The Traveling Taylors

We’ve flown into England airports more times than we can count—and made nearly every mistake in the book. From booking blunders to post-landing chaos, here’s what most travelers get wrong (and how to avoid it) when flying into England’s busiest airports.

1. Assuming “London” Means Close to London

The Mistake: Not all “London” airports are actually close. London Stansted and Luton are miles outside the city, and transport can take over 90 minutes. Airports can involve long travel days and extended layovers, so many travelers bring a reusable collapsible water bottle like this one to stay hydrated after passing through security.

What to Do Instead: Check how far your airport is from your final destination. Gatwick and Heathrow have fast rail options—others might not.

2. Ignoring the Terminal Shuffle

The Mistake: Many England airports have multiple terminals—some far apart, like Gatwick’s North and South.

What to Do Instead: Double-check which terminal your airline uses. Some require shuttle buses or extra security lines.

3. Not Booking Airport Transfers in Advance

The Mistake: Waiting until landing to figure out transport. Prices surge, queues grow, and you’re left scrambling.

What to Do Instead: Book your train, coach, or taxi in advance. National Express and Heathrow Express tickets are cheaper online.

4. Skipping Fast Track—And Regretting It

The Mistake: Trying to save a few pounds by skipping fast track, then missing your flight due to long security lines.

What to Do Instead: At airports like Manchester and Luton, fast track security is 100% worth it—especially during peak hours. Since airports are one of the easiest places to misplace important items, many travelers keep their passport and cash in a hidden RFID-blocking money belt like this one for extra security while moving through security lines and boarding gates.

5. Overlooking Baggage Fees on Budget Airlines

The Mistake: Assuming carry-on bags are included. Budget carriers like Ryanair and Wizz Air are strict and pricey.

What to Do Instead: Check luggage rules carefully. Pay for extras online, not at the gate—fees can be double. To stay organized and meet TSA liquid rules, many travelers pack refillable travel toiletry bottles like these for carrying shampoo, conditioner, and other essentials in their carry-on.

6. Forgetting About Currency Exchange Rates

The Mistake: Changing money at the airport with terrible exchange rates.

What to Do Instead: Use a travel card with no foreign transaction fees or withdraw GBP at an airport ATM. Better yet—prep before your trip. Since airports are one of the easiest places to misplace important items, many travelers keep their passport and cash in a hidden RFID-blocking money belt like this one for extra security while moving through security lines and boarding gates.

7. Not Factoring in Border Control Delays

The Mistake: Booking train or bus tickets too soon after landing. Border control lines can take over an hour at Heathrow and Gatwick.

What to Do Instead: Allow at least 90 minutes from landing to exit time—more if you’re arriving during peak hours.

8. Expecting Great Food Past Security

The Mistake: Arriving hungry and expecting a decent meal. Some England airports, especially smaller ones, have limited post-security food options.

What to Do Instead: Eat before the airport or bring snacks. If you’re flying from Heathrow T5, grab food near the Gordon Ramsay Plane Food outlet.

9. Underestimating Smaller Regional Airports

The Mistake: Only looking at major hubs like Heathrow or Gatwick. You could be missing closer, more convenient options.

What to Do Instead: Consider regional airports like Birmingham, Bristol, or Manchester—often less crowded and closer to your destination.

Make England Airports Work for You, Not Against You

Avoiding these simple mistakes can make your arrival smoother, cheaper, and way less stressful. Whether you’re landing in London or touching down in the Midlands, a little prep goes a long way at England airports.