Long queues, curtailment of the number of travelers and canceled flights: the problems at Schiphol – partly caused by a shortage of staff – have been harassing travelers who want to go on holiday for months. Although the situation is no longer as extreme as during the May holidays and the beginning of the summer, the problems are still far from being solved. Still minimal two months it would take until enough staff is hired (and trained) to get a smooth transition, and in all likelihood the problems won’t be over then either.
It is therefore understandable that travelers will look for ways to avoid the long lines before that time. An obvious choice is a visit to an alternative departure port, or a holiday by train. If you still want to depart via Schiphol, it is best to book a flight at a time when the rest of the Netherlands is still in bed. The lines are shorter at night.
Hotels behind customs
It is also possible in one of the two hotels book a room behind customs, so that you can get through the queue earlier. You can then quietly wait in your hotel room until you have to leave for the gate. That saves the worries that waiting in line can cause.
If you really don’t feel like waiting (long), you can try to use one of the services that promise priority at the security checks. For example, there is Privatewhere with a subscription (from €155 per year) you can use the so-called priority lane can grab. Due to the large number of applications, Privium However, a membership freeze has been introduced until ‘at least September 1’. You can still use the service if you apply for an American Express Credit Card.
Vip
Don’t feel like a new credit card, but have money left over? Then you can always use the so-called VIP Services at Schiphol. The service includes ‘check-in, baggage handling, passport formalities, transport by limousine/luxury bus/courtesy car and food & beverage service’. You can also wait in a private lounge, if available. All this costs a meager €471.90 per booking.
Unfortunately, for people with a smaller wallet, there is not much else to do than endure the long queues. At least until the staff shortage is solved.
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