UK airports are earning millions daily from parking fees, yet travellers often feel trapped by soaring charges.
Travel Expert reveals where costs are highest and shares tips to beat the airport parking gouge.
Bristol Airport generated substantial revenue from parking in 2024, with one-day long-term parking at £60 and a £7 charge for just ten minutes at the terminal. Half of the UK’s busiest airports have increased drop-off fees, making early planning critical for travellers seeking to avoid extra costs.
From “kiss and fly” drop-offs to long-term stays, travellers are paying more than ever to park near terminals. Transfeero says drop-off charges now range from £5–£7 for just five to ten minutes.
Regional Airport Parking Costs
Manchester Airport: £5 for 5 minutes; £59.99 for one day of long-term parking.
London Luton: £5 for 5 minutes; long-term rates rising.
London Gatwick: £7 for 10 minutes; long-term parking slightly below £60.
Bristol Airport: £7 for 10 minutes; £60 for first day long-term.
Leeds Bradford: £7 for 10 minutes; £57 for first day long-term.
Edinburgh Airport: £6 for 10 minutes; long-term rates vary.
Liverpool John Lennon Airport: £6 for 10 minutes; long-term rates moderate.
London City remains unique as the only major airport offering free short-term drop-offs, but it has the highest long-term parking at £74.90 per day.
Tips to Beat the Airport Parking Gouge
- Use Off-Site Lots: Many private lots offer cheaper long-term parking with shuttle services to terminals.
- Public Transport: Trains, buses, or the Tube often save both money and stress.
- Carpool & Ride-Share: Drop one traveller off and leave the car at home, or use shared rides.
- Book in Advance: Some airport car parks offer discounted rates online for early reservations.
- Check ULEZ Rules: Ensure your vehicle meets emissions standards to avoid extra charges in London.
“Airport parking fees are one of the most underestimated travel costs in the UK. Passengers often arrive at terminals assuming short stays or drop-offs are manageable, only to face charges of £5–£7 for a few minutes or more than £70 for long-term parking at London City. While airports argue these fees cover convenience and operational costs, travellers need strategies to avoid overpaying.
Regional differences matter. Manchester and London Luton charge £5 for just five minutes, the highest per-minute rate in the UK, while Bristol and Leeds Bradford demand £7 for ten minutes. Long-term parking also varies, with London City at £74.90, Birmingham at £64, and Manchester just under £60. Knowing these variations helps travellers plan smarter trips, particularly when multiple airports are options for a single journey.
Tips for mitigating costs include booking off-site lots, using public transport, carpooling, or scouting cheaper terminals. Pre-planning and comparing fees across airports can save hundreds annually. I’m also stressing being aware of London’s ULEZ charges, which can add an unexpected £12.50 for non-compliant vehicles.
Airport travel shouldn’t be stressful before you even board a plane. Planning your arrival, drop-off, and parking strategy ensures travellers keep control of their budget, avoid unnecessary fees, and focus on enjoying their journey rather than worrying about hidden costs,” says Travel Expert, Andrea Platania from Transfeero.