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The seasoned travellers among us will have long known the perks of airport lounges. Business cabin travellers and airline loyalty programmes have offered lounge access for decades. But what if you don’t fly frequently enough or you usually travel in economy class? These days you don’t have to be a platinum cardholder to get access to one. Independent lounges have been widely available for a few years now giving less frequent travellers the chance to get some work done, relax, enjoy unlimited high-speed Wi-Fi – even take a shower and freshen up in style.

But are independent lounges worth the extra expense? Lounges are a luxury, no doubt about that. And it’s likely your company travel policy doesn’t reimburse them either. If you’re travelling on a budget, there are plenty of ways to save money and exclusive lounges are not one of them! However, they are not all as exorbitant as perhaps you think.

According to Netflights.com, UK travellers spend £60 on average just at the terminal before boarding the flight. In light of such a surprising statistic, it makes a £30 lounge pass actually quite sensible consumer spending in our view. If you need to finish off that important presentation, kill a few hours over a long connection, or make a few work calls in a quiet place; a one-off lounge pass is a great option.

Traveltrust can recommend the best lounges close to your gate and the lowest available prices. If you book independently, shop around price comparison sites and some great deals can often be found. Booking online rather than at the door is usually cheaper and will ensure your access at busy times. In theory, there will typically be a three-hour maximum stay but in reality, this is seldom enforced (you didn’t hear it from us ?)!

So here are 4 independent lounges at UK airports we can recommend. All for £40 or less. Get in touch with your Travel Manager if you’d like to book a lounge pass for your next trip, anywhere in the world.

SkyTeam Lounge, London Heathrow Airport T4 — From £30

www.skyteam.com/en/lounges/london-heathrow/

Visit this two-level lounge at Heathrow T4 and you can try exquisite wines at the wine bar, rejuvenate at the Clarins spa or simply take a shower. And of course, make use of the free Wi-Fi, food and drinks menu and quiet room.

No.1 Lounge at Gatwick, North Terminal  From £26 online (£40 on the door)

no1lounges.com/service/airport-lounges/no1-lounges/london-gatwick/north-terminal

Escape to the plush decor at No.1 lounge complete with island bar, quiet library area and variety of seating choices. All on top of the expected benefits of unlimited WiFi, glossy magazines, complimentary food, newspapers, and charging sockets.

1903 Lounge, Terminal 3, Manchester Airport — From £30 when pre-booked online

www.manchesterairport.co.uk/at-the-airport/airport-lounges/1903-lounge/

The quirky surroundings at this 1903 lounge are sure to brighten up the start of your journey when flying out of Manchester. Enjoy the fresh menu including 1833 vintage reserve cheddar from the world’s oldest cheddar makers Barbers, and real dairy ice cream from Cheshire Farm. You can savour a wide raft of quality alcoholic beverages as well as limitless tea, coffee and soft drinks.

Clubrooms (No.1 Lounges) at Birmingham Airport – from £29 online

no1lounges.com/service/airport-lounges/clubrooms/birmingham

The Clubrooms offer a roomy, high-class environment, hosted table service, hot seasonal meals and an extensive choice of wines, beers and spirits. It’s a peaceful getaway with a classy atmosphere, perfect for starting your trip on the right foot. Benefit from Express Lane security and while away time with runway views, unlimited WiFi, and charging points as standard.