Traveling for a vacation can often be expensive, with costs like flights, accommodation, meals, and even the price of being dropped off at the airport adding up. However, there are smart ways to avoid the ‘kiss and fly’ charge and save money on your next trip.
Many major UK airports charge a fee for dropping off passengers outside the departures area, whether it’s by taxi or a friend. While it’s convenient to be close to the check-in desk, the extra cost of the ‘kiss and fly’ service is one that many travelers would prefer to avoid.
The charges for drop-offs start at £7 for a 10-minute stay at airports like Bristol, Gatwick, Luton, and Leeds Bradford, with additional fees for each extra minute in some cases. London Heathrow, on the other hand, imposes a flat fee of £6 for a maximum stay of 10 minutes, which is set to increase to £7 soon.
Fortunately, most UK airports offer free drop-off spots not far from the terminal. One convenient option is to be dropped off at the long-stay car parks, many of which provide a complimentary 10-minute stay. You can easily walk to the terminal from these car parks or catch a free shuttle bus for a short ride.
Another useful tip to avoid extra charges is being dropped off at a nearby hotel, which is often within walking distance of major airports. Some travelers choose to be dropped off at a nearby train station or a safe area just before reaching the airport. Certain airports also have designated free drop-off zones or ‘free waiting areas’ that offer generous time limits for drop-offs.
As each UK airport has different rules regarding drop-off zones, charges, and time limits, it’s advisable to check the airport’s website for specific information. This strategy can also be applied when returning to the UK, as long as the person picking you up knows where to find you.