Massive loophole means parents can sit next to their kids on planes for FREE – here’s how to avoid getting caught out

A MONEY expert has revealed a massive loophole which lets parents sit next to their kids on planes for free.

Families can often end up spending hundreds extra if they want to guarantee seats together on a flight.

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Parents can sit next to their kids on a flight for no extra cost thanks to one loopholeCredit: Getty
Kara Gammell revealed her top tips for families looking to fly out
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Kara Gammell revealed her top tips for families looking to fly outCredit: The Sun

But while worried parents think nothing of forking out to be with their kids, there are actually ways to get around these seating charges.

MoneySuperMarket expert Kara Gammell exclusively told The Sun how to make your money go further with each flight.

Kara said that the cost of flights go up every year and there are also additional costs such as airport parking.

But the money expert, who frequently travels with her daughter to and from Canada, told viewers that airlines are legally required to seat under 16s with their parents and legal guardians.

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Kara said: "Normally you would have to pay £15-25 to book your seats together.

"But little do many of us know - and I didn't find this out for years - is that it's recommended that the airlines will seat you with your child automatically if they're under 14.

"So there's absolute no reason for you to pay to book seats."

Kara added that it actually makes sense as the airlines don't want to be babysitting your child the whole flight.

She continued: "Even if the flight is really busy and full they'll make it work because it's an emergency safety measure.

"If you think about the flights there and back for multiple kids that can be super savings!"

The popular budget airline that's the worst in the UK for flight delays - are you flying with it this summer?

Expert Kara Gammell says that Money Supermarket have found that household bills and expenses have gone up 9 per cent in the past three months.

That's why she has urged families to "make the most of free activities" by using money-saving hacks.

Kara said her family enjoy walks and recommends "downloading an app for a digital treasure hunt", where you can explore your local area with the kids.

The money whizz also recommends cashback apps where you can get cash back on parking.

Kara recommended Quidco specifically, saying: "It's a cashback site which is really useful.

"Anytime you are going to buy something, visit quidco first and then click on the retailer, it will track your purchase.

"The idea is to always try and get some money back but don't let that influence the purchase alone."

And Kara says to look out for bonuses when signing up for insurance packages.

She added: "While you have to spend money you can always cut the costs in many different ways."

The Sun Travel team's holiday essentials

WITH decades of experience and hundreds of countries under their belt, the Sun Travel team have shared some of the essential items they always pack on a trip.

Here are some of the game-changing items we always pack - and some will barely cost you a thing.

  • Lisa Minot, Head of Travel - Global travel plug with USB (£64)
  • Caroline McGuire, Travel Editor - Hotel Slippers
  • Sophie Swietochowski, Assistant Travel Editor - Pack of 40 earplugs (£40)
  • Kara Godfrey, Deputy Travel Editor - 1 litre water bottle (£8.99)
  • Ryan Gray, Travel Reporter - Bluetooth eye mask (£16.50)
  • Giuli Graziano, Travel Writer - AirTag luggage location tracker (£29.99).

As prices shoot up, Brits are tightening their belts, with many using clever finance management to enjoy their summers guilt-free.

Recent data shows the monthly cost of 31 household bills and expenses has risen to £1,525.30 – £50.84 per day – up 9.58% from £1,392.00 in February – meaning the average person is £20 worse off per month.

Websites like Groupon and Wowcher are also a must-check for deals, while Quidco offers cashback on summer purchases.

It comes as other gurus have shared their golden travel tips.

One revealed the best way to beat jet lag following simple steps.

And, a savvy mum has revealed her hacks for travelling on a long haul flight with your toddler.

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Meanwhile, this clever item will help make walking through the airport a breeze.

And, here's another simple packing trick that could make holidaying much easier.

Top Saving Tips

Savvy mum Katy Meaney has revealed her top saves for the summer:

Sun Superdays: Katy keeps an eye out for the Sun Superdays. The Superdays have helped millions of Sun readers enjoy fantastic days out with family and friends by giving away tickets to attractions like Alton Towers Resort, Chessington World of Adventures Resort, Thorpe Park Resort and more and has saved Katy over £500.

Planet Offers: Katy recommends visiting Planet Offers for great deals and discounts on family outings - she saved £40 price at Ninja Warrior, where it is always half price per activity.

Quidco, Groupon and Wowcher: These money saving gems are also great to save your pennies on summer activities, Katy has saved £150 using these money saving sites. Expert Kara Gammel also recommends money saving sites and apps, particularly Quidco.

Movies for Juniors: Katy takes full advantage on cinema offers as she said most cinemas have offers for kids during the summer and cheap tickets for adults making it a great option for a day out.

Half price bowling: And lastly, look out for bowling deals. Saving over £30 per visit, Katy suggests looking out for bowling deals, as some places offer early discount offers where you can grab a meal too.