All I want for Christmas... is 10 tips for stress-free travel

Simon Calder puts the miles in so all you need to do is pack

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Sometimes in this column I try to be useful, and the first weekend of December is such an opportunity. For many people, Christmas brings extra pressure and tasks, and often robs the traveller of time and forethought. So I thought I should prepare some tips about travel before and during Christmas. Travellers may inadvertently overlook these important aspects of Yuletide journeys.

1. Airport security takes much longer, so allow plenty of time

Fellow passengers tend to have coats, hats and scarves because it’s midwinter – and bags filled with fragile gifts because it’s Christmas. The people ahead of you in the queue for security may be only occasional travellers, and not as versed in the ritual as you are. On the same subject…

2. Don’t wrap those presents before airport security

Long-suffering security staff are required to examine anything that looks unusual on their scanners – which could include your imaginatively sourced Christmas gifts. It will not be a great start to your festive journey if you have to stand and watch someone tear apart all your careful wrapping to have a better look. And…

3. Make it a snowdome-free journey