Never booked airport parking before? It’s easier than you think — and it can save you a significant amount compared to just turning up on the day. This step-by-step guide walks you through the entire process, from searching to arriving at the car park.
Step 1: Know Your Details
Before you search, you’ll need four pieces of information: your departure airport, the date and time you’ll drop your car off, the date and time you’ll collect it, and optionally, which terminal you’re flying from.
The drop-off date is usually the day of your flight. The collection date is the day you return. If your return flight lands at midnight or later, it’s usually better to set the collection date as the following morning — most car parks don’t charge extra for a few hours either side of your booking.
Step 2: Search and Compare
Enter your details into a comparison service like Park4Travels. You’ll see results from multiple providers sorted by price, showing the total cost for your entire stay, the per-day rate, the type of parking (Park & Ride, Meet & Greet, or On-Airport), and customer ratings.
Don’t just look at price — check the transfer time, security features, and cancellation policy. A car park that’s £5 cheaper but has a 30-minute shuttle vs a 10-minute shuttle might not be worth the saving.
Step 3: Choose Your Parking Type
Park & Ride is the cheapest option. You drive to a car park near the airport, park, and take a free shuttle to the terminal. Best for budget-conscious travellers who don’t mind a short bus ride.
Meet & Greet is the most convenient. A chauffeur meets you at the terminal, takes your keys, and parks your car. When you return, your car is brought back. Best for families, business travellers, and anyone who values convenience.
On-Airport is run by the airport itself. Short transfer times but higher prices. Best for short trips where you want minimal hassle.
Step 4: Book
Once you’ve chosen, click through to book. You’ll need to provide your name, email, phone number, and optionally your vehicle registration and flight number. The vehicle reg helps the car park identify your car. The flight number allows them to track your return flight in case of delays.
Payment is usually taken at the time of booking. You’ll receive an email confirmation with your booking reference, the car park address, directions, and any specific instructions.
Step 5: On the Day — Arriving at the Car Park
For Park & Ride: Drive to the car park using the address or postcode in your confirmation (not the airport postcode). At the barrier, enter your booking reference or registration number. Park in any available space. Lock your car and keep your keys. Head to the shuttle bus stop — look for signs or ask staff. The shuttle will take you to the terminal.
For Meet & Greet: Drive directly to the airport terminal. Follow signs for departures drop-off. Your chauffeur will be waiting — they’ll usually call or text you 15 minutes before to confirm. Hand over your keys, unload your bags, and walk into the terminal. That’s it.
Step 6: Returning
For Park & Ride: After landing and collecting your bags, head to the shuttle pick-up point (detailed in your confirmation email). The shuttle takes you back to the car park. Show your booking reference if asked. Drive out — the barrier opens automatically with your registration.
For Meet & Greet: Call the number in your confirmation when you’ve landed and collected your bags. Head to the arrivals pick-up area. Your car will be brought to you, usually within 10-15 minutes.
Common Questions First-Timers Ask
What if my flight is delayed?
Don’t worry. Car parks don’t charge extra for delayed returns. Your car will be waiting. If you provided your flight number, they’ll track it automatically.
What if I need to cancel?
Most bookings offer free cancellation up to 24 hours before your drop-off date. Check the cancellation policy when booking — it’s displayed before you pay.
Is my car insured?
Reputable car parks carry their own insurance. For Meet & Greet, the driver is insured to drive your vehicle. Always check that the provider is a member of a recognised body like the British Parking Association.
Do I need to print my confirmation?
Most car parks accept digital confirmations on your phone. However, having a printed copy as backup is never a bad idea, especially if your phone battery might be low after a long flight.
Final Tips
Book early — prices rise as your travel date approaches. Remove valuables from your car before leaving it. Take a photo of where you parked (Park & Ride) so you can find your car easily on return. And allow extra time on the day, especially if it’s your first time using the car park.
That’s it — airport parking is straightforward once you’ve done it once. Compare prices now and save on your next trip.