Martin Lewis’ Money Saving Expert reveals ‘last-second’ trick that could save you £100s in hidden airport charges
MARTIN Lewis’ MoneySavingExpert has shared a ‘last-second’ tip for drivers to get cheaper airport parking this summer.
Brits could save hundreds in minutes by implementing the easy hack from home.
The team at MSE estimated that you could slash your bill by using their tip.
It all comes down to when and how you go about booking your spot.
“Book airport parking ahead – even if it’s on the day,” the experts advise.
“Pull up to Stansted Airport without booking, and you’ll pay from £315/wk to park.
“Book ahead, EVEN ON THE SAME DAY, using a comparison site, and it could cost you as little as £89/wk – though generally, booking earlier (and flexibly) is best.”
The experts have previously lifted the lid on other hacks drivers can utilize to be kinder to their wallet this summer.
Use comparison sites
As with any similar service, comparison sites are very much your friend when it comes to getting a better deal.
According to the experts, these sites will often be able to offer a lower price or even some discount codes.
Sites recommended by MSE include FHR and Holiday Extras, which can slash your prices by up to 45%.
The team also recommended checking directly with the parking provider to see if they can give you a better price.
Look for a package
Sometimes the parking itself can be cheaper when it’s bundled in with a hotel package.
If you’ve got a long drive to the airport and don’t want to get up early, it could be best to stay the night before and take advantage of lower prices.
MSE’s data suggest that you could save hundreds by booking well in advance and adding a hotel stay.
Even if you can’t find a package, always make sure to book well before your trip as it can make a massive difference compared to paying on the day.
OTHER CAR INSURANCE TIPS
There are other ways to slash the cost of your car insurance.
It could be a useful time to do something as well – industry insiders from One Sure Insurance say plenty of people across England are overpaying for their plans.
Major airports that offer the best savings on parking
According to MSE, based on average on the day cost vs average pre-booked cost
- Manchester – £283
- London Heathrow – £196 (peak dates)
- London Stanstead – £128 (with hotel)
- London Gatwick – £97
First, if you’re looking to switch deals, doing so early could see you save hundreds.
New policies arranged two or three weeks before a renewal date can often be much cheaper than if you wait and switch on the day they end.
Martin Lewis has called this period the “21-day rule”.
Second, you don’t have to just accept your renewal quote, if you already have a car.
While it might seem easier to go with what your provider has offered you, you could save hundreds by shopping around for new deals.
Third, you could tweak your job title, as insurers see certain professions as riskier than others and more likely to result in claims.
Of course, you shouldn’t lie about your profession but a simple change could see you save money.
One money blogger revealed how it could save you hundreds a year.
Fourth and finally, you could save money by paying for your insurance annually.
Paying monthly may be more convenient, but you’ll end up paying more overall.
So if you’ve got the money in the bank, paying up front will see you make some decent savings.