Gatwick Short Stay Car Park Prices
If you’re heading to Gatwick Airport’s South or North Terminal and need to park for a short time, it’s important to know the latest parking prices and how to avoid high charges. Whether you’re dropping someone off, picking them up, or staying for a few hours, here’s everything you need to know about short stay parking in 2026.
Planning a transfer to Gatwick? Check your fare instantly with our Minicab Price Calculator.
For more details on flights, terminals, and airport facilities, you can visit the official Gatwick Airport website.
Short Stay Parking – On‑the‑Spot (Drive‑Up) Prices (2026)
| Duration | Price |
|---|---|
| Up to 30 minutes | £8.00 |
| 31 to 60 minutes | £14.00 |
| 1 to 2 hours | £18.00–£18.50 |
| 2 to 3 hours | £21.50 |
| 3 to 4 hours | £26.00 |
| 4 to 5 hours | £31.50 |
| 5 to 6 hours | £40.50 |
| 6 to 12 hours | £60.00 |
| 12 to 24 hours | £70.00 |
| Each subsequent day | £70.00 |
✅ These rates apply whether you’re parking at the North Terminal or South Terminal Short Stay car parks.
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
| Duration | 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 subsequent day | £87.50 |
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.
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 rates can start from around £9 per day, depending on how early you book and which parking provider you choose.
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.
Quick Price Comparison – Gatwick Airport
| Parking Type | Up to 30 min | 12–24 hrs | Each Extra Day |
|---|---|---|---|
| Short Stay | £8.00 | £70.00 | £70.00 |
| Premium Short Stay | £12.00 | £87.50 | £87.50 |
| Pre-Booked Short Stay | ~£9.00/day | N/A | N/A |
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.
