10 travel hacks for your next holiday

Genius tips for an effortless trip

Your next adventure awaits

Holidays are the best - what could be better than sun, relaxation and cocktails on tap. But before it’s time to pop on the shades and lather on 20 layers of sun cream, you must prepare for the all-important holiday!

Our travel experts have rounded up 10 of the best travel hacks to make sure your airport experience, journey, and holiday all run as smoothly as possible.

1. Make a copy of essential travel documents

The pit in your stomach when you lose your passport for just a split second is not the one. You’ll always need to carry your physical passport, but it’s always a smart idea to make a copy of your essential travel documents just in case anything gets misplaced. This includes your:

  • Passport

  • EHIC/GHIC card

  • Visa

  • Boarding pass

It’s also important to check with your airline that the airport you’re returning from accepts mobile boarding passes.

2. Beat the liquid restrictions at security

Travelling with hand luggage? Or maybe you just don’t have time to pick up those last-minute toiletries. Travel lighter and save money by pre-ordering your essentials from Boots online - simply pick them up at the airport in departures and you’re good to go.

Place your order up to 2 weeks before you fly, and select a delivery date 3 days before you fly to allow your package to be prepared in time.

3. Ditch the SIM card

Avoid the hassle of a physical sim card - eSIMs are the way to go! An eSIM is a digital SIM card, where you can simply scan a QR code or enter an activation code and you’ll automatically be online when your trip begins. So you can easily keep in contact with friends and loved ones at home.

Get 20% off our eSIM using the exclusive code STNSIM20. But hurry - it's for a limited time only.

4. Pack a reusable water bottle for the airport

Why pay for water when you can get it for free? Bring your empty water bottle through security, then fill it up at our filling stations across the terminal which can be found here:

  • At any restaurant or bar

  • International Departure Lounge (toilet area behind Pret A Manger)

  • Around Gates 1-19 and Gates 40-59

5. Get more for your money in our airport lounge

If you’re looking to get more bang for your buck in the airport, then the Escape Lounge is a perfect pre-holiday treat. But be sure to pre-book to guarantee your space - our lounge is a popular choice among travellers, so we wouldn’t want you to miss out!

Enjoy complimentary food and drink as you unwind in a cosy corner away from the hustle and bustle of the main airport. From barista-style coffee to an ice-cold draft beer, indulge in the delicious hot and cold dishes prepared by our in-house chefs.

6. Put our genius packing hacks into practice

The temptation to pack everything but the kitchen sink is real, but our tips should help keep you on track:

  • Roll your clothes to save space, or use packing cubes for ultimate organisation

  • Pack a few dryer sheets in between clothes to keep them smelling fresh

  • Stuff your shoes with socks and underwear for maximum efficiency

  • Remember to pack a travel adapter to avoid dishing out for an expensive one abroad

7. Secure your travel insurance cover

Sometimes life can be unpredictable, so it’s best to have travel insurance for a little peace of mind. Whether you’re relaxing on a white sandy beach, or embarking on a wild jungle trek, it's worth making sure you're covered in the event of an emergency.

We offer a great range of travel insurance policies to suit different types of trip, covering individuals, couples, families and even groups travelling together.

8. Book airport parking in advance to save money

We get it – no one wants to spend lots on parking, so we’re here to maximise your savings! If you’re driving to the airport, you can save up to a massive 80% by booking your parking in advance. Safe and secure parking options for a fraction of the price - what's not to love?

If you’re a first time customer you can even secure an exclusive 20% off your parking by signing up to our newsletter.

9. Skip the security queues with FastTrack

Streamline your airport experience with a Security FastTrack pass - skip queues, save time and relax. Simply head straight through a dedicated security lane, and be through to departures in no time.

You’ll have more time to enjoy our Escape Lounge and get true value for your money.

10. Scout out the best attraction and restaurant offers

Now you’ve got the essentials nailed down, it’s time for the fun part - planning your trip! Your journey begins at the airport, so it's perfect that over the summer we’re offering a range of exclusive money-off vouchers and free gifts. From kids eat free, to £10 off World Duty Free, the offers are not to be missed.

And once you’ve made the most out of the fantastic offers, you can relax in peace at the additional seating area. Head to the sign labelled “all gates” and simply hop on the escalator downstairs. Why not use this down time to browse top attractions for your holiday - tickets tend to be cheaper when you book online in advance.

And there you have it - you should now be more than ready to set off on your next adventure. Sit back, relax, and focus on having the best holiday ever!

Useful links

Pre-book FastTrack

FastTrack

Save time and use the express lane at Security and Passport Control

Pre-book FastTrack

Airport parking

Accessible parking, close to every terminal

Escape Lounge

Travel in style and relax at our exclusive airport lounge

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