This page will explore Gatwick Airport parking and drop off options for both the North Terminal and South Terminal, ranging from quick short stay parking to the cheapest long stay car parks and premium valet services. This guide explains the key differences, where each option is best, and the simple choices that can save you money. (Last updated February 2026).
For lounge reviews, transport, hotels, and more, see the London Gatwick (LGW) Airport guide here.
Gatwick Airport parking and drop off Quick Picks
Fastest drop off near the terminal: Short stay parking (30 minutes can be cheaper than the drop off charge).
Cheapest option for longer trips: Long stay parking, with free shuttle buses to the terminals.
Closest parking with the least walking: Premium short stay parking, with same level access close to the terminal.
Most convenient, least hassle option: Valet parking, pre-booked, with your car returned ready for you.
Holiday Extras have great parking deals at London Gatwick and can be pre-booked using the buttons below.
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Gatwick Airport drop off charge (North Terminal and South Terminal)
Gatwick’s terminal drop off charge is now £10 for up to 10 minutes in 2026. This applies at the terminal forecourts, so it can feel expensive if you are only stopping briefly to say goodbye.
A useful workaround is short stay parking. If you only need a short stop, short stay can work out cheaper, and you also get the benefit of a proper parking bay and a simple walk into the terminal.
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Short stay parking at Gatwick
Gatwick short stay parking is ideal if you want the shortest walk to the terminal. There is short stay parking at both Gatwick North Terminal and Gatwick South Terminal, so it is a good option for drop offs, pick ups, and quick trips.
At the time of writing, up to 30 minutes is £8, which can be cheaper than paying the £10 drop off charge for 10 minutes. If you are picking someone up and expect any delays, short stay usually gives you more flexibility than a roadside drop off.
Tip: If you are planning to park in short stay for the full length of your trip, book in advance. It is usually cheaper than paying on the day.
Premium short stay parking
Premium short stay parking is similar to standard short stay, but you are even closer to the terminal, with a dedicated area and very quick access. If you care most about minimising walking and keeping things simple, premium short stay is the most convenient self park option.
As with other Gatwick parking options, booking in advance is usually the best approach if you know your dates.
Mid stay parking
Gatwick mid stay parking is an option that can only be pre-booked. It is designed for people who want a balance between price and convenience without paying short stay rates.
There is a shuttle bus around every 15 minutes to the terminals, so it is straightforward once you are parked. If you want a planned, pre booked parking option and do not mind using a shuttle, mid stay can be a sensible middle ground.
Long stay parking at Gatwick
Gatwick long stay parking is usually the most affordable option. You can typically pre-book long stay, or arrive without booking, depending on availability and the car park rules.
A key benefit is that long stay can be free for up to 2 hours, which makes it useful for certain pick up and drop off situations. There is also a free shuttle bus to the terminals, running through the night, typically around every 15 minutes.
If you want to avoid the £10 Gatwick drop off fee and you are happy to take a free shuttle bus, long stay is often the best value choice.
Meet and greet and valet parking at Gatwick
If convenience matters more than price, Gatwick meet and greet or valet parking is the premium option. You typically park close to the terminal, hand your keys to the valet team, and then walk into the terminal in minutes. In many cases, it is around a two minute covered walk to the terminal.
This is usually the most expensive choice, but it gives peace of mind because your car is handled by a professional valet service, and your car is ready when you return. This option normally needs to be pre-booked.
North Terminal vs South Terminal parking tips
Short stay parking is available at both terminals, so it is usually the easiest option if you want to park and walk straight in.
For mid stay and long stay, expect to use the free shuttle bus to reach the North Terminal or South Terminal. If you are travelling with more luggage or with a tight schedule, plan a little buffer time for the shuttle.
Related Gatwick guides
Gatwick Airport parking and drop off FAQs
The terminal drop off charge at London Gatwick Airport (LGW) is £10 for up to 10 minutes.
Long stay parking is usually the most affordable Gatwick airport parking option, and it also has a free shuttle bus to the terminals.
Short stay parking at Gatwick is ideal for quick pick ups and short visits, and it can be cheaper than the drop off charge (£8 instead of £10) if you need up to 30 minutes.
Pre-booking is recommended for most Gatwick parking options, especially if you want better value, and mid stay parking is pre-book only.
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