10 WAYS TO AVOID SPLASHING HOLIDAY CASH AT THE AIRPORT

THERE can be a bargain to be had at Duty Free, especially if you know you’ll use the item a lot and that it costs more outside of the airport.

Avoid scouring the shelves and jump ahead of the queues by calling ahead to reserve the products you want.

IT’S not just Duty Free where you can make the most of your money. Many airports today offer their own memberships and apps, such as myGatwick, which not only provide lots of useful info and updates, but also detail a number of great offers available in shops, restaurants and other outlets. smarter ways than ever before – and not just on flights.

For example, Avios members can earn points on everyday shopping at high street brands, either online via the British Airways website or instore once you’ve registered your payment cards.

This is a great way to earn extra loyalty points which you can then convert on your next holiday.

IF YOU do plan to take more on-board, make sure you buy online through the airline, rather than at the airport to get the best rate.

Also check how many cabin bags your airline allows you to take on-board. For example, from January this year, Ryanair changed its policy to only allow priority boarders to take both one small bag and a larger cabin bag. have time to change your currency or even top up a travel card before you head to the airport, then head to an ATM to avoid being hit by the conversion fees of currency exchange kiosks or bureaus. WHETHER you’re travelling by train or parking at the airport, booking your tickets or space in advance can save a lot of money compared to purchasing on the day.

Make sure you research your end destination too. For example, finding out if there is a flat transfer rate airport taxis should adhere to, or what public transport is available.