Travel advice on... security at airports

The events of the past few weeks will have many people looking over their shoulder when they use airports. Security, a vital part of the travel process has become so intense that it would almost make you reconsider your journey. Getting airside as quickly as possible should be your aim. Bombings rarely happen there.

Security queues are getting longer, more people are travelling and inevitably some are unprepared for the checks. You can only take up to 10 small bottles of liquid, each under 100ml in one plastic bag. Jam is considered a liquid and gets confiscated a lot.

The security process is not helped by the fact that we bring far too much stuff with us to avoid luggage fees from airlines. Maybe it is time to reconsider checked-in luggage. When flying in Europe think about which airline to fly with.

Full-service carriers like Air France and Lufthansa allow checked luggage and provide drinks and snacks on board. If booked, early prices can be competitive.

Ryanair’s Business Plus is worth considering, especially when it is on special offer. The extra €30-€50 allows for airport check in, a 20kg bag, fast-track at security, priority boarding and seating. Tickets are also flexible and can be changed easily.

Wear trainers or slip-on shoes when travelling. Complicated belts, pockets of change, penknives and chunky jewellery will delay you. Watch who is ahead of you in the line, laden down mothers with children and buggies will take longer to get through.

Fast-track where available can be worth paying for at busy times. At Dublin Airport it is €5.95 and includes a copy of The Irish Times.

Use a mobile app for downloading your boarding card when possible. Many airports are automating boarding entry points and the app helps you through quicker.