Every day, thousands of people come to Melbourne Airport. Some are heading off on a trip, while others are there to meet someone or say goodbye. As Australia’s largest 24-hour airport, it’s usually busy, which means parking is one of the first factors to consider, no matter the reason for your visit.
Before you head out, it’s a good idea to explore the available parking options at Melbourne Airport. We’ve listed some tips to help you plan more easily and choose what best suits your needs.
Choose parking for pick-up or drop-off
If you’re heading to the airport to drop someone off or pick them up, it’s worth knowing your parking options before you go. Pick-up and drop-off zones at Tullamarine have a one-minute standing limit, so there’s no time to wait. Planning ahead can save you from circling or rushing.
The Wait Zone on Mercer Drive gives you up to 60 minutes of free parking, which is helpful if the flight hasn’t landed yet. Once the plane arrives, you can head over to the terminal for pick-up.
Check how close parking is to the terminal
Each car park offers a different level of access, so it helps to know what to expect. For quick visits, choose the Terminal Parking at Melbourne Airport for convenience. It gives you direct access to Terminals 1, 2 and 3, with a short walk to Terminal 4.
If you don’t mind a short shuttle ride, the Value Car Park near Centre Road is a good option. The free shuttle runs every 15 minutes, 24/7, and takes you to all terminals. It works for both short and longer stays, with a two-hour grace period on online bookings over four hours.
Match parking to the type of trip
The right parking often depends on how long you’re staying and how quickly you need to reach the terminal. For short stays, Premium Car Park options, including Premium Self-Park and Premium Valet, offer faster access. You’ll get quick entry, a short walk and a two-hour grace period with online bookings longer than four hours.
If you’d rather save on parking than be close to the terminal, go for Value Parking at Melbourne Airport for travellers. You’ll get lower daily rates and a free shuttle that runs every 15 minutes, day and night.
Decide based on how much time you have
Travelling for work often means tight schedules, so getting in and out of the airport quickly can save you time during a busy day. To avoid parking delays, try Valet Parking at Melbourne Airport for business travellers, which offers quick access near the terminal.
This option is available through Premium Valet and Qantas Valet Parking. You just hand over the keys on Level 1 of the Terminal 1, 2 and 3 car park and head straight to check-in.
See if parking allows changes or delays
When you book online, you’ll get a one-hour grace period before and after your selected time or two hours for longer stays. If you arrive early or leave later than expected, you can extend your booking online. You can also choose to add an Overstay Guarantee during booking to help cover charges if your flight is delayed.
Get airport parking sorted early
Planning ahead for parking at Melbourne Airport can save time and help the day run more smoothly. With a range of options to suit different trips and the flexibility for early arrivals or delays, it’s one less detail to worry about. Book online and visit the Melbourne Airport website for the most up-to-date parking details.
Image: Shutterstock
This is a sponsored article produced in partnership with Melbourne Airport
