Airport Parking Options

Most large airports in the UK offer a number of different options for car-parking, dependent on the differing needs of their customers. Bookings can be made online, which can save a lot of time, effort and money. It is important, though, to know the different types of airport parking before you begin the booking process.

On-

On-airport parking refers to parking that is available within the boundaries of the airport. With many airport sizes increasing to meet the demands of increasing numbers of customers, it can be a long way from the edge of the airport boundary to the terminal and often there is not transport offered from the car parks to the terminals. Generally speaking the closer you park to the terminals the greater the cost will be, as you pay for convenience of being closer to the terminal. Either way, if you are parking within the airport boundaries make sure that you check the transfer times from your car parking spot to the terminal.

Off-Airport Parking

If on-airport parking refers to car parking within the airport boundaries, off-airport parking refers predictably to car parking outside of the boundaries of the airport. Due to transport links the transfer times from off-airport parking can often be less than for on-airport parking. It also has the advantage of being generally cheaper than on-airport parking. This is by no means a general rule though, but it's easy to find out by looking at Holiday Extras' website, which has comprehensive guides on airport car park locations.

Valet Parking

For those that can afford it the most convenient parking method has got to be the valet service. This means you will be met at the terminal by a driver who will take your car to an on or off-airport parking space leaving you free to check in with minimal transfer time from your car to the airport. When you return, the driver will bring your car back to you outside the terminal. This is by far the most convenient option, particularly for those with large families or large amounts of luggage.

Car Hire

It might sound like an expensive option, but it can be a crafty way of reducing your costs, and you won't have to leave your car in a car park for the duration of your holiday. It's possible to hire a car at a nearby depot, and then drop it off at the airport when you arrive. It's a particularly good option to look into if you are travelling in a large group that is flying and then staying there for more than a month. If this sounds like you, then take a look at car hire from Holiday Autos.