When flying from Heathrow Airport, one of the UK’s busiest travel hubs, parking is a detail that’s easy to overlook but can significantly impact both your travel budget and experience. Whether you’re going on a short business trip or a two-week holiday, understanding how Heathrow parking works—and what it costs—can save you money, time, and stress.
How Much Does Heathrow Airport Parking Cost? (2024/2025 Rates)
The cost of Heathrow parking varies significantly depending on the type of service you choose, how far in advance you book, and the season. Here’s a general breakdown of current prices:
| Parking Type | 1 Day Price (from) | 1 Week Price (from) | Service Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Short Stay | £5.30 per hour | £60–£80 | Closest to terminals, ideal for drop-offs or short visits |
| Long Stay | £29.50 per day | £75–£95 | Includes shuttle service (10–15 mins to terminal) |
| Business Parking | £39.50 per day | £110–£130 | Faster transfers, wider bays |
| Meet & Greet | £55–£65 per day | £100–£140 | Valet parking, minimal walking |
| Hotel + Parking | £80–£120 total | Varies by package | Includes overnight hotel stay plus parking |
Prices above are estimates based on advance bookings and off-peak travel dates. Last-minute or peak-time bookings (e.g., summer holidays, Christmas) may be considerably more expensive.
Types of Heathrow Airport Parking Explained
Short Stay Parking
Located right next to each terminal, Short Stay parking heathrow is ideal for those dropping off or picking up passengers, or for travelers heading out for a day or two. Prices start from £5.30 for 30 minutes and go up to £67.40 for 24 hours. While convenient, it’s not cost-effective for long trips.
Long Stay Parking
Heathrow Long Stay parking is more affordable for extended travel. Shuttle buses run every 10–15 minutes, taking you to your terminal in under 15 minutes. Rates start at £29.50 per day, with weekly prices averaging between £75 and £95 if booked early.
Business Parking
Business travelers looking for speed and convenience benefit from Business Parking zones, which offer priority shuttle service and closer parking bays. Expect to pay £39.50 per day or £110–£130 per week. This is especially popular for short-haul flights or overnight trips.
Meet and Greet Parking
The most hassle-free option, Meet and Greet lets you hand your keys over to a valet at the terminal entrance. Your car is parked for you, and it’s returned upon your arrival. Rates range from £55 to £65 per day and £100 to £140 per week. It’s a premium choice but great for families, people with disabilities, or those traveling with heavy luggage.
Hotel + Parking Packages
Many Heathrow-area hotels offer “park and fly” deals. These can include one night’s stay plus 7 to 15 days of parking. Prices start from £80, making this a good deal if you need accommodation before an early flight.
What Factors Affect Heathrow Parking Prices?
The cost of Heathrow parking is not fixed—it changes based on multiple real-time factors. Here are the key ones:
1. Duration of Stay
Generally, the longer you park, the cheaper the daily rate becomes. For instance, one day in Long Stay might be £29.50, but a 7-day booking could drop the per-day average to around £11.
2. Booking Time
Advance booking almost always results in better pricing. Booking at least 1–2 weeks in advance can save up to 60% compared to booking on the day.
3. Seasonality
Parking rates spike during peak travel periods, such as summer, half-term, and Christmas. Booking early is essential during these times to avoid inflated prices or limited availability.
4. Terminal Location
Some terminals (especially T5) have more demand, affecting parking costs nearby. Be sure the provider services your terminal specifically to avoid unnecessary transfers.
5. Parking Provider
Official Heathrow Parking usually costs more than off-site alternatives. However, official lots are typically closer and offer better security and shuttle frequency.
6. Additional Services
Premium features like valet, wider bays, or electric charging add to the price. Some third-party providers also include car washes or servicing.
How to Get the Best Price on Heathrow Airport Parking
- Book early – the earlier, the cheaper.
- Use comparison sites like Holiday Extras, Compare Your Parking Deals, JustPark, and ParkVia.
- Look for discount codes or cashback offers.
- Join loyalty schemes from Heathrow or third-party providers.
- Check cancellation policies to ensure flexibility.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it cheaper to book Heathrow parking in advance?
Yes, significantly. Advance bookings can be up to 60% cheaper than on-the-day rates, especially for Long Stay and Meet & Greet services.
What’s the cheapest parking option at Heathrow?
Off-site Long Stay parking or Park & Ride services typically offer the lowest prices, especially if booked in advance.
How early should I book parking at Heathrow?
Ideally, book at least 2–3 weeks in advance. For peak travel periods (like summer or holidays), book even earlier to lock in low rates and availability.
Can I cancel my Heathrow parking booking?
Yes, most parking services allow free cancellation or changes up to 24–48 hours before the booking starts, but always check the provider’s terms.
Is Meet and Greet parking worth the price?
If convenience is a priority—especially for families, people with limited mobility, or business travelers—Meet and Greet is worth the higher cost. For budget-conscious travelers, it may not be necessary.
Final Thoughts
Heathrow Airport offers parking options for nearly every type of traveler, from quick pick-ups to luxury valet services. Prices vary depending on the type of parking, how early you book, and when you travel. By understanding the pricing structures and what influences them, you can make smarter decisions, avoid high costs, and travel with peace of mind. Always compare, book early, and balance your priorities between cost and convenience for the best Heathrow airport parking experience.