Gatwick Short Stay Car Park Prices
Gatwick Short Stay parking starts at £8 for up to 30 minutes in 2026, with drive-up prices increasing to £70 for 12–24 hours. The same standard Short Stay rates apply at both the North and South Terminals.
If you prefer to avoid airport parking altogether, our Gatwick Airport Transfer service provides a convenient way to travel directly to or from Gatwick without leaving your car at the airport.
For more details on flights, terminals, and airport facilities, you can visit the official Gatwick Airport website.
Quick Gatwick Parking Price Comparison
| Parking Type | Up to 30 Minutes | 12–24 Hours | Each Additional Day |
|---|---|---|---|
| Short Stay | £8.00 | £70.00 | £70.00 |
| Premium Short Stay | £12.00 | £87.50 | £87.50 |
| Pre-Booked Short Stay | From ~£9.00/day | Varies | Varies |
Prices can vary depending on booking dates and availability. Check the latest price before travelling.
Gatwick Short Stay Parking Prices
| Parking Duration | Drive-Up Price |
|---|---|
| Up to 30 minutes | £8.00 |
| 31–60 minutes | £14.00 |
| 1–2 hours | £18.00–£18.50 |
| 2–3 hours | £21.50 |
| 3–4 hours | £26.00 |
| 4–5 hours | £31.50 |
| 5–6 hours | £40.50 |
| 6–12 hours | £60.00 |
| 12–24 hours | £70.00 |
| Each additional day | £70.00 |
These drive-up rates apply to the Short Stay car parks at both Gatwick North and South Terminals.
Mid Stay Parking at Gatwick North Terminal
The Mid Stay North car park is a convenient option for medium-length trips. It operates as a free-flow car park and uses automatic number plate recognition (ANPR) cameras to manage entry and exit.
Please note that this parking option is only available through pre-booking. You must reserve your space in advance, as drive-up access is not allowed. Make sure to book online for your chosen dates and duration before arriving at the car park.
Premium Short Stay Parking Prices (Drive‑Up) – Gatwick
| Parking Duration | Drive-Up Price |
|---|---|
| Up to 30 minutes | £12.00 |
| 31–60 minutes | £19.00 |
| 1–2 hours | £22.00 |
| 2–3 hours | £26.00 |
| 3–4 hours | £33.00 |
| 4–5 hours | £41.00 |
| 5–6 hours | £56.00 |
| 6–12 hours | £74.50 |
| 12–24 hours | £87.50 |
| Each additional day | £87.50 |
Premium Short Stay is a higher-priced option designed for passengers who want more convenient access to the terminal.
Gatwick South Terminal Parking
South Terminal has several parking options depending on your trip. Short Stay is best for short visits and is closest to the terminal, while Long Stay is more suitable for holidays and longer trips. Premium Parking offers quicker terminal access, while Valet Parking lets you drop off your car and head straight to the terminal. South Terminal also has Robotic Parking for automated vehicle storage.
Gatwick North Terminal Parking
North Terminal offers Short Stay, Long Stay, Premium and Valet Parking. Short Stay is convenient for brief visits, while Long Stay is generally better for longer stays. Premium Parking provides easier access to the terminal, and Valet Parking allows you to drop off your vehicle before continuing to the terminal.
Additional Parking Options at Gatwick
Long Stay Parking
Ideal for longer trips, Gatwick’s Long Stay car parks offer the first 2 hours free, followed by approximately £38 for the first day and £32 for each additional day. Frequent shuttle buses provide easy access to both terminals.
Drop-Off & Pick-Up
Designated drop-off zones are available outside both North and South Terminals for short stays. A small fee applies for brief use, while Blue Badge holders may be eligible for free or discounted access.
Note: Rates and availability can vary, so it’s recommended to check current prices and book in advance where possible.
Gatwick Robotic Parking at the South Terminal
Gatwick Airport offers Robotic Parking at the South Terminal, providing a convenient alternative to traditional airport parking. You leave your car in a private garage, and an automated robot lifts and moves it to a secure parking area while you keep your keys.
How Gatwick Robotic Parking Works
When you arrive at the dedicated facility, simply drive into your private parking garage, follow the check-in instructions and remove your luggage. A robotic vehicle then lifts your car and moves it to the secure parking area.
When you return from your trip, your vehicle is retrieved and made ready for collection.
The facility is located at South Terminal, RH10 0NY, with the terminal accessible by a short walk or shuttle bus.
Is Gatwick Robotic Parking Safe?
The facility has 24-hour security patrols, ANPR-controlled entry and exit, perimeter fencing, restricted access and Park Mark Safer Parking approval.
One of the main benefits is that you keep your car keys throughout your trip, rather than handing them to a valet.
Which Cars Are Compatible?
Gatwick states that its robotic system is compatible with around 95% of vehicle models. However, some vehicles with unusual dimensions or features may not be suitable.
If you have a large SUV, van, sports car, roof box or vehicle with unusual dimensions, check compatibility before booking.
Blue Badge Access
Robotic Parking provides accessible private garages for Blue Badge holders, while the shuttle service to the terminal is also accessible.
How Much Does Gatwick Robotic Parking Cost?
Prices vary according to your travel dates, length of stay and availability. It is worth comparing Robotic Parking with Gatwick’s other official parking options before booking.
If you are travelling for several days and prefer not to leave your car at the airport, a Gatwick airport transfer or chauffeur service can also be a convenient alternative.
Is Gatwick Robotic Parking Worth It?
For travellers who want secure on-airport parking, private drop-off and the convenience of keeping their keys, Robotic Parking offers a distinctive option at Gatwick South Terminal.
Before booking, check your vehicle compatibility, terminal, dates and current parking price to make sure it suits your journey.
Why You Should Book Parking in Advance
Booking your parking space online in advance can save a significant amount compared with paying on the day. Drive-up rates at Gatwick can reach £70 per day, while Pre-booked parking can be considerably cheaper than drive-up rates, with prices varying by date, availability and parking type.
Many third-party websites and Gatwick’s official site offer early-bird deals, especially during off-peak periods or when booking several weeks ahead. Pre-booking also guarantees a space, avoiding last-minute stress.
Drop-Off Charges
Gatwick Airport now charges for using the drop-off zones outside the terminals. The updated fees (effective 6 January 2026) are:
-
£10 for the first 10 minutes
-
£1 per additional minute
Charges can quickly reach £26 or more if the vehicle remains in the drop-off zone for too long.
For those picking up passengers, using the Short Stay car park is generally cheaper and safer than waiting in the drop-off zone for extended periods.
Tips to Save Money
- Always pre-book online to get lower daily rates and avoid full-price charges at the gate.
- Use short stay for pick-ups, as it’s often cheaper than paying drop-off fees.
- If you plan to park for more than 6–12 hours, look into long-stay or off-site parking options with shuttle services.
- Don’t overstay your booking, as extra time can lead to expensive penalties.
Understanding Gatwick Airport’s South and North Terminals
Gatwick Airport, located about 30 miles south of Central London, is the UK’s second busiest airport after Heathrow. It has two main terminals – the South Terminal and the North Terminal – both offering a range of domestic, European, and international flights. Here’s what you need to know about each:
South Terminal – The Main Hub
The South Terminal is the older and larger of the two and handles the majority of the airport’s flights. It’s known for its modern layout, wide range of services, and excellent connectivity.
Key Features:
- Airlines: British Airways, easyJet (main hub), TUI, Norwegian, and others
- Transport Links: Direct access to Gatwick Airport Train Station (just below the terminal)
- Shops & Restaurants: A wide variety including duty-free stores, cafes, and international dining options
- Check-in Area: Located on the ground floor, with fast-track and bag-drop services
- Parking Options: Short Stay, Long Stay, Premium Parking, and Valet Parking available nearby
Ideal For:
Travelers flying with low-cost carriers like easyJet or holiday airlines like TUI. It’s also the most convenient terminal for those arriving by train.
North Terminal – Modern and Efficient
The North Terminal is slightly newer and smaller but equally efficient. It caters to a mix of international and charter airlines.
Key Features:
- Airlines: Emirates, Qatar Airways, WestJet, Ryanair, and some easyJet flights
- Access: Reached via a free shuttle train that runs every few minutes from the South Terminal
- Facilities: Business lounges, shopping outlets, eateries, and family-friendly zones
- Parking Options: Includes Short Stay, Long Stay, and Premium Parking with easy terminal access
- Check-in Area: Located on the first floor, clearly signposted for different airlines
Ideal For:
Passengers flying with long-haul or premium airlines, or those using services like Emirates and Qatar Airways. It’s also popular with travelers looking for a quieter terminal experience.
Why Airport Transfers Are the Best Choice for Gatwick Airport
Using an airport transfer service is one of the smartest and most convenient ways to travel to and from Gatwick Airport – whether you’re heading to the North or South Terminal.
Here’s why:
- No Parking Hassles
Gatwick’s parking can be expensive and limited, especially during peak seasons. Airport transfers eliminate the need to search for a space, deal with ticket machines, or worry about daily parking rates. - Stress-Free Travel
A professional chauffeur picks you up from your doorstep and drops you right at the terminal entrance. There’s no dragging luggage from faraway car parks or waiting for shuttle buses. - Fixed Prices, No Surprises
With a trusted airport transfer service like City & Airport Cars, you get a fixed rate with no hidden charges. You’ll know the cost upfront—no surge pricing or extra fees due to delays. - Ideal for Groups and Families
Travelling with kids or a group? An airport transfer can be tailored to your needs with larger vehicles, child seats, and space for all your luggage, making the journey smooth for everyone. - Reliable and On-Time
Chauffeurs monitor flight times and traffic conditions, ensuring punctual service. Whether your flight is delayed or arrives early, your ride adjusts accordingly. - Perfect for Business or Long-Haul Travelers
For business trips or long flights, comfort matters. A private transfer lets you relax, focus, or catch up on work without the stress of driving or navigating public transport.
Final Thoughts:
In 2026, Gatwick Short Stay parking starts at £8 for 30 minutes and can go up to £70 for 12–24 hours, while Premium Short Stay offers closer terminal access at a higher cost. Booking online in advance can help you save, but for a truly executive experience, consider a professional chauffeur or airport transfer service with City & Airport Cars.
