Traveling for a vacation can often be expensive, with costs for flights, accommodation, meals, and even the drop-off fee at the airport adding up. To save money on your next trip, there are smart ways to avoid the ‘kiss and fly’ charge imposed by most major UK airports.
Dropping off passengers outside the departures lounge can incur fees starting from £7 at airports like Bristol, Gatwick, Luton, and Leeds Bradford, with additional charges for every extra minute in some cases. London Heathrow, for instance, charges a flat fee of £6 for a 10-minute drop-off, set to increase to £7 soon.
Fortunately, most UK airports have free drop-off spots near the terminals, such as long-stay car parks that often allow a complimentary 10-minute stay. You can easily walk or take a shuttle bus from these car parks to the terminal. Even if the car parks are further away, shuttle services are usually available for free, as reported by the Express.
Another money-saving tip is to be dropped off at a nearby hotel, which is often a short walk from the terminal. Additionally, consider getting dropped off at a nearby train station or a safe location just before reaching the airport. Some airports offer designated free drop-off zones or ‘free waiting areas’ for up to an hour.
Since each UK airport has different rules regarding drop-off zones, charges, and free time limits, it’s advisable to check the airport’s website directly. This strategy can also be applied when returning to the UK, ensuring a smooth pick-up process for your ride.
If you have a travel story or tip to share, feel free to email us at webtravel@reachplc.com.
