We’ve all been there. You’re on your way to the airport but simply can’t shake that nagging feeling you’ve forgotten something important.
One viewing of family classic Home Alone tells us the importance of double checking (after all nobody wants their own ‘Kevin’ moment upon arrival at the airport).
While your situation is, admittedly, unlikely to be quite so dramatic there is still a lot of important stuff to remember, and to be brutally honest there’s a lot that could go wrong if you’re not properly prepared.
Here’s our handy five step guide to ensuring you leave no stone unturned and can set off for the airport without worrying about any last-minute hitches.
This sounds obvious but you’ll be amazed at how many people are caught out.
Best check your passport hasn't expired without you realising, and if you see it’s out of date you’ll need to renew it urgently (visit gov.com to do this).
Some countries require a certain amount of time left on your passport before expiry, and you can learn more about this in the Foreign Travel Advice section of the UK Government website.
For a smooth start to your journey we’d always suggest doing this.
During the busy summer months we sometimes see queues at check-in and, let’s be honest, who likes waiting in queues? Especially when you can check-in from the comfort of your own home.
For bag drop we’ve put together a guide which outlines when bag drop opens, and when you should arrive at the airport to check your luggage in.
Our advice? Don’t chance it. Arrive for your check-in desk opening.
Different airlines open their check-in desks at different times, so it's always best to check this before the day of your flight.
While some open their desks up to four hours before flight times, others do so two hours ahead of departure.
Desks and times can vary, and are subject to change by the airline.
Each airline has its own luggage rules – so if you’re unsure whether your bag is too heavy, or too large, check with them first.
It’s a good idea to weigh your bag before leaving the house. Nobody wants to be binning stuff at the airport.
It's also important to know your security rules - remember to remove liquids and large electricals from your hand luggage.
We've put together five top tips to help you navigate airport security like a pro.
There are several things you can do to ensure a smooth journey through security, from following the 100ml liquids rule, to ensuring all large electricals are removed from your hand luggage and placed in a tray.
If you’ve booked parking there are detailed directions and maps for each of the on-site car parks on our website.
Roads in and around the airport can be busy at peak times – particularly if there are other events on in Edinburgh (and especially around Royal Highland Show time) so check for any travel updates on the day.
You can also travel to the airport easily by bus, tram or taxi. You can even cycle if you’re travelling light.
Security and check-in is well signposted, so once you arrive you’ll have no trouble finding your way. In the event of queues staff will be stationed around the airport to point you the right way.
Be at the airport in good time, but not too early as that can cause lengthy queues.
Your best bet is to check in before leaving the house and time your arrival so you’re here to drop off your luggage as soon as your bag drop opens. Then just make your way towards security.
We’ve loads of great stuff for you enjoy once you get through security whether you want to bag a great deal at duty free or sip a cold drink in one of the bars. So why wait?
If you're looking to pick up a pre-flight bargain or a holiday essential once you arrive at the airport then you're in luck.
We have an extensive selection of retail options on offer to passengers, selling everything from designer clothes and electronics to sunglasses and suitcases.
Find out what we've got on offer before and after security here.
Different airlines operate different rules.
A quick guide to navigating airport security like a pro.
It's the age-old question, and there are several things to consider.
A range of different partners operate within the airport.
