1. Don’t Pay to Sit Together – Be Strategic Instead

Airlines love charging extra to let you sit next to your friends or partner. But unless you're travelling with small children or have specific access needs, there’s often no real reason to pay. Many airlines will automatically seat passengers on the same booking together unless the flight is extremely full.

If you don’t mind the small chance of being separated, skip the seat selection fee and save that £10–£30 per person. For even better odds, check in as early as possible when online check-in opens, and avoid busy travel times.

2. Pack Light and Skip the Hold Luggage

One of the biggest avoidable expenses is paying to check a suitcase. Most budget airlines now charge anywhere between £20–£50 per bag—each way. Instead, challenge yourself to pack with just a carry-on backpack.

With a bit of planning, it’s more than doable for week-long trips or even longer. Choose lightweight clothing, wear your bulkier layers to the airport, and make use of travel-sized toiletries. For packing inspiration, check out our guide on how to pack for two weeks in just a backpack.

3. Bring Your Own Food and Drinks

Airport food is one of the most expensive and underwhelming parts of travel. Avoid paying £8 for a limp sandwich or £3 for a bottle of water by bringing your own snacks and an empty water bottle.

Most airports have water fountains or refill stations after security, and you’re allowed to bring solid foods through. Think meal deals from your local supermarket before you leave home, or pack homemade sandwiches and snacks. It’s not glamorous—but it’s smart.

4. Book Airport Transfers in Advance

Don’t rely on taxis or last-minute apps when you land. Booking your airport transfer before you leave is almost always cheaper. Whether it's a shuttle, local bus, or metro pass, having it sorted in advance means less stress and fewer surprise expenses.

When we build custom itineraries at Jarv Tours, we always include the most affordable and efficient transport options from the airport to your accommodation—so you start your trip calm, not overcharged.

5. Use a Digital Boarding Pass and Avoid Printing

It’s a small thing, but some budget airlines have been known to charge you just for printing a boarding pass at the airport—seriously. Ryanair, for example, has charged up to £20 in the past for this. Avoid the risk by downloading the airline app and saving your boarding pass to your phone’s wallet or email.

If you’re travelling with family or friends, keep all the passes on one device for simplicity.

6. Avoid Airport Currency Exchanges – Always

Exchanging cash at the airport is one of the worst-value decisions you can make. The rates are awful and the fees are often hidden. Instead, use a travel debit or credit card with no foreign transaction fees, such as Monzo, Starling, or Wise, and withdraw small amounts from local ATMs once you land.

Better still, plan your spending in advance and pay by card wherever possible. At Jarv Tours, we always advise clients on the most cost-effective currency options for their destination.

7. Download Everything You Need Beforehand

Wi-Fi in airports is often slow or time-limited, and roaming charges abroad can be extortionate. Download your Netflix shows, Spotify playlists, Google Maps areas, and travel documents before you even leave your home Wi-Fi.

That way, you’re not burning mobile data or paying extra just to watch an episode of something on the flight. Bonus: you’ll look like the most organised person at the gate.

8. Skip Duty Free (Unless You’ve Done the Maths)

Duty free might seem like a bargain, but more often than not, the deals aren’t actually better than high street prices—especially when it comes to perfume, electronics, or alcohol. If you do want to shop, know your prices ahead of time, and compare them to online retailers.

For most travellers on a budget, your money is better saved for experiences at your destination—not airport impulse buys.

9. Sort Your Travel Insurance Early

It’s never fun to talk about, but travel insurance is essential—even for budget trips. Sorting it out at the airport (or even worse, after you've landed) can mean higher prices and less coverage. Buy it in advance and make sure it includes trip cancellation, medical cover, and lost baggage.

At Jarv Tours, we can recommend trusted, affordable travel insurance providers suited to backpackers, solo travellers, and group holidays across Europe and beyond.

10. Plan with a Travel Consultancy That Knows Budget Travel

Most importantly, one of the best ways to save money before you even step on a plane is to plan your trip with someone who knows the ropes. At Jarv Tours, we specialise in affordable European holidays, football match trips, and long weekends that don’t sacrifice experience for cost.

We’ve helped travellers visit over 70 countries without breaking the bank, and we can do the same for you. From finding flight deals to building custom itineraries that make the most of your time and money, we’re here to take the stress (and unnecessary expenses) out of travel.

Contact us today and let’s get your next budget adventure started.

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