FOR quieter destinations and cheaper prices, a late summer holiday – when kids have gone back to school – is ideal.
And now is the perfect time to book one, whether you want to relax on a beach, sail the ocean, tour wineries or experience some Disney magic.
Live it up on a Rhodes tripCredit: GettyFor quieter destinations and cheaper prices, a late summer holiday is idealCredit: AFP
Trisha Harbord selects ten top trips to enjoy in the UK or abroad, with or without the little ones . . .
NORWEGIAN FJORDS CRUISING
Kick back and relax on a Norwegian cruiseCredit: Getty
SAY goodbye to chores and ride the waves aboard P&O Cruises’ Britannia.
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The round-trip from Southampton to the Norwegian Fjords, stops at Haugesund, Olden, Alesund and Stavanger, and takes in the Viking region, breathtaking glaciers, lush forests and stunning lakes.
In Olden, try the Loen Skylift, one of the steepest in the world, for an amazing view.
Britannia is an entertainment centre, with comedy, musical shows, bars, speciality restaurants, sports, a cookery club, kids’ clubs, play areas and a night nursery.
GO: Seven nights’ full-board from £785pp departing Southampton on September 11. See iglucruise.com.
BULGARIAN BLACK SEA ACTION
This Bulgarian resort is all actionCredit: supplied
Along Sunny Beach, there are watersports galore, catamaran cruises, a theme park, Jeep safaris and biking.
The nearby Tui Blue Nevis hotel offers a multi-sports court for tennis, football and volleyball, pool games, guided walks, arts and crafts, and cooking classes.
Evening entertainment includes singers, acrobats, outdoor cinema and silent disco.
Don’t miss the ancient city of Nessebar, a Unesco World Heritage site.
GO: Seven nights’ all-inclusive from £579pp including Manchester flights on September 10. See tui.co.uk.
LUXURY GREEK ODYSSEY
WHAT could be more enticing than fabulous food and cool cocktails in a gorgeous Greek island boutique hotel?
The 3* adults-only Nathalie Hotel in Ixia, Rhodes, is small and friendly with rooms that sleep up to four guests.
Or push the boat out and book a Jacuzzi room and Rooftop suite with views over the ocean and spectacular sunsets.
Ixia has a buzzing nightlife, with bars, tavernas and cafes, and is a surfer’s paradise.
Take a bus or taxi to explore the cobbled streets of Rhodes old town.
GO: Seven nights’ B&B from £579pp including flights from Stansted on September 27. See jet2holidays.com.
AND RELAX… WITH THE BELFRY BREAK
The Belfry has pools, sauna, steam rooms, A Fire & Ice Experience and aroma cavesCredit: supplied
TREAT yourself to a relaxing break at one of the UK’s finest country resorts – The Belfry, set in 550 acres of countryside.
The spa has pools, sauna, steam rooms, A Fire & Ice Experience and aroma caves.
The resort has three golf courses, a driving range, restaurants and a cinema room.
A highlight this summer has been surfing simulator WaveSurfer, which will run at weekends during September.
GO: The Pamper or Putt offer is from £259 a night, including dinner, overnight stay, breakfast and your choice of a round of golf on The Derby or a 25-minute spa treatment.
Family two-night B&B weekend offer from £404. thebelfry.com.
LIFE’S A BEACH ON TURKEY’S RIVIERA
Soak up the sun at the stunning beaches of Turkey’s rivieraCredit: Getty
THE sun shines 300 days a year on the stunning beaches of Turkey’s riviera.
And the Prime Beach Hotel, in popular Marmaris, has its own private beach.
The 5* resort also offers an aqua park, pools, restaurants and snack bars.
Adults will love the wellness and spa centre, featuring a traditional hammam.
GO: Seven nights’ all-inclusive from £757pp including flights from Luton on September 30. Price includes a free child’s place. See easyjet.com.
BEAT THE QUEUES AT DISNEYLAND PARIS
Disneyland Paris is always an optionCredit: Disneyland Paris
SEPTEMBER is a fantastic time of year to visit Disneyland Paris, especially if you avoid the weekend for shorter queues.
This year is a big one for the attraction.
The new World Of Frozen has opened in Adventure World, along with Cascade Of Lights, a fireworks, water and drone spectacular.
New for summer are Princess Cavalcade Mickey And The Magician show. Grown-ups will love thrill rides, such as The Twilight Zone: Tower Of Terror and Avengers Assemble: Flight Force.
GO: Two nights’ room-only at the Hotel Santa Fe and three-day park tickets from £831pp, for arrival on September 28. See disneylandparis.com.
CATCH A SEAFOOD FEAST IN DEVON
Riviera Bay Coastal Retreat in Brixham has lodges, caravans and chaletsCredit: guy harrop
DIVE down to Devon for two-week festival England’s Seafood Feast, which showcases the county’s culinary qualities and begins on September 21.
Restaurants, cafes, pubs and hotels across Torquay, Paignton and Brixham create exclusive tasting experiences, including seven courses over seven hours in seven restaurants by seven local chefs, with seven award-winning drinks.
Riviera Bay Coastal Retreat in Brixham has lodges, caravans and chalets.
WINE tourism in Essex is booming and the county is now home to 58 vineyards.
Treat yourself to a luxurious stay in the beautiful grounds of Bardfield Vineyard near Braintree and you won’t need to book a taxi home after tasting their rosé, Bacchus or sparkling brut wines.
A tasting tour with ploughman’s lunch costs £40 per person.
Bed down in a rustic cart lodge, with two double en-suite bedrooms and kitchen.
Head to Saffron Grange for sparkling wines, or try the award-winning Tuffon Hall vineyard.
Both tours cost £25 per head.
GO: A cart lodge at Bardfield from £140 a night. See visitessex.com.
YORKSHIRE GOES BARKING MAD
Chef James Martin will join pooch lovers at DogFest On The Farm at Harewood House, Yorkshire, on September 12-13Credit: instagram/dog_fest
CHEF James Martin will join pooch lovers at DogFest On The Farm at Harewood House, Yorkshire, on September 12-13.
James, who says his cocker spaniel Cooper is his best mate, will be giving cooking demos and dog nutrition advice.
Your four-legged friends can play in the giant ball pit and splash around at a pool party.
Trainers are on hand and there are sheepdog trials and breed meet-ups.
A perfect base for the festival is the Old Barn, near Harrogate.
GO: Three nights’ self-catering is from £525 for arrival on September 12. See caninecottages.co.uk.
TRY WALES FOR WALKING
Rambling in Wales is always a treatCredit: Getty
WALKING tour company Ramble Worldwide is 80 years old this year.
It offers guided holidays in the UK and abroad for all levels of fitness, including along the beautiful Ceredigion and Pembrokeshire coasts.
Ramblers who choose Wales will find clifftop paths, coves and fishing villages, with the chance to see seals, dolphins and porpoises, and Cilgerran Castle.
Groups of ten to 12 are based at the 3* Gwbert Hotel, on the River Teifi, for walks of around ten miles a day.
GO: Five nights’ half board from £699pp for arrival on September 28. See rambleworldwide.co.uk.
Home Bargains shoppers can improve their packing technique with the retailer’s travel set
The travel set could be ideal for the summer holidays (Image: Getty)
Many families are getting their luggage ready for the upcoming holidays. For those who struggle to keep their suitcases tidy, Home Bargains could have just what they need. Known for selling seasonal products, the retailer is stocking travel accessories.
The latest range includes the multipack of Travel Lightweight Travel Cubes. Priced at £4.99, Home Bargains said the set is designed to help customers enjoy “hassle-free packing.” The pack is available to buy online now, with three “lightweight travel cubes” included in each set.
The product description states: “Keep your luggage organised with this simple family three-pack of lightweight travel cubes, featuring durable double zips and breathable mesh panels for easy packing on the go.” The retailer added that the set is “perfect for hassle-free packing on the go.”
Home Bargains sells a range of travel accessories, including the £1.99 Let’s Travel Lightweight Folding Rucksack. The retailer wrote: “The Let’s Travel Lightweight Folding Rucksack is a durable, compact 15-litre bag that folds into its own pocket, with a black design and adjustable straps.”
The description added: “Designed for convenience and versatility, this lightweight folding rucksack is the perfect companion for travel, day trips, and everyday use. Despite its compact design, it offers a surprisingly spacious interior—ideal for carrying your essentials on the go.
“Crafted from durable yet lightweight materials, the rucksack is built to withstand regular use while remaining easy to carry. It features adjustable shoulder straps for comfort and multiple zipped compartments to keep your belongings organised and secure. One of its standout features is its foldable design.
“The bag conveniently packs down into its own compact pocket, making it easy to store in your suitcase, handbag, or luggage when not in use. Simply unfold it whenever you need extra storage space.
“With an approximate 15-litre capacity, it provides ample room for essentials such as clothing, snacks, travel documents, or daily items—without adding bulk or weight.” For £4.99, Home Bargains sells the Travel Adjustable Travel Pillow.
The retailer said: “Stay comfy on the go with this adjustable travel pillow made from soft memory foam, complete with a handy carry bag. Perfect for short trips or long-haul flights, it’s your simple travel essential.”
There’s also the £3.99 Travel Hanging Organiser. The description read: “Stay organised on the go with the Travel Hanging Organiser from the Simple family, featuring 24 mesh pockets and four hooks for versatile storage wherever you are. Compact and practical for hassle-free holidays.”
IT MAY be sizzling at the moment – but set your sights on winter breaks to bag some real value.
Now is the best time to book a Christmas getaway, says Sophie Swietochowski, with prices as low as they go for the next few weeks. You can try out these top deals . . .
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WINTER SUN IN EGYPT
You’ll be waited on hand and foot if you head to Hurghada this ChristmasCredit: Getty
THOSE wanting to spend Christmas on the beach in luxury lodgings should set their sights on Hurghada.
It’s around a five-hour flight, temperatures will reach 23C and you’ll be waited on hand and foot.
You can score a cracking deal with easyJet if you book before July 21, using the code FOOTBALL26.
There’s £100 off a seven-night B&B getaway to the 4H Cook’s Club El Gouna with a new price from £876pp based on two sharing and including flights from Bristol on December 19.
The Suomo resort will take your breath away with its thick woodland coated in fresh snow,Credit: supplied
IF bucket list is what you’re after, that’s what you’ll get when you whisk the kids off to Finnish Lapland.
Who wouldn’t dream of seeing Santa Claus on Christmas Day?
The Suomo resort will take your breath away, with its thick woodland coated in fresh snow, and cosy wooden lodges where you can hunker down with some wine or a board game around a roaring fireplace.
Along with feeding the reindeer, little ones will get to join the elves filtering through letters and go husky sledding or tobogganing, all while wrapped in their snowsuit and boots — free for all guests.
The four-night package costs from £1,890pp based on a family of four sharing and includes all of the experiences mentioned above, plus flights from Stansted on December 23.
You’ll stay in the Scandi-decorated Arctic Circle Hotel with all meals included and a meeting and gift from Santa.
The price includes four days’ worth of park tickets for the whole familyCredit: Alamy
DISNEY doesn’t come cheap, no matter what time of year you visit, but if you book now you can bag seriously good deals over Christmas.
Disney Enchanted Christmas brings the magic from November 7 to January 6 and this season, for the first time, the joy will spread beyond Disneyland Park as you celebrate in Arendelle style in World Of Frozen.
Queen Anna, Elsa ,Olaf and friends, will welcome guests into the Kingdom of Arendelle at Disney Adventure World, plus there are carol singalongs and character meet-and-greets.
Three nights’ room-only in Disney’s Santa Fe hotel is from £745.96pp based on a family of four sharing, flying from Heathrow on December 23.
This price includes four days’ worth of park tickets for the whole family.
The Christmas markets will be in full force in the lead-up to the big dayCredit: Getty
SOME cities simply come alive in winter — and Amsterdam is undoubtedly one of those.
The frosted canals of the Netherlands city are lit up by old-fashioned lampposts and pokey cafes serve up piping- hot mugs of Choco- mel spiked with rum to give it some extra warmth.
The Christmas markets will be in full force in the lead-up to the big day.
But these are not your stereotypical tat stalls — everything here if authentically Dutch.
Don’t forget to sample the oliebollen — warm doughballs dunked in powdery icing sugar.
Check in at the 4H Leonardo Museumhotel Amsterdam City Centre which is slap-bang in the heart of the action.
Four nights’ room-only costs from £485pp based on two people sharing and including flights from Liverpool on December 23.
These pistes are often praised for their world-class ski schools that exceed many others in EuropeCredit: Getty
Few scenes are more spectacular at Christmas time than those from the top of a snow-drenched ski slope, the sun reflecting off the mountain-scape.
Crystal Ski has some great deals at the moment, including this one to Andorra. The resort of Grandvalira is perfect for both pros and beginners, with one of the largest ski domains in Europe, home to a whopping 215 km of interconnected slopes, meaning there’s great variety.
These pistes are often praised for their world-class ski schools that exceed many others in Europe, plus it’s a little more affordable than the Alps.
Seven nights’ half board at the 4* Residence Pas de la Casa Alaska is from £825pp based on two people sharing including flights from Gatwick on December 20.
A budget-friendly cabin bag from Home Bargains is available to buy right now while stocks last
Home Bargains is selling a budget-friendly cabin bag(Image: Home Bargains)
A “versatile” cabin bag described as a “fantastic size” has landed on shelves at Home Bargains, and it could take the hassle out of getting ready for your next trip. The wallet-friendly purchase is designed to provide ample packing room while remaining compatible with a number of airlines operating throughout the UK.
The popular high street retailer is widely recognised for its extensive range of homeware and furnishings, but it has also been steadily growing its selection of budget travel accessories. Step forward the Salisburys Under Seat Bag, which will set you back just £9.99.
Describing the item, Home Bargains said: “Meet the Salisburys Under Seat Bag – your perfect travel companion! With its spacious zipped compartments and sleek design, it’s ideal for keeping your essentials close at hand while you jet off on your next adventure.
“Salisburys presents its broadest line-up of tried and tested luggage solutions with contemporary features to help the modern tourist navigate the hurdles of twenty-first century travel.
“Salisbury Under Seat Bags solve modern travel issues of the check-in case. A fantastic size bag that is versatile for the needs of your modern travel. Large open zipped storage compartment with small zip side pouch.”
Coming in four colours — black, green, light pink and purple — the bag boasts a rectangular design, complete with two carry handles at the top and an adjustable shoulder strap on each side. It comes with a zip fastening along the top, a padded exterior featuring stitched horizontal pockets at the front, plus several zip compartments throughout.
With dimensions of 40cm x 20cm x 25cm, the bag falls within the free under-seat cabin baggage allowances offered by a number of major airlines. It is compatible with carriers including Ryanair, and also fits comfortably within the larger free personal item allowances provided by the likes of easyJet, Jet2, TUI and British Airways.
Holidaymakers are nonetheless urged to double-check their airline’s most up-to-date baggage policy prior to travelling, as regulations can differ depending on ticket type and route. Those keen to find out more are encouraged to head over to the Home Bargains website.
The bag is available both in-store and online, with Home Bargains offering standard home delivery across the UK mainland for £3.95, and free delivery on orders over £100. Larger furniture pieces carry a £10 delivery charge, and standard parcels typically land within four working days.
Shoppers looking to ‘travel in style’ could do just that with the latest travel deal at Home Bargains
Take a look at the latest deal at Home Bargains(Image: Home Bargains)
Home Bargains is helping shoppers prepare for their summer holidays with a “spacious yet compact” cabin bag that meets the hand luggage requirements of several major UK airlines. The discount retailer, which has over 600 stores nationwide, claims it is “perfect for your adventures”.
It may be renowned for its affordable homeware and furnishing deals, but Home Bargains’ range extends far beyond side tables, lamps and ornaments. From garden accessories and beauty buys to travel essentials, shoppers can find plenty of wallet-friendly options.
Take the Salisburys Carry-On Cabin Lightweight Backpack, for instance, which retails for a more-than-affordable £9.99. It comes in black, and boasts a very simple aesthetic to suit various tastes.
Describing the product, Home Bargains said: “Travel light and in style with the Salisburys Carry-On Cabin Lightweight Backpack in sleek black! Perfect for your adventures, this spacious yet compact backpack is designed for easy packing and effortless carrying.
“Every Salisburys product has been designed, manufactured and extensively tested to stand the rigours of today’s travel. Every Light Luggage product has been designed, manufactured and extensively tested to stand the rigours of today’s travel.”
According to Home Bargains, the cabin bag measures approximately 45 x 30 x 15cm, making it suitable for use with the cabin luggage allowances of most major airlines, namely easyJet, British Airways, Virgin Atlantic and KLM. Please note, it could be too long for Ryanair, Wizz Air and Jet 2.
Weighing around 760g, it features multiple zipped compartments for organising belongings, a fully lined interior and a lightweight construction designed for travel. Interested shoppers can find out more, and view additional product images, on the Home Bargains website.
It’s available both in-store and online as Home Bargains offers standard delivery across the UK mainland from £3.95, while orders over £100 qualify for free delivery. A £10 delivery fee applies to larger furniture items, and most standard parcels are expected to arrive within four working days.
Home Bargains is also selling the Salisburys Under Seat Bag which will also set you back £9.99. The product description reads: “Meet the Salisburys Under Seat Bag – your perfect travel companion!
“With its spacious zipped compartments and sleek design, it’s ideal for keeping your essentials close at hand while you jet off on your next adventure. Salisburys presents its broadest line-up of tried and tested luggage solutions with contemporary features to help the modern tourist navigate the hurdles of twenty-first century travel.
“Salisbury Under Seat Bags solve modern travel issues of the check-in case. A fantastic size bag that is versatile for the needs of your modern travel. Large open zipped storage compartment with small zip side pouch.”
Now Home Bargains is selling what it says is “convenient” and contains all the beauty products you need for your break. It is selling the Travel Essentials Filled Bag for £24.99 – that is 75% less than its recommended price of £100.
Listing some of the contents on its website it describes it as: “A complete travel beauty and self-care kit featuring skincare, makeup, haircare, body care, and travel accessories. Includes Glow Hub, W7, Jil Sander, Escada, Aussie, and more, all packed in a stylish reusable travel bag.”
Then, in the product description, it adds: “Take your beauty and self-care routine wherever you go with the Travel Essentials Filled Bag. Packed with a carefully curated selection of skincare, haircare, makeup, and travel accessories, this convenient kit contains everything you need to refresh, hydrate, and pamper yourself while travelling.
“Inside you’ll find Glow Hub skincare favourites, W7 beauty essentials, Jil Sander shower gel, Escada body cream, Aussie travel-size haircare, and practical travel accessories including an eco scalp massaging brush, shower cap, and reusable travel bag. Whether you’re heading on holiday, a weekend getaway, or a business trip, this all-in-one collection helps you stay organised and feel your best on the go.”
Shoppers will not be able to pick up the bag in-store as it is an online-only deal. However the website gives further details of the Star Buy listing the products:
Glow Hub Calm & Soothe Face Mask Stick 35g
Glow Hub Calm & Soothe Serum Mist 90ml
W7 Lip Drink Lip Oil 10ml
Jil Sander Sun Shower Gel 150ml
Glow Hub Scar Slayer Skin Mask 100ml
Whind Dissolving Jelly Cleanser 6ml – Oasis Fresh
Revolution Hot Shot Kombucha Kiss Primer 25ml
W7 Sherbet Pop Eyeshadow Palette 18g
Escada Santorini Sunrise Moisturising Perfumed Body Cream 50ml
Meanwhile, if this is not to your taste, M&S also has an option. Its Summer Beauty Bag is priced £40 – a saving of 81% compared with buying the same amount.
It is described as “sunshine-ready” and contains some beauty-favourite products from brands including Clinique and Estée Lauder. It lists the contents as:
Floral Street Wonderland Peony Eau De Parfum – 10ml
Iconic London Prep Set Glow Original – 120ml (Full Size)
Leighton Denny I love Juicy Opague Nail Polish – 13.5g (Full Size)
Hair by Sam McKnight Sundaze Sea Spray – 150ml (Full Size)
Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion SPF50 – 50ml (Full Size)
The discount chain claims this bag is ‘approved by over 30 airlines’ around the world
Home Bargains claims that ‘up to 30 airlines’ should accept this bag size without issue(Image: John Keeble/Getty Images)
A ‘compact’ yet ‘stylish’ travel bag is available at Home Bargains, which the store says could help take the stress and worry of overpacking out of holidaymakers‘ minds this summer. It has been approved to comply with the luggage dimension rules of up to 30 airlines worldwide.
People can pick up the Bordlite Under Seat Cabin Bag in an online sale, down from £14.99 to £5.99 (a 60% saving). Shoppers can choose between black and navy for the same price at Home Bargains.
Describing the travel bag online, the store said: “The Bordlite Under Seat Cabin Bag is a lightweight and compact travel essential, approved by over 30 airlines. With three external pockets and a long shoulder strap, it keeps your journey organised and hassle-free.”
According to the Home Bargains website, the bag measures in at “approximately” 40 x 30 x 20cm. Using the provided dimensions, shoppers can confidently pack and use this underseat bag on a variety of airlines.
Home Bargains claims that “over 30” will approve this for travel, including Ryanair, Wizz Air, EasyJet, Jet2 and British Airways. Because the bag fits in with some of the strictest size guides, it automatically works for airlines that offer slightly larger allowances.
Below is a full list of the 30 airlines which accept this size (or bigger) when booking. In most cases, airlines include a free personal or underseat item within the ticket price – but always double-check with the airline itself before getting caught out with an extra airport fee.
For more Home Bargains deals, click here. Some are online-only, meaning shoppers who shop only at their local store could miss out on certain major deals.
What airlines accept this size bag?
UK & Europe:
Ryanair (Up to 40 x 25 x 20cm)
Wizz Air (40 x 30 x 20cm exactly)
FlyOne (40 x 30 x 20cm exactly)
easyJet (Up to 45 x 36 x 20cm)
Jet2 (Up to 45 x 36 x 20cm)
British Airways (Allows a large cabin bag up to 56 x 45 x 25cm for free)
Lufthansa (Up to 40 x 30 x 10cm for personal item, but easily fits their free overhead limit of 55 x 40 x 23cm)
Air France / KLM (Up to 40 x 30 x 15cm for personal item, but easily fits their free overhead limit of 55 x 35 x 25cm)
Norwegian Air (Up to 38 x 30 x 20cm)
Iberia (Up to 40 x 30 x 15cm for personal item / 56 x 45 x 25cm for overhead)
TAP Air Portugal (Up to 40 x 30 x 15cm for personal item / 55 x 40 x 20cm for overhead)
Aegean Airlines (Up to 40 x 30 x 25cm)
Vueling (Up to 40 x 30 x 20cm)
Eurowings (Up to 40 x 30 x 25cm)
Pegasus Airlines (Up to 40 x 30 x 15cm for personal item / 55 x 40 x 20cm for overhead)
SAS (Scandinavian Airlines) (Up to 40 x 30 x 15cm for personal item / 55 x 40 x 23cm for overhead)
Swiss International Air Lines (Up to 40 x 30 x 10cm for personal item / 55 x 40 x 23cm for overhead)
Middle East and Asia
Emirates (Allows an overhead bag up to 55 x 38 x 20cm for free on all tickets).
Qatar Airways (Allows a cabin bag up to 50 x 37 x 25cm for free).
Etihad Airways (Allows a cabin bag up to 56 x 36 x 23cm for free).
Singapore Airlines (Allows a personal item up to 40 x 30 x 10cm or a main cabin bag up to 55 x 40 x 20cm)
Turkish Airlines (Allows a personal item up to 40 x 30 x 15cm or a main cabin bag up to 55 x 40 x 23cm)
American and Transatlantic
Delta Air Lines (no specific personal item dimensions, must fit under the seat)
United Airlines (Up to 43 x 25 x 22cm)
American Airlines (Up to 45 x 35 x 20cm)
Air Canada (Up to 43 x 33 x 16cm for personal item / 55 x 40 x 23cm for overhead)
JetBlue (Up to 43 x 33 x 20cm)
Spirit Airlines (Up to 45 x 35 x 20cm)
Frontier Airlines (Up to 45 x 35 x 20cm)
WestJet (Up to 41 x 33 x 15cm for personal item / 53 x 38 x 23cm for overhead)
AIRPORT terminals – love them or hate them, you’ll find yourself killing time in one before your next holiday.
According to a study by YouGov in 2023, the average Brit spends as much as £20 before a flight, with common items being perfumes, alcohol and food gifts.
Our favourite (and worst) ways to waste time at the airport revealedCredit: AlamyThe Sun’s Head of Travel, Lisa Minot (left), with her family, at the only part of the airport she enjoys – the bar
Yet while some people enjoy a perusal of the aisles, others are more reluctant to.
While bargains can be found at Duty Free, you’ll find your cup of coffee or morning breakfast a lot more expensive than outside the airport – making your holiday more expensive before you even get on the plane.
The discussion of enjoying the airport terminal has divided even the Sun Travel team.
Here we share our biggest bugbears, best ways to spend a few hours at the airport, the freebies you can bag while there and the handful of duty-free items that are actually worth buying.
Lisa Minot, Head of Travel
As per usual, I am late. Airport security is a nightmare. Endless lines of stressed passengers are corralled into a hot, suffocating pen, awaiting the conveyor belts of doom.
I roll my eyes as my perfectly acceptable hand luggage is sent down the reject lane – and I stand fuming, knowing there’s nothing wrong with it. After another ten minutes and a ‘random check’, I am finally free to enter departures.
I am hot, bothered and hating life. So what could possibly be worse?
The winding ‘hell-no brick road’ through the World of Duty Free with its cloying perfume sprays, overpriced make-up and endless rows of ‘designer’ sunglasses.
Travellers slow to a snail’s pace as the brightly-coloured displays tempt them. And as I try to accelerate through the dawdlers, I get a full-on spray of aftershave in the face as the sales staff accost yet another unlucky victim.
Round and round we go. Past overpriced beauty brands I’ve never heard of – and will never be able to justify the price. Past rows of Union Jack tat and extortionate Fortnum and Mason biscuits.
Rounding another corner, there’s yet more retail hell – overpriced sweets and costume jewellery you know will probably disintegrate before you’ve settled into your airplane seat.
Finally, after what feels like an eternity, I’m spat out into the departure lounge. Except more retail hell awaits.
No, I don’t want a pair of overpriced shoes. I don’t need a ‘just in case’ shawl or a tech gadget promising to ‘transform’ my flight. I just want to sit down.
It’s bad enough I’m stuck in this soulless cavern, but the endless assault on my wallet is exhausting.
If I have forgotten something, God forbid, I’d much rather buy it at my destination. At least there it might have some meaning.
The lone sanctuary in the chaos. The one place where I can enjoy a cheeky albeit overpriced drink.
And as I finally sink into a chair to do a spot of people watching, the rage fades.
It might be twice the price of my local, but I’m jetting off… and this is my little slice of airport heaven.
BEST FREE ITEMS AT AIRPORTS
We’ve rounded up some of the best free items at airports, in you’re the type of person who likes to get there early…
Grab a ‘free suncream’ at the airport
Before you travel, get the Recycle at Boots app and find five empty health or beauty items that can’t go in your kerbside recycling collection, like electric toothbrush heads or toothpaste tubes.
Take a quick snap of them and upload them to the app. Once they’ve been added, you can bag them up and drop them in the collection point at your nearest participating Boots, before scanning the QR code on the side of the box for a voucher to claim £5 worth of Advantage Card points when you spend £10.
If you store up your points until you get through airport security, you can spend them on suncream at Boots airside.
I got a bottle of Soltan at Stansted for £6.05, so you’ll need more points than you get in one recycling transaction, but there’s nothing to stop you doing it several times and getting lots of points on your card, ready to spend at the airport.
Local drop-off prices or free
Residents who live near Stansted Airport can pay a reduced charge at the express set down at the terminal of either 50p or £1 for up to 15 minutes, depending on whether they live within five miles or 10 miles.
There are similar schemes at other regional airports like Edinburgh and Manchester, which means that if you live near an airport or have family and friends who do, you might be able to avoid paying for airport parking.
If you want to eat something a bit more substantial before your flight, it’s often the case that chains likePizza Expressexclude their airport branches from popular deals and discounts.
Free glossy magazines
Did you know that many airports have free magazine stands?
They can often be found in the corridors when you are travelling to your gate, or even after you have gone through the gate agent and are waiting to board.
They vary depending on which ones they have so you can’t always be fussy.
On a recent flight, we’ve managed to pick up Wallpaper* magazine, as well as Escapism, Condé Nast Traveller and Stylist.
Kids eat free
Certain large airports like Heathrow operate a kids-eat-free policy at some of their restaurants during the school holidays.
So if an adult chooses an item from the main menu, your kids can eat for free.
Restaurants that have previously taken part at Heathrow include Giraffe, Wild Olive and The Grove.
Let the kids run wild in soft play
Plenty of UK airports have soft play areas and games zones in their terminals so kids can burn off some energy before boarding.
While some of them are pretty basic, some at airports like Heathrow are good enough that you’d pay a few quid for entry into the outside world.
There are only a handful of real bargains to be found at Airport Duty FreeCredit: GettyThe Sun’s Deputy Travel Editor Kara Godfrey enjoying a spot of duty-free airport shopping
Deputy Travel Editor, Kara Godfrey
‘We don’t need to be so early to the airport, Kara,’ my friends often moan at me when I turn up three hours early for a flight to Spain.
They, however, are wrong – the beauty of a holiday starts at the airport.
In fact, it’s one of the most exciting bits of my trip, especially when travelling through some of our London airports, which, dare I say it, are some of the finest in Europe.
There is something to be said for being stuck within the walls of a terminal where there is nothing else to do but explore the shops – you can’t go back through security, and you can’t go to your gate.
If it’s an early morning flight, I embrace my overpriced Pret coffee, often chased by a just as expensive cheese turnover to keep me going.
I’ll check the time for my gate to be revealed (often at least 1hr30, with how early I arrive), and that’s when the fun starts.
I peruse Waterstones, picking up a new book that I forgot to pack myself but will inevitably never read, opting to pass out as soon as I get on the plane.
There’s the swimsuit I also forgot to pack that I must pick up from Accesorize, before being tempted into some new earrings, where I shall return from the trip with just one of them.
And I’ve been burnt before by inedible economy meals, so my trip to Boots is a must, picking up the same Meal Deal as always – Elderflower and Mint CBD drink, Korean Fried Chicken Rice Bowl and a Big Bag of Hula Hoops.
All of that, and I still have time to perhaps try some of the designer beauty products I can only dream of affording, but will happily smear samples on my wrists and neck.
How people hate the airport experience is beyond me – I simply say you aren’t doing it right.
I will never be that person you see frantically running through the airport, face frazzled as they barely make their flight.
For I, with my coffee, book and earrings to join me, settle in with another hour to kill while calmly waiting to board.
Who needs spa treatments when you have an airport terminal to peruse?
Our anonymous flight attendant blogger reveals which items you should never buy at airports and how you can find the best bargains before your flights.
The worst offender for thisis chocolate– no matter which airport you’re in, you’ll be ripped off for it.
And the worst thing is, it’s not even good chocolate – it’s run-of-the-mill, ordinary stuff that you can find in shops everywhere.
It’s also often in novelty-sized bars or massive tubs that are both far too big and cost an absolute fortune.
It’s such a false economy, and I don’t understand why no one’s figured that out yet.
Perfume is generally the same – you can find the bottles for the same price online.
That’s not to say therearen’t bargainsto be found if you know where to look.
Avoid the stuff that’s in the centre ofthe duty-free shop, and instead look at the shelves until you find the discounts or clearance sections.
They don’t always exist, but a lot of airports have them, often hidden on a small shelf that’s not immediately noticeable.
That’s where your bargains can be found.
The only other item I would say is worth buying at the airport is local booze, if you want to bring something back as a gift or souvenir.
The best places for that, in my opinion, are South Africa and South America, where you can get their local drinks for great prices at the airport – meaning you don’t have to buy it then carry it for the rest of your holiday.
Shoppers looking for travel accessories could be in luck at the high street retailer
The retailer is selling travel accessories ahead of summer (stock photo)(Image: Getty)
Home Bargains customers can upgrade their travel days for £2 with a ‘refreshing’ accessory. There’s nothing better than a sunny forecast for family day trips or a weekend getaway. But getting to your destination is sometimes easier said than done when you have to battle the heat while carrying luggage.
Thankfully, Home Bargains is selling a portable accessory to help travellers ‘stay cool on the go’. The discount chain has launched a £1.99 Travel Water Mist Spray Fan, and it could be ideal for summer.
The retailer explains: “Stay cool on the go with the Travel Water Mist Spray Fan from the Simple family – just fill with cold water, add ice for extra chill, and enjoy a refreshing mist whenever you need it.” The description continues: “Simply fill the bottle with cold water, turn on the fan and pull the trigger whenever you require a light covering of cool mist.
“Add ice to the tank for an even cooler mist! Empty water after every use and dry, always use fresh distilled water (to prevent mineral build-up and mould).”
For shoppers who don’t want the water mist, Home Bargains also sells a 99p Travel Mini Hand Held Fan. The description states: “Mini Hand Held Fan fits comfortably in your hand, making it easy to carry wherever you go. It’s small enough to slip into your bag or pocket, yet powerful enough to provide a refreshing breeze, keeping you cool for warmer days.”
Ahead of summer, Home Bargains is stocking a range of travel products. Other items include travel cubes, organisers, and luggage solutions. One option that could impress fans of the spray fan is the 99p Lakescape Foldable Water Bottle 500ml.
The foldable water bottle is designed for adventure, according to the retailer. Home Bargains says: “Stay hydrated wherever your adventures take you with the Lakescape Foldable Water Bottle! This 500ml reusable gem rolls, folds, and stands tall when full, plus it comes with a handy carabiner clip for easy travel.”
Customers who prefer stainless steel bottles might like the £4.99 Kitchen Stainless Steel Bottle. Home Bargains says the bottle is “durable and easy to use” with a “spill-proof lock.”
For dogs, there’s also a £2.99 My Pets Pet Water Bottle. The description reads: “Making travelling with your pet easier with this amazing reusable water bottle fills when pressed and can be locked to avoid leaks. Comes with handy lanyard style strap for easy carrying. Three colours, pink, blue and grey.”
For customers looking for more items, Home Bargains offers a wide range of products on its website. Shoppers could also visit their local store.
The bundle includes three suitcases in different sizes, designed to cover everything from short weekend breaks to longer holidays abroad
16:25, 12 May 2026Updated 16:27, 12 May 2026
Home Bargains has a growing selection of deals on homeware, furnishings and travel(Image: Home Bargains)
Holidaymakers hoping to upgrade their luggage without spending a fortune might want to pop into Home Bargains before jetting off on their next summer getaway. The discount retailer has quietly slashed the price of a travel essential by nearly £90, and it’s being hailed as “perfect for every trip”.
Home Bargains has cut the price of the Overlow Suitcase Set of 3, which normally sells for £149.99, down to a bargain £59.99. The set comprises three suitcases in varying sizes, catering for everything from quick weekend escapes to extended holidays overseas.
According to the product listing, each case is crafted from lightweight ABS material with a hard-shell construction designed to offer durability while minimising weight. The product description, available on the Home Bargains website, reads: “Travel smart with the Overlow Suitcase Set of 3 in sleek black – lightweight, durable ABS material with smooth 4-wheel glide for effortless airport navigation. Perfect for every trip, whether you pack light or heavy.
“Modern Suitcase. Lightweight. Whether you pack light or travel heavy, we’ve got you covered! The smooth 4-wheel glide makes navigating airports effortless, while the strong yet lightweight material ensures durability without adding extra weight.”
The largest case measures 70 x 48 x 29cm, while the medium and cabin sizes come in at 60 x 41 x 26cm and 50 x 35 x 20cm respectively. All three cases are designed to stack inside one another for convenient storage when not being used.
Home Bargains describes the set as “perfect for any trip”, emphasising its lightweight construction and smooth-rolling wheels as standout features designed to reduce travel hassle. Thanks to the current discount, shoppers can now save an impressive 60 per cent, with comparable sets elsewhere carrying significantly steeper price tags.
Budget-friendly suitcase sets such as this have grown increasingly sought-after amongst travellers seeking to reduce costs before holidays, especially as travel demand continues climbing during peak booking seasons. Retailers have noted strong appetite for affordable luggage bundles as families and solo travellers hunt for value-focused alternatives.
The set is also stocked in other colours including grey and navy through the same retailer, with prices staying uniform across the collection while stocks remain available. Shoppers keen on the offer can locate further information, including home delivery arrangements, via the Home Bargains website.
