14-05-2025
Brits flying from these 7 airports told to arrive 'extra early' for good reason
Airport transfer company SCS Chauffeurs reports a growing trend in travellers booking earlier pickup times, not just to avoid stress, but to make the most of airports with genuinely great experiences.
Recent research by ABTA shows that nearly half of British people are choosing one major holiday per year over multiple short breaks. Factors like rising travel costs and a desire for more meaningful experiences appear to be driving this trend. As such, travel experts indicate that long-haul trips are making a comeback, with a focus on boosting the pleasure of the journey alongside the allure of the destination.
SCS Chauffeurs, an airport transfer firm, has noted a growing trend of holidaymakers arranging earlier pickups - not just to sidestep anxiety over potentioal delays, but also to savour top-notch airport features. One Scots airport even made Hadleigh's list of the seven where arriving nice and early is a must.
Hadleigh Diamond, Commercial Director at SCS Chauffeurs, said: "Rushing through an airport might have worked when all you wanted was to get in and out, but more passengers are now embracing the idea of 'slow travel' - and that starts at the terminal.
Some airports are genuinely worth arriving early for, and can feel like an extension of your holiday, not just the start of it. Slow travel also means embracing and trying to enjoy every aspect, be it pre-flight or post-flight, in a vip airport transfer.", reports Yorkshire Live.
These are the airports that you should arrive at early.
Munich Airport (MUC), Germany – in-terminal brewery
Munich Airport (MUC) in Germany tops the list of airports where arriving early is recommended, boasting its own in-terminal brewery.
Hadleigh said: "If you're flying from Munich, don't skip Airbräu-it's the only full-scale brewery inside an airport anywhere in the world.
"You can have a proper Bavarian beer brewed on-site, and there's even a beer garden if the weather's good. It's one of the few places where arriving early really means something."
Tokyo Haneda Airport (HND), Japan – edo-inspired street food alley.
"Haneda is one of the best examples of modern meets traditional.
"The Edo Market area airside looks like a Japanese village, and the food is fantastic-ramen, yakitori, and sushi that's better than you'd expect at most city restaurants, let alone an airport," Hadleigh said.
Singapore Changi Airport (SIN), Singapore – hawker-style food courts.
Hadleigh explained: "Changi's food courts are a dream for anyone chasing real Southeast Asian street food.
"You can get laksa, chicken rice, kaya toast - all the local favourites, in a clean, easy-to-navigate setting. It's also open 24/7, which is a huge bonus for layovers."
Koh Samui Airport (USM), Thailand – open-air terminal with resort feel.
"Koh Samui is in a league of its own," he said. "The airport feels like a tropical resort-with thatched roofs, open-air terminals, and palm trees instead of concrete.
"It's the only airport I know where travellers actively want to spend time before flying. Even the check-in feels like part of the holiday."
Denver International Airport (DEN), USA – public art and culture.
"Denver might surprise you. It's one of the biggest airports in the US, but it's also got real personality-think talking gargoyles, Western-themed art installations, and a huge outdoor plaza with regular events.
"There's even an indoor walking route if you want to stretch your legs before a long-haul," Hadleigh shared.
Barra Airport (BRR), Scotland – land on a beach.
"Barra is completely unique. It's the only place in the world with scheduled flights that land directly on the beach.
"There's no rush, no crowds - just sand, sea, and a tiny terminal with a charm all of its own. It's an experience you can't really replicate anywhere else," he continued.
Incheon International Airport (ICN), South Korea – ice rink and cultural theatre.
"Incheon doesn't just tick boxes-it adds entirely new ones. There's a seasonal ice rink, regular cultural shows with traditional music and dance, and even craft workshops.
"If you've got a long layover or an early check-in, it's one of the few airports where you'll genuinely be entertained," Hadleigh said.
Why does it pay to arrive early?
According to SCS Chauffeurs, savvy travellers aren't just preparing for potential flight delays; they're also factoring in time for additional experiences. The firm suggests allowing an additional 60 to 90 minutes at airports featuring exceptional attractions, particularly for those taking long-haul flights or travelling during busy periods.
"People think early check-ins are about beating the queues," explained Hadleigh. "But they're also about maximising your journey. When the airport becomes part of the trip, that time is well spent."
