air travel

A well-known airline has launched a new scheme which allows travellers place a bid to keep the seat next to them free on both domestic and international short-haul flights

Great news if you hate being bunched up next to strangers while flying – a major airline is now allowing passengers to bid to keep the seat next to them empty.

This handy new scheme, launched by Virgin Australia, will allow flight passengers to have two seats instead of one. The ‘Neighbour-Free Seating’ option will be available for travellers heading on either domestic and short-haul international flights.

If they select the new option, economy passengers can place a bid through the airline’s app to reserve an additional seat next to them – with the auction starting for as little as £14 but rising upon demand.

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Successful passengers will be informed two hours before their flight departure if they have their seat free, reports The Sun. Of course, there is a possibility that someone may book the empty seat. In this case, the winning passenger will be refunded.

It’s also important to note that while Neighbour-Free Seating provides extra personal space next to the assigned seat, it does not include any additional baggage allowance.

According to Virgin Australia, the new option means passengers will have “a more spacious Economy experience at great value”. The new feature comes after a 2023 survey which found that 42 per cent of Virgin Australia passengers said they would consider paying a fee to have the middle seat empty on international flights longer than three hours.

Additionally, 35 per cent of passengers also said they would do the same for domestic flights more than three hours.

Virgin Australia executive, Libby Minogue said: “Our priority is to give Virgin Australia guests even more value and choice when they choose to fly with us.”

She added: “Neighbour-Free Seating is a clever add-on for Economy travellers who want the certainty of extra space without the price tag. After booking their flight, passengers can bid for the additional seat via the Virgin Australia app.”

A similar feature is offered by other airlines like Qantas and Air France.

Those flying with Air France have the option to pay for the ‘Empty Seat Option – My Extra Space’, when they check-in online or through the airline’s app, allowing them to reserve up to three empty seats next to their own for greater comfort, space and privacy.

Cyprus is just a four-and-a-half hour flight from London and offers year-round sunshine, with flowers beginning to bloom in March

Brits seeking a sun-soaked escape might want to consider this English-speaking island, just a short hop from the UK and basking in a cosy 22C during winter. Just a four-and-a-half hour flight from London, this Mediterranean jewel provides a much-needed respite from the UK’s current frosty, damp weather.

With sunshine all year round and flowers starting to blossom in March, Cyprus is an excellent pick for families, with plenty of family-friendly hotels on offer. The island also boasts a variety of activities, from hiking trails to exploring cultural and historical landmarks.

Winter brings fewer tourists, making it the ideal time to visit popular sites without the long queues, reports the Express.

Party animals will be attracted to Ayia Napa, one of Europe’s premier party hotspots, while those in search of relaxation can soak up the island’s 300 days of annual sunshine.

A journey into the Troodos Mountains reveals breathtaking landscapes and a charming village tucked away in the valley below.

In an unexpected turn of events, there’s even a ski resort nestled within the Troodos Mountain Range.

Open from January to March, it’s situated on Mount Olympus. Holidaymakers can drive up to the slopes, which offer several picturesque viewpoints along the way.

Tucked away in the valley is the village of Omodos, packed with eateries serving traditional cuisine – the perfect end to a day of mountain trekking.

The village is also home to a monastery that welcomes visitors for tours. A local fortified sweet wine, commandaria, is a favourite in the area and can be found on locals’ doorsteps for €2-€5 (£1.61-£4.23).

Another must-see is Nicosia, Cyprus’ divided capital.

Following the 1974 civil war, the island was split into two states: the Greek Republic of Southern Cyprus and the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus.

The border, known as the ‘green line’, runs through Nicosia, making it the only divided capital city in the world. Tourists can cross the border at several points.

Other attractions include underwater waterfall hikes, a turtle conservation station, Aphrodite’s Rock, the Tombs of the Kings, snorkelling adventures, Akamas Peninsula National Park, castles and even a wellness retreat.

One of the country’s major airport hubs has introduced a new twilight-hour service to give early morning budget travellers more time to relax before taking off.

One of the UK’s major airports has introduced a new check-in service that will ease the burden of early morning flights. The new check-in option will ensure budget travellers are “ready to relax and unwind” before their flight.

Liverpool John Lennon Airport is the latest England airport to introduce twilight bag drop and check-in services. Many airlines have introduced twilight bag drop to ease stress on travellers and check-in desks, especially during heavy travel periods.

Twilight bag drop services allow passengers to arrive at the airport the night before their scheduled departure and check-in their large bags well before the flight’s check-in window.

According to the Liverpool Airport website: “Twilight check-in is now available at Liverpool John Lennon Airport, making it easy for you to turn up the night before your flight and check-in your hold luggage at your airline’s dedicated check-in desk.

“Then, simply turn up the next day, bypass check-in and head straight to security, ready to relax and unwind in departures before your flight.”

Twilight services were previously only available for passengers flying with Jet2.com and Jet2holidays, however a recent announcement confirmed expanded availability.

An “amber alert” announcement from the airport reads: “Passengers travelling with easyJet, Jet2 and Ryanair and departing on flights before 08:00 can all now check in their hold luggage up to three hours before their departure, giving more time to relax and make use of the facilities in the Departure Lounge.”

This service is particularly convenient for anyone living or staying close to their departure airport. But again, not every airline offers this service – so it’s best to check with your tour operator first.

The first step of Twilight check-in is to complete online check-in via Jet2’s website, app, or through their travel agent, at least 24 hours before the flight.

Check-in luggage can then be dropped off at the Jet2 desks at Liverpool Airport between 4.30PM and 9PM the evening before scheduled departure. The following morning, passengers can go straight through to security – bypassing check-in entirely.

Passengers driving to the airport to make use of twilight check-in services can park in the airport’s Drop-off 2 car park. Travellers get one hour complimentary parking to check their bags in, but anything over that time (or the use of other car parks) will be subject to standard parking fees.

Liverpool John Lennon Airport also urges passengers to arrive a minimum of two hours before departure to allow enough time to check-in and pass through security.

One travel expert has offered handy advice for all visitors to the US

Travellers to the Unites States face paying a new £185 fee from today (Wednesday, October 1) – but many Brits won’t have to fork out a penny more. The US government announced the new measure in the summer, aimed at reducing visa overstays. It came into effect today, meaning Brits – and other foreign nationals heading to the States – could have to pay up before flying across the pond.

The new charge applies to travellers from non-Visa Waiver Program nations, who need to apply for non-immigrant visas. But, as one travel expert explains, the fee won’t apply to many of us travelling to hotspots like New York or Florida.

Brenda Beltrán, a travel expert at Holafly, says that the majority of travelers from the UK will not have to pay the $250 fee. She said: “The UK is part of the U.S. Visa Waiver Program.

“That means most Brits visiting for tourism or short business trips of up to 90 days will continue to use ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) and will not face this new $250 charge.” However, there are still circumstances in which the fee does apply.

Some British visitors to the USA will still have to pay up. If they apply for certain visas that are not included in the usual ESTA route, the charge applies.

For example, the following circumstances would incur the charge:

• Student visas (F-1, M-1)
• Work visas (H-1B, L-1, O-1, etc.)
• Extended stays beyond the 90-day ESTA allowance
• Specialist visa categories for exchange, journalism, or diplomatic purposes

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Brenda added: “For the average Brit heading to New York for shopping or Florida for Disney, nothing changes. But if you’re planning to study in the U.S., take up a job, or stay longer than three months, you should budget for the new $250 cost on top of existing visa fees.”

For the vast majority of British holidaymakers, nothing changes after 1 October 2025. ESTA remains the standard route for short-term visits, and the cost is currently $21.

The introduction of the Visa Integrity Fee is primarily aimed at travellers from countries outside the Visa Waiver Program. Therefore, it is unlikely to affect UK–US tourism levels.

Brenda continued: “This update sounds alarming at first glance, but most Brits won’t notice any difference. As long as you qualify for ESTA, which nearly all UK holidaymakers do, you won’t be hit by the new charge.”

How to get the fee reimbursed

As part of the new law, the US government will reimburse certain travellers the £185 cost. The legislation allows for the Secretary of Homeland Security to pay visitors back if they prove they complied with their visa.

As long as they have not tried to extend their stay without a relevant visa and left the USA within five days of the visa expiring, visitors may be eligible. They must also not accept unauthorised employment and have lawfully changed their nonimmigrant status.

Foreign Office guidance on travelling to the United States

The UK Foreign Office has specific advice on the entry requirements to visit the US. The government guidance on ESTA states: “ESTA is an automated system that determines the eligibility of visitors to travel to the US under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP).

“You can apply for an ESTA via the Official ESTA Application Website or using the ESTA Mobile app on android or on iOS. All Visa Waiver Program (VWP) travellers intending to enter the US by land, sea and air will be required to obtain an approved ESTA prior to application for admission at land border ports of entry.

“Individuals who are not eligible to travel under the VWP may apply for a visa at any U.S. Embassy & Consulates. Travellers whose sex on their passport differs from their sex recorded at birth should contact the US Embassy or a consulate in the UK for further advice.”

Those who may not be eligible for an ESTA visa waiver include those:

• who have been arrested (even if the arrest did not result in a criminal conviction)
• with a criminal record
• who have been refused admission into, or have been deported from, the US
• who have previously overstayed under an ESTA visa waiver

Furthermore, there are a list of countries that visitors must not have been in on or after March 2011 to apply for an ESTA waiver. These are Iran, Iraq, Libya, North Korea, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen.

You also cannot apply for an ESTA visa waiver if you travelled to or were in Cuba on or after 12 January 2021. An ESTA may not be sufficient for all types of business travel – particularly if you are travelling on behalf of a US company.

The Foreign Office says: “Please check the rules on the ESTA website carefully. If you are not eligible for an ESTA, you must instead apply for a US visa. Travelling on an ESTA when ineligible can lead to detention and deportation by the US authorities.”

Brenda’s expert tips for travelling to the US

• Apply early for ESTA: it’s valid for two years and covers multiple trips, so don’t leave it until the last minute.
• Double-check eligibility: if your circumstances don’t fit the Visa Waiver rules (e.g. long-term study or work), be prepared for the additional cost.
• Stay updated: Immigration rules evolve regularly, so always check official guidance before booking flights.

A female pilot has shared her experiences of breaking into the ‘challenging’ industry as a woman and has some words of advice for those who are considering the same journey as her

A female pilot has urged women to chase their dreams when it comes to their careers and not be deterred by male-dominated industries. Jenna, from Manchester, shared her inspiring journey on the ‘Update Aviation’ Facebook page, hoping to motivate others to follow their passions, even if they do feel like they’re chasing an impossible dream.

She emphasised the need for resilience but reassured that there’s “always a way” to make dreams come true. She penned: “My aviation journey began from a young age when my dad would take me to the Manchester airport pub every weekend to watch the planes! After we went on our first family holiday and my first time on a plane, I knew that was a job I had to do. Ever since, I have never given up on that dream.

“I have recently completed flight school and just got my first job flying the 737! (It still doesn’t feel real.)

“I started my flight training in January 2023 on an Integrated ATPL. I went over the Phoenix AZ for 8 months to learn how to fly and can honestly say it was the most amazing time I have ever had.

“I don’t think anything will beat flying all over the desert in a little PA28 every morning.”

She added: “Although I had the time of my life at flight school, and made memories that will last forever, I think it’s important to add that it does come with its challenges, and to get to the point it took rejection, determination and a whole lot of resilience.

“My advice to lady aviators is if you have a dream of being a pilot, you owe it to yourself to pursue it! Aviation can be a challenging industry to get into, both financially and mentally. But there is always a way!

“The flight deck has a place for anyone who has the passion to be in there, regardless of who you are!

“As a female who felt nervous about going into a male-dominated industry, I have to say how welcoming I have found the aviation industry!

“I’ve made lifelong friends and feel part of a community that always helps each other out!”

In the comments section, people shared their own experiences.

One mum wrote: “My daughter’s dream is to become a pilot. She has flown two small planes from Barton airport, Manchester, and absolutely loves it. She is only 12, nearly 13, and next week she is joining the air cadets to experience that side of aviation”.

Another added: “Well done and congratulations. My son has just started with Tui as a Pilot and will be based in Manchester. It has made me realise how hard the training is and how dedicated you have to be. It’s a wonderful industry to be in. Enjoy every minute,” a dad praised.

Someone else chimed in: “Well done to you. Absolutely fantastic. You show those stripes with pride, hun. Hard work pays off.”

Whilst another penned: “Well done Jenna you will never look back to what you have achieved I just love flying. Hope you’re flying one of my holidays”.

A man shared how he went through a horrifying flight experience, and it was all down to the piece of jewellery he had been constantly wearing since the start of this year

A man was left vowing to “never” wear a piece of jewellery again after he was denied boarding a plane thanks to it. Wearable smart rings have become all the rage as an alternative to the sometimes clunky smart watch. But when Daniel Rotar noticed his ring wouldn’t come off his finger just before he was meant to board a flight, he was left incredibly stressed.

Sharing a picture of the ring stuck on his finger, he wrote on X: “Ahhh…this is…not good. My Samsung Galaxy Ring’s battery started swelling. While it’s on my finger. And while I’m about to board a flight. Now I cannot take it off, and this thing hurts”.

He shared another picture, writing: “You can see the battery expanding. Not great for something that’s now stuck to my finger”.

Some asked how long he’d had the device, and Daniel explained he bought it in January 2025. Some Samsung rings retail for £399, depending on the model.

He wrote: “Had it since January 2025. No clue on the battery health (never checked it and not even sure if that’s visible in the app).

“I think it definitely had some battery issue before, as it stopped lasting for more than 1.5 days. When I first got it, it was close to the advertised seven days, so I even stopped charging it regularly because of this. When it swelled, it had no battery juice left in it”.

Somebody shared that the same thing happened to them with a smart ring, saying: “I cut it off with a Dremel. If you do this, be sure you do not cut the battery, and slide a file underneath so you don’t slice your finger. I just saved you four hours in urgent care! Good luck”.

Another urged: “Go up to the nearest restaurant and tell them you need a stick of butter warmed for 30 seconds. Finger the butter and then wiggle that thing off”.

One man seethed: “This is so messed up. It’s one thing for a battery in a phone or even smartwatch to expand like this (at least you can take it out of your pocket or off your wrist), but a ring…very glad to see you got it removed ok”.

Daniel then shared an update, saying: “I was denied boarding due to this (been travelling for 47 hours straight, so this is really nice). Need to pay for a hotel for the night now and get back home tomorrow”.

He also shared that he “was sent to the hospital, as an emergency,” and “the ring got removed”.

“You can see the battery all swollen. Won’t be wearing a smart ring ever again,” he fumed.

Someone wrote: “Dude, I’m sorry you had to go through this”. Daniel said he was just glad his finger was “fine”.

Another person suggested they should be designed with a gap in them instead to get on and off easier.

A spokesperson for Samsung said: “The safety of our customers is our top priority. This is an extremely rare case, and we are in direct contact with Mr Rotar to retrieve the product and learn about the concerns”.

Leg room can be an important factor for many passengers. Here are the airlines that offer the most room without having to pay extra

When it comes to jetting off, whether it’s a short-haul or long-haul flight, comfort is often a top priority. For those who are taller or struggle with leg space, the prospect of a cramped flight can be less than appealing.

The size of the seats and the amount of leg room can vary greatly depending on which airline you choose to fly with. As we head into the shoulder season for travel, many holidaymakers might be planning ahead for their Christmas or next summer.

Starting your holiday on the right note with a comfortable plane journey can be a deciding factor when choosing an airline. So, without having to fork out extra for additional legroom, which airlines offer the most space when buying a standard ticket?

According to a survey by consumer watchdog Which?, one airline offers more legroom than 15 other short-haul carriers from the UK. The survey measured seat pitch, which is the distance between your seat and the one in front – to determine legroom.

Taking the leading position is Aer Lingus, Ireland’s flag carrier, offering 29 to 30 inches. However – British Airways provide the same amount of room with exactly the same pitch.

The poorest performer regarding leg space is TAP Portugal, which provides just 28 inches of legroom, reports the Express.

Here’s a rundown from the airlines offering the most legroom to those offering the least:

When it comes to short haul flights, the seat width is between 17 and 18 inches which may not sound like much – but that extra inch can make a lot of difference.

You’re all set for your dream holiday, breezed through security and about to board the aeroplane when you spot it: a tiny middle seat that’s going to be your home for the duration of your flight.

Thankfully, there’s now a method to determine which budget airline offers the widest seats, ensuring you don’t have to compromise on comfort.

Last year, Which? did the maths to identify which airlines offer the most spacious seats, helping you get the best value for your money.

For short haul flights, the seat width (the distance between each armrest) typically ranges from 17 to 18 inches, which might not seem like a significant difference, reports the Express.

However, that additional inch can make a world of difference when you’re crammed in like sardines.

According to the experts, the airlines offering the widest economy seats include Wizz Air, TAP Portugal, easyJet and Lufthansa, all boasting widths of 18 inches.

This leaves airlines like Aer Lingus, Loganair, Jet2 and Norwegian with the narrowest seat widths, which can all be as low as 17 inches. Below is a breakdown of airline seat width and legroom in inches.

If you’re looking to maximise space on your budget flight without shelling out extra cash, there are a few tricks you can employ.

One hack is to book a seat in the bulkhead – the seats located directly behind the partitions, curtains or screens that divide the plane. With no seats in front, you’ll have enough room to stretch your legs.

However, these can be a bit narrower if tray tables are stowed in the armrest.

If a bulkhead doesn’t take your fancy, opt for a seat towards the back of the plane where they taper. This could occasionally result in fewer seats in a row – but naturally, you might find yourself next to the loo queue which can be somewhat disruptive.

If you’re on a flight that’s already airborne and you spot extra vacant seats, you can always politely ask the cabin crew if it would be possible to switch.

Remember, if you don’t ask, you won’t get – and provided you’re polite, there’s a likelihood they will accommodate your request.

If you have additional requirements that would benefit from more room, such as being tall or pregnant, you’ve got a better chance of being relocated to a more spacious area.

Two of Italy’s biggest unions, the CUB Trasporti and USB unions, are organising walkouts in a dispute over pay and working conditions, this will affect British holidaymakers

British holidaymakers jetting to or from Italy tomorrow, September 26, face travel chaos due to nationwide strikes. Two of Italy’s largest unions, the CUB Trasporti and USB unions, are orchestrating walkouts over disputes regarding pay and working conditions.

According to EuroNews, the 24-hour industrial action will affect airline crews alongside airport personnel, with Milan’s Linate and Malpensa airports expected to bear the brunt of the disruption.

Milano Malpensa Airport warned on its website: “There might be some delays or cancellations affecting your flights. We invite passengers to contact the airline in order to check their flight status before going to the airport”.

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Baggage handling workers are also set to down tools, with Assohandlers employees planning to strike from 10am to 2pm, whilst drivers at Milan’s airports will walk out for the entire day.

Meanwhile in Sardinia, security personnel at Cagliari Elmas Airport are also preparing to strike, reports the Manchester Evening News. Budget carriers Volotea and Wizz Air Malta have also announced planned industrial action.

Holidaymakers are being warned to expect flight disruption with “cancellations and delays likely”. However, Italy’s civil aviation authority ENAC has mandated that flights scheduled between 7am and 10am and 6pm and 9pm must continue operating throughout the strike action.

Passengers are urged to contact their airline directly and factor in additional time for their journeys. No matter the reason, any passenger whose flight is cancelled is always entitled to a refund, rerouting or a return flight, according to European Union regulations.

Passengers are entitled to compensation if the strike action is carried out by cabin crew or pilots as it is not classed as an ‘extraordinary circumstance’.

However, industrial action undertaken by staff which are ‘external to the airline’ such as airport staff, can be regarded as an ‘extraordinary circumstance’ which means passengers would not be entitled to compensation. Passengers should contact their airline for more information.

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It’s a nauseating, mind-boggling condition people literally lose sleep over, but help is at hand from a veteran of the skies who shares his best tips

Post-holiday blues are a nightmare, even more so if you suffer from jetlag after a long trip. Feeling like your body operates on a different time zone once you come back home is disorienting.

But there are ways to beat the nasty phenomenon, according to a travel expert who has seen and done it all. Even more remarkable is that these are simple tweaks that do not cost a thing.

Al Smith is a seasoned pilot, currently working as senior first officer for British Airways. He is no stranger to jetlag, having flown across time zones and seen sunrises from the comfort of his own cockpit.

He follows a strict sleep routine to ensure he is fresh as a daisy whenever he is manning a plane. In a recent edition of British Airways’ High Life magazine, he said: “After years on short haul, I had a rhythm – early starts or late finishes, never both.

“But long haul is a different game. These days, I spend at least one night a week wide awake under the stars – but that doesn’t mean I have to lose a night’s sleep.

“I plan ahead: sleep before departure, nap after landing and squeeze in a siesta when I can. The key?

“Prioritising rest and making time for it, no matter what time zone I’m in.”

Top 10 tips to beat jetlag

1. If the hotel curtains don’t close properly, grab a coat hanger with trouser clips and clip the curtains together. It’s a lifesaver for daytime sleeping.
2. Limit alcohol.
3. Don’t sleep for more than three hours on landing day. If it’s after 3pm, try to stay up and just go to bed early.
4. If you’re a tea lover like me and nothing else will do, invest in quality decaf tea. It’s perfect for enjoying at any time of day or night.
5. Strategic napping is essential – just don’t do it on a subway in Tokyo.
6. Turn your phone to dark mode and switch on ‘Sleep’ or ‘Do Not Disturb’ at bedtimes.
7. Don’t go shopping just to kill time on landing day – you will only buy things you don’t need. Early in my career, I woke up to find I’d cleared out the entire miniature toiletries section of Walgreens after landing in Seattle.
8. Don’t oversleep while recovering from jet lag – in my experience, it prolongs my adjustment time.
9. Get outside and do some light exercise. Sunlight is a natural reset for me and is essential when it comes to acclimatising.
10. If you’re trying to stay up, never sit on the bed! Trust me – before you know it, you’ll be on your back and spark out. You’ve been warned!

Among the most important things for people to get right is their sleep hygiene. According to Al, it helps the body adjust to a new time zone easier and more effectively.

He said of his own experience: “Every time we’ve moved house, my first priority has been: ‘How do I make my new bedroom feel like the best hotel room ever?’ I prefer total darkness when I sleep – I highly recommend plantation shutters with a blackout screen.

“Zero light is incredible and allows me to sleep both day and night. Temperature is also vital.

“I think I have a two-degree tolerance before I’m either too hot or too cold. Yes, it’s the UK – but it reached 40°C in the last few years.

“Air-conditioning is the way forward! And quality bedding is another must.”

One of the main symptoms of jetlag is insomnia and it’s something Al also had first-hand experience of. He told the magazine: “There have been occasions where oversleeping on what we call ‘landing day’ – a sacred day that should be free of tasks – has led to bouts of insomnia.

“It’s taken me years of flying to figure out that if I check the clock twice and it’s still within the same hour, it’s time to get up, have a warm drink (obviously not caffeinated) and watch a bit of TV. Otherwise, I spend the entire night tossing and turning.”

The budget airline has issued a warning to all passengers travelling to the EU from October 12, as the new Entry/Exit System will replace manual passport stamping with an automated process

EasyJet has sounded the alarm over a series of “important changes” to border controls for Brits heading to the EU from next month.

The budget airline is warning passengers that from October 12 the fresh Entry/Exit System (EES) will swap manual passport stamping for an automated system that gathers biometric information.

This means your face will be photographed and fingerprints taken to help handle travellers “more efficiently,” the low-cost carrier explained, no matter which airline you’re flying with. It continued by making clear that youngsters under 12 won’t need to undergo the fingerprinting process.

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EasyJet’s announcement stated: “From October 12, 2025, the Entry/Exit System (EES) will replace manual passport stamping with an automated process that collects biometric data (facial photo and fingerprints) to help process travellers more efficiently. Children under 12 are exempt from fingerprinting.”

It explained: “Non-EU nationals visiting one of the 25 EU Member States or 4 Schengen Associated Countries for short stays may be affected – read the full list of participating countries. You may experience longer wait times at passport control while the system is being rolled out.”

The Foreign Office had previously issued fresh guidance for all affected Schengen nations: “New Schengen entry requirements.”

From October 12 2025, the European Union’s (EU) new Entry/Exit System (EES) will commence. When journeying into and out of the Schengen zone, for brief visits, you may be required to: “If you enter the Schengen area through the Port of Dover, Eurotunnel at Folkestone or St Pancras International, this information will be taken at the border, before you leave the UK.”

“You may also need to provide either your fingerprint or photo when you leave the Schengen area. EES may take each passenger a few extra minutes to complete so be prepared to wait longer than usual at the border once the system starts.”

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The European Commission has also previously outlined the reasoning behind the scheme, with a spokesperson explaining: “The EES is an advanced technological system that will digitally record the entries and exits of non-EU nationals travelling to 29 European countries, including Schengen Associated ones, for short stays.”

“It will capture biometric data, such as fingerprints, facial image, and other travel information, gradually replacing the current system of passport stamping. The EES will modernise and improve the management of EU external borders. It will provide reliable data on border crossings, systematically detect overstayers as well as cases of document and identity fraud.”

It continued: “The EES will thus contribute to preventing irregular migration and protecting the security of European citizens. Additionally, with the increased use of automated border checks, travelling will become smoother and safer for all. The new system meets the highest standards of data and privacy protection, ensuring that travellers’ personal data remain protected and secure.”

By the end of the six-month process for the EES scheme, it is anticipated that the rollout will be complete., reports Birmingham Live. This gradual approach is deemed crucial to allow border authorities, the transport industry, and travellers to adapt to the new procedure step by step.

Radio star Nikki Osborne was approached by a member of staff as she headed to the Qantas lounge ahead of her flight – and what followed left her feeling ‘angry and frustrated’

A woman has said she was left feeling ‘humiliated’ and ‘degraded’ after she was approached by an airline worker with concerns over her outfit.

Nikki Osborne has now opened up about the incident, which took place in Qantas’s Brisbane lounge. The 44-year-old was dressed in tailored white shorts, a pink lace bodysuit and a knitted white cardigan for a work trip to the Whitsundays, Australia, when she claims she was confronted by a lounge employee.

“A staff member hurried up to me, grabbed me by the arm and said: ‘Firstly, I’m a long-time fan of yours, but I’ll need you to button your cardigan up to cover yourself to protect the other cultures in the lounge,” Nikki, an Australian radio personality, wrote in her QWeekend column.

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“Other cultures I thought? All I saw in the lounge were a few FIFO workers and a mum! She was very polite about it. I however was suddenly shaken with a combination of shock, embarrassment, humiliation, anger and frustration.

“It was actually hard to process that I’d been made to feel like a tart in my hometown, in front of my male colleague too.”

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Nikki continued: “Now, I’m a born and bred Queenslander but I’ve always made an effort to dress well and be taken seriously in my profession as a radio host, writer and stand up comedian. I’m also a mother. To have a woman suggest that my choice of dress is inappropriate really hit hard.

“I was wearing tailored white shorts, a pink bodysuit with a knitted white cardigan over the top, which I had worn at work earlier that day. Do I have cleavage? Yes. Had I covered the top of it? Yes. Was that enough? Apparently not!”

According to Nikki, the airline later reached out with assurances the incident wouldn’t happen again. But she said the follow-up phone call left her feeling even more scrutinised when staff went through her outfit item-by-item.

But her faith in Qantas was restored when a flight attendant greeted her warmly by her comic persona ‘Bush Barbie’ and treated her with complete respect. “That air steward salvaged my week,” she said.

Nikki has now said that while she’ll continue flying with Qantas, she’ll think twice about what she wears in the lounge, the Daily Mail reports.

“I’ll continue to choose what is appropriate clothing to wear and steer clear of the high moral ground of the Lounge.”

According to the Qantas website, the airline declines entry to its lounge if “some items of clothing are too casual or inappropriate”.

Among the banned list are thongs, bare feet, head-to-toe gym wear, beachwear (such as boardshorts), sleepwear (such as Ugg boots), clothing with offensive images or slogans and revealing, unclean or torn clothing.

“These guidelines are intended to create an environment everyone can enjoy, so please be mindful of your choice of clothing and footwear when visiting Qantas Clubs and Business Lounges in Adelaide, Brisbane, Canberra, Melbourne, Perth and Sydney,” the website said.

READ MORE: Mum humiliated after boy tells school he isn’t sick – he’s going on ‘Jet2 plane’

Nikki is by no means the only traveller who has come under fire for their choice of attire. A woman previously said she was “shamed” on a flight after being accused of wearing an “inappropriate” and “lewd” outfit.

Maggi Thorne, 42, boarded a Southwest Airlines flight from Orlando to Nashville when she was left shocked by the reaction to her outfit choice. The seven-time American Ninja Warrior contestant says she was approached soon after boarding by a flight attendant.

The flight attendant reportedly told Maggi to cover up, writing on X, formerly Twitter: “[Southwest Airlines] attendant just shamed me in front of passengers saying my attire wasn’t appropriate”. Maggi was wearing a black cropped top and high waisted jogging bottoms to travel, meaning most of her body was covered – apart from her arms.

READ MORE: ‘We booked a flight to Nice – but ended up 495 miles away in Tunisia instead’

She added: “A tank top and high-waisted pants. Flight 1039. Is this really happening in 2023? The passengers around me were stunned as she shamed me for all to hear.”

Maggi said she told staff she was “not ok” with being told to cover up her outfit. The AWN star maintained there was nothing wrong with her outfit. She thinks the attendant was out of line for categorising her outfit as breaching Southwestern’s clothing policy of “lewd, obscene, or patently offensive” attire, she told Insider .

Maggi reportedly refused to cover up and complained to another crew member, adding: “When I told her I wasn’t okay, I don’t think she knew what to do. I’m not a confrontational person, but what happened isn’t okay and someone should say something about it.”

Southwest Airlines has since reached out to Thorne, offering her an apology and informing her that a complaint has been filed on her behalf.

Ever wondered why there’s specific times during your air travel when you can’t use the toilet on-board? Now pilot Steve revealed the ‘dangerous’ reason behind it…

It can be frustrating to sit strapped to your seat on the plane then all of a sudden, nature calls. There are secret areas passengers aren’t allowed anywhere near, but the toilet, surely not?

But if you’re a regular air traveller, you kind of know the deal by now. The cabin crew talk you through the safety, then you’re asked to fasten your seatbelt. This might all be familiar to many, but occasionally what happens is, we need to use the loo. Now one pilot revealed the ‘dangerous’ reason this is not always allowed in a post which went viral on TikTok.

American Airlines captain Steve, who boasts 401,000 followers on the platform, has been doing a Q&A series with his many fans.

Recently one person asked: “Why can’t I pee while the plane is stationary on the ground?”

The pilot explained the reason and it’s mainly because if one person does it, everyone follows…

He said: “Well, LAX tie 23, because if you get up to go to the bathroom, then everybody else is going to get up and go to the bathroom.

“And we’re taxiing on an active runway or taxiway and one of the most dangerous times of flights is actually during taxiing, because if I have to hit the brakes and you’re standing up in the aisle, you’re going to fall.

“You’re going to hit your head on something. If you’re in the bathroom, good things are not going to happen in there.

“Have I had people get up and have to go use the bathroom? Yes, sometimes nature calls and you can’t hold it off anymore.”

He also explained how the pilot would usually have to stop until the traveller comes out of the bathroom and returns to their seat.

“It holds up the entire airport. It’s really a hassle when that happens,” he concluded.

Further on in the video, the pilot then began discussing safety briefings and making jokes with colleagues.

But since he shared the information on the toilet trouble, many people fled to the comments section as the post racked up nearly 2,900 likes.

One said: “Thank you for your wonderful, informative post!” Another added: “I’ll admit I’ve done that before… I was on a Southwest flight and we were holding before the runway and I had to pee…”

A third commented: “Take it from an FA. That’s so true.”

Airport has eased the 100ml liquids restriction for hand luggage that has been enforced globally since 2006

As of today (19 September), Dublin Airport, the most frequented airport by UK passengers, has relaxed a key rule. The airport has announced that it is easing the 100ml liquids restriction for hand luggage, a rule that has been globally enforced since 2006.

This is significant news for travellers, with approximately 27,000 people flying between Great Britain and Dublin daily – making it the top destination from British airports. Passengers at Dublin Airport will no longer need to remove liquids, gels, or electronics from their hand luggage at security in either terminal.

The previous rule limiting liquids to 100ml or less is also being relaxed. Departing passengers are now allowed to carry up to 2 litres in their hand luggage, and liquids and gels no longer need to be packed into clear plastic bags.

This change is due to a multi-million-euro upgrade in scanning technology used to screen departing passengers and their hand luggage before they fly, reports the Liverpool Echo.

Around 30 new state-of-the-art “C3” scanners and body scanners have been installed in Dublin Airport’s two terminals. These new C3 scanners use technology similar to CT scanners in hospitals, generating 3D images of bags, which make it easier to detect what is inside.

Dublin Airport is one of the first airports in Europe to fully switch over to C3, providing the best threat detection technology available within the aviation industry.

Gary McLean, Managing Director of Dublin Airport said: “This is a very positive and welcome development for passengers and staff. The new C3 scanners are best in class in terms of security detection standards and they significantly enhance the passenger experience, permitting passengers to leave all liquids and laptops inside their cabin bags with the systems working like CT scanners in hospitals to generate 3D images of bags.

“Nevertheless, security times over the recent peak summer months, when we handled a record 11 million passengers, were both smooth and efficient, with 96% of passengers proceeding through security screening in under 20 minutes. This investment puts Dublin Airport on a par with the best airports in the world when it comes to having the best and most efficient scanning technology available.”

Last summer travellers preparing to depart from UK airports were advised to assume the 100ml liquids rule remained in force unless they had been informed otherwise by their airport, Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander cautioned.

What’s changed?

• Liquids, gels and electronics can stay in your hand luggage when going through security.
• There is no limit on the number of liquids and gels that can be carried in your hand luggage.
• The previous 100ml maximum limit on liquids and gels no longer applies and items of up to 2 litres can be carried.
• Liquids and gels no longer need to be packed inside clear plastic bags.

What’s staying the same?

• Items such as belts, footwear which extends over the ankle, jackets, hoodies and oversized jumpers and cardigans must be removed and placed in the security tray.
• Passengers must continue to remove all items from their pockets, including keys, wallets and phones.

Edinburgh and Birmingham airports were amongst the first to permit travellers to retain liquids in their bags whilst passing through security, with each liquid container permitted up to two litres.

Large electrical items, such as tablets and laptops, can also stay in bags. The introduction of CT scanners, which generate more detailed images of what’s inside luggage, is the reason behind this.

The current airport security rules regarding liquids were put in place in 2006 after a thwarted terror plot to blow up planes flying from London to the US with homemade liquid bombs.

This led to the rule that liquids must be no more than 100ml and placed in clear plastic bags. One of the main causes of delays at airport security is travellers failing to comply with this rule.

In August 2019, then-Prime Minister Boris Johnson set a deadline for most major airports to install new scanners by December 2022.

However, after the aviation industry was hit hard by coronavirus travel restrictions, then-Transport Secretary Mark Harper pushed back the deadline to June 1, 2024, in December 2022.

Several airports struggling to meet the deadline, largely due to supply chain delays, were granted extensions in April last year.

Two months later, the 100ml limit was reinstated at compliant airports due to concerns about how the machines were functioning.

Several airports, including Gatwick, London City, Luton, and Teesside, allow passengers to keep liquids in their bags, but only in containers of up to 100ml each.

Birmingham installed its new scanners last summer, but kept the 100ml liquids rule until regulatory approval was given. Heathrow, the UK’s busiest airport, said the vast majority of its passengers are using the new security lanes, and it is working with the Government to complete the rollout.

Passengers are advised to brace themselves for the 100ml rule to be in effect for their flight.

Two more airlines have implemented strict regulations around the use of power banks onboard aircrafts, following in the footsteps of other major carriers concerned about lithium battery safety

Two airlines are introducing bans on a common travel item, following the lead of other major airlines.

The bans are a heightened measure to ensure the safety of passengers following previous lithium battery-related incidents. Vietnam Airlines and Vietjet Air are the latest air carriers to ban the use of power banks and portable chargers.

The new regulations mean passengers will no longer be able to use power banks while onboard a flight. The new ban also prohibits passengers from charging their power banks using the inflight ports.

READ MORE: October travel rule change warning as ‘families could miss flights’READ MORE: Common items you’re not allowed in hand luggage — and they’re not even liquids

From now on, passengers are required to remove power banks from their carry-on luggage prior to boarding and keep them in a visible location throughout the flight.

That said, Vietnam Airlines and Vietjet Air passengers are still permitted to carry power banks on to aircrafts in limited quantities. But power banks are strictly prohibited in checked luggage.

The ban is a result of growing concerns over the safety of lithium-ion and lithium-polymer batteries onboard aircrafts. These batteries are highly sensitive to heat, impact and rapid changes in air pressure.

Because of this sensitivity, there is a heightened risk of battery malfunctions, including short circuits, overheating, and in severe cases, fire or explosion.

These dangers are amplified when batteries are stored in the cargo hold, which is less closely monitored and where temperature and pressure can fluctuate dramatically. This is why power banks are banned outright from checked luggage.

Devices with a capacity of up to 100 watt-hours (Wh) are allowed in quantities of up to ten per passenger. For larger power banks, with capacities between 100 and 160 Wh, the limit is two per person.

Any power bank that exceeds 160 Wh is not permitted on board under any circumstances. Both Vietnam Airlines and Vietjet insist passengers check the specifications of their devices before travelling.

In addition to the new ban, the airlines also introduced new heat-resistant gloves and fire- containment bags onboard.

Air Busan banned the use of power banks onboard after a fire broke out on one of their flights this past January. The Air Busan plane caught fire at Gimhae International Airport on January 28—causing three people on board to sustain minor injuries.

Following the incident, South Korea’s transport ministry said that interim investigation results indicated the fire may have started because insulation inside a power bank battery had broken down.

Cathay Pacific, Emirates and Singapore Airlines and multiple other airlines have also introduced new power bank regulations over this year.

A woman has gone viral on social media after she shared the petty revenge she got on a rude passenger who was sat next to her on a flight – and people are loving it

A woman has been praised after sharing how she got her petty revenge on a rude plane passenger as they got off the plane.

Flying can be a nerve-wracking ordeal, particularly when you’re stuck beside complete strangers for hours at a time. However, this doesn’t justify being rude to your fellow passengers. This lesson was one a woman called Charlotte felt compelled to teach a passenger that had been seated beside her during a recent flight, after he allegedly been ‘rude’ to everyone nearby without any clear reason. Consequently, she decided to get her petty revenge on him in return.

Taking to TikTok to share her experience, Charlotte began by explaining how she boarded her aircraft and made her way to her allocated row, where she’d been given the middle seat. A man was sat in the aisle seat as she got on, so she politely asked he stand to allow her access to her middle seat.

“I said ‘excuse me sir, I just need to get through to that seat cause I’m sitting there’,” she recounted.

Charlotte went on to describe how this prompted the man to glare at her with a blank expression before sighing heavily, remaining silent as he rose to his feet. He retrieved his bag from beneath the seat ahead as he moved to allow her to get through to her seat.

However, since they were sat in the over-wing emergency exit row, most carriers forbid passengers in these seats from storing luggage beneath the seat in front. Instead, any luggage must be placed in the overhead storage compartments. Due to this regulation, a flight attendant requested the male passenger relocate his bag to the overhead locker, causing him to stare at them too before sighing audibly before complying with the instruction.

And whilst the man didn’t utter a single word throughout the entire journey, Charlotte also claimed she could sense him jabbing her repeatedly with his elbow in a bid to make her shift and give him more room. However, each time she looked towards him, he would ‘pretend to be asleep’.

Obviously irritated by his behaviour by the time the flight came to an end, Charlotte ensured she secured her payback as everyone prepared to leave the aircraft.

“When we were getting off the plane, a woman and a child needed to get off before him, as they were sat in the row in front of us,” she explained, as it’s ‘plane etiquette’ to let the people in the rows in front of you get out first.

“He just stood there going [big sighs] so loud so everybody could hear,” she said.

Explaining she knew the man spoke English because she’d spotted his mobile was set to an English language setting, she decided to secure her petty revenge on the passenger.

“Because he was so rude to everybody that he bumped into this morning, I decided to tell him that he had poo on the back of trousers,” she revealed, saying he did in fact not have poo on his trousers. “But now he think he does. And yes, I am that petty when it comes to airport etiquette.

“Nobody really likes travelling anyway, so just be nice about it,” she said.

People quickly took to the comment section of the video, with many praising Charlotte for her actions.

“I love this level of pettiness!” one viewer commented, while another person said: “Gonna start carrying a pot of Nutella on me just to seal the deal.”

Another individual remarked: “I don’t know why people are so rude it costs nothing to be nice. What did he expect you to do?”

“This is amazing. I’m going to remember this,” a fourth person penned.

The Residence is a three-room, 125-square-foot suite designed to feel more like a private luxury apartment than an aircraft seat

While most of us are accustomed to shelling out less than £100 for a Ryanair flight, the world’s wealthiest individuals enjoy an entirely different level of air travel. There are your run-of-the-mill flights, and then there are those that become legendary tales.

One ticket stands head and shoulders above the rest when it comes to sky-high luxury, so opulent that it makes business class seem pedestrian. Picture this: your own personal flat soaring thousands of feet in the sky, complete with a private living room, separate bedroom, mid-flight shower facilities, and a personal butler at your beck and call.

Throw in some customised gourmet dining — think succulent steak instead of microwaved pasta — access to a lounge before take-off, and even Armani pyjamas to slip into when you’re ready to hit the hay.

The price tag is enough to make most of us choke on our peanuts. If you fancy flying like the crème de la crème, you’ll be paying a pretty penny. You’ll need to cough up as much as £50,000 for “The Residence” experience aboard one of Etihad Airways’ A380s, reports the Express.

“The Residence” is far from your average cabin. It’s a three-room, 125-square-foot suite designed to feel more like a swanky private flat than an aeroplane seat. Etihad describes it as a “bespoke journey above the clouds”.

The service is just as lavish. Each guest has a personal butler, trained at the prestigious Savoy Butler Academy in London, to handle everything from meal service to unpacking luggage to keeping your champagne glass brimming.

Whilst the luxurious service isn’t offered on every route, The Residence operates from the UK, primarily on journeys to New York or Abu Dhabi.

The premium travel experience commences well before boarding, featuring a bespoke airport welcome and dedicated escort to guarantee a smooth airport journey.

Whilst most passengers switch their devices to flight mode, those travelling in The Residence can access complimentary onboard Wi-Fi with unlimited data.

The second room of your airborne suite is the sleeping quarters, featuring a generous double bed to guarantee you reach your destination fully refreshed. Cabin crew will serve meals at your convenience, including a special breakfast in bed arrangement if desired.

Experiencing one of the services from London to Abu Dhabi, travel vlogger Walk With Me Tim shared his thoughts on YouTube. He commented: “Wow, what an experience from start to finish. The service is impeccable. The food, I cannot fault. They walked me to where I got my case, and then escorted me to where I got my car.

“They took my case the whole way there. I didn’t even have to get it off the belt. That bedroom, though, as something else, the whole thing was an experience, I don’t think I’ll ever forget.”

The ‘pillowcase hack’ has been a popular way for travellers to avoid paying for checked luggage – but experts have warned that airlines are now ‘cracking down’ on the trick

If you’re looking to save a few quid on your upcoming holiday, chances are you’re flying with hand luggage only. As any seasoned traveller knows, cramming all your essentials into a small suitcase can be a right faff.

However, there are always those who try to bend the rules. One such method is known as the ‘pillowcase hack’.

This involves stuffing an empty pillowcase full of clothes and taking it on board your flight along with your bag.

Airlines can slap passengers with a £75 fee for travelling with an oversized carry-on bag, meaning travellers could end up shelling out £150 for a return journey due to overpacking.

In response to this, travel experts at Netflights have shed light on whether passengers should risk trying the pillowcase hack, and why cramming your clothes into a pillowcase could save you hundreds if you’re a frequent flyer, reports the Express.

Amanda Parker from Netflights has issued a warning to travellers that, despite numerous success stories, the pillowcase hack isn’t always a surefire win.

“Airlines are cracking down on sneaky flight hacks, so you might want to think twice about testing this hack on your next flight.

“An overly stuffed pillowcase bursting with clothes can raise suspicion, and if you’re already boarding the plane with maximum baggage, then your pillow can be flagged as extra.

“What works for one airline or crew might be refused by another, as different airlines’ cabin baggage rules vary.

“By risking the pillowcase hack, you could risk holding up the boarding process or being denied boarding entirely if you can’t pay the fee.

“Some low-cost airlines state that any item used to carry belongings, even if disguised, must be treated as luggage.

“Before jetting off, always check the baggage allowance rules to ensure you’ll be boarding your flight with the correct baggage and belongings.”

A flight attendant immediately took action when she heard the rude passenger, and confronted the woman before kicking her off the flight, which was travelling to Dallas

A passenger has learnt the hard way what happens when you tell a flight attendant to “shut up”.

A traveller on American Airlines got into an argument with a flight attendant during a safety demonstration. In a video shared to social media, a woman could be heard telling the flight attendant “she should shut up” during the flight from Costa Rica to Dallas, Texas.

The flight attendant can be approaching the passenger and bluntly asking: “Do you want to get off the plane?” while directing her peers to turn off the address system. She continued: “Because I don’t feel comfortable with you if you’re not going to follow instructions.”

In response, the passenger tries to claim, “I can’t hear” – but the flight attendant shut her down by saying: “You’re not on my list as someone who can’t hear. So I’m going to ask the pilot to remove you because you’re not complying. You know what you did, right?”

READ MORE: ‘I’m a flight attendant – you should avoid one thing if you want a first class upgrade’READ MORE: ‘I’ve never paid for a flight upgrade and neither has my partner – here’s how we do it’

The footage, uploaded to Instagram with the caption “ever wonder what happens if you tell a flight attendant to shut up?”, also showed the passenger being called out for not switching her phone off. The clip then cuts out when the passenger agrees to comply with orders, but resumes to show the woman claiming she is being harassed by the airline employee.

The woman was escorted from the plane, according to the footage and her seatmate, who filmed and posted the video with the caption: “empty middle seat is a win for me”.

Jay Crenshaw, who had been sitting next to the woman and saw the ordeal unfold, told The New York Post: “She was having a bad morning and was obviously disturbed or irritated about something she was on the phone talking about.

READ MORE: ‘Drunk’ Brit woman forces Jet2 flight to Cyprus to land early after ‘attacking crew’

“The flight attendant might have caught a stray. I think the passenger knows she was wrong. She mentioned that she also lost her phone and had to borrow one.

He continued: “I’m definitely not excusing her behavior [but] we’ve all had bad days and have said bad things because of it, but we weren’t filmed. I hope people can remember this and give her a bit of grace.”

The Mirror has contacted American Airlines for comment.

It comes after a man revealed how a family attempted to lie to a flight attendant so that they could take his plane seat from him – until he scuppered their plans.

In a post on Reddit , the man explained he decided to book business class on a recent flight because he could bag himself a window seat while guaranteeing that the middle seat remained vacant, meaning he’d have a bit more room.

READ MORE: Pilot explains what uncomfortable ‘sinking’ feeling really means during take-off

After boarding his flight, he took his seat across from an older man sitting in the aisle seat on the other side of him. Moments later, however, the other man’s wife and son came in and asked if he would switch seats with them to allow the family to sit together.

But there was one problem – the wife and child were in economy class, so swapping seats would have meant a downgrade.

The man refused this unfavourable offer, and the family made a counteroffer in which the son would sit in the free middle seat with his dad while the mum went back to economy. It turned out they lied to flight attendants on board the plane to make this deal happen.

In his Reddit post, he wrote: “His wife and son came in, asking me to switch (business for economy) so they could all sit there. Then, [they] told me that if I didn’t switch with the wife, the son would sit in the middle at least. [The dad] reasoned that I didn’t need an empty seat next to me and claimed the stewardess allowed it.

“Turned out, [the flight attendant] said it was possible if the other passenger agreed, to which they replied that I was family, so I would 100% agree.”

The man refused to move and told the flight attendants the truth, and the family were eventually made to go back to the seats they had been assigned.

He added: “I didn’t budge. The son and wife had to stay in the economy, and his father spent almost four hours muttering passive-aggressive comments. Whenever I took off my headphones, he was still going…”

Important recommendation for parents who are planning to take young children on a trip to Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, Tenerife and Fuerteventura have been issued by one mum

A British mum has shared important crucial guidance for all parents with young children planning a getaway to one of a number of popular Spanish islands. Mother-of-one Melissa O’Donnell praised a firm that assisted her baby during a recent family break to Gran Canaria.

“If you are taking a baby abroad to one of these locations – Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, Tenerife and Fuerteventura – you need to listen to this,” she began in a TikTok video. Confirming that the firm in question played no part in creating her clip, Melissa stated: “I’m doing this off my own back – I just want people to know how helpful it is.” She went on, revealing that Travel 4 Baby provides parents with the chance to rent “anything you could possibly need” for your baby whilst you are away.

“Cots, bath seats, sterilising machines, buggies, car seats – even down to potties – they have everything you’d want to put it in your suitcase but aren’t able to bring,” Melissa raved. “They are priced really fairly too.”

To highlight her point, she revealed she paid €20 [£17.34] for a snooze shade “for as long as we wanted it”. Melissa added: “They drop the item off at the hotel wherever you are staying and come and pick it up the day that you leave.”

Scores of others rushed to commend Travel 4 Baby as well, sharing their own holiday experiences with the firm.

“We used them when we went to Lanzarote!” one TikTok user wrote. “They have no idea how much it helped us!”

A second satisfied customer shared: “We used them for Lanzarote when baby was only 12 weeks old. When we arrived at hotel the steriliser, bottle, formula and water were all there when we arrived at check in. Definitely recommend them.”

A third added: “We hired so much from them in Tenerife last month. Made life so much easier and they were brilliant to deal with. Everything waiting for us at the hotel.”

Whilst a fourth person praised: “They are fab. We used them back in 2022 for our little one’s first holiday. Walker (so he can mooch about tiled rooms safely) and travel cot. But they have so much more – even bottle safe water – fab company.”

Travel 4 Baby also caters for those holidaying to several destinations across Spain and Portugal including major cities, and plans to extend its services to further hotspots including Benidorm in the near future.

The company offers further advice online, listing its top tips for a stress free trip with baby – which are:

• On the plane, babies under two years old can sit on your knee or some airlines let you book and pay for an extra seat for more space and comfort
• Change your babies nappy or take them to the toilet just before you board the aircraft
• Try keep them awake at the airport so they will sleep on the plane (fingers crossed!)
• Feed them when you get on the plane rather than before. The combination of feeding and the rocking and noise of the plane, will often send your baby to sleep.
• Take extra formula, snacks, nappies etc just in case of a delay.
• Always remember, if you don’t want to be traveling with too much luggage and baby items, check with us before you travel as most baby items can be hired and delivered to you in resort. Travel 4 baby has everything you will need and the less luggage you have to bring the better.