Save Big at Airports: Six Essential Tips for Travelers

As the summer holiday season reaches its peak, many travelers are seeking ways to reduce costs associated with air travel. Recent figures from the national statistics office indicate that airfares surged by 7.9% between May and June 2025, marking the most significant increase since 2018. With prices rising from check-in to departure, here are six effective strategies for saving money at the airport, plus one crucial tip to avoid.

Currency Exchange: Plan Ahead

One of the most significant savings can be found in currency exchange. Simon Phillips, managing director at No1 Currency, warns travelers against purchasing foreign currency at the airport. He emphasizes that airport bureaux de change typically offer poor exchange rates due to high operational costs. “It’s easiest and usually the best value to swap your pounds for local currency before you travel,” Phillips advises. He encourages travelers to compare rates among different providers and look for those that offer no commission and convenient services like click-and-collect or secure home delivery.

Additionally, travelers can utilize fee-free travel cards from digital banks such as Monzo or Starling, which allow for spending abroad without incurring hefty charges.

Food and Beverages: Bring Your Own

To combat high food prices at airports, planning is essential. Nicholas Smith, holidays digital director at Thomas Cook, suggests travelers bring their own snacks. “Airport food is notoriously overpriced, and airlines often charge extra for meals,” he notes. Packing sandwiches, fruit, and a refillable water bottle can lead to significant savings, especially for short layovers.

If travelers do find themselves needing food at the airport, they should look for retailers like Boots or WH Smith, which offer meal deals at more reasonable prices than typical airport restaurants. For those facing long waits, pre-booking access to an airport lounge may provide better value, as it often includes complimentary food and beverages. Discounts can be found on platforms like Lounge Pass or Holiday Extras. Currently, No1 Lounges is offering a 15% discount to celebrate the opening of new venues in Heathrow Terminal Three and Jersey.

Transport: Consider All Costs

Travelers often choose flights at unconventional hours to secure lower fares, but these decisions can lead to additional costs. Smith advises considering the total expenses associated with such flights. For instance, if a traveler usually takes a train to the airport, that option may not be available for early morning flights.

Upon arrival, it is wise to avoid taxis directly from the terminal. Smith suggests using reputable taxi services and agreeing on fares in advance. Alternatively, ride-hailing apps like Uber can provide more secure transportation options. Pre-arranged airport transfers can also prove to be a cost-effective choice.

Travel Insurance: Don’t Delay

Travel insurance is another essential aspect often overlooked by travelers. Experts recommend purchasing insurance as soon as the trip is booked to ensure coverage for potential issues before departure. Research from Tesco Insurance indicates that 36% of Britons have lost belongings while abroad, including passports and electronics, which can be costly to replace.

Alex Cross, chief customer officer at Tesco Insurance, emphasizes the importance of planning ahead. He advises investing in tracking devices for luggage, securing bags, and ensuring insurance policies cover personal belongings from the moment of booking. Comparison tools, like those from Money Saving Expert, can help find the most affordable insurance options.

Mobile Apps: Stay Updated

To maximize savings and convenience, travelers should download both their travel agency’s and airline’s mobile apps before flying. Smith highlights that many airlines offer in-app discounts for meals, upgrades, and duty-free shopping. Additionally, having access to boarding passes and real-time updates enhances the travel experience.

By implementing these strategies, travelers can significantly cut costs during their airport experience while ensuring a smoother journey. With rising prices becoming the norm, being proactive about spending can lead to a more enjoyable and financially manageable trip.