Inside Gatwick’s No1 Traveller Lounge

Regardless of whether you love, hate, or are indifferent about flying, there’s one thing you can’t deny: sometimes it can be a bit of a pain. There’s navigating security; battling the crowds as you shop for that last-minute pair of sunglasses; and finding somewhere to eat breakfast, lunch or dinner.

That’s why we love airport lounges. They replace your travel woes with comfy seating and a range of inclusive food and drinks. And, despite common misconceptions, it’s not just for Business or First Class passengers either. Fork out £25 in advance (or £30 on the door) and you could be enjoying all of these wonderful, stress-relieving perks, as I discovered on a recent visit to the Gatwick South Terminal lounge.

Milling around the shops and restaurants in departures isn’t too bad; I find going through security is the worst (and busiest!) bit. Now I know this is an article about the No1 Traveller LOUNGE, but my favourite thing about this particular lounge access is actually the added bonus of using the Premium Security Lane – a luxury you get for free when you book in advance on the No1 Traveller website.

Provided you’re hitting security between 5.30am and 9pm, you can completely shortcut the standard experience and essentially queue-jump to the front of the line. Much to everyone else’s dismay of course. The lanes in premium are quieter, cleaner and most importantly quicker too.

I don’t know about anyone else, but there’s something about travelling that makes me utterly ravenous. Food is usually at the forefront of my mind, so much so that the moment I’ve cleared security I’ve already begun scouting for somewhere to chow down. Well search no more: the No1 Traveller Lounges all feature a range of complimentary buffet items from a self-serve section, as well as a selection of freshly-prepared, made-to-order mini dishes.

If you’re an uneasy flyer, there’s no need to worry when you’re in the lounge: it’s got comfortable seats, a laid-back atmosphere and of course, a fully-tended bar. Choose from complimentary beers and wines – as well as cocktails and Champagne available at extra cost – and you’ll feel even more relaxed before your flight.

Check-in on Facebook, brag on Twitter or add a selfie of the lounge to Instagram before you fly – all made easier with free, unlimited Wi-Fi. It’s particularly handy if you’re on a work trip too, so you can cram in those final emails before you’re airborne.

When you’re not busy eating, drinking or unwinding, make sure you grab yourself a window seat for uninterrupted views across the runway. With its floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the terminal’s closest gates, the lounge is perfect for aviation nuts, or for those who just love soaking up the airport experience – like I do.