Boxing Day Blues: Airports Packed Post-Christmas

Airports are usually busy on Boxing Day, with travellers taking post-Christmas holidays or returning home after the festive period. However, some sources suggest that Boxing Day is one of the least busy travel days during the holiday week, with Christmas Day and Christmas Eve being even quieter. This is because fewer people want to spend the holidays in an airport.

Boxing Day falls on a Friday in 2024, and the previous Friday and Saturday (22 and 23 December) are expected to be the busiest days in UK airports, with Heathrow handling almost a quarter of a million passengers.

Airports are busier than usual on Boxing Day

Boxing Day, the day after Christmas, is a busy time at airports, with many people travelling to visit family or going on holiday. In 2024, airports are getting busier, with flight searches for Christmas travel up by 20% compared to the previous year.

Boxing Day falls on the day after Christmas, which is one of the busiest travel days of the year as people head to their holiday destinations. In 2023, the busiest air travel day in the week before Christmas was Friday, 22 December, with 2.8 million people passing through TSA security checkpoints.

If you want to avoid the crowds at the airport, it's best to fly on Christmas Day or Christmas Eve, which are the least busy days for travel during the Christmas period. Another option is to extend your trip by leaving earlier and returning later, as the days immediately before and after Christmas tend to be less crowded.

If you're considering driving instead of flying, be aware that the roads are also expected to be busy in the days leading up to Christmas, especially on the weekend of 23 and 24 December. Friday, 22 December, is likely to be the worst day for traffic as festive motorists compete with regular commuters and truck drivers for road space.

Tips for travelling on Boxing Day

When travelling through the airport on Boxing Day, it's important to give yourself plenty of time by following your airline's guidance on when to arrive and check in. It's also recommended to keep your Christmas presents unwrapped until you reach your destination, as there is always the chance that security will need to inspect inside your luggage.

Christmas Day is one of the least busy travel days

Christmas Day is also a quiet travel day because it is a holiday, and for many, it is a special day spent with family and friends. People are less likely to want to spend Christmas travelling and are more likely to be at home or with loved ones.

Data supports this, with sources citing that Christmas Day is the quietest December date for Manchester Airport, with 31% more people flying on the day after Christmas compared to Christmas Day. Similarly, Edinburgh Airport will handle a sixth of its usual passenger numbers on Christmas Day, and Liverpool John Lennon Airport will process 30% of its average daily passengers.

However, it is important to note that while Christmas Day is one of the least busy travel days, it is not a day with zero travel. Airports and transport hubs will still be operational, and some people will be travelling. It is also worth noting that the days immediately before and after Christmas Day tend to be extremely busy, with higher demand and crowds.

If you are planning to travel during the Christmas period, it is always a good idea to check with your chosen airport and mode of transport for specific advice and to allow extra time for your journey, where possible.

Queues at the airport

Travelling through the airport during the Christmas period can be a hectic experience. Airports are often busier than usual with people flying home to visit family or going on holiday. Therefore, it is recommended to do some extra planning to ensure your journey goes smoothly.

Queues at Check-in and Security

The length of the queues at check-in and security can vary depending on several factors, such as the number of flights scheduled and the proportion of infrequent flyers. Generally, Manchester Airport is known for having queues at each stage. However, the queue times can be unpredictable and vary from person to person.

To speed up the check-in process, many people now opt for online check-in and self-service bag drop services. However, this has simply shifted the queue from one purpose to another. It is advisable to give yourself plenty of time and follow the airline's guidance on when to arrive at the airport, which is typically between two and four hours before your flight time.

If you want to minimise potential delays, you can consider booking a 'FastTrack' service, which provides exclusive access to the express lane at security or passport control, or both. This option can be especially useful if you are in a hurry or simply want to avoid the queues.

Queues at Security

Security checks can be time-consuming, especially if you are travelling with wrapped Christmas gifts. It is recommended to keep your gifts unwrapped until you reach your destination, as security personnel may need to inspect inside your luggage. Additionally, remember to remove bulky outer layers and accessories, such as hats, scarves, and gloves, as security can only scan through one layer of clothing.

Busiest Days at the Airport

The busiest days at the airport during the Christmas period tend to be the days immediately before and after Christmas. In particular, the weekend before Christmas is usually the most crowded as many people are headed to their holiday destinations. Friday, 22nd December, has been dubbed "Flyaway Friday" and is expected to be extremely busy at major UK airports.

However, the specific dates may vary from one airport to another. For example, while London Heathrow, Aberdeen, Birmingham, Edinburgh, Glasgow, and Liverpool airports are predicted to be busiest on 22nd December, East Midlands, London Stansted, and Manchester airports are expected to peak on Saturday, 23rd December.

Least Busy Days at the Airport

If you want to avoid the crowds, consider travelling on Christmas Day itself (25th December) or Christmas Eve (24th December), as these tend to be the least busy days for air travel. Extending your trip by leaving earlier and returning later can also help minimise the crowds. New Year's Day and New Year's Eve are typically less crowded as well.

Other Tips for a Smoother Airport Experience

• Choose your travel dates wisely and be flexible if possible.
• Keep up to date with the latest travel information and any last-minute changes.
• Familiarise yourself with the rules about flying with Christmas items, such as the 100ml maximum rule for liquids.
• Consider purchasing exclusive lounge access for a more peaceful and comfortable airport experience.
• Check the Christmas opening hours for shops and restaurants at the airport if you plan to dine or shop there.
• Spread Christmas cheer and joy to the airport staff, who are there to help you navigate your way through the airport during the festive season.

Christmas markets and city breaks

Amsterdam, Berlin, Munich, Prague, Budapest, Vienna, and Copenhagen

These cities offer a range of festive experiences, from wandering between fairy-light-covered trees and market stalls to indulging in delicious treats like iced gingerbread and mulled wine. The prices start from as low as £178 per person, and you can find amazing deals on popular travel websites. These cities are easily accessible with direct flights and provide a magical experience with their charming wooden stalls, handmade gifts, and seasonal treats.

Krakow

Krakow's historic Main Market Square is a highlight for those seeking a traditional Polish experience. The market features Polish crafts, local treats like zapiekanka and grzaniec, and warming mulled wine. The beautifully decorated Christmas tree, carolers, and twinkling lights complete the festive scene.

Cologne

Cologne offers a German gem with its ornate stonework and magical markets. From elaborate illuminations to marvellous decorations and scrumptious snacks, it's a festive wonderland. The city also has a famous circus-hosted Christmas market, where you can enjoy drinks served by clowns and spicy Aachener Printen (gingerbread).

Barcelona

For a Mediterranean twist to your festive season, Barcelona is the perfect choice. The Santa Llucia market, a tradition since 1786, offers pieces for nativity scenes, and you can also enjoy carollers on steamy streets and unique gifts.

London

If you don't want to travel far, London offers a taste of traditional Christmas markets with Bavarian baubles, gingerbread, and bratwurst. You can find these markets in Leicester Square, the Southbank Centre, and Hyde Park's Winter Wonderland.

Christmas travel by train

Boxing Day is a busy time for airports, with people travelling home after Christmas or jetting off on a festive holiday. If you're looking to avoid the crowds, travelling by train is a great alternative.

If you're looking to avoid the busy airports this Christmas, travelling by train is a great option. There are many festive train rides and routes that will get you into the holiday spirit. Here are some tips and suggestions for Christmas travel by train:

• Book in advance: Train tickets tend to sell out quickly during the holiday season, so be sure to book your tickets well in advance. This will also help you secure the best prices, as last-minute bookings can be more expensive.
• Check the schedule: With reduced staff and possible delays due to winter weather, it's important to check the train schedule and plan your journey accordingly. Allow for extra time in case of delays, and consider following the train company on social media for the latest updates.
• Choose your route wisely: Some train routes are particularly popular during the holidays due to their festive decorations or special events. These can be a lot of fun, but they may also be busier than other routes. Consider your preferences and plan your journey accordingly.
• Bring entertainment: Long train journeys can be boring, especially for children. Bring books, games, or electronic devices to keep yourself and your family entertained during the trip.
• Pack snacks: Many trains offer food and drinks on board, but these can be expensive. Packing your own snacks and drinks can save you money and ensure you have something you like to eat during the journey.
• Dress comfortably: It's important to dress comfortably for a long train journey, especially if you're travelling with children. Wear layers that can be easily removed if you get too warm. Don't forget to bring a blanket and pillow if you think you might want to nap during the trip.
• Consider a private room: If you're travelling as a family or group, consider booking a private room on the train. This can provide more comfort and privacy during your journey.
• Look for festive trains: There are many festive train rides across the world that offer decorations, music, and other holiday-themed activities. These can be a fun way to get into the Christmas spirit and create lasting memories.

• The Polar Express: Inspired by the beloved book and movie, The Polar Express comes to life at nearly 50 train stations across the country. Guests are encouraged to wear pyjamas, just like in the story, and the train features special moments from the movie, including a bell for every child.
• Santa Steam Express, London, UK: On 20 and 21 December, families can take a 90-minute ride around London on an authentic steam train. The train is decorated for the holidays, and passengers are treated to warm drinks, gifts, and a visit from Santa and his crew.
• The Holiday Express 1880 Train, Hill City, South Dakota: This train combines Christmas and history, offering a one-hour ride on the world's oldest continuously operating tourist train. Adults can enjoy hot chocolate with an alcoholic kick, and there are often sightings of "reindeer" (elk) and other wildlife along the route.
• The Country Christmas Train, Denton, North Carolina: This train ride features hundreds of holiday light displays and live scenes depicting the story of the nativity. Passengers can also enjoy a walk along an illuminated candy-cane path, meet Santa at the station, and visit a gingerbread house for cookies and carriage rides.
• Amtrak's Empire Builder, Leavenworth, Washington: This route takes passengers through a winter wonderland in the Bavarian Alps. Leavenworth is known as the "Village of Lights", with thousands of holiday lights and festive entertainment.

Frequently asked questions