Traveling for a holiday can often rack up expenses, including flights, accommodation, meals, and the additional cost of being dropped off at the airport. To save money on your next trip, there are smart ways to avoid the ‘kiss and fly’ charge imposed by most major UK airports for drop-offs at the departures lounge.
The fees for drop-offs range from £7 for a 10-minute stay at airports like Bristol, Gatwick, Luton, and Leeds Bradford, with extra charges for additional minutes. London Heathrow enforces a flat fee of £6 for a maximum 10-minute stop, increasing to £7 in the upcoming year.
However, most UK airports offer free alternative drop-off locations near the terminal, such as long-stay car parks that often provide a complimentary 10-minute stay. Shuttle buses are available to transport passengers to the terminals from these parking areas.
Another cost-saving tip is to consider getting dropped off at a nearby hotel, train station, or a safe area close to the airport grounds. Some airports even have designated free drop-off zones or waiting areas for up to an hour.
Since each airport has varying drop-off zones, charges, and time restrictions, it is advisable to check the specific details on the airport’s official website. This strategy can also be applied when returning to the UK, ensuring a smoother pick-up process for those collecting you.
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