Let’s look at the alternatives of travel to an airport:
- Public transport; travelling by train, tube and/or bus is certainly no fun, especially when you are carrying heavy luggage. And it’s not cheap, especially if there are more than one of you.
- A coach. Again you would have to arrange transport to the coach pick-up point. A taxi is probably favourite for this! And the coach is likely to make several stops on the way.
- Drive yourself; a possibility but consider the fuel cost, parking cost and the bother of travelling from the long term parking area to your terminal. Not to mention that someone will have to drive on your return after they have had to endure maybe a long flight. Think about jetlag.
- Get a friend or relative to drive your there. Well if they are happy to do it then you are lucky, but it could be thought of as a bit of a cheek to ask! Do they know the way? Are they happy to travel at that time of day; early, late or rush hour? Are they happy to find the correct terminal? What about the return? Many things to consider here.
Considerations if you drive yourself:
Cost of 2 weeks long stay parking:
(Prices obtained from websites January 2010; I couldn't believe one of the prices for Stansted; it's cheaper to buy a cheap car and just dump it on the side of the road when you get there!)
It is about 57 miles to Gatwick from Rayleigh at about 40 mpg. That equates to about £8 in fuel.
Will your car start after being idle for 2 weeks? Real hassle if it doesn’t!
Will you feel comfortable leaving your car there whilst abroad? Hope you didn’t leave anything on show! No valuables inside.
Would you feel like driving after your long return flight?
Do you want to enjoy a drink on the 'plane on the way back?