The mad airport dash, immortalised in the classic Christmas film Home Alone, is a reality for many, with a quarter of travellers confessing to being late for a flight.
A survey of 2,000 adults disclosed that nearly 20 per cent have endured the anxiety of running late to the airport, mirroring the McAllister family’s frenzied race to catch their holiday flight.
Over 10 per cent admitted to oversleeping or hitting snooze on their alarm, much like the McAllisters who infamously left young Kevin at home. Sleep deprivation was cited by 22 per cent of respondents, as the main contributing factor to travel blunders.
These blunders included forgetting crucial items such as boarding passes, passports, or medication, even if they made a checklist. A forgetful 16 per cent have even left Christmas presents behind and another 14 per cent have forgotten cards.
The study, commissioned by London Luton Airport, found nearly 40 per cent were oblivious that festive items like wrapped gifts, snow globes, and jars of jam are restricted at airport security.
The airport has recreated iconic scenes from Home Alone in a campaign to remind passengers to plan ahead. It features Kevin lookalike, Tyler Stringer, roaming around the airport applying aftershave at duty-free, dancing with mannequins, and even pranking staff with a fake tarantula.
To help ensure passengers are relaxed and ready for their travels, the airport is providing complimentary items such as toothbrushes, combs, and even phone chargers.
They’re also offering wake-up calls for the most drowsy travellers and sharing festive advice to help avoid mishaps like not wrapping presents before going through security (yes, they will tear that paper off).
Clare Armstrong, who heads up guest experience at the airport, commented: “Christmas brings additional pressures and things to remember, so it’s no surprise that many travellers find themselves in a panic.”
“Our campaign provides simple tips to help passengers plan their journeys, pack effectively, and set that all-important early morning alarm.”
LONDON LUTON AIRPORT’S TIPS FOR TRAVELLING:
Check guidelines: Airline policies vary widely so check airline guidelines before packing festive items, and if you are bringing presents, please don’t wrap them in advance because airport security staff might have to unwrap them for you to check what’s inside.
Make a list: Write that all important checklist in advance to ensure you bring key travel documents, confirmations, medication and gifts ready to go.
Get a good night’s sleep: Try to get seven hours of sleep before flying so you are wide-eyed and feeling fresh ahead of your trip.
Pick up last minute gifts at the airport: If you’re flying at Christmas and have forgotten a gift, do not panic! You can pick up any last-minute gifts or festive treats to save your holiday in Duty Free.
Take the express way: Book a slot with our pre book security to avoid any last-minute hiccups if you’re in a rush.