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How to Choose Your Best Airport Hotel: 5 Step Guide 2023

Planning on getting away in 2023? Then get your holiday off to a flying start with this guide to help you pick the airport hotel that's perfect for you.

Whether you're working to a budget or looking to splash the cash on a more luxurious stay, there's a few things to consider when picking the best airport hotel for your next trip. With lots of information at your fingertips it can be difficult to know what to take into account when booking an overnight stay before or after your trip, so we've assembled a guide of the 5 most important factors to consider to ensure your travel plans are as relaxing as a good night's sleep.

Collage of Airport Hotels

1. Proximity

One of the most important things to consider when choosing the right airport hotel is the location - on or off-airport. Booking an airport hotel at the airport you're travelling from doesn't necessarily mean you need to book one directly on the airport grounds or close to the terminal (though of course you can). Depending on your budget, you can book an overnight stay so close to the terminal you can actually smell the in-flight meal or book a hotel that's off-airport and requires a transfer to get you to the terminals, as this is usually the cheaper option.

A good tip is to check the distance between your terminal and the hotel before you make a booking. Purple Parking provides comprehensive information on an airport hotel's location including distance from the airport, the transfer time and the transfer required, so that you are prepared and won't face an unexpected shuttle-ride the morning of your flight.

2. Convenience

If you're looking for convenient and hassle-free travel, then proximity is definitely a key factor. If you're looking for convenient accommodation but book a hotel several miles from the airport, then you'll likely have to take a lengthy shuttle ride to get to the terminal, which isn't ideal. Once you've decided on proximity then you could enjoy the ultimate convenience of combining your airport hotel with your airport parking and book a package where you can leave your car parked at the hotel for the duration of your trip - what could be simpler!

Some hotels provide parking spaces for your car to remain there for the whole time you're away, whilst others store it at the hotel car park overnight and it has to be moved again to an alternative car park the next morning. There's a variety of airport hotels, at airports throughout the UK, that combine your hotel stay with secured parking either on or off the airport, so all you have to do in the morning is drive to the secure car park and leave your vehicle there for the duration of your trip.

3. Budget

The budget you have available for your holiday will no doubt be on your mind when it comes to booking any airport extras. Whether you're taking a family holiday or travelling solo, there are different costs you need to account for. You may fancy a bit of retail therapy, or taking part in excursions or activities that carry a hefty price tag whilst you're away - whatever your travel plans all the exciting extras (along with the essentials like food and drink) can add up.

Whether you fancy a luxury getaway or something cheaper, there are many different airport hotels available to suit your budget. You could treat yourself to a 5-Star hotel stay near the airport terminal with an on-site spa and excellent amenities, or choose a less expensive 3-Star hotel that's comfortable and located off-airport - there are many options available. A great way to set you up for the day is to book a hotel stay that includes a free breakfast the morning of your flight, or you could bring your own breakfast - ideal if you're looking to tighten your purse strings!

Additionally, you may like to consider combined packages (as mentioned above) and save on expenses by booking your airport parking and hotel together in one money-saving deal. If you've got some money to spare, you could even spend some extra cash and book Meet and Greet parking for the full VIP treatment!

Top Tip: Booking an airport hotel in advance is a great money-saving option that can allow you extra money to spend on your holiday.

4. Star Rating & Reviews

The 'Star Rating' of a hotel evaluates the features and amenities available at the hotel, to help you choose what's best for you and your budget. A hotel rating is a useful indicator of the airport hotel experience you'll have. Classifying hotels according to their quality, a star rating considers the facilities as well as food services and additional amenities like spas and fitness centres. Hotels can receive a rating of 1 to 5 stars, with 1 being the most basic and 5 being the most luxurious.

Along with taking into account the hotel rating, looking at the reviews for the particular hotel can be a useful deciding factor. It's helpful to check the reviews of the airport hotel you're considering as well as the reviews of the service provider. Checking the reviews can be a great way of getting the inside info on what the experience could be like.

5. Choose a Trusted Provider

When looking for the best airport hotel deal it's important that you make a booking with a trusted and secure provider so that your next trip doesn't become more of a headache than a holiday. It's important to book with a reputable provider that has experience in finding customers the best deals at the lowest prices. Purple Parking has over 25 years' experience in providing airport hotels to suit different customers.

Not only does Purple Parking provide room-only airport hotel deals but provides offers with your airport parking included too. There's also Free Cancellation available, so there's no need to worry if your plans change. We've made it easy to amend or cancel your booking without any hidden fees.


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Choosing Your Airport Hotel - Frequently Asked Questions

Is staying at an airport hotel worth it?

If you're looking to save money and would like an easy start your next holiday, then it's definitely worth staying at an airport hotel. Booking an airport hotel is a surprisingly handy way of making travel easier, cheaper and more convenient. You could wake up within minutes of the terminal or save money and enjoy a budget-friendly hotel stay off-airport. You'll need to take a short transfer to get to the airport but these hotel deals often work out cheaper. Book your hotel in advance to secure the best deal.


What's the cheapest airport hotel you can book?

The cheapest airport hotel available will depend upon the airport you're travelling from and its proximity to the airport. The price will differ depending on the quality of the hotel and whether the hotel's located on or off the airport. If you book an overnight stay at a hotel that's connected to the terminal, for instance, the cost will likely be higher than if you book a hotel room that's a few miles away from the airport and requires a transfer to the terminal.


How soon do I need to be at the airport before my flight?

It's advisable that you arrive at least two hours before your flight to allow plenty of extra time to check-in and pass-through airport security.


How do I get from the airport to my hotel?

Usually, an airport shuttle will be provided that will take you to and from the airport. If not, you'll need to book an airport taxi to take you to the hotel or airport. Transfers are often included with your booking cost but this varies depending on the hotel. The nearer you book a hotel stay to the airport, the more convenient your stay will be. If you book next to the terminal, for instance, you may only need to take a short walk to departures on the morning of your flight.


How is an airport hotel different to other hotels?

An airport hotel offers accommodation and is located on, or within close proximity, of an airport.


Purple Parking - Airport Parking, Hotels & More!

As a trusted provider of the holiday add-ons you need for your trip to be stress and hassle free, Purple Parking has proudly been parking your concerns, along with your airport parking, for over 25 years!

Not only that but we also provide airport hotels, airport lounges, travel insurance, airport transfers, car hire and even Fast Track passes at airports throughout the UK and destinations worldwide - So bear us in mind when you make those travel plans!

If you're ready to book your airport hotel, then simply click on the button below.


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☆ Planning your perfect holiday?

Check out the following travel advice guides for top tips and tricks before you travel below.