How to navigate the airport during the school holidays.

The school holidays are just around the corner. Many of us are getting excited to jet off on holiday, whether it be as a family to somewhere warm and sunny, a European city break with a loved one, or an adventure-filled tour with friends to enjoy time together in the sun. Whatever the reason, thousands of people all over the UK head to the UK’s busiest airports, all with the same intention of taking a break and taking off, out of Heathrow, Stansted, Gatwick and more, to destinations near and far, worldwide.

The long winter only motivates the need for sun further and it has been predicted that even more people will be treating themselves to some fun and/or sun this year, and airports will be at their busiest, especially when it comes to airport parking and getting through airport security and departures. Airlines have some huge discounts and enticing packages to take advantage of, and we are seeing record car parking spaces being snapped up!

There’s no denying that driving to an airport is one of the easiest options, especially for families, groups of friends, the less abled and the elderly. Driving from your own doorstep to an airport with your luggage is far easier and often cheaper than unreliable public transport and lengthy airport transfers.

But when the airports are busy like they will be this year, how do we opt for a seamless, stress-free travel experience which feels fun rather than filled with dread?

• Book in advance – To secure your space at the best prices, it is always better to book as far in advance as possible. The sooner you book, the better the price, as pricing fluctuates alongside demand.  As the car park spaces fill, the price rises, so be sure to book as soon as you book your travel, that way you know you are getting the cheapest airport parking cost and your space is confirmed.
• Preparation is KEY! – To avoid stress at a busy airport, get yourself as prepared as possible. This could mean ensuring all relevant travel documents are together, valid, and correct, and everyone is checked in. Consider also bringing things to do to entertain while waiting for your flight  The airports have great facilities for you to take advantage of – call them ahead of time to organise special assistance, or to ask any questions you might have. The more prepared you are, the more likely that everything will run smoothly.
• Don’t overpack – Airlines are getting more strict about luggage sizes and weights, and this can cause no end of stress for passengers who are not clued up on the rules.  Be sure to check with your airline the amount of luggage weight and suitcase sizes you are allowed and try to stay well within these strict limits.  They do not back down. Be sure to weigh your cases and check in anything that contains liquids or is larger than cabin size.
• Give yourself plenty of time – We know that the airports will be busier this summer, so leave yourself enough time to get to the airport, especially during school holidays when there are many more families and cars on the road.  Allow for road closures and delays, or cancellations.
• Consider meet and greet airport parking – Parking off-site and having to shuttle or taxi in if you have lots of luggage, are a solo traveller in the dark hours, or are less abled is not ideal.  Neither is getting stressed traipsing luggage, children and family from public transport or across long stay airport carparks, especially when it’s cold, wet and busy. Meet and Greet Parking takes all of the stress and hassle out of airport parking and allows you the freedom to make your way straight to departures.

What is Meet and Greet parking?

Meet and greet parking allows you to drive straight up to the airport departures terminal, where you’ll meet one of our friendly and fully insured professional drivers. They will check your car and then carefully drive it to our park mark awarded secure car parks, near to the airport, allowing you and your fellow travellers time to simply head straight to check-in. On your return back to the UK, your car will be waiting for you at arrivals, ready to drive away. It’s the quickest, easiest and most hassle-free way to park at the airport.

As the largest independent Meet & Greet Parking provider in the UK, we offer our award-winning airport parking at Birmingham Airport, Luton Airport, Stansted Airport, Gatwick North and Gatwick South.

If you have booked your summer holiday, hurry and book your airport parking now – for the greatest savings and the most competitive price, time is of the essence.

If you’re a new customer to us, you could also save an instant 10% off your first booking. No strings attached.  Our loyalty programme rewards frequent flyers. The more you book, the more you save!

Call us on 03 333 222 333 or head to our website for an instant quote and online booking.