Holidaymakers plan ahead to make the most of airport shopping

People are planning ahead to make the most of tax free savings at airports, according to research from Direct Line Travel Insurance. Nearly two thirds of holidaymakers (65%) admit they carefully budget for airport spending before they go away.

Despite the vast array of new shopping outlets, such as those at Heathrow's Terminal 5, the traditional ‘Duty free' shopping trip is still going strong. The research reveals the top items that holidaymakers plan to buy at the airport to save themselves some money:

Perfume / aftershave (75%)
Alcohol (73%)
Cigarettes / cigars (48%)
Cosmetics / other toiletries (34%)
Sunglasses (20%)

In addition to savings made on tax free goods, there are many other ways travellers can save money if they are planning a summer holiday this year. Direct Line has compiled a list of tips on how to save money without having to cut back on holiday enjoyment:

Direct Line's top holiday tips:

Purchase travel insurance as soon as you book your holiday to ensure you are covered should you need to cancel due to unforeseen circumstances

If possible, travel at unsociable hours as transport costs are often cheaper

Book your trip as early as possible to get the best deals on flights and accommodation

Travel outside of school holidays if you don't have children

Buy an annual travel insurance policy if you go away more than once a year, as cover will often be cheaper than buying even just two single trip policies. Further savings can be made by adding the whole family to the policy rather than buying them individually

Avoid changing money at airports as you may find better deals at your local high street banks and post offices

Consider travelling to a destination outside of the Eurozone and America in order to get the best value for your pound

Remember to take advantage of local goods when abroad, and try your hand at the art of haggling

Use ATOL protected companies so the cost of your holiday is covered should your travel company go bust

Only buy single trip insurance cover for the amount of days you are travelling for as some companies sell it in blocks of time

Make sure you are not covered twice for your baggage. You can save money on your travel insurance if you already have cover for personal possessions on your home insurance

Chris Price, Head of Direct Line Travel Insurance, comments: "It really is worth searching around to find the best travel offers available, as there are hundreds of pounds to be saved without having to sacrifice the quality of the holiday itself."

"For those planning to go away this year there are savings to be made, ranging from the usual tax-free treats at the airport, through to early bird bookings. For instance, by visiting countries outside of the Eurozone and America, you may find that you can still get good value for your pound this summer."