Comparing Airport Parking for Domestic and International Flights

Flying out soon? Whether you're heading interstate or overseas, how you start your trip sets the tone from the get-go. And if you're leaving your car at the airport, knowing where to park can make things go a whole lot easier.

With flights running day and night, Melbourne Airport is one of Australia's busiest airports. The good news? All our airport car parks are on-site, so you're always close to the terminal. No long transfers or second-guessing where to go.

The only thing left to figure out is which parking option fits your flight. This guide will help you choose, based on the airline you're flying with and how you like to travel.

Before choosing where to park, it helps to know which airport terminal you’ll be flying out of. Here’s a quick breakdown:

• Terminal 1 is where all domestic Qantas flights depart from.
• Terminal 2 handles every international flight, regardless of airline.
• Terminal 3 is for domestic Virgin Australia flights.
• Terminal 4 is used by Jetstar, Rex and Link Airways, also for domestic flights.

Each of these airport terminals is within walking distance or a short bus ride from our on-site car parks.

There are a few airport parking options at Melbourne Airport, each with its own setup. Most are a few minutes’ walk to the terminal, while another includes a bus service. It all depends on how you’re planning to park.

• Value Car Parks: These outdoor parking areas off Airport Drive are our most budget-friendly parking options. Parking here includes free bus transfers to the terminals and back, every 15 minutes, 24/7. Choose from two locations: the Value North Car Park has stops at shelters A-H within the car park, with airport stops at Terminal 1 (best for Qantas and International flights) and at Terminal 4 (best for all other domestic flights with Virgin Australia, Jetstar, Rex, and Link Airways). The Value South Car Park has just one car park stop (shelter J), and travels directly to Terminal 4 only (does not stop at other terminals).
  
  During peak travel periods like school holidays, you can book Value North Express for an additional fee, where our friendly staff will park for you. 
• Terminal Car Parks: These multi-level car parks are just a short walk from all terminals. There are two locations: T123 Terminal Car Park, which connects to Terminals 1, 2, and 3 via a covered link bridge, and T4 Terminal Car Park, which is 100 metres away from Terminal 4. Both offer undercover parking and open-air parking spaces. The first 15 minutes are free for drive-up customers, which comes in handy if you're dropping someone off or waiting for them to arrive.
• Premium Car Parks: This parking option gives you the closest self-parking bays to the terminals. You'll find them on Level 1 of both the T123 Terminal Car Park and the T4 Terminal Car Park. All parking bays are undercover, with easy access to lifts and walkways.
• Melbourne Airport Valet:  For an even quicker walk to check-in and exceptional service, our Melbourne Airport Valet parking service is your best bet. Just head to Level 1 of the T123 Terminal Car Park, hand over your keys, and you can be on your way. Opt in for car wash services and return to a spotless vehicle.The drop-off area is undercover and just a short walk to the terminal entrances.
• Qantas Valet: Flying with Qantas? Qantas Valet is located opposite Terminal 1, at Level 1 of the T123 Terminal Car Park, and offers a quick handover just steps from check-in. You’ll also earn Frequent Flyer points every time you use the service. While it’s designed for Qantas passengers, others can use it too. You can also add extras like a car wash or car cleaning.
• Accessible Parking: Travelling with mobility needs? All our car parks include accessible parking spaces. These are positioned close to lifts, walkways and terminal entrances, so you can choose based on what’s easiest for your flight. The T123 Accessible Car Park is available for pre-booked customers only. Located on Level 2 of the T123 Car Park you'll have direct access to the terminals via pedestrian bridge. When parking in any Accessible bays a valid permit must be displayed.

If you're flying interstate, you can use any of our onsite car parks at Melbourne Tullamarine Airport. Each one offers easy access to Terminals 1, 3 and 4, where all domestic flights depart.

• Our Value Car Parks are great for longer domestic trips or early flights. Park at the Value South Car Park for direct bus transfer to Terminal 4 (best for Jetstar, Rex, Link Airways, and Virgin Australia flights). The bus from the Value North Car Park has multiple stops, Terminal 4 first (which is within walking distance to Terminal 3) and then at Terminal 1.
• The T123 Terminal Car Park works well if you're flying Qantas or Virgin Australia and want to stay close to check-in. The T4 Terminal Car Park is best suited for Jetstar, Rex, or Link Airways. It’s just across from the terminal and is also a quick option for Virgin Australia travellers.

Even with heavier bags, longer check-in times, and early or late departures, you can use any of our onsite car parks if you’re flying internationally. But depending on several factors, some Tullamarine Airport parking options might work better than others.

• If you're going to be overseas for a week or more, the Value North Car Park offers the most cost-effective long-term parking option. The courtesy bus drops you off at Terminal 1, which is a short walk to the international terminal (Terminal 2).
• If you want to be closer to the international terminal, the T123 Terminal Car Park is just across the road from check-in, which can make a big difference if you're flying at odd hours or arriving back late. Choose Melbourne Airport Valet or Qantas Valet and let us take care of the parking for you. Prefer to hold onto your keys? T123 Premium Car Park has the closest self-parking spots to Terminal 2, saving you time and keeping things convenient. Or opt for the T123 Terminal Car Park and walk to the terminal in minutes.

Choosing where to park isn’t just about picking a car park. A few details like timing, budget, and how you like to travel can help narrow down the best airport car parking option for you, and make your trip easier before it even begins.

• Trip length: Longer trips usually mean comparing parking rates to find the best value. Value Car Parks are ideal for longer stays, while Terminal and Premium options may suit shorter getaways or quick returns.
• Flight timing: Flying out early or landing late? Parking close to the terminal can make things smoother, especially if you’d rather not wait for a bus.
• Luggage and extras: Travelling light makes walking or hopping on the bus simple. If you’ve got large bags or bulky gear, parking near a lift or using valet can take the pressure off.
• Who you’re travelling with: Solo traveller? Most options will suit. But if you’re with family or in a group, a parking facility with easy access can save time and help keep everyone together.
• Optional add-ons: Extras like the Overstay Guarantee, which covers unexpected delays, can offer peace of mind.
• Your Budget: Looking to save? Sign up for the Melbourne Airport Parking Deals newsletter to get updates on special offers and seasonal deals straight to your inbox. Booking online early can also help you save more.

Booking your parking online is quick, easy, and the best way to secure parking rates lower than drive-up prices. Here’s how to do it:

1. Visit the Website: Head to the Melbourne Airport website and click on the Parking button in the top right corner.
2. Enter your intended entry and exit the dates and times.
3. Choose the terminal that you'll be travelling from.
4. Check your details: Enter a promo code if you have one, then continue to pricing.
5. Choose the parking option that best suits your needs by clicking on the corresponding Book now  button.
6. Add any extras (like Overstay Guarantee or car cleaning).
7. Enter your details and complete your booking. We accept debit cards and credit cards, Apple Pay, and Google Pay.
8. You’ll get a confirmation email with the QR code you’ll need to enter and exit your booked car park and other important car park information.

If you arrive a little earlier or later than your booked time, you won’t be locked out. There’s a grace period built into every online booking to give you a bit of breathing room. Need to make a change? Log in and head to My Bookings at least two hours before your booked entry or exit time to update your details or cancel if your plans change.

From longer trips to quick returns, solo travel to family holidays, there’s a parking option onsite that fits how you travel. But for quick drop-offs and pick-ups, use the dedicated zones. Arriving early? Head to the Wait Zone on Mercer Drive, where parking is free for up to 60 minutes.

To make your parking experience even smoother, check for road delays or disruptions before you leave, and use the online car park maps to plan ahead. These may seem like a small part of the journey, but it’s one we take seriously.