Airports are expertly designed to make you spend. From free-duty shops and overpriced foods to souvenir stores, multiple expenses can crop up at the airport. While most people agree that airports will always be expensive and are willing to pay, there are still ways you can cut costs at the airport.
Read on to find out how you can save money at the airport with these 12 thrifty budget ideas.
1. Bring Your Water Bottle
Bottled water at the airport is expensive. You can save that extra $5 by carrying a refillable water bottle that you can quickly refill at the fountain. Collapsible water bottles are an excellent option as they don’t take up much space.
2. Pack Your Snacks From Home
Airport foods are overpriced, but you can avoid that by packing your snacks from home. Before your next flight, you can make quick snacks like granola bars, salads, fruit, and trail mix. Protein-rich snacks will help you stay full longer, and you won’t need to buy more food at the airport.
3. Avoid Changing Your Money at the Airport
Airport bureaus and non-bank ATMs don’t have the best exchange rates, and you’re better off avoiding them. Exchanging money from local ATMs or bureaus gets you good rates. Some debit/credit cards also provide competitive exchange rates without additional charges. If you need some cash at the airport, get it from a debit card transaction during checkout.
4. Purchase Mini Items You May Need Ahead of Time
To cut costs, consider buying travel-sized products like hand moisturizer, sunscreen, pain relievers, band-aids, eye drops, and first aid supplies at the local drug store instead of getting them at the airport.
5. Organize Parking Days Before Your Flight
Most people don’t plan and end up having to park at the airport, which is expensive. If you plan to drive yourself to the airport, find out if the airport provides an alternative parking off-site with a shuttle service. Alternatively, ask a friend to offer you a ride to the airport or get an Uber to the airport.
6. Avoid Packing Hefty Luggage
Sometimes, you may need to check in your luggage if you’re traveling abroad. Avoid packing a huge luggage as this can be expensive. Pack light and stick to the airline’s luggage weight limit. Some airlines include one big bag in the ticket price. Research ahead of time to get the best deal.
7. Use Free WiFi
If you need to get online at the airport to check in or communicate with your loved ones, find out if the airport offers free Wi-Fi connections. Some airports, like Zurich Airport, offer four hours of complimentary internet connection.
8. Keep Yourself Busy
Airports are designed to make you spend. Every corner has a retail shop, souvenir store, or duty-free store. While it’s tempting to take a stroll around during your layover, resist the urge to explore these places and instead find things to keep you busy. Read a book, listen to music, or get some sleep to save your money.
9. Find out if the Airport Has Free Things
Some airports have interesting free extras to entertain you as you wait for your flight. For example, Denver International Airport has a collection of art, San Francisco International Airport has a museum, and Singapore Changi Airport has a free movie theater and a butterfly garden. Find out if the airport has any free activities you can explore.
10. Use Insider Discounts to Save Money
Many airports offer discounts when you sign up for their newsletters and emails. Some airports offer lounge and parking discounts on their websites. Research and find out if your airport has these offers that you can take advantage of to save money.
11. Forget the Expensive Pick-up and Drop-off Zones
Most airports will charge you to use their pick-up or drop-off zones. You can save money by opting for free alternatives. However, you may need to get there early as the walk can be long. Sometimes, you may have to take a shuttle ride to reach the terminal.
12. Opt for Alternative Airports
Major airports can be expensive compared to smaller, local airports. Consider flying into or out of alternative airports, which have lower fares and fees. These airports may also be less crowded and easier to navigate compared to major hubs.
It’s possible to save money at the airport whether you’re flying internationally or domestically. By implementing these thrifty budget ideas, you can cut costs and make your airport experience enjoyable and affordable.
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