Airport Parking

On Site Airport Car Parking

Parking your car on the airport car park is considered by many to offer the ultimate in convenience. Indeed, you are right on the doorstep of the airport meaning a short walk to departures and a short walk back from the arrivals hall. Security is tight in all UK airports and the car parks are generally considered to be extremely safe, so your car is parked at relatively low risk of damage or theft.

The biggest drawback of on-airport car parking is the COST! Beware, aside from valet car parking, on-airport parking is the most expensive option to chose from. You are paying for the convenience of being close to the airport, and the closer you are the more you will pay.

If you do chose to park your car on the airports car park do your research before hand and there are a couple of points you should follow:

1. Make a note of the Terminal you are flying from

For large airports take a note of the terminal building you are flying from. You need to ensure you park in the car park closest to that particular terminal because in airports the as large as Heathrow, Gatwick or Manchester if you park in the wrong terminal you face a lengthy walk (or run).

2. Do you need Shot Stay or Long Stay Parking?

This may seem obvious, but many passengers will simply select the first car park they find upon arrival at the airport. As a general rule, if you are planning to park your car for more than 24 hours you should always opt for the Long Stay car park. Indeed, by searching for deals in the long stay car park you may find that for stays as short as 12 hours you it still makes more financial sense to book long-stay.

The long stay and short stay car parks are often located close to the terminal buildings, so in terms of walking distance there is generally nothing to be saved by booking short stay.

3. Book in advance

If you have the luxury of time then you should always book your on-airport parking in advance. If you turn up on the day without a reservation you will be required to pay the full advertised rate, regardless of which car park you select. You will almost certainly be paying over the odds for this, as there are a number of great deals available if you pre-book.