How to Make Your Airport Experience Feel More Premium

Fast-Track Security & Avoid Long Queues

Nothing ruins the start of a trip like standing in an endless security queue, watching the clock tick down. But you don’t have to.

✔ Fast-Track Security: Worth Every Penny

Many airports offer Fast Track Security passes that let you skip the longest lines and move through security in minutes. These passes usually cost between £5-£15 and can be booked online.

🔹 How to book: Search "[your airport] Fast Track" and reserve your slot in advance.

🔗Gatwick

🔗 Stansted

🔗 Luton

🔗 Heathrow

Pack Smart for a Smooth Security Check

Avoid last-minute delays by making sure your bag is security-friendly:

✔ Use a clear toiletry bag for liquids (to avoid last-minute digging).

✔ Wear slip-on shoes for a faster screening process.

✔ Keep electronics easily accessible so you’re not holding up the line.

💡Some airlines now have CT scanners which mean you no longer need to remove electricals or 100ml liquids from your bags.

Enjoy Lounge Access Without Flying Business Class

One of the biggest perks of premium travel? Airport lounges - and you don’t need a first-class ticket to get in.

How to Get Lounge Access for Less

Why wait around in crowded departure gates when you can relax in a lounge with comfy seating, free food, drinks, and Wi-Fi? Here’s how to get access without paying full price:

• Revolut Metal & Ultra – Lounge access for just £20 at thousands of lounges worldwide.

• American Express Platinum – Free access to Priority Pass, Centurion Lounges, and Plaza Premium lounges globally.

• Other Premium Credit Cards – Many travel credit cards include lounge perks—check your benefits before you fly.

💡 No fancy card? Pay-as-you-go lounges offer entry for £20-£40, and it’s worth it for unlimited snacks, drinks, and a quiet space.

🔎 Find affordable lounges: Check Priority Pass for your airport.

Never Get Ripped Off on Currency Exchange Again

Airport currency exchange kiosks? Total rip-off. They offer terrible rates and hidden fees. Instead, use a travel-friendly debit or credit card to pay like a local—without extra charges.

Best Travel Cards for Airport & Foreign Spending

• Revolut & Wise – Hold multiple currencies and spend at real exchange rates.

• Monzo & Chase UK – No foreign transaction fees and fee-free ATM withdrawals abroad.

💡 Roote Travel Tip: Always pay in local currency when using your card abroad to avoid bad conversion rates!

Upgrade Your Duty-Free & Shopping Game

Want to make your pre-flight shopping feel more premium? Here’s how to avoid overpriced impulse buys and score real deals:

✔ Pre-order duty-free online – Many airports let you reserve items at tax-free prices (so you don’t get airport markups).

✔ Use your boarding pass for extra discounts – Some airport stores offer additional savings on beauty and electronics—just ask at checkout.

🔎 Route Travel Tip: Heathrow’s "Reserve & Collect" service lets you shop online and pick up your items at the airport—avoiding inflated prices.

Final Touches for a More Premium Airport Experience

A few small extras can completely transform your airport experience:

✔ Noise-Canceling Headphones – Block out airport chaos while you wait for your flight.

🔗 [Bose QuietComfort] – Best-in-class noise cancellation

🔗 [Sony WH-1000XM5] – Crystal-clear sound & comfort

✔ A Portable Phone Charger – Never hunt for an airport outlet again!

🔗 [Anker PowerCore 20,000mAh] – Best for travel

✔ A Reusable Water Bottle – Stay hydrated and avoid paying £5 for bottled water. Most airports now have free refill stations!

✈️ Final Thoughts: Travel Like a Pro

A little planning goes a long way in making your airport experience feel more premium - without spending a fortune. From fast-track security to lounge access hacks, these simple upgrades help you skip the stress and start your trip in style.