The build up to a holiday can be so exciting, rushing around buying those last minute items – and that must-have bikini – but it can also be very tiring. By the time you arrive at the airport, you’re totally exhausted and want nothing more than a good night’s sleep.

With a little care, travel preparations need not be so tiring. If you plan ahead and allow yourself a few ‘little luxuries’ you can give your holiday the 5 star treatment.

The following ’extras’ work wonderfully well for me:

Meet and greet parking:
This is a must have luxury. Imagine driving right up to the airport terminal, being greeted by a driver with a trolley just for you, handing over your keys, and walking straight in to the airport terminal. Then, on your return, your car is waiting right outside the terminal when you leave!

Meet and greet airport parking is a great time saver, no waiting around for shuttle buses to take you to your car, and is great for families with young children or for passengers with awkward sports equipment.

Airport lounges:
Escape the hustle and bustle of the busy airport terminal and relax in the comfortable environment of an airport lounge. With refreshments and snacks provided, you can simply unwind and look forward to your journey.

Book a room in a local hotel:
For a really comfortable start to your holiday, and to avoid the hassle and stress of driving to the airport on the day of your flight, why not stay in a local hotel or guest house the night before. Or, for that added luxury, book an on-site hotel. The Hilton Hotel at Gatwick, my nearest airport, offers a park and stay package for travellers living miles from the airport, or even those of us who live ‘just down the road’ who don’t fancy risking the traffic on the M23 and M25!

Give these ideas a try and see for yourself. Yes, they do add to the cost of your holiday but they’re worth every penny in my eyes.

air travel

gatwick airport

airport parking

airport lounges