Revealed: the secrets of UK airport lounges
Here's something you might not know.
Susami Bay in Wakayama Prefecture, Japan has the deepest mailbox in the world, at 10 meters underwater!
Here's something else you might not know, that's...probably a little more relevant to this article: airport lounges are actually pretty inclusive. You don't need to have six houses, your own personal butler or a tiny dog that lives in your purse to get in to one.
It's actually pretty easy (and surprisingly cheap!), so in this article we're going to take you through a few tips and tricks we've picked up to help you make the most of your time!
1. What is the dress code in airport lounges?
Despite the fact that it may conjure up images of a bunch of guys sitting around in suits drinking coffees with unpronounceable names, generally speaking, the dress code in airport lounges is actually super smart-casual. In fact, chances are that you'd probably be fine getting in wearing what you'd be wearing anyway. Just remember that there are a few firm 'no-nos', however; no offensive slogans, no football shirts, no revealing clothing and no onesies (unless you're a child. Which, to be honest, if you're reading this, I doubt you are). Avoid those, and you're golden!
2. Can I get access to airport lounges through my bank account?
If you have a fancy credit card, you might actually have access to airport lounges already. Some accounts have a Priority Pass scheme that you may be paying an annual fee into which provides you access to lounges. May as well use it!
Similarly, some snazzy bank accounts already come bundled with travel insurance which often will provide you with access into airport lounges. Some accounts that already contain lounge access include the RBS Royalties Gold account, the NatWest Black account and the Travel Pack Plus addon for existing Barclays customers, but if you don't have any of them it's worth checking the small print just in case!
3. How much do airport lounges cost?
Even if you're not one of the lucky ones that already has access to an airport lounge through mystical banking means, fear not. The truth is, airport lounges aren't actually that expensive. You can get in for as little as £15, and the benefits are many: up to three hours away from everyone else, unlimited food and drink (even grown-up drinks!), and plenty of magazines and TVs to keep you occupied, just to name a few! Why wouldn't you, really?
Book your airport lounge early
It pays to book your airport parking, airport hotel or your lounge as soon as you book your flights. Prices usually go up the closer you get to your holiday, so if you already know when you're flying why not book now and save a bit of extra money for the holiday itself?
Book my airport lounge today4. Are children welcome in airport lounges?
...probably. Although it might be a surprise to know, children are welcome at most airport lounges; like the MyLounge at Gatwick, they offer a family-friendly atmosphere. And if you're one of those people who can't stand children screaming in your ear for hours at a time (sorry, parents), some airport lounges are strictly child-free zones!
5. They're a plane-spotter's paradise!
I mean, they're called airport lounges. What do you expect?
6. They're basically mini-hotels.
...or some are, anyway. Lounges like the No1 Lounge at Heathrow T3 are super elaborate, featuring both single and double pod bedrooms, each with their own private bathrooms. This particular lounge even has its own personal spa where you can get all sorts of fancy pampering.
7. They're amazing places to chill out
If you're a nervous flyer, buying an airport lounge before you fly is an excellent way to wind down and deal with those pre-flight jitters. Between the calm atmosphere, comfy sofas and unlimited booze, you'll be chilled out in no time. Just make sure to take it easy on the alcohol...you don't want to miss your holiday!
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