Christmas Market
For all those travelling over the festive period Gatwick Airport have put together ‘The Twelve Days of Christmas Travel’ which includes last minute reminders to ensure passengers have joyful journeys.
12 - Presents Shining
We recommend you take your presents unwrapped in your hand luggage. If you are taking perfume or toiletries in your hand luggage as festive goodies remember that they still need to be in containers of 100ml or less and must fit into the free one litre plastic bags. This also applies to gifts like snow globes – sadly airports often start January with a small pile of abandoned snow globes.
11 - Crackers Banging
Crackers can go through security as long as the pack is still sealed but you can’t take more than two boxes per passenger. Party poppers however, are not allowed in hand baggage or in your checked-in luggage so please leave them at home.
10- Babies Wailing
You may be asked to taste baby milk if it is over 100ml, even if it is in a sealed carton. Why not pre-order baby milk from Boots.com and collect it from the Boots store in the departure lounge after security?
9 - No trains a-running
There will be no trains in or out of Gatwick on Christmas Day – although coaches will be running to London. In general, public transport will be running restricted timetables across the festive period so please check with the operators to plan your journey.
8 - Wheelchairs Turning
If you need special assistance always pre-book it with your airline preferably a couple of days before you arrive at the airport. Our specialist staff can help you from the moment you arrive at the airport right through to getting on the plane so you can begin your trip nice and relaxed. For more details about service for passengers with reduced mobility go to www.gatwickairport.com/prm/
7 - Cars a-parking
The long stay and short stay car parking will be open all over the festive period. But why not treat yourself to a little Christmas present by booking valet parking? Drop your car off at the terminal entrance and it will be waiting for you on your return. To book: www.gatwickairport.com/parking/valet/
6 - Lattes Steaming
On Christmas Day there will only be a few shops and restaurants open in the terminals and the departure lounges, however during the rest of the festive season it’s business as usual. Don’t forget you can Shop and Drop: buy all the things you want at Duty Free and then collect them on your return.
5 - Mince Pies
When it comes to festive food you can take anything through security as long as it is not a liquid, cream, gel or paste over 100ml. So mince pies, Christmas puddings and even frozen turkeys can all go into your hand baggage.
4 - Early Risers
With everyone visiting friends and relations over the Christmas period, make sure you leave plenty of time to get to the airport as there will probably be more cars on the road. Trains and coaches will be running reduced services and taxis will be busier, so plan how you are going to get here to avoid any unnecessary stress.
3 - Heavy Bags
If you are taking Christmas presents with you, your luggage might be heavier than usual. Each airline has different rules on the weight, size and number of bags you can take on board the aircraft as hand luggage. Always check with your airline before you finish your packing.
2 - Packs of Pills
Pills and powders can go through security without a problem. Liquids including contact lens solutions have to be in containers of 100ml or less and sealed within the free one litre plastic bag. However medicines can be over 100ml provided they are supported by a doctor’s note or medical authorisation.
1 - And some reindeers and a festive Christmas tree!
During December, the airport will be festively decorated to add some Christmas cheer to passengers. There will be special treats for adults and children alike including real reindeers, local choirs singing and free mince pies!
For more information go to www.gatwickairport.com
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