Airport Services That Are Worth Paying Extra For

If you are someone who travels by plane often then you are more than likely going to have picked up on how you can best navigate the stresses and processes involved with air travel. You’ll probably be an expert at packing without getting your clothes creased and may even be a master at timing your transfers and connections just right so you can sneak in some shopping time before you board. 

There are loads of things you learn when you fly often, and a lot of it can be used to make your experience more comfortable and straightforward. That said, even seasoned flyers can have their head so firmly in the game that they forget that there are extras available in most airports that are actually worth forking out for. 

Whether you fly a lot or are a first timer, you will probably be aware that things just seem to cost a lot more if you buy them at an airport. This means that most of us are shut off to the idea of using optional services because we instinctively feel they won’t be worth it and we just want to get in and onto the plane as quickly as possible. 

This is actually a bit of a shame because you are missing out on some things that can make your time at the airport much more enjoyable. Read on to find out more about the airport extras that are actually worth the money. 

Airport parking

Many people started flying before they got their drivers’ licences which means at some point, they have had to use public transport to get themselves and their luggage safely to the airport. Many people like to book taxis because they find them to be more convenient. People who really want to start their holiday off the right way often prefer to drive themselves to the airport. Public transport can be unreliable and awkwardly timed, taxis might show up late or break down on the motorway. 

If you are driving your own car you will be able to pull into the car park at Stansted Airport and use a park and ride service that drops you off right outside the terminal. Airport parking can be expensive, but so can taxis and public transport. If you don’t want to use a park and ride service you can even get a valet to park your car. If this is your preferred option you’ll be able to drive right up to the terminal, unload, hand over your keys, and head inside with minimal fuss.

Airport lounges

We all know that airport lounges exist but many people are under the mistaken impression that they are only for the use of first class passengers and other VIP flyers. The fact is that airport lounges are often open for anyone to use for a fee. They can cost between £20 and about £100 per person depending on the type of lounge and the package and amenities you choose. They are a great place to get a bit of peace and quiet away from the noise and constant stream of people, and they will provide refreshments and a good menu. 

You might think that paying to use an airport lounge is an unnecessary expense, but if you think about it, you probably already spend that much in the airport anyway. For example, most people will go for a traditional pre-flight pint in the airport bar. This is notoriously expensive and can set you back close to a tenner these days.

Next you probably are going to get something to eat. Whether you eat in the bar or a cafe, it will set you back roughly £20 per person for a meal and most people will also pick up a meal deal for the flight. Last minute impulse buys can be unavoidable and before you know it, you might as well have paid for the lounge so you can sit somewhere relaxing while charging your phone, using complimentary wifi and sipping on something refreshing. It is a little treat you can give to yourself and is a great idea if you are a nervous passenger or find airports a little overwhelming. 

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