With more and more budget airlines opting to operate from regional airports, it seems that there are some great bargains to be found by flying from these smaller airports. We take a look at whether one such airport really is a good option.

For those of us who live in southern England, the trek up to London to catch a flight out of the country can often be a real pain. A lot of cheap flights tend to depart from Stansted, rather than Gatwick or Heathrow, which makes things even more difficult given that Stansted is north of London and requires travelling on the dreaded M25.

Fortunately our options seem to have increased recently, with a number of budget airlines opting to operate regular services from regional airports. Notably, Ryanair are now flying regularly from Bournemouth Airport, while Flybe operate from Southampton Airport.

Some friends have expressed concerns about travelling from these airports, worrying that the facilities won't be extensive as those found at the London airports, or larger regional airports, such as Manchester and Birmingham.

Southampton Airport is located on the outskirts of Southampton, between the city and neighbouring Eastleigh. One advantage of the airport being smaller than some rivals is that everything here seems to take place a lot quicker.

The short stay car park, for instance, is located directly opposite the only terminal building, ensuring a short walk from your car to the check-in desk. Even if you make use of the long-stay car park, you'll find that the free bus service to the terminal building only take 5 minutes.

Those arriving at the airport by train will similarly find that the process is very quick. The airport has its own dedicated mainline railway station (Southampton Airport Parkway), located just 3 minutes walk from the airport terminal.

The station is on the mainline to London Waterloo, which is less than 90 minutes away.

Once inside the terminal building, check-in tends to be rather quicker than in the more major airports. Facilities within Southampton Airport are undoubtedly more limited than those found at the larger alternatives but you will find a cafe, tax-free shop, newsagents and car rental booths.

It's maybe fair to say that this would not be a great airport to be stuck in for a long time, waiting for a delayed flight departure. Then again, are any airports great in such circumstances?

Overall, Southampton Airport provides a cheap, quick option and is ideal for those who can't face travelling to one of the London airports.

If you're interested in flying from Southampton Airport you can find out more by reading Keith Barrett's other travel articles. This article may be used by any website publisher, though this resource box must always be included in full.