With many of us flocking to the airport in light of travel restrictions easing, now is the perfect time to understand and resolve the most common airport mistakes we’ve all made in the past.

From overpaying on transport to forgetting your refillable bottle, there are plenty of ways to incur costs when catching a flight.

This is why the travel experts at ParkSleepFly have revealed the 10 common airport mistakes that are costing you money.

1. Getting a taxi

While getting a taxi to the airport might seem convenient, taxi trips to the airport are always expensive, especially at peak times. To keep costs down, make sure to pre-book an airport transfer, that way you’re not just sitting watching the meter go up! Alternatively, check to see if there are buses which run to the airport, as these are cheaper and better for the environment.

2. Forgetting your refillable water bottle

While it may seem a small thing to remember to pack, forgetting to take an empty, refillable water bottle through security could cost you in the long run. In general, airport shops are much more expensive to operate, therefore the prices are usually higher.

Most airports have free water stations where you can fill your bottle once you pass security. By taking your reusable bottle, you’re not only saving money but you’re also doing your bit for the environment.

3. Not pre booking your airport parking

You can save time and money by looking into the different park, sleep and fly options. These allow you to safely park your car at the hotel for the duration of your trip, stay at the hotel the night before and also shuttle you back and forth from the airport. Opting for a ParkSleepFly option gives you a much more competitive rate for your parking.

4. Not planning your journey ahead

We all know airports can get busy, with slow-moving security lines and other delays, so it is important to plan your journey to the airport and give yourself plenty of time before your flight.

By not leaving yourself enough time to get to the airport, check-in and get past security, you run the risk of missing your flight. This is especially costly if you’ve booked with an airline that doesn’t offer refunds.

5. Don’t book a flight from the most popular airport

Major cities, such as London and New York, have multiple airports to choose from aside from the most popular. Next time you’re booking flights, look at travelling to and from the lesser popular airports as you’ll usually get a better deal.

6. Over-packing

Overpacking and going over the airlines’ weight limit means you can be hit with an extra charge when checking in at the airport. There are huge variations between different airlines on the weight allowance you’re allowed to take onto an aeroplane. You should check with the airline the permitted baggage allowance before getting to the airport. We would also recommend weighing your suitcase at home before setting off!

7. Exchanging money at the airport

If you leave it until you’re at the airport to exchange some holiday money, then you are most likely to get the worst exchange rate, ultimately losing your money. Airside foreign exchange kiosks offer some of the worst rates on the market. To ensure you’re not caught out, get your money in plenty of time before you arrive at the airport.

8. Flying direct

Searching for direct flights is one of the most common travel mistakes. Although they are quicker, a layover can reduce the cost of your journey by hundreds of pounds. With more airports offering accommodation and even sleep pods designed specifically for layovers, you can turn one trip into two and discover a new country, while saving money!

9. Not buying snacks before your flight

Showing up for your flight hungry used to be the norm as most tickets came with a free meal. However, now in-flight meals have to be pre-booked and snacks come at a much higher price once up in the air. Make sure to pack your own snacks ahead of the flight to save money for use when you reach your destination.

10. Not checking your phone battery

Many people now have their airline tickets saved on their phones. While this means you’ll never lose your ticket, it’s important to plan ahead and ensure your phone has enough battery to get you through check-in. It’s important to note a lot of airports charge for phone charging points, so you don’t want to get caught out.