Not just for VIPs: Why airport lounges are worth every penny

My Story - Director of Marketing, Caxton (and fellow travel junkie!)

Last year, on a family ski trip, I made the mistake of doing breakfast in the terminal. Within an hour, I’d managed to spend over £300 - overpriced cooked breakfasts the kids barely touched, bottles of water, snacks for the journey, a few forgotten toiletries and magazines to keep the youngest entertained. Stressful, expensive and not exactly the start to a holiday anyone dreams of.

This summer was different. After Caxton partnered with No1 Lounges, I realised they weren’t just for business class travellers or VIPs. So, I booked us in before our family holiday.

And the experience couldn’t have been more different. Instead of of rushing around the the terminal, we sat down together for a proper meal (included, and actually really good). The older kids stretched out on comfy sofas, there were plenty of plugs for all the devices and endless water and drinks on hand - without the sting of airport prices. It was calm, it was easy and for once we started a holiday relaxed. I don’t think I’ll ever do airport breakfasts again!

It got me thinking, sometimes the best travel upgrade isn’t about luxury, it’s about starting your trip stress-free. Airport Lounges are no longer the exclusive domain of first-class passengers or frequent flyers - anyone can access them, often for less than what you’d spend in the terminal itself. So here's my take on why they are worth every penny:

2. Unlimited food and drink (yes, really) 

Airport prices can be eye-watering - £4 for a bottle of water, £15 for a sandwich and drink. In most lounges, all this is included: hot and cold meals, snacks, coffee, and even alcoholic drinks. For a family or couple, the savings quickly add up. I spend over £150 on breakfast for a family of five on our last ski trip.

 

 

3. Kid-friendly perks 

Travelling with children can be stressful — especially in crowded terminals. Lounges give families the breathing space they need. Free snacks and drinks keep hunger at bay, kids’ areas or quiet corners help keep little ones entertained, and you’ll have power outlets to keep tablets charged. Perfect for the older kids to chill too. It’s a calmer start for the whole family.

 

4. Work, stream, or scroll without stress 

Forget patchy airport Wi-Fi or worrying about finding a socket. Lounges come with reliable high-speed internet and plenty of charging points. Perfect whether you’re finishing up work (usually me - grabbing those last few hours of work time before the ultimate switch-off), streaming your favourite show, or keeping the kids occupied before the flight.

 

5. Productivity on the go 

For business travellers, lounges can be a lifesaver. Many include quiet zones, workstations and even meeting rooms. Instead of wasting hours in a crowded departure hall, you can actually be productive on the move. I wish I had realised this much sooner!

 

6. Showers and wellness facilities

On long layovers, red-eye flights or trips with multiple connections, nothing feels better than a quick shower. Some lounges even offer spa services and wellness areas, meaning you step on board feeling refreshed rather than frazzled.

 

7. Real savings compared to the terminal

Here’s the kicker: lounges aren’t just about luxury — they can actually be cheaper. Once you factor in the cost of a meal, snacks, coffee, bottled water and maybe a glass of wine in the terminal, you’re already close to what you’d pay for lounge access. With all of that included (plus comfort, Wi-Fi, and peace of mind), it’s often the smarter choice.

 

8. Not just for VIPs anymore

Lounges used to be the territory of business-class travellers. Not anymore. With day passes, prepaid travel cards, and membership schemes, access is easier and more affordable than ever. For schools, sports teams, and student trips, lounges can provide a safe and comfortable base that makes group travel far less stressful.

 

And if you were wondering - this is us...

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When it’s worth it (and when it’s not)

✔️ Worth it: Long layovers, early departures (when you’d otherwise buy breakfast), travelling with kids, school or student group trips, or frequent business travel.
❌ Not worth it: If you’re only at the airport for a very short stay, you may not get the full value.

 

 

✨ Lounges + Caxton = Travel made smarter

At Caxton, we’re all about making travel smoother, smarter and better value. That’s why we’ve partnered with No1 Lounges to bring our customers exclusive discounted lounge access.

So instead of starting your trip stressed and spending a fortune in the terminal, you can unwind with food, drinks, Wi-Fi, and a little peace before you fly. Explore all of our hand picked Travel Extras.