Travel Experts Reveal the Airport Extras Actually Worth Your Money
Think an airport lounge is a luxury? You could already be forking out more than that on a meal and drinks in the terminal.
Travel experts at eShores reveal that holidaymakers are wasting cash on unnecessary add-ons like early boarding, while missing out on lounge passes that could actually save money.
From fast-track tickets to seat selection fees that might not be worth it, here’s what savvy travellers should prioritise when booking a summer getaway.
The travel add-ons that can improve your holiday
1. Save money with a lounge pass
Access to an airport lounge will typically set you back around £30-£45 per person, with options through some providers as low as £26. But many travellers already spend more than that on a main meal and a couple of drinks at the terminal, which averages just over £38 at Heathrow.
If you usually buy a meal and drinks at the airport (such as a coffee or soft drink plus something alcoholic), a lounge could save you money, while also offering more comfort, free Wi-Fi, charging points and snacks.
2. Fast track security (but only at peak times!)
During peak summer travel, security queues at major UK airports like Manchester or Heathrow can stretch to 45–60 minutes. Fast-tracking security can slash this to under 10 minutes for around £7 per person at Manchester Airport. It might seem like a splurge, but it’s often worth every penny if you fly during school holidays or with young children in tow.
3. Day trip excursions to see more for less
Don’t overlook organised day trips, particularly in countries with close borders, where you can visit multiple destinations affordably. These guided tours offer a way to experience another country without the expense of separate accommodation and flights, with some starting as low as £50. Many include meals and transport, meaning minimal extra spend on the day.
4. Plan your airport transfer, even if it’s not a private one
Nothing ruins the start of a holiday quite like panic-booking an overpriced taxi after a long flight. In major European cities, grabbing a taxi on arrival can cost anything from £40 to £100+, while pre-booked options, whether that’s a shuttle or public transport, average just £5-£15 per person. A little planning means you won’t be scrambling for transport on arrival – and can avoid inflated fees.
The costly add-ons you can avoid
1. Early boarding: paying to queue
Early boarding rarely offers any real advantage. You’re essentially paying £5-£10 per person for the privilege of sitting on a stationary plane for longer. Early boarding doesn’t guarantee faster departure times; you’ll still disembark in the same order. Unless you have mobility needs or are travelling with very young children, it’s money better spent on your actual holiday.
2. Seat selection: when 90 minutes apart won’t hurt
Budget airlines often charge £10 to £25 per seat each way to choose where you sit. These fees are a key way low-cost carriers make their money and keep flight prices low in the first place.
While some airlines will still try to seat people on the same booking together, others may split you up unless you pay. But for short-haul flights under two hours, for many people, being separated isn’t the end of the world (and might even mean a bit of quiet time). Unless you’re flying with young children or sitting with your travel companion is a must, this is an easy cost to skip.
Bonus tip: skip the checked bag for short breaks
For trips under a week, that £25-£50 checked baggage fee is often money down the drain. Most travellers overpack for short breaks and end up paying for luggage they don’t really need. With smart packing techniques (think compression cubes and versatile outfits), everything you need for a long weekend or week-long city break can easily fit in hand luggage.
Want even more insider tips for your travels? Flight attendants have shared their top secrets to make your next flight a breeze. Learn more on the eShores blog.
