Checking-in
In this age of low cost carriers and DIY booths, there is no longer a set way to check in at the airport. The necessary security checks remain the same, however, so it is important to find out the correct procedure for each flight. The steps below should help you ensure you have everything ready to begin your journey
Do I need a passport?
Unless you are flying domestically (for example from London to Glasgow, or Nice to Paris) you will need a passport. For some inter-EU flights, only a valid ID card is required, but for UK travellers only an EU passport will be accepted. Ensure that your passport is valid for up to six month after your travel, and keep it in a handy place, as it will be checked several times before you board.
Do I need a visa?
Again this depends on where you are flying to. If your tour operator confirms that you do need a visa to travel, it is generally recommended to get one well before your flight departs, usually from the embassy of your destination country. Some visas, for example Australian visas, can be bought at the airport in a matter of minutes prior to check-in, and some can be bought on arrival. If you are checking in with a clerk (see below), you will be prevented from going any further without valid documents
What luggage can I check?
Most airlines allow you to send at least one piece of luggage to the baggage hold of the aircraft. Some airlines, such as Easyjet and Ryanair, charge for this privilege, but most of the bigger airlines (British Airways, Virgin, Emirates etc) include checked luggage in the price of the airline ticket. Check with the airline how much your luggage is allowed to weigh, and how many pieces you are allowed to send. If your luggage weighs more than 16kg, some airlines will not take it.
How much hand luggage can I take?
Latest regulations dictate that passengers are allowed to take one piece of hand luggage (excluding post-security purchases) on board. These items must not contain flammables or sharps, or any liquids exceeding 100ml. All liquids must be carried in clear plastic bottles within a clear plastic bag measuring 20x20cm (available for free at most airports). At check in, there will be a hand luggage checking device, where passengers can ensure that their carry on items do not exceed the allowed weight or size (usually 22x17x10inches).
Where do I go to check in?
This depends largely on the airport terminal and carrier. Some short haul flights give the option to check in online, in which case your boarding pass can be printed out and luggage left at a “bag drop zone”. Travellers on low cost airlines often prefer this as it saves them money. In other instances, a self-serve booth can be used, where the passport is scanned electronically and the passenger asked a series of questions before being issued a boarding pass and luggage labels. All other cases require travellers to queue to see a check-in clerk, where an assistant will guide the passenger through the entire process.
If travelling internationally, arrive at check-in at least two hours before the flight leaves. If travelling nationally, a minimum of 40 minutes is usually acceptable.
For up to the minute regulation changes, visit the website of your departing airport.
