September 19, 2023 Collinson: UK travellers spend up to £350 per year in airport departure terminals Waiting at the airport – known for its obligatory long queues, tight security and expensive food – is no longer the chore it used to be. A recent study by Collinson has revealed that UK travellers are splashing the cash, with the average person spending up to £350 every year in airport departure terminals. So what are they buying, and how can you make the most of your visit to the airport? Read on to find out… 1. Exploring the Spending Habits of Frequent Flyers Frequent flyers can add up to a lot of expenses, however, they also have more opportunities to earn rewards and discounts. So, if you want to maximize your travel points and save money while flying, take a look at the key points below: No-cost upgrades and cabin perks Opt for online check-in services. Be a part of frequent flyer programs. Book flights with airlines that offer loyalty programs. Savings on Airfare Look for airfare deals on different airline sites. Book your flight in advance for better prices. Look for non-stop flights to minimize airfare. By following these simple tips, you can make budgeting easier and end up with more points on your travel accounts. All it takes is a little research and knowledge to get the rewards that will save you money. 2. Unpacking the Financial Outlay at UK Airports When trying to understand the financial outlay of UK airports, it’s important to realise the various processes that are involved. From crazy congestion fees to terminal fees, there’s a number of things to consider, and it may be overwhelming. To help make the airport experience smoother, let’s break it down to the basics! When it comes to fees, they can break down into four primary categories: Passenger fees: All travellers must pay the Air Passenger Duty, a fee per segment of the journey. Aircraft fees: Depending on the size and type of plane used by an airline, the amount of the aircraft fees can vary. Congestion fees: Congestion fees are costs associated with flying into busy airports, such as Heathrow in London. Terminal fees: Terminal fees are costs associated with the use of airport facilities, such as baggage carousels and check-in desks. Considering all these costs can be bewildering, but with the right knowledge you can understand what’s involved in the financial outlay of UK airports and plan your travel with ease. 3. Reconsidering the Convenience of Pre-Flight Purchases When it comes to air travel, pre-flight purchases can easily give the impression of convenience. For one, time-conscious travelers often feel they benefit from being able to purchase most amenities before hand – no more standing in long queues when you arrive at the airport. From snacks to checked-in baggage to extra legroom, you can easily get it all done in one go. But when assessing the overall convenience of pre-flight purchases, travelers might want to factor in a few other elements, as well. For instance, many airlines charge a premium for early purchases – which is effectively a disincentive for those wishing to save money. In addition, it can also be restrictive when it comes to return flights, where deals may only become available at the last minute. All in all, it pays to take a more holistic approach when it comes to pre-flight purchases. It may require a bit of extra time and effort to research the best options available, but in the long run, it could pay off with greater savings and flexibility. Compare prices from different airlines if your travel plans are flexible. Check what amenities are available in-flight and on-arrival, as some airports and airlines may offer more competitive rates than pre-flight purchases. Be aware of any extra charges for things like rush shipments, priority seating or early check-in. 4. Uncovering the Benefits of Spending in Airport Terminals Airports often have the tendency to be filled with outlets that may be labeled as unnecessary expenses. However, spending a few carefully chosen dollars on products that are tailored to the needs of travelers, can bring lots of comfort to travel experience and make it more memorable. The following are some ways in which travelers can make the most out of airport terminal spending: Airport Lounges: Airport lounges offer a safe haven for frequent flyers who want to keep away from the hustle and bustle of the main terminals. These lounges provide high-quality amenities, snacks, and drinks, at fairly affordable prices – making it an ideal spot to relax in before a flight. Transportation: The cost of purchasing a shuttle ticket from the airport to the city can be expensive, if travelers are not sure what to look out for. However, spending a bit of money in the airport terminals can bring about transportation discounts which, in turn, can draw down the overall cost of getting to the city center. Food: Passengers who are on long haul flights, can benefit from food that can be purchased in the airport terminals. These usually come in the form of pre-made meals, which are quick and easy to use – all of which contribute to hassle-free travel. Gift Shopping: Even when a traveler’s budget is tight, the airport terminals can be a great place to stop and purchase small items as souvenirs or gifts for friends and family. These might include locally produced items, which often come at competitive prices. Spending money in the airport terminals can often be daunting, but uncovering the benefits of it can be highly rewarding. Whether it be stress-free comfort, good food, or discounted transportation, balancing out the costs of airport spending is an essential part of making the entire travel experience more enjoyable. No matter what kind of traveller you are, Collinson’s survey reminds us that airport departure terminals shouldn’t be overlooked. With the average spending amounting to almost £350 per year, airports are now not just places for those long goodbyes and quick hellos, but shopping hubs in their own right. Make sure to keep your budget in check when next you say your goodbyes – and your hellos! Share this:TwitterFacebookLike this:Like Loading... Related Business Travel Tips