Get your holiday off to a great start with these tips

A brand new year is upon us.

Now the Christmas rush is over we can breathe a sigh of relief and start to plan our perfect 2019.

January is usually the time when you're enticed with holiday deals and discounts with many travel companies offering the ultimate bargains.

But whether you have booked a holiday yet or not you need to know the latest rules, tips and advice - especially if you're travelling from London Heathrow Airport.

To kick off the year with a bang let's get started on the key messages of advice you need to take on board before you travel.

We have come up with a list below that will put you on the right track for an excellent and memorable holiday.

Be on time

Make sure you're on time

Timing is always a topic of debate among holidaymakers.

What time are you supposed to get to the airport? Four hours before, two hours before, one hour before if you've already checked in online?

Well, two hours before your flight time would be the ideal time to get there, say London Heathrow Airport staff.

This is in case there are any delays either on he journey to the airport whether it is via car or public transport or at the airport due to unforeseen operational issues.

The airport also prides itself on their Faster Easier Friendlier passenger experience.

Be it the short walk to the terminal from the choice of car parks, passing through security in a matter of minutes and the fact that more flights operate on time at London Heathrow Airport than any other airport in England.

Know where to check in

These tips will help make your holiday journey a lot smoother

If you have checked in online and are only carrying hand luggage there is no need to visit the check-in desks. Phew! That saves the queuing.

But do check that the size and weight of your hand baggage meet your airline’s rules for carrying on luggage

However, if you are checking in bags for the aircraft hold, you will need to go to your airline’s check-in/bag drop desk, the numbers of which will be displayed on the Flight Information Screens in the Terminal Building.

Make sure you look for these screens, to begin with, if you're unsure - if you can't see your check-in then speak to a member of staff.

Know what to take

Depending on what kind of destination you are travelling to, whether it’s a cool city break or a hot holiday here are some travel related tips:

Roll don’t fold when packing your luggage, this avoids creasing and also frees up space in both your hold luggage or carry on!

Wear your heaviest clothes as this can save you space and will keep you extra warm when you are flying

There is no need to pack food - in the terminal, there are plenty of places to eat, some liquid based food products can also fall foul of the liquid restrictions

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Avoid bringing toiletries as many hotels already provide them and if not there are also opportunities to buy some once you get through security including the mini travel sets from Boots - this way you can put other liquids in your 20cm by 20cm clear, resealable bag that you will need if you are bringing liquids through security in your hand luggage.

Don't forget your travel adapter – depending on where you will be flying you may need to purchase one, luckily there are options to do this at London Heathrow Airport shops.

Make sure you also pack your chargers for various devices

Reading material – everyone loves a holiday read, WHSmith at the airport can provide you with a great book for your journey

Relax this New Year with a new book

Relax this New Year with a new book (Image: pixabay.com)

If you need some last minute foreign currency, you can use one of the three TravelEx facilities at the airport

Most importantly remember your passport and boarding passes - print out a copy of your boarding pass for both out and return flights as well as having them saved on your phone - that way if your phone battery runs out, you have a backup.

London Heathrow Airport Rules.

Image result for welcome heathrow airport terminal 5

All liquids in hand luggage must be in a container with a capacity of no more than 100ml and must be carried in a clear, resealable plastic bag measuring 20cm by 20cm - one bag is permitted per passenger maximum combined quantity of liquids measuring no more than 1 litre

For those who chose not to bring their own resealable plastic bag, these can be purchased from vending machines at the airport costing £1 for two bags

Although E-cigarettes are not used in the terminal building they are still permitted in hand luggage - however as they contain a liquid that must be placed into a resealable plastic bag which measures 20cm by 20cm, along with all other liquids

There is a smoking area in the terminal were E-cigarettes can be used

One cigarette lighter is permitted per passenger and must also go into the clear resealable bag

Don’t take photos or videos insecurity - it is important to respect staff members privacy, additionally, photographs and videos are not permitted for security and safety reasons

Mobile phones are not allowed to be used in the areas where passengers are waiting to pass through the UK Border force passport checks

Never leave any bags unattended - as well as the increase chances of losing your belongings this is a security concern, so it’s best to keep your things with you at all times

Remember where you have put your passport and boarding card as you will need to re-use them as you board your plane and when you arrive

You may also need your boarding card when purchasing goods at some of the stores in the Departure Lounge.

Know how to look after your suitcase

(Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto)

At London Heathrow Airport there are opportunities to use a bag wrap facility which is located next to the Omniserv desk

where you first enter the terinal. Passengers use this to secure their luggage, protecting it from

damage, tampering and ensures that passengers feel that their luggage is secure.

Investing in a lightweight suitcase will allow passengers more space to fit more clothing into their

luggage. It would also make it easier to carry around the airport.

Look out for bargains

There's always a chance to treat yourself at the Duty-Free department.

There are some great Tax-Free and Duty-Free savings available on a wide range of products in the new, bigger World Duty-Free store, as well as Tax-Free savings also to be had compared to the High Street in other stores such as JD Sports and Dixons Travel.

Check out parking availability

Fast track parking is available at Liverpool John Lennon Airport

Many London Heathrow Airport passengers choose to use Meet and Greet Parking, meaning there is no need to wait for shuttle buses from remote or off-site car parks, with a short walk to the terminal.

The site award-winning airport car parks have 24/7 CCTV surveillance, secure fencing, good lighting and security patrols on a regular basis.

There are a number of different car parking options including Fast Track, Multi-Storey and Long Stay.

When using the long stay car park make a note of the zone you are parked in (signs are on the lighting masts) to make it easier to find your car on your return.

For those being dropped off or collected there is a choice of the express drop off car park closest to the terminal or the drop off two car park which is a short walk to the terminal..

To book a holiday or find out the latest details visit London Heathrow Airport website here. Happy holidays!