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Keeping Your Home Safe Whilst Away On Holiday

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We have put together some tips and advice on keeping your home safe & secure whilst you are away on holiday.

Windows & Doors

Ensure all windows and doors are locked. Modern UPVC windows have key locks, ensure these are locked and the keys hidden out of sight, or taken with you. Home insurance companies frequently require this on the policy.

Ensure no windows in the house have any valuables showing from the outside. If you have auto-curtain drawers, use these to help open/close the curtains at certain times. These can easily be found on the internet for less than £30.

If you have any windows showing your front postbox (for example, in a porch), ensure these windows are covered and nobody can see letters piling up. This is a good indication for burglars that nobody is at home.

Ensure the post / letterbox flap is not blocked, causing any letters that are posted to show from the outside. Keep it clear to ensure all post gets into the house. Never leave messages on the door for the postman advising how long you are away for. These could be read by anyone.

You can also buy a Smart Windows & Door Alarm System for around £100 which can alert you by push notification or SMS when one of them have been opened. Subscribe to our newsletter to get an alert when we publish our Smart Alarm System review.

CCTV / Alarm Systems

Having CCTV is always a bonus, but the setting up of the equipment is equally important, if not more so. Ensure the DVR Box which houses the hard drive is not in plain sight. Keep it secure and out of reach in case of an intrusion. Burglars can spot CCTV and will try and locate the hard drive to take it. If you have cloud storage, ensure it is working and recording to the cloud, so if the hard drive is taken, you still have the footage available to you.

If your neighbour has CCTV, this also deters burglars as they won’t want to break into both houses to retrieve the hard drive. So, if you have a neighbour with CCTV, you have already decreased the chances of being a target.

Ensure the CCTV camera has good views of each of the entry points and can identify any person who tries to enter. If you have enough cameras, try and ensure one camera covers the other so if someone tries to interfere with one, it is picked up by the other camera covering it.

Have a good working Home Alarm System. If you cannot afford one, there are some great imitation alarm security boxes which you can install outside the house which gives the impression your home is alarmed.

Neighbours

If you have a good relationship with your neighbours and can trust them, let them know you are going away so they can keep an eye out for you. Leave your contact details with them in case of an emergency. When they go away, just return the favour.

If you have family members, have them check up on your house whilst away.

Home Lights

Try and invest in light timers or smart lighting. These can easily be found on eBay & Amazon for under £10. Set these to go on for an hour or so in the evening and turn them off during the day. Have these upstairs and downstairs to show the house is occupied by multiple people.

Sometimes people leave the porch light on. We believe this can sometimes be counter productive and a detriment to home security as not many people spend their time sitting in the porch watching television. Burglars also know this and in fact, will most likely invite them to check the house out.

Don’t keep your front outdoor light on – You want your house to be inconspicuous. Bright lights shining from your house in the night just attract attention which you don’t need. You want your house not to stick out, especially when you are away.

Valuables

Gather any valuables and jewellery and ensure these are placed in a safe and hidden place. If you have a beanbag in the children’s room for example, you can place them in there. Burglars generally go to the master bedroom first to look for valuables. Ensure these are not easily available to them. Don’t leave them in plain sight.

Keep car keys hidden and out of sight or take them with you if you know you won’t lose them. If you have family members available, give any expensive jewellery to them to keep safe.

Social Media

With all the excitement, it’s really easy to feel the need to post your holiday plans on social media. Unless your accounts are private, don’t do that. All you are doing is advertising the fact that you will be away for a certain amount of time.

It’s better to post your adventures when you return if you really want to share your holiday with people. Its always better to be safe than sorry.

House Frontage / Garden

Ensure your garden is well kept prior to going away. Not leaving it overgrown or unkept.

Ensure you don’t have any overflowing bins.

If you have a driveway, try not to keep it empty of any cars if this is possible.

Don’t have parcel deliveries scheduled in case these are left outside the door.

Keep ladders locked away inside somewhere where they cannot be reached.

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Money

Compare Flight Deals and Hotels – Book The Best Deal!

Compare flight deals and hotels from hundreds of travel sites so you can get the best deals with TravelZine.

Prices shown will be the TOTAL Price. (3 x tickets at £100 each will show as £300 total)

Flight Deal Calendar

Cheap flights from London

DestinationDeparture atReturn atFind tickets
Tirana6 December 20248 December 2024Tickets from 25
Belfast2 January 20258 January 2025Tickets from 26
Edinburgh16 December 202417 December 2024Tickets from 27
Agadir2 February 20255 February 2025Tickets from 32
Frankfurt20 November 202423 November 2024Tickets from 34
Belgrade19 November 202422 November 2024Tickets from 35
Marrakech10 January 202516 January 2025Tickets from 35
Wroclaw8 February 202513 February 2025Tickets from 35
Milan13 December 202416 December 2024Tickets from 36
Barcelona12 December 202415 December 2024Tickets from 38
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Money

Exploring the Benefits of Priority Pass: Unlocking a World of Travel Experiences

In the world of frequent travel, access to premium airport lounges and a seamless travel experience is highly coveted. Priority Pass, a globally recognized membership program, offers a range of exclusive packages designed to enhance your travel journey. In this article, we will delve into the benefits of signing up for one of the amazing packages on offer from Priority Pass and discover how it can elevate your travel experience to new heights.

Global Lounge Access:

One of the standout features of Priority Pass is its extensive network of airport lounges worldwide. Regardless of your airline or travel class, Priority Pass grants you access to over 1,300 lounges in more than 600 cities across the globe. This means you can relax, unwind, and enjoy first-class amenities such as comfortable seating, complimentary Wi-Fi, showers, refreshments, and even business facilities, regardless of your travel plans.

Flexible Membership Options:

Priority Pass understands that every traveller has unique needs. To cater to these diverse requirements, they offer different membership options. Whether you’re a frequent flyer, a casual traveller, or prefer to bring a guest along, Priority Pass has a package to suit your needs. From the Standard membership, which offers a pay-per-visit option, to the Prestige and Prestige Plus memberships that include a certain number of free visits, you can choose the package that aligns perfectly with your travel habits.

Priority Pass Digital Membership Card:

Gone are the days of fumbling for physical cards or worrying about misplacing them. Priority Pass provides a convenient digital membership card accessible through their mobile app. This means that your membership card is always at your fingertips, making the check-in process at lounges quick and hassle-free. The digital membership card also allows you to view lounge details, access maps, and track your visits and benefits on the go.

Airport Dining and Retail Credits:

In addition to lounge access, Priority Pass has expanded its offerings to include dining and retail experiences at select airports. Members can enjoy credits at participating establishments, allowing them to savour delectable meals or indulge in retail therapy before their flight. This innovative feature further enhances the overall travel experience and makes every moment at the airport more enjoyable and rewarding.

Travel Companion and Guest Access:

Traveling with a partner, family, or colleagues? Priority Pass offers packages that provide access to lounges for your accompanying guests or travel companions. This is particularly beneficial when travelling with others who may not have lounge access privileges through their own memberships or travel arrangements. It ensures everyone can enjoy the comforts and amenities of airport lounges together, enhancing the overall travel experience for all.

Additional Travel Benefits:

Beyond lounge access, Priority Pass offers additional travel benefits that vary depending on the membership level. These can include discounted airport transfers, discounted stays at partner hotels, access to airport spas, and more. These perks go beyond the airport lounge experience, adding value to your overall travel journey and helping you make the most of every trip.

Summary:

Priority Pass presents an array of impressive benefits that elevate your travel experience to new heights. With global lounge access, flexible membership options, a digital membership card, airport dining and retail credits, companion access, and additional travel benefits, Priority Pass enhances every aspect of your journey, making it more convenient, comfortable, and enjoyable. Whether you are a frequent flyer or an occasional traveler, Priority Pass provides an unparalleled opportunity to unlock the world of premium travel experiences. Consider signing up for one of their amazing packages and embrace a new level of travel luxury.

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Money

Flight Delay and Cancellation Compensation

We’ve put together all the information you need to know to get the compensation you deserve when things go wrong

When a flight is delayed or cancelled, passengers may be entitled to compensation under certain circumstances. In the United Kingdom, these rules are governed by the EU Regulation 261/2004, which sets out the rights of passengers in the event of denied boarding, flight cancellations, and long delays.

If a flight is delayed for more than three hours, or if a flight is cancelled, passengers may be entitled to compensation of up to €600 (£528) per person, depending on the length of the delay and the distance of the flight. The compensation amount is based on the distance of the flight, with shorter flights entitled to less compensation than longer flights.

How long the delay has to be in order to be eligible for compensation depends on the distance of the flight.

  • Flight Distance less than 1500km – 2 Hours
  • Flight Distance 1500-3500km – 3 Hours
  • Flight Distance More than 3500 – 4 Hours

In order to claim compensation, passengers must have a confirmed booking for the flight and must have checked in on time. Additionally, the delay or cancellation must be the responsibility of the airline, and not due to extraordinary circumstances such as bad weather or strikes.

If the delay or cancellation is due to extraordinary circumstances, the airline is not liable to pay compensation. However, they are still required to provide assistance to passengers, such as food, drinks, and accommodation if necessary.

Passengers who are denied boarding due to overbooking or operational reasons may also be entitled to compensation, as well as assistance. If the denied boarding is due to overbooking, the airline must first ask for volunteers to give up their seats before denying boarding to any passengers. If the denied boarding is due to operational reasons, the airline must provide compensation and assistance to affected passengers.

In order to claim compensation, passengers should contact the airline directly. If the airline is not willing to provide compensation, passengers can also contact the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) for assistance. The CAA can help passengers claim compensation and can also provide advice on how to make a complaint.

It’s important for passengers to keep all relevant documents, such as booking confirmation, boarding pass, and receipts for expenses incurred as a result of the delay or cancellation. These documents will be required when making a claim for compensation.

In conclusion, when a flight is delayed or cancelled, passengers may be entitled to compensation under certain circumstances. The rules for compensation are governed by the EU Regulation 261/2004 and the amount of compensation is based on the distance of the flight and the length of the delay. Passengers should contact the airline directly to claim compensation, and can also contact the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) for assistance.

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Dubai

The Most Expensive Hotel In The World

When it comes to luxurious accommodation, few hotels can compare to the Burj Al Arab in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. This iconic hotel is widely considered to be the most expensive hotel in the world, with room rates that can reach up to £20,000 per night.

The Burj Al Arab is a 7-star hotel, located on an artificial island just off the coast of Dubai. The hotel is designed to resemble the sail of a ship and stands at a height of 321 meters, making it one of the tallest hotels in the world.

The hotel features 202 luxurious suites, each of which is equipped with the latest technology and state-of-the-art amenities. Guests can enjoy panoramic views of the Arabian Gulf from the privacy of their own suite, which features a private balcony or terrace.

The hotel’s suites are decorated in a traditional Arabian style, with rich fabrics and opulent furnishings. Each suite features a separate living and dining area, as well as a private bar and a large plasma TV. Choose the right suite and you’ll have your very own private butler 24/7 and a Rolls Royce to take you where you need to go. When money is no object, This is the hotel you choose.

The Burj Al Arab also boasts a wide range of dining options, including several fine-dining restaurants that offer a variety of international and local cuisines. Guests can also indulge in a variety of spa treatments at the hotel’s Talise Spa, which features a sauna, steam room, and a range of massages and beauty treatments.

The hotel also offers a variety of recreational facilities, including a private beach, an infinity pool, and a state-of-the-art fitness center. The hotel also features a tennis court, a children’s club and a wide range of water sports.

Despite its high room rates, the Burj Al Arab continues to be a popular destination for the wealthy and famous, and it is not difficult to see why. With its luxurious accommodations, world-class amenities, and unparalleled service, the hotel truly offers an experience like no other.

It’s worth noting that the Burj Al Arab is not just a hotel, it’s a symbol of luxury, exclusivity, and opulence. The hotel’s reputation, location, facilities and services make it a one of a kind place, and the experience of staying there is truly unforgettable.

Other Hotels That Offer a Similar Show of Luxury

There are a some other hotels around the world that offer a similar level of luxury and exclusivity to the Burj Al Arab in Dubai. Some examples include:

  1. The Plaza Hotel, New York City, USA: This iconic hotel is located in the heart of Manhattan and features 282 luxurious guest rooms and suites, many of which offer views of Central Park. The hotel also features several fine-dining restaurants, a fitness center, and a spa.
  2. The Ritz-Carlton, Paris, France: This 5-star hotel is located in the heart of Paris, near the Champs-Elysées. The hotel features 136 guest rooms and suites, all of which are elegantly decorated and feature marble bathrooms and high-end amenities. The hotel also features several fine-dining restaurants and a spa.
  3. The Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok, Thailand: This 5-star hotel is located on the banks of the Chao Phraya River and features 393 guest rooms and suites, all of which offer views of the river or the city. The hotel also features several fine-dining restaurants, a fitness center, and a spa.
  4. The Four Seasons, Bora Bora, French Polynesia: This luxurious resort is located on a private island in the middle of the South Pacific, and features overwater bungalows and villas, many of which have private pools. The resort also features several fine-dining restaurants, a fitness center, and a spa.
  5. The Aman Tokyo, Japan: This luxurious hotel is located in the heart of Tokyo and features just 20 guest rooms, each of which offers panoramic views of the city. The hotel also features a fine-dining restaurant, a fitness center, and a spa.

All these hotels are renowned for their luxury, exclusivity, and unparalleled service and offer a unique experience that is not found in any other place, but they all have their own unique features, location and style, thus it’s important to research and compare them before making a decision on which one to choose.

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Money

How To Get The Most From An All Inclusive Package Holiday

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An all-inclusive package can be a great way to save money and simplify your holiday planning. However, it’s important to make the most out of your package to get the most value for your money. Here are some tips for getting the most out of your all-inclusive package:

  1. Research your destination: Before you book your all-inclusive package, research the destination to ensure that it offers the activities and amenities that you’re looking for. This will help you make the most of your holiday and ensure that you’re happy with your choice. Compare prices on different websites and ensure you check exactly what is on offer as each hotel offer different types of all-inclusive deals.
  2. Take advantage of all the included activities: Many all-inclusive packages include a variety of activities and amenities, such as water sports, fitness classes, and entertainment. Take advantage of these activities to make the most of your holiday and try something new. If you have children, ask about childcare and whether the hotel offers free child minding or activities during the day. Not only can this save you a huge amount of money, it also allows you to unwind and relax knowing your children are looked after and will be having a great time. You can also request some pictures prior to booking so you can get a feel of what’s on offers and see how good the place is.
  3. Plan your meals: Many all-inclusive packages include meals and drinks, so it’s important to plan your meals to make the most of your package. Try to eat at different restaurants and take advantage of any special dining events that may be offered. When booking, contact the provider and check what types of meals and how many restaurants are available. Its best to do this research before you book. Some hotels even offer a one off special meal which you can book at an à la carte restaurant. Always best to check as you may find some great offers and incentives.
  4. Take advantage of the included drinks: Many all-inclusive packages include drinks, so make sure you take advantage of this by trying different cocktails and beverages. Some resorts offer an ultra all inclusive option which has extras like your room mini bar stocked up daily for free. Just check with the hotel to find our if this is an option. Also, depending on the destination, be sure to tip the staff, it will be appreciated and you will most likely find you get some great service throughout your stay.
  5. Take advantage of the spa and other amenities: Many all-inclusive resorts offer spa services and other amenities, such as a gym or pool. Take advantage of these services to relax and unwind during your holiday. Some hotels offer a free 20 minute session within the all inclusive package, no harm in asking. If its not included, don’t be afraid to haggle as the hotels generally do price these spa packages with wriggle room. They would rather offer a discount than lose business.
  6. Take advantage of any package deals or discounts: Many all-inclusive packages offer package deals or discounts for activities such as excursions or spa treatments. Take advantage of these deals to save money and make the most of your holiday. Find out if there are any activities included or whether the hotel offers any discounted ones. Usually the hotel has good relationships with the tour operators so can find you activities and excursions to suit your budget. Also by getting these booked via your hotels, there is generally a rep onsite who can deal proactively with any issues you may have.

By following these tips, you can make the most out of your all-inclusive package and have a relaxing and enjoyable holiday. Remember to be respectful to the staff and the environment, and to practice the safety measures in place.

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Compare Airport Parking – Know Before You Book

UK airports are among the busiest in the world, serving millions of passengers each year. Finding suitable and affordable parking can be a challenge, especially during peak travel seasons. To make the most of your budget, it’s important to compare prices and book your parking in advance.

When comparing parking prices, it’s important to consider the location of the car park, the duration of your stay, and the type of parking service you require. Short-term parking is ideal for those dropping off or picking up passengers, while long-term parking is better suited for those taking longer trips. Premium parking options, such as valet parking and Meet and Greet services, come with higher prices but offer added convenience and security.

To find the best deal on airport parking, it’s recommended to book through comparison websites such as Travel Supermarket, Purple Parking or Air Parks. These websites allow you to compare prices from a variety of parking providers, including official airport car parks and independent providers. You can also find out more about the services offered, such as shuttle buses, security features, and the distance of the car park from the terminal.

Another alternative is to check the official website of the airport where you plan to travel from, as they usually offer parking services and can provide you with the most up-to-date information on prices, availability and promotions. This is also the most secure option with most packages (apart from Valet) giving you the freedom of taking your keys with you.

It’s also worth noting that some airlines and travel agents may include parking in their package deals, so it’s worth checking with them as well.

In conclusion, when planning a trip from the UK, it’s important to be aware of the cost of airport parking and compare prices from a variety of providers. By booking in advance and using comparison websites, you can ensure that you find the best deal and make your journey as smooth and stress-free as possible. Organising Airport Parking last minute can increase the cost significantly so always be proactive and get this booked as soon as possible. Most booking companies offer the option to modify bookings as standard.

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Airport Parking – Manchester Airport (MAN)

Manchester Airport is one of the busiest airports in the UK, serving over 28 million passengers each year. With a variety of parking options available, it’s important to plan ahead and compare prices to find the best deal that suits your needs.

Short-term parking at Manchester Airport is available for those dropping off or picking up passengers. The charges for this service start at £2 for 20 minutes in the Terminal 1 and 2 Short Stay car park. For stays of up to 24 hours, the cost is £24 in Terminal 1 and 2 Short Stay, £22 in Terminal 1 and 2 Long Stay, and £19.50 in Terminal 3 Short Stay.

Long-term parking is also available at Manchester Airport, with charges starting at £7 per day in the Terminal 1 and 2 Long Stay car park. For stays of up to 14 days, the cost is £98 in Terminal 1 and 2 Long Stay, £89 in Terminal 3 Long Stay, and £80 in JetParks. Longer stays can also be accommodated, with prices increasing accordingly.

Manchester Airport also offers a Meet and Greet service for those looking for added convenience, where a driver will park your car for you. This service starts at £30 for 24 hours and £70 for 3 days.

It’s worth noting that the above charges are subject to change and are not inclusive of VAT. It’s always best to check the official Manchester Airport website for the most up-to-date pricing information.

You can also find great deals for parking off-site. Just compare prices online and find the one that suits you best. Be sure to check out reviews and ensure the company is known. Remember, if it seems to good to be true, it probably is. Don’t forget to make a note of your mileage before handing over your keys.

In conclusion, Manchester Airport offers a range of parking options to suit every need and budget, but it’s important to be aware of the charges before you travel. By planning ahead and comparing prices, you can ensure that you find the best deal and make your journey as smooth and stress-free as possible. It’s also recommended to check availability in advance, especially during peak season as the parking spots may fill up quickly. This also goes for booking off-site parking with third party companies.

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Airport Parking – Birmingham Airport (BHX)

Birmingham Airport is a major transportation hub in the UK, serving over 13 million passengers each year. With a variety of parking options available, it’s important to plan ahead and compare prices to find the best deal that suits your needs. There are many companies online offering good value for money parking off-site. Please ensure you always do your research and read through reviews to make sure your safe before booking.

If you wanted peace of mind and prefer to park onsite, there are options:

Short-term parking at Birmingham Airport is available for those dropping off or picking up passengers. The charges for this service start at £2 for 20 minutes in the Drop & Go car park. For stays of up to 24 hours, the cost is £24 in the Drop & Go car park, £22 in Short Stay and £19.50 in Long Stay.

Long-term parking is also available at Birmingham Airport, with charges starting at £7 per day in the Long Stay car park. For stays of up to 14 days, the cost is £98 in Long Stay, £89 in Long Stay Plus, and £80 in Long Stay Premium. Longer stays can also be accommodated, with prices increasing accordingly.

Birmingham Airport also offers a Meet and Greet service for those looking for added convenience, where a driver will park your car for you. This service starts at £30 for 24 hours and £70 for 3 days.

It’s worth noting that the above charges are subject to change and are not inclusive of VAT. It’s always best to check the official Birmingham Airport website for the most up-to-date pricing information.

In conclusion, Birmingham Airport offers a range of parking options to suit every need and budget, but it’s important to be aware of the charges before you travel. By planning ahead and comparing prices, you can ensure that you find the best deal and make your journey as smooth and stress-free as possible. It’s also recommended to check availability in advance, especially during peak season as the parking spots may fill up quickly.

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Airport Parking – London Gatwick Airport (LGW)

London Gatwick Airport is one of the busiest airports in the UK, serving over 46 million passengers each year. With such a large volume of travelers, parking can be a challenge, and the cost of parking can put a dent in your wallet.

Short-term parking at Gatwick is ideal for those dropping off or picking up passengers, with charges starting at £4 for 30 minutes in the North Terminal Short Stay car park. For stays of up to 24 hours, the cost is £40 in the North Terminal Short Stay car park and £35 in the South Terminal Short Stay car park.

Long-term parking is also available at Gatwick, with charges starting at £8 per day in the North Terminal Long Stay car park. For stays of up to 14 days, the cost is £112 in North Terminal Long Stay, £96 in Long Stay Plus and £80 in South Terminal Long Stay. Longer stays can also be accommodated, with prices increasing accordingly.

For those looking for even more convenience and security, Gatwick Airport offers a number of premium parking options, such as Meet and Greet, where a driver will park your car for you. This service starts at £70 for 24 hours.

It’s worth noting that the above charges are subject to change and are not inclusive of VAT. It’s always best to check the official Gatwick Airport website for the most up-to-date pricing information.

Don’t forget to compare prices and check out additional companies who offer off site parking at reasonable prices. Be sure to do your research and read up on reviews before you book.

In conclusion, London Gatwick Airport offers a range of parking options to suit every need and budget, but it’s important to be aware of the charges before you travel. By planning ahead and comparing prices, you can ensure that you find the best deal and make your journey as smooth and stress-free as possible. Also, it’s recommended to check the availability of parking spaces in advance, as during peak season it may be difficult to find a spot.

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Airport Parking – London Luton Airport (LTN)

London Luton Airport is a popular destination for both business and leisure travelers, serving over 18 million passengers each year. Finding a suitable parking spot and understanding the cost of parking can be a challenge, so it’s important to plan ahead and compare prices.

Short-term parking at London Luton Airport is available for those dropping off or picking up passengers. The charges for this service start at £2.50 for 30 minutes in the Mid-Stay car park. For stays of up to 24 hours, the cost is £24 in Mid-Stay car park, £22 in Long-Stay 1 and £19.50 in Long-Stay 2.

Long-term parking is also available at London Luton Airport, with charges starting at £7 per day in the Long-Stay 1 and 2 car parks. For stays of up to 14 days, the cost is £98 in Long-Stay 1 and £81 in Long-Stay 2. Longer stays can also be accommodated, with prices increasing accordingly.

Luton Airport also offers a Meet and Greet service for those looking for added convenience, where a driver will park your car for you. This service starts at £34 for 24 hours and £70 for 3 days.

It’s worth noting that the above charges are subject to change and are not inclusive of VAT. It’s always best to check the official Luton Airport website for the most up-to-date pricing information.

On another note, do go online and check comparison sites to find other companies offering parking nearby. These are often cheaper but please ensure you do your research and read the reviews available. Remember, if you cant see any reviews, stay away. These parking options will be offsite so also ensure you check the services available for airport drop offs. Most companies offer a shuttle bus free of charge.

In conclusion, London Luton Airport offers a range of parking options to suit every need and budget, but it’s important to be aware of the charges before you travel. By planning ahead and comparing prices, you can ensure that you find the best deal and make your journey as smooth and stress-free as possible.

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