Avoiding ‘Kiss and Fly’ Charges When Dropping Off at UK Airports
Traveling on a holiday often involves significant expenses, including flights, accommodations, meals, and the added cost of airport drop-offs. To save money on your next trip, there are smart ways to bypass the ‘kiss and fly’ charge imposed by many major UK airports.
Most UK airports charge a fee for drop-offs outside the departure area, whether by taxi or a friend giving you a lift. While convenient, this ‘kiss and fly’ tax is an extra cost many travelers prefer to avoid.
Fees typically start at £7 for a 10-minute drop-off at airports like Bristol, Gatwick, Luton, and Leeds Bradford, with additional charges for longer stays in some cases. London Heathrow, for example, enforces a flat £6 fee for a maximum 10-minute drop-off, set to increase to £7 soon.
However, most UK airports offer alternative free drop-off locations near the terminals, such as long-stay car parks, which often provide a complimentary 10-minute stay. You can easily walk or take a shuttle bus from these car parks to the terminal.
Another effective strategy is to be dropped off at a nearby hotel close to the airport, ensuring a short walk to the terminal. Some travelers opt for drop-offs at train stations or safe spots just outside airport grounds. Certain airports even offer designated free drop-off zones or ‘free waiting areas’ ranging from 15 minutes to an hour.
Since each UK airport has different drop-off zones, charges, and time limits for free drop-offs, it is advisable to check the airport’s website for specific information. This tactic can also be applied when returning to the UK, ensuring a smooth pickup process for your ride.
For those with travel tales or tips to share, reach out to us at webtravel@reachplc.com.
