Gatwick Airport Hotel and Parking North Terminal

Understanding Gatwick North Terminal Hotel and Parking Packages

When preparing for a flight from Gatwick's North Terminal, consolidating your accommodation and vehicle storage needs into a single booking can offer significant convenience and potential cost savings. These packages, commonly referred to as 'hotel and parking' deals, are designed to streamline the pre-flight process, allowing travellers to secure both their overnight stay and their car parking space in one transaction. This integrated approach is particularly beneficial for those with early morning departures, late arrivals, or individuals seeking to reduce the logistical complexity of managing multiple bookings independently.

• Hotel and parking packages simplify booking for Gatwick North Terminal travellers.
• These deals combine overnight stays with secure vehicle storage.
• They are ideal for early departures or late arrivals.
• Booking together can offer cost efficiencies and reduce stress.

The primary appeal of Gatwick Airport hotel and parking North Terminal arrangements lies in their ability to address two fundamental travel requirements simultaneously. Instead of researching hotels and then separately investigating parking options, travellers can explore curated packages that often bundle services from reputable providers. This integrated approach is particularly useful for long-haul flights or when managing family travel, where minimising hassle is paramount. The North Terminal serves a significant proportion of Gatwick’s passengers, and its associated services reflect this demand.

Choosing an airport hotel with parking at Gatwick's North Terminal means you are opting for proximity and convenience. The hotels themselves range from budget-friendly options to more premium establishments, each offering varying amenities. Complementing this is the parking, which can include options from on-site hotel parking to secured compounds located a short transfer away. The benefit is waking up close to your departure point, having already arranged for your vehicle’s safe keeping. This preparation is key to a relaxed start to your journey.

The core value proposition is simplifying your travel logistics.

For travellers unfamiliar with the process, understanding the different types of parking involved is crucial. Some hotels offer direct on-site parking, meaning you leave your car at the hotel for the duration of your trip. Others utilise off-site car parks, which may be operated by the hotel, a third-party provider, or an airport-approved service. These often require a short shuttle bus transfer to the terminal. The distinction affects how much time you need to allocate on your departure and return days.

Types of Parking Included in Packages

When you book a Gatwick Airport hotel and parking North Terminal package, the parking component can vary significantly. Understanding these variations is key to selecting the most suitable option:

• On-site Hotel Parking: You park your car at the hotel where you are staying. This is the most convenient option, as you typically retain your keys and access your vehicle easily on arrival and departure.
• Hotel-Operated Off-site Parking: The hotel might contract with a nearby secure car park. You usually drive to the hotel, check in, and then are directed to the car park, or you may be transferred from the hotel to the car park. Your car is then stored securely.
• Meet and Greet / Valet Parking: While less common in standard hotel+parking bundles, some packages might incorporate a service where a driver collects your car from the terminal and parks it for you. This is usually a premium service.
• Park and Ride: This involves parking at a separate, often larger, secure car park and taking a dedicated shuttle bus service to the North Terminal. This is a widely available and cost-effective option often bundled with hotel stays.

Each parking type has implications for cost, convenience, and the time required on travel days. On-site hotel parking offers the most direct route, whereas park-and-ride services require an additional transfer step, which is usually factored into the package price and duration.

Why Choose a Combined Package?

The decision to book a Gatwick Airport hotel and parking North Terminal package often stems from a desire to mitigate travel-related stresses. For many, the prospect of navigating busy airport roads, finding expensive short-term parking, and then transferring to a hotel can be daunting. A combined package consolidates these concerns. You are assured of a place to stay and a secure spot for your vehicle, removing significant variables from your travel plans.

Consider the financial aspect: while booking hotel and parking separately might occasionally yield marginal savings if booked far in advance with specific promotions, package deals frequently offer a competitive overall price. This is due to the volume of bookings made by comparison sites and tour operators, allowing them to negotiate better rates with hotels and parking providers. The saving might not always be purely monetary; the saving in time and mental energy can be equally valuable.

Furthermore, such packages are ideal for travellers who are not familiar with the Gatwick area or the intricacies of airport logistics. Having everything pre-arranged provides a sense of security and predictability, which is invaluable when dealing with the inherent uncertainties of air travel. It means one less item to worry about on the day of departure, allowing you to focus on the excitement of your trip rather than the operational details.

The benefit is peace of mind and a streamlined departure.

Navigating Your Gatwick North Terminal Hotel and Parking Options

When searching for airport hotel parking Gatwick North options, it is essential to understand the landscape of available providers and their offerings. Numerous hotels are situated in close proximity to Gatwick Airport, with many specifically catering to passengers using the North Terminal. These can range from well-known international chains to independent establishments, each providing distinct levels of comfort, service, and pricing.

The key is to identify hotels that explicitly state their proximity and shuttle services to the North Terminal. Not all hotels near Gatwick serve both terminals equally, and some may have more direct links or shorter transfer times to one over the other. Therefore, verifying that a chosen hotel is genuinely convenient for North Terminal departures is a critical step in the selection process. This often involves checking the hotel's description or its transfer information.

Confirm the hotel's transfer service directly serves the North Terminal.

Comparison websites are invaluable tools for exploring these options. They aggregate deals from various hotels and parking providers, allowing users to compare prices, hotel ratings, parking durations, and transfer times side-by-side. When using these platforms, pay close attention to the specifics of the parking arrangement included in the package. Some packages might include parking for the entire duration of your trip, while others may only cover the overnight stay period, requiring separate arrangements for longer parking needs.

Selecting the Right Hotel

When you are looking for hotels at Gatwick North Terminal with parking, consider the following criteria:

• Proximity and Transfer Time: How far is the hotel from the North Terminal, and how frequent and reliable is the shuttle service? Longer transfer times mean more planning is required on your departure day.
• Hotel Star Rating and Amenities: While budget hotels offer essential comfort, higher-rated hotels may provide additional amenities such as restaurants, lounges, gyms, or improved room facilities that can enhance your pre-flight experience.
• Parking Type Included: As previously discussed, understand whether the parking is on-site, off-site, park-and-ride, or valet. This significantly impacts convenience and cost.
• Reviews: User reviews can offer candid insights into the actual experience of staying at the hotel and using its associated parking and transfer services. Look for comments on cleanliness, staff helpfulness, and the efficiency of the airport transfer.

It is also worth noting that some hotels offer different tiers of parking, such as 'super saver' or 'secured' options, which may have different inclusions and pricing. Always verify what is precisely covered within the package you are considering.

Understanding Parking Durations

When booking a hotel and parking at Gatwick Airport North Terminal, the duration of your parking needs is a primary consideration. Most packages are designed for typical holiday lengths, often covering stays of up to 15 days. If your trip extends beyond this, you will likely incur additional charges for the extra days. It is crucial to check the maximum duration included and the cost of extending it.

Some providers offer a 'long stay' option that can be added to your hotel booking, providing peace of mind for extended absences. Conversely, if you only require parking for a short period, perhaps just overnight while you stay at the hotel before an early flight, confirm that the package still represents value. In such cases, separate hotel and short-term airport parking might sometimes be more economical, though less convenient.

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Clarify parking duration limits and potential overstay charges.

The booking process itself should be straightforward, especially when using reputable comparison sites. You will typically select your dates, search for available packages, and then proceed to book. You will need to provide your flight details, car registration, and contact information. Upon confirmation, you will receive all necessary details regarding your hotel check-in and parking instructions, including directions to the car park and shuttle pick-up points.

The Role of Comparison Websites

Comparison websites play a vital role in the Gatwick Airport hotel and parking North Terminal market. They aggregate offerings from numerous providers, presenting them in an easily digestible format. This allows consumers to quickly survey the available options without visiting multiple individual hotel or parking operator sites. Features often include filters for price, hotel rating, parking type, and distance from the terminal, enabling a tailored search.

These platforms often have exclusive deals or negotiated rates that may not be available directly from the hotel or parking provider. However, it is always prudent to cross-reference pricing on occasion, especially for very specific dates or requirements. The primary benefit remains the consolidated view, saving considerable time and effort in the research phase.

Maximising Value: Cost-Benefit Analysis

When evaluating a Gatwick Airport hotel and parking North Terminal deal, a thorough cost-benefit analysis is essential to ensure you are obtaining genuine value. While the combined package inherently aims to offer savings and convenience, the actual benefit can vary depending on individual travel circumstances, booking timing, and the specific providers involved.

The core benefit is the synergy of two necessary services. The cost of an airport hotel room for a single night, combined with the cost of secure airport parking for a week or more, can quickly escalate if booked separately. By bundling these services, providers can often offer a discounted rate on the combined product compared to the sum of its individual parts. This is particularly true when factoring in the convenience of not having to arrange separate transfers between a hotel and an off-site car park.

Weigh convenience and time savings against marginal price differences.

Consider the 'hidden' costs that are often avoided with packages. For example, relying on public transport or taxis to reach an airport hotel and then to the terminal can be expensive and time-consuming. Similarly, parking directly at the terminal for extended periods is often prohibitively costly. Hotel and parking packages circumvent these higher peripheral expenses.

When is a Package Most Cost-Effective?

Hotel and parking packages for Gatwick North Terminal tend to be most cost-effective under several conditions:

• Early Morning or Late Night Flights: These flights often necessitate an overnight stay to avoid extremely early starts or late finishes. The combined cost of a hotel night and parking is usually less than the combined cost of a taxi to the airport at an unsociable hour plus extended parking.
• Longer Trip Durations: The longer you need to park your vehicle, the more beneficial package deals become. The daily rate for parking in a package is typically lower than standard long-stay airport parking rates.
• Booking in Advance: Like most travel services, booking Gatwick Airport hotel and parking North Terminal packages well ahead of your travel date often secures better prices. Demand fluctuates, and providers reward early commitment.
• Comparison Shopping: Utilising comparison websites allows you to see which providers are offering the best value at any given time. Prices can vary significantly between different booking platforms and direct bookings.

It is also worth considering the 'hassle factor'. The time spent researching separate hotel and parking deals, checking transfer options, and coordinating schedules can be significant. A package consolidates this, offering a tangible benefit in terms of reduced stress and administrative effort, which can be invaluable when preparing for travel.

Understanding Additional Charges

While packages aim to provide an all-inclusive price, it is vital to be aware of potential additional charges. These can include:

• Extended Parking Fees: If your trip exceeds the duration covered by the package (e.g., beyond 15 or 21 days), you will be charged for the extra days. Rates for these additional days can sometimes be higher than the pro-rata package rate.
• Vehicle Size Surcharges: For larger vehicles, some car parks may levy an additional charge. This is less common with hotel-related parking but can occur with some third-party providers.
• Transfer Supplements: While most shuttle transfers are included, some premium services or 24/7 on-demand transfers might incur a small fee, particularly if you deviate from scheduled pick-up times.
• Upgrades: Hotels offer room upgrades, and parking providers might offer premium spaces or services like car washing. These are, of course, optional extras.

Always scrutinise the terms and conditions for any exclusions or extra fees.

When assessing value, consider the quality of the hotel and the security of the parking. A slightly higher price for a well-regarded hotel and a highly secure, reputable car park might offer better overall value than a cheaper option that compromises on comfort or security. Reading recent reviews for both aspects of the package is advisable.

Comparing Package Inclusions

When comparing different Gatwick Airport hotel and parking North Terminal packages, look beyond just the headline price. Key inclusions to compare are:

• Breakfast: Is breakfast included with the hotel stay? This can save you money and time on the morning of your flight.
• Transfer Frequency and Operating Hours: Are transfers running 24/7, or only during specific hours? How often do they depart?
• Parking Security Features: Look for details on security measures such as CCTV, regular patrols, and floodlit compounds.
• Cancellation Policies: Understand the flexibility of your booking. Can you cancel or amend it if your travel plans change?

By systematically comparing these elements, you can make a well-informed decision that aligns with your budget, schedule, and peace of mind.

Booking Your Gatwick North Terminal Hotel and Parking

Securing a Gatwick Airport hotel and parking North Terminal package involves a straightforward process, typically facilitated through online booking platforms. These platforms aggregate offers from various hotels and parking operators, presenting them to consumers in a user-friendly interface. The objective is to provide a single point of access for comparing prices, availability, and package details.

When you begin your search, you will usually need to input your desired check-in and check-out dates, which correspond to your hotel stay and parking duration. It is crucial that these dates accurately reflect your entire period of need, ensuring continuous cover for both your accommodation and your vehicle. Mistakes here can lead to unexpected additional charges or gaps in service.

Ensure your dates cover the entire period you need parking.

Once the dates are entered, the system will display available Gatwick Airport hotel and parking North Terminal options. You will be able to filter these results based on various criteria such as price, hotel star rating, parking type (e.g., on-site, park and ride), and distance from the terminal. Take your time to review the details of each option presented.

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The Booking Process Explained

The typical booking journey for a hotel and parking at Gatwick Airport North Terminal looks like this:

1. Enter Dates: Input your arrival and departure dates for both hotel stay and parking.
2. Search: The system will search for available packages matching your criteria.
3. Compare Options: Review the presented hotels, parking details, prices, and transfer information.
4. Select Package: Choose the package that best suits your needs and budget.
5. Provide Details: Fill in your personal information, flight details (if required), vehicle registration, and contact information.
6. Payment: Complete the transaction using a debit or credit card.
7. Confirmation: You will receive a booking confirmation, usually via email, containing all essential details, booking references, and instructions for arrival and parking.

It is imperative to read the confirmation email thoroughly. It will contain vital information such as the exact location of the hotel, directions to the car park, shuttle bus pick-up points, and contact numbers should you encounter any issues. Keep this confirmation accessible, either printed or on your mobile device, as you will likely need it upon arrival at the hotel or car park.

What to Expect After Booking

Following a successful booking, you will typically receive an immediate confirmation email. This document serves as your proof of purchase and contains all necessary details. Pay close attention to:

• Booking Reference Number: Essential for any amendments or queries.
• Hotel Name and Address: For navigation to your accommodation.
• Parking Location and Instructions: Where to park your car and how to proceed. This might include instructions on checking in at the car park or hotel, or details about the shuttle service.
• Transfer Information: Details on how and where to catch the shuttle bus to the North Terminal.
• Contact Details: Phone numbers for the hotel and parking provider in case of emergency or questions.

Some providers may also offer an online portal where you can manage your booking, view details, or even pre-book additional services.

Keep your booking confirmation handy for easy reference.

Tips for a Smooth Booking Experience

To ensure a seamless booking process for your Gatwick Airport hotel and parking North Terminal arrangements:

• Book in Advance: This is crucial for securing better prices and availability, especially during peak travel periods.
• Read Reviews: Before finalising your booking, check recent customer reviews for both the hotel and the parking service to gauge service quality and reliability.
• Verify Parking Type: Double-check that the parking included meets your needs – e.g., is it secure, is it on-site or does it require a shuttle?
• Check Transfer Details: Ensure the transfer service runs at times compatible with your flight schedule and understand its frequency.
• Understand Cancellation Policies: Be aware of the terms for cancellation or changes to your booking, as travel plans can sometimes change.

By following these steps, you can confidently book your Gatwick North Terminal hotel and parking, setting a positive tone for your upcoming journey.

Preparing for Your Arrival and Departure

The successful execution of your Gatwick Airport hotel and parking North Terminal plan hinges on meticulous preparation on the days leading up to and including your travel. With your accommodation and vehicle storage pre-arranged, the focus shifts to ensuring a smooth transition from home to hotel, hotel to terminal, and terminal back to car upon return.

On the day you travel to Gatwick, allow ample time for the journey to the hotel and for parking your vehicle. If your chosen package includes an off-site car park, factor in the transfer time from the car park to the North Terminal. Even with pre-booked services, unexpected traffic delays can occur, so adding a buffer is always prudent. Your booking confirmation should provide contact details for the parking provider; use these if you anticipate being late.

Allocate generous time for travel to the airport and check-in procedures.

When you arrive at the designated parking location (whether it’s the hotel car park or an off-site facility), follow the instructions provided in your booking confirmation. This might involve checking in at a reception desk, leaving your keys, or simply parking in a marked bay and proceeding to the shuttle pick-up point. Ensure you have your booking reference and any required identification readily available.

On the Day of Departure

Your departure day should be as stress-free as possible with your Gatwick Airport hotel and parking North Terminal arrangements in place. After a comfortable night's sleep at your hotel, your next step is to get to the North Terminal.

• Hotel Guests: If parking is at the hotel, ensure you know where to leave your car and how to access the shuttle or walkway to the terminal. If you have retained your keys, you will simply drive to the hotel car park.
• Park and Ride Users: Proceed directly to the car park address provided. Park your vehicle, secure it, and make your way to the designated shuttle pick-up point. Shuttles are usually frequent and will take you directly to the North Terminal's drop-off area.
• Meet and Greet Users: Drive to the designated meeting point at the North Terminal, where an agent will be waiting to collect your vehicle.

Remember to take all your luggage and personal belongings with you. Most car park operators will ask you to keep your keys if you are using on-site hotel parking or a secure compound where you retain access. For some off-site park and ride services, you may be asked to leave your keys, but this is standard practice and typically handled by reputable operators.

Have your flight details and booking reference accessible.

When you reach the North Terminal, you can proceed directly to check-in and security. Your car is already safely parked, and your accommodation is sorted, allowing you to focus on the flight itself. The efficiency of your chosen Gatwick Airport hotel and parking North Terminal package will largely dictate how much time you have to spare before boarding.

Upon Your Return

Returning to Gatwick Airport and retrieving your vehicle is usually as straightforward as your departure, provided you follow the instructions from your provider.

• Contacting the Shuttle Service: Upon arrival at the North Terminal, make your way to the designated shuttle pick-up point. Many providers have a helpline number listed on your confirmation that you should call to request your car and shuttle. This allows them to prepare your vehicle and dispatch the shuttle.
• Shuttle Journey: The shuttle will collect you and take you back to the car park where your vehicle is stored.
• Vehicle Collection: At the car park, present your booking confirmation or identification to retrieve your car. If you left your keys, they will be returned to you.
• On-site Hotel Parking: If you parked at your hotel, you will simply return to the hotel car park.

Verify the pick-up point for your return shuttle to avoid confusion.

Ensure you know the operating hours of the shuttle service for your return journey. While many operate 24/7, some may have reduced hours overnight. If you arrive outside of these hours, you may need to make alternative arrangements or face additional charges, so it is vital to have confirmed this beforehand.

What to Bring and Check

To ensure a smooth process at both ends of your trip:

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• Booking Confirmation: Essential for check-in at the hotel or car park.
• Driving Licence and Vehicle Documents: May be required when collecting your car.
• Contact Numbers: Keep the provider’s helpline numbers handy for any issues.
• ID: For hotel check-in.
• Luggage: Ensure all necessary items are packed and accounted for.

By carefully preparing and following the instructions from your chosen Gatwick Airport hotel and parking North Terminal provider, you can ensure a pleasant and efficient start and end to your travels.

Considering Alternatives and Enhancements

While Gatwick Airport hotel and parking North Terminal packages offer a popular and convenient solution, it is wise to consider alternatives and potential enhancements that might better suit specific travel needs or preferences. Understanding the full spectrum of options available at Gatwick ensures you are making the most informed decision for your journey.

The most direct alternative to a hotel and parking package is booking these services independently. You could reserve a hotel room through a hotel booking site and secure your parking separately via an airport operator or a dedicated comparison site for parking only. This approach can sometimes yield savings if you find very specific deals or have loyalty points with particular hotel chains or parking providers. However, it requires more research and coordination, and the combined cost may not always be lower.

Independent booking requires more research but may offer flexibility.

Another alternative is to opt for a hotel only, and arrange for alternative transport to the airport. This could involve using public transport like trains or buses, booking a taxi or private hire vehicle, or arranging a lift with friends or family. This is often more cost-effective if you do not own a car, or if your trip duration is short and airport parking costs would outweigh the hotel cost. However, it introduces the logistical challenge of getting yourself and your luggage to the terminal on time.

Exploring Different Parking Options

Beyond the parking included in hotel packages, Gatwick Airport itself offers official parking facilities. These include:

• Gatwick Airport Official Parking: Operated by the airport authority, these car parks (e.g., Short Stay, Long Stay, Premium Short Stay) are located close to the terminals. While often more expensive than third-party or hotel-affiliated parking, they offer convenience and direct access or very frequent shuttle services.
• Meet and Greet Services: Several reputable companies offer a valet service where you drive directly to the terminal, hand over your car keys to an operative, and walk to check-in. Your car is then parked securely by the operator. This is the ultimate in convenience but typically comes at a higher price point than park and ride.

When comparing these to the parking component of a Gatwick Airport hotel and parking North Terminal package, you are essentially balancing cost against convenience and proximity. Packages often use 'Park and Ride' or hotel-owned off-site parking, which are usually more economical but involve a shuttle transfer.

Enhancing Your Stay and Parking

Beyond the standard package, various enhancements can elevate your travel experience:

• Lounge Access: Many hotels offer add-on packages that include access to airport lounges. This provides a quiet, comfortable space to relax before your flight, often with complimentary refreshments, Wi-Fi, and sometimes even newspapers or showers.
• Priority Transfers: Some premium packages may offer faster or more direct transfer services, reducing waiting times at both ends.
• Car Servicing or Valeting: While away, some parking providers offer additional services such as car washing, valeting, or even minor servicing. This can be a convenient way to have your car maintained while you are travelling.
• Room Upgrades: When booking your hotel, consider if an upgrade to a superior room would enhance your pre-flight comfort, especially on longer stays or if travelling with family.

Investigate add-on services for greater comfort and convenience.

When considering these enhancements, conduct a cost-benefit analysis specific to your trip. For a short business trip, a lounge might be a worthwhile indulgence. For a family holiday, a room upgrade could provide much-needed space. The key is to assess if the added cost translates into a proportional increase in comfort, efficiency, or enjoyment for your specific circumstances.

Comparing with Other Airports

It is also worth noting that hotel and parking arrangements vary significantly between airports. For example, Stansted Airport, Edinburgh Airport, Manchester Airport, Bristol Airport, and Birmingham Airport all have their own unique sets of hotels and parking options. Heathrow Airport, being a larger hub, offers a vast array of both on-airport and off-airport facilities, including numerous hotel and parking packages. While the fundamental concept of combining hotel and parking is similar across all major airports, the specific providers, pricing structures, and transfer methods can differ considerably. Therefore, when planning travel from any airport, it is always advisable to research the options specific to that location, such as Gatwick Airport hotel and parking North Terminal, rather than assuming a one-size-fits-all solution.

Ultimately, the 'best' option depends on your individual priorities. Whether it is the most economical choice, the most convenient, or the one offering the most luxurious pre-flight experience, understanding all available avenues allows you to tailor your Gatwick Airport hotel and parking North Terminal booking to your exact requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to common queries regarding Gatwick Airport hotel and parking North Terminal bookings.

When should I book my Gatwick Airport hotel and parking?
It is advisable to book your Gatwick Airport hotel and parking North Terminal package as far in advance as possible, particularly during peak travel seasons. Early booking often secures better rates and guarantees availability, reducing the stress of last-minute arrangements.

How do I know if my car is secure at the car park?
Reputable airport parking facilities employ multiple security measures. Look for car parks with CCTV surveillance, regular security patrols, controlled entry and exit barriers, and well-lit compounds. Many providers achieve accreditations like 'Park Mark' which signifies a high standard of safety and security.

What happens if my flight is delayed on return?
Most Gatwick Airport hotel and parking North Terminal providers understand that flight delays occur. They usually operate on a flexible system where you can amend your return time. It is crucial to contact the parking provider as soon as you are aware of a significant delay to inform them of your revised arrival time.

Can I book a hotel and parking if I do not have a car?
These packages are designed for travellers who are bringing their car. If you do not have a car, you would typically book a Gatwick Airport North Terminal hotel only and arrange separate transport to the airport, such as a taxi, train, or bus.

Are Gatwick North Terminal hotels expensive?
Prices for hotels near Gatwick North Terminal vary significantly based on the hotel's star rating, amenities, and the time of year. Booking a package deal often makes the combined hotel and parking cost more economical than booking each service separately, especially when booked in advance.

What is the difference between 'Park and Ride' and 'Meet and Greet'?
'Park and Ride' involves parking your car in a secure car park and taking a shuttle bus to the terminal. 'Meet and Greet' (or valet parking) means a driver collects your car from the terminal and parks it for you, offering maximum convenience but usually at a higher cost.

Can I amend or cancel my booking?
Cancellation and amendment policies vary between providers. Many offer free cancellation or amendments up to a certain period before your arrival date. It is essential to check the specific terms and conditions of your chosen Gatwick Airport hotel and parking North Terminal package at the time of booking.