butter, hummus, and similar items fall under the 100ml liquid rule if carried in your cabin bag. At international borders (customs), different rules apply — many countries prohibit or restrict fresh fruit, vegetables, meat, and dairy. Always check your destination's customs rules before packing food.

Question 6

Do I need to remove my laptop and electronics at security?

Accepted Answer

At most airports, laptops must be removed from bags and placed in a separate tray. Tablets, e-readers, and phones can usually stay in your bag, but some airports ask for those too. Airports with advanced 3D CT scanners (increasingly common in the UK and US) no longer require you to remove electronics or liquids — check your departure airport's guidance before you fly.

Question 7

What is the standard carry-on bag size?

Accepted Answer

There is no universal standard — it varies by airline. Common allowances in Europe: 56×45×25cm (British Airways, easyJet, Wizz Air for paid cabin bags), 40×20×25cm for Ryanair's free personal item. US domestic flights typically allow 56×36×23cm. Budget carriers frequently charge extra for overhead locker bags. Always check your airline's specific policy before you pack, and measure your bag including handles and wheels.

Question 8

What happens if my luggage is lost or delayed?

Accepted Answer

Report it immediately at the airline's baggage desk before leaving the arrivals hall — you will receive a Property Irregularity Report (PIR). Under the Montreal Convention, airlines are liable for up to approximately 1,288 SDR (around £1,400 / €1,650) for lost, damaged, or delayed checked baggage. Keep all receipts for essential purchases you make while waiting. Most bags reported as missing are found and returned within 24–48 hours. If not returned after 21 days, the bag is officially considered lost and you can file a formal claim.

Question 9

Can I lock my checked baggage?

Accepted Answer

Yes. In the US and at any airport served by the TSA (Transportation Security Administration), use a TSA-approved lock — these have a standard slot that allows TSA agents to open and relock the bag without cutting it. Non-TSA locks may be cut off during inspection and will not be replaced. In most other countries, standard luggage locks are acceptable. Zip ties are a low-cost alternative that show tamper evidence without restricting access.

Question 10

How much does excess baggage typically cost?

Accepted Answer

Excess baggage fees vary wildly by airline, route, and how you pay. Adding a bag at the airport or online at check-in is almost always more expensive than booking it when you buy your ticket. Budget carriers can charge £30–£70 per bag per sector at the airport. Overweight fees (bags above the weight limit, typically 23kg) commonly run £10–£15 per kg on low-cost carriers. If you fly regularly with checked bags, a frequent flyer status or credit card with baggage perks can pay for itself quickly.

Question 11

What are my rights if my flight is delayed?

Accepted Answer

Under UK261 (post-Brexit) and EU261 regulations, if your flight departs from a UK or EU airport, or if it arrives at a UK or EU airport on a UK or EU carrier, you may have rights. For delays of 2+ hours: the airline must provide meals, refreshments, and communication facilities. For delays of 5+ hours: you can choose a full refund instead of travel. For arrivals delayed by 3+ hours at your final destination: you may be entitled to financial compensation (subject to the route distance and whether extraordinary circumstances apply).

Question 12

How much compensation can I claim for a delayed flight?

Accepted Answer

Under UK261 / EU261, the fixed compensation amounts are: £220 / €250 for flights under 1,500km; £350 / €400 for flights between 1,500km and 3,500km; £520 / €600 for all other flights. Compensation may be reduced by 50% if the airline reroutes you and your arrival is within 2–4 hours of the original time. Extraordinary circumstances — severe weather, ATC strikes, security incidents — exempt the airline from paying compensation, though your right to a refund or rebooking always remains. Use our Flight Delay tool to calculate your entitlement.

Question 13

What should I do if my flight is cancelled?

Accepted Answer

You are entitled to choose between: (1) a full refund to your original payment method, or (2) rebooking on the next available flight to your destination at no extra cost. If notified fewer than 14 days before departure, you may also be entitled to financial compensation (same amounts as for delays) unless the airline can prove extraordinary circumstances. Document all communications, keep receipts for any expenses incurred, and submit your claim in writing directly to the airline. If they refuse, escalate to the CAA (UK) or your national enforcement body (EU).

Question 14

What counts as an 'extraordinary circumstance' that voids compensation?

Accepted Answer

Extraordinary circumstances are events outside the airline's control that could not have been avoided even with all reasonable measures. Accepted examples include: severe weather (storms, blizzards, fog), political instability or security threats, strikes by air traffic control (but not airline staff strikes — those generally do not qualify), hidden manufacturing defects, and bird strikes. Routine technical faults found during maintenance or pre-flight checks typically do not qualify as extraordinary circumstances and should not prevent you from claiming compensation.

Question 15

Is it better to exchange currency before or after I travel?

Accepted Answer

Avoid exchanging cash at the airport — rates are typically 10–15% worse than elsewhere due to captive audiences and high overheads. The best rates for cash are usually from high-street banks, post offices, or specialist bureaux de change in city centres. For card spending, travel debit cards (Wise, Revolut, Starling) offer near-interbank exchange rates with minimal fees and are usually the most cost-effective option for most travellers.

Question 16

Are travel cards like Wise or Revolut worth it?

Accepted Answer

Yes, for almost all international travellers. Cards like Wise, Revolut, and Starling's travel card offer mid-market exchange rates (the same rate you see on Google) with low or no foreign transaction fees. They also let you hold multiple currencies, freeze the card instantly via an app if lost, and cap your exposure to theft. Compare their specific fee structures — some have daily ATM withdrawal limits or weekend rate markups — before committing.

Question 17

Should I pay in local currency or my home currency abroad?

Accepted Answer

Always pay in the local currency. When a payment terminal or ATM asks if you want to pay in your home currency, decline — this is called Dynamic Currency Conversion (DCC), and it applies a poor exchange rate set by the merchant rather than your bank. Paying in local currency lets your card provider apply their (usually better) rate. The same applies at ATMs: always choose to be charged in the local currency.

Question 18

Is it safe to use ATMs abroad?

Accepted Answer

Broadly yes, but take precautions. Prefer ATMs attached to bank branches over standalone machines in tourist areas or nightlife districts, which are more prone to card skimming devices. Cover the keypad when entering your PIN. Check for anything that looks unusual on the card slot — skimmers are often glued over the real reader. Inform your bank before travelling so your card is not blocked for overseas transactions. Withdraw larger amounts less frequently to reduce ATM fees.

Question 19

How early should I renew my passport before travelling?

Accepted Answer

Renew at least 6 months before your departure date. Many countries — particularly in Africa, Asia, and the Middle East — require your passport to be valid for 6 months beyond your travel dates and may refuse entry otherwise. The UK Passport Office recommends allowing up to 10 weeks for standard applications. Use the HMPO online tracker once submitted. Check your destination country's specific requirements through the official FCDO travel advice page.

Question 20

How do I find out if I need a visa?

Accepted Answer

Visa requirements depend on your nationality, destination, and purpose of travel. The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) publishes country-by-country entry requirements at gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice. US travellers should use travel.state.gov. Requirements change — always check the official source within a few weeks of travel, not just when you book. Some countries offer e-visas or visas on arrival; others require applications weeks in advance with supporting documents.

Question 21

What documents should I carry for international travel?

Accepted Answer

Essential documents: valid passport (with sufficient validity), visa or entry permit if required, flight booking confirmation, hotel/accommodation confirmation, travel insurance certificate, and vaccination proof if required (e.g. Yellow Fever for some African and South American countries). Additionally useful: international driving permit if renting a car, EHIC / GHIC card (UK travellers in Europe), and copies of all documents stored separately from the originals.

Question 22

Should I carry physical or digital copies of my travel documents?

Accepted Answer

Both. Email yourself scans of your passport photo page, visa, insurance certificate, and itinerary confirmation. Store them in cloud storage accessible from any device. Also carry a physical photocopy kept separately from your originals — in your day bag while your passport stays in the hotel safe, for instance. If your bag or phone is stolen, having any copy makes replacement and police reporting significantly easier. Some countries accept digital document copies; others require physical originals.

Question 23

Do I need travel vaccinations?

Accepted Answer

It depends on your destination. Some vaccinations are recommended (e.g. Hepatitis A, Typhoid for certain regions) while others are legally required for entry — Yellow Fever proof is mandatory for entry into several African and South American countries if arriving from an at-risk area. Book a travel health consultation at a GP or travel clinic at least 6–8 weeks before departure, as some vaccinations require multiple doses. The NHS Fit for Travel site (fitfortravel.nhs.uk) and TRAVAX list requirements by country.

Question 24

Can I bring prescription medication on a plane?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Keep medication in its original packaging with your name clearly on the label. Carry a signed letter from your doctor for controlled drugs, injectable medication (insulin, EpiPens), or any medication that might attract scrutiny at security. Liquid medication exceeding 100ml is generally permitted with a valid prescription — declare it separately at security. Crucially, check the laws of your destination country: some medications legal at home are controlled or banned elsewhere. The FCDO country advice pages list known restrictions.

Question 25

Do I need travel insurance?

Accepted Answer

Strongly recommended for all international travel, and essential for long-haul or adventure trips. The UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) covers state-provided medical care within the EU but does not cover repatriation, trip cancellation, delayed or lost baggage, or medical evacuation — which can cost tens of thousands of pounds. A good travel insurance policy covers: medical expenses and repatriation, trip cancellation or curtailment, baggage and personal belongings, travel delay, and personal liability. Declare all pre-existing medical conditions honestly or your policy may be void when you need it most.

Question 26

What does travel insurance typically not cover?

Accepted Answer

Standard exclusions include: pre-existing medical conditions not disclosed at the time of purchase, incidents involving alcohol or drugs, injuries from extreme sports unless you bought an adventure activity upgrade, travel to destinations with an active FCDO 'do not travel' advisory, and cancellations due to events known before you bought the policy. Read the exclusions section carefully before purchasing, and compare policies using a comparison site rather than simply buying from your airline at checkout.

Question 27

Will my phone work abroad?

Accepted Answer

Most modern smartphones are unlocked and support international frequency bands, so they will work abroad with a local SIM or roaming. Check your carrier's roaming charges before you leave — many UK operators now charge a per-day roaming fee for use outside the UK. For trips over a week, buying a local SIM on arrival or using an eSIM service (Airalo, Holafly, Nomad) is usually cheaper. Ensure your phone is SIM-unlocked by checking with your carrier if you bought it on contract.

Question 28

Do I need a power adapter for my destination?

Accepted Answer

Probably, unless you are travelling within a region that shares your plug type. The UK uses Type G (3 rectangular pins, 230V). The EU uses Type C/E/F (2 round pins, 230V). The US and Canada use Type A/B (2 flat pins, 110–120V). Voltage matters too — most laptops and phone chargers are dual-voltage (100–240V, marked on the plug) and only need a plug adapter. Devices marked for one voltage only (e.g. hair dryers, some electric shavers) need a voltage converter. Use our Power Adapter tool to check your specific destination.

Question 29

Is it safe to use public or hotel Wi-Fi for banking?

Accepted Answer

Public and hotel Wi-Fi networks carry a risk of man-in-the-middle attacks, where a malicious actor on the same network intercepts your traffic. Avoid logging into banking apps or entering sensitive credentials on public Wi-Fi. If you must, use a reputable VPN (Virtual Private Network) to encrypt your connection. Mobile data (4G/5G) is significantly more secure than public Wi-Fi for financial transactions. Most banks and financial apps also use end-to-end encryption, but the risk from compromised networks is still real.

Question 30

Should I get a local SIM or use roaming?

Accepted Answer

For short trips (1–3 days), your carrier's roaming add-on is usually more convenient and cost-effective. For longer stays, a local SIM or eSIM is almost always cheaper. eSIMs (electronic SIMs) are increasingly popular — you install them digitally before you travel, avoiding the need to find a phone shop on arrival. Services like Airalo or Nomad offer data-only eSIMs for most countries at competitive rates. Note: some heavily used apps (WhatsApp, banking apps) may behave differently on a foreign number.

Question 31

How do I minimise jet lag?

Accepted Answer

Start shifting your sleep schedule 2–3 days before departure by going to bed and waking an hour earlier (eastward travel) or later (westward). On the flight, set your watch to the destination time zone immediately and try to sleep and eat in line with that schedule. Stay well hydrated and avoid alcohol and caffeine during flight. On arrival, get outdoor natural light exposure as soon as possible — light is the primary signal your body uses to reset its circadian clock. Low-dose melatonin (0.5–3mg) taken at bedtime in the new time zone can accelerate the adjustment. Our Jet Lag Planner generates a personalised schedule based on your route.

Question 32

Is eastward or westward travel worse for jet lag?

Accepted Answer

Eastward travel is generally harder. Flying east shortens your day, which goes against your body's natural circadian rhythm of roughly 24–25 hours. Your internal clock finds it easier to delay (stay up later, as when flying west) than to advance (wake up earlier, as when flying east). A rough guide: expect about 1 day of recovery per time zone crossed when flying east, and around half a day per zone when flying west — though individual responses vary considerably.

Question 33

How long does jet lag typically last?

Accepted Answer

As a general rule, allow one day of adjustment per time zone crossed going eastward, or half a day per zone going westward. A 5-zone eastward shift (e.g. London to the Maldives) may take 4–5 days to fully resolve. A 9-zone eastward jump (e.g. London to Tokyo) can take up to 9 days without intervention. Age, overall health, sleep quality on the flight, and how well you manage light exposure all significantly affect recovery speed. Business travellers making very frequent long-haul trips sometimes develop chronic circadian disruption — worth taking seriously.

Common travel questions, answered.

Airport & Security

Baggage

Flights & Your Rights

Money & Currency

Documents & Visas

Health & Travel Insurance

Tech & Connectivity

Jet Lag