Often the most stressful part of going on holiday is the actual trip to your destination. Lengthy flight delays or hassles getting through security are not the ideal start to any holiday, so we’ve compiled a few airport hacks to help you breeze through the airport and save a bit of money too.

Know the Liquid Rules

There have been restrictions about taking liquids on planes for 10 years, yet still some travellers are caught out. You are not allowed to take any bottle containing more than 100mll of liquid, and all liquids must be presented at security in a clear plastic bag. Gels such as toothpaste and cosmetics like foundation, perfume and lipstick may also be defined as gels or liquids. Take some spare plastic bags with you; although many airports do hand them out free, some will charge up to £1 per bag. And organise your liquids into the plastic bags when you’re packing, not while you’re waiting at security.

Save Cash on Drinks

Because of the rules about taking liquids through security, you often have no option but to shell out on expensive drinks or bottled water once you’re through security. Bring an empty sports bottle with you; nearly all airports will have a drinking fountain air side which will allow you to fill up your water bottle for drinking in the departure lounge and on the plane. A water bottle will also be useful for extra drinks on holiday, and you can use it again to get drinks in the airport on your way back home.

Identify Your Suitcase

Unless you have recently bought brightly coloured or patterned luggage, identifying your case as it comes round the carousel can be tricky. There’s no need to go to the expense of buying special straps or large labels for your luggage – just tie some brightly coloured ribbon or fabric in a contrasting shade to the handle.  This makes it easier to spot your case and allows you to grab it off the belt as quickly as possible. Alternatively, when buying new suitcases consider ease of identification and buy something bright.

Wear it Rather than Pack it

Budget airlines offer a great service, but one of the compromises is that the luggage allowance is often far less than with a traditional airline. Many travellers choose not to check-in hold luggage at all and take a small carry-on bag only. When space and weight is limited in your suitcase, try to wear your bulkier items like jackets and trainers, and pack the lighter items in the case only. Once you’re on the plane, there’s nothing to stop you changing.

Always Keep to the Left

It’s human nature to gravitate to queues towards the right. This is thought to be because most people are right handed. Bear this in mind when heading for a check in queue, or choosing which security lane to join. Always head to the left, and the chances are that you will be through more quickly than if you had joined a queue to the right.