The AFL finals season is just around the corner, and we expect plenty of footy fans to jump on a flight to back their team. Whether it’s a quick day trip or a weekend away, joining the finals run is already half the fun. But before you pack the scarf and set the alarm, it’s worth sorting where you’ll leave your car.

The good news? There are plenty of Melbourne Airport parking options to choose from—whether you're flying out early, arriving at the airport late, or just after something close to check-in. And with online booking, it only takes a few clicks to get it sorted.

Heading out and back in one day? Whether you’re flying with Qantas, Jetstar, Rex, Link Airways, Virgin Australia or another airline, you’ll want a parking option that gets you to the check-in counters fast.

Each of these car parks is within a short walking distance to the terminals, perfect for those flying before the bounce and heading home as soon as the final siren sounds. Hourly rates are available here if you’re staying under six hours.

• Terminal Car Park: Great pick for short trips, this multi-level car park is available in two locations with access to the terminals on foot in minutes. Park at the T1 T2 T3 Terminal Car Park for best access to Terminal 1 for Qantas, or Terminal 3 for Virgin Australia. Park at the T4 Terminal Car Park for the quickest access to flights with Jetstar, Rex, and Link Airways from Terminal 4.
• Premium Self-Park: Closest undercover parking spaces if you prefer to park your car yourself. Available in two locations: Level 1 of the T1 T2 T3 Terminal Car Park, and Level 1 of the T4 Terminal Car Park.
• Premium Valet: Drive up, hand over your keys, and head straight to the terminal. Our friendly staff will take care of the rest. Valet parking is a time-saver if you're flying early or don't want to deal with finding a parking space. Available only at Level 1 of the T1 T2 T3 Terminal Car Park
• Qantas Valet: The closest option if you're flying Qantas. Pull up, drop your keys, and walk straight to check-in. You can also add car cleaning while you're away. No booking required. Available at Level 1 of the T1 T2 T3 Terminal Car Park.

While these are ideal for same-day trips, they’re not limited to short-term use. Each of these parking options is available to book for longer stays, too, with daily rates available across all four.

If you’re not flying but still doing the airport run, there are quick options for that too. The pick-up and drop-off zones outside each terminal allow for a one-minute standing time, perfect for quick goodbyes or fast exits. If you're running early, head to the Wait Zone on Mercer Drive, where you can park for free for up to 60 minutes before heading to the terminal.

If you're turning finals week into a longer break, long-term parking is the way to go. The Value Car Park is a budget-friendly onsite parking facility that works well for trips that run over a few days or more. It's an open-air car park with a free shuttle bus service running 24/7 to all terminals.

Compared to on-demand public transport, the free shuttle service runs every 15 minutes and is easy to access, especially if you're travelling with kids, luggage, or both.

During the AFL finals period, which falls within the spring school holidays, you’ll also have the option to upgrade to Value Express. This valet-style add-on lets you leave your car in a designated bay inside the Value Car Park, where staff will park it for you. It’s available online or can be added when you arrive.

Finals week gets busy, and so does the airport. Booking your parking online ahead of time helps you avoid last-minute decisions, especially if you're flying out during school holidays or on Grand Final weekend. You’ll also:

• Get access to better parking rates than drive-up prices
• Compare and choose the parking option that best suits your trip
• Add Overstay Guarantee for extra peace of mind, or Value Express for an easier journey
• Access 24/7 customer support if you need help before, during or after your trip
• Enjoy a built-in grace period on all online bookings

Want to book now? On-site parking at Melbourne Airport can be pre-booked online up to 12 months in advance or as close to two hours before you get to the airport.

All car parks offer accessible parking spaces, and help is available if you need assistance on arrival. You may also visit our Online Mobility Hub so you can plan your trip better, and if you require specific help, we recommend booking special assistance in advance.

Once you’ve picked the parking option that works best for your trip, booking online only takes a few minutes. Here’s how:

Step 1: Go to the Melbourne Airport website and select ‘Parking’ from the top menu

Step 2: Enter your entry and exit times—make sure they match your flight details

Step 3: Compare the available options and select the one that suits your trip

Step 4: Add extras if needed, like Value Express or Overstay Guarantee

Step 5: Enter your details and pay via debit or credit card, Apple Pay, or Google Pay

Once booked, you’ll receive a confirmation email with everything you need, including your QR code to enter and exit the car park.

Taking the motorbike to the airport? You can park in the designated bays on the Ground Floor in the T1 T2 T3 Terminal Car Park, or in any of the car parks at Melbourne Airport. Regular car parking rates will apply.

Finals footy is always worth the trip, but sorting your parking early can make the whole experience easier. Whether you’re flying up and back in a day or making a weekend of it, booking ahead means fewer things to think about on game day.

With plenty of options onsite and extras like Value Express or Overstay Guarantee, you can tailor your Melbourne Tullamarine airport parking experience to suit your plans and then focus on backing your team.

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