The internet is full of good advice about how to travel on a budget, how to buy the cheapest flights, how to get the largest discounts on accommodation, how to go further for less. There is, however, a decent proportion of the travelling community for whom the budget is not the biggest consideration – but comfort is more important.
These people might be more representative of the older generation, who have a bit of extra money these days, and are not limited to school holidays. They would prefer to pay a little bit extra for comfort and convenience.
Here’s our breakdown of where you can up your travelling game and enjoy a more comfortable
Use a door to door pick up service
Your holidays start the minute you leave your house, and you want to make sure that you start as you mean to go one. One of the worst aspects of travelling is the amount of walking you have to do (often with heavy luggage) from car to airport. Reconsider how you get to the airport. If you still prefer to drive yourself, seek out a valet service whereby you can drive to the drop off point at the airport, and pay for someone else to park your car on your behalf.
If you’re not sure about trusting someone else with your car (there have been stories), then book yourself a door to door car service – a driver who will pick you up from home, load your luggage up for you, and then drop you right by departures
Club lounge at airport
When you get to the airport, treat yourself to an airport lounge. These are ideal spaces where you can escape from the general mayhem of a busy airport.
Most lounges will have at the bare minimum comfortable seating, a selection of complementary refreshments and alcoholic drinks, newspapers and Wi-Fi. There are often shower facilities if you need to freshen up, and some relaxing spa treatments such as Indian head massages.
Depending on the airport destination there may also be en suite bedrooms, games rooms and even a mini cinema.
Upgrading to business class
Depending on the length of your flight, you may want to consider upgrading your ticket to business class. You comfort is important, and knowing that you are not going to be squashed into economy with your knees up against the seat in front for several hours will allow you to approach your journey in a much more relaxed manner.
If your flight is only a short haul, then make sure you splash out on booking one of the emergency exit seats which tend to have much more extra leg room.
Plan ahead at your destination
The last thing you want is to be left stranded at your destination airport, particularly if it is a place you have not visited before. When you book your accommodation check whether or not they offer a private airport transfer service. This way you can be sure that you will be collected and whisked off to your hotel in calm comfort, without having to undergo the stress of an unknown taxi driver or packed bus.
No matter how prepared you are in advance, you need to understand that travelling can be unpredictable whether or not you have booked the most expensive first class tickets, and the cheapest last minute bargain deal – if that plane is delayed, then so are you.
Your mindset and attitude to travelling will be the most important thing to maintain and nurture when travelling, so make sure that it is calm and relaxed before you leave, and you will be immediately setting yourself up for a great trip.