Group trips usually mean more people, more luggage and a bit more coordination. Parking onsite at Melbourne Airport helps keep things straightforward from the beginning. Here’s why it makes sense for group getaways:

• You’re already within the airport precinct. Parking onsite means you’re close to where you need to be. There’s no need to factor in off-site transfers or separate pick-up zones.
• Quick access to check-in. Each parking facility is located next to or near the terminal. You can walk or take a shuttle and reach the check-in counters in just a few minutes.
• Room to unload and get going. Group travel often comes with more luggage and more people. On-site car parks offer practical layouts, wide bays in some locations, and easy access to trolleys and lifts.
• Simple to coordinate if people arrive separately. If your group is coming in more than one car or from different places, meeting at the terminal is easy and often more affordable. You don’t need to plan multiple stops.
• Less to think about on the day. Having your car parked at the airport adds a bit of peace of mind before your flight. The group stays together, and everything’s in one place.

Now it’s just a matter of picking the right Melbourne Airport parking option for your group. Some are better for longer trips, others are closer to the terminals. Here’s a look at what each one offers.

Every group trip looks a little different, and so do the parking needs. Melbourne Airport offers long-term parking and short-term parking options to suit everything from budget trips and quick getaways to extended holidays. Here’s what to know before you decide:

Value Car Park: Best for Budget Trips and Longer Stays

If your group is travelling for several days or more and looking for great value and low cost, the Value Car Park offers a straightforward, affordable airport parking option. This open-air car park is located within the airport precinct, just off Airport Drive. Unlike on-demand transport, a free shuttle bus service runs every 15 minutes, 24 hours a day, with stops at Terminal 1 and Terminal 4 for access to all airport terminals.

The layout is simple, with plenty of parking space to make it easier for groups travelling with larger cars like vans or SUVs. Wide rows also help when unloading multiple bags or coordinating a group at the kerb.

During busy travel periods like school holidays, you can upgrade to Value Express. This service lets you drop off your vehicle in a designated area near Bus Stop B, where a staff member will park it for you. Your vehicle is returned to the same area when you get back, so you can collect your group and head off without delay.

Terminal Car Park: Park Close and Walk Straight In

If staying close to the terminal is the priority, the Terminal Car Parks are a practical choice. These multi-level car parks are located right next to the terminals, so there’s no need for a shuttle. For groups travelling with children, extra luggage or mobility needs, the short walk from the car to check-in can make things much easier. There are two locations:

• The T1 T2 T3 Terminal Car Park sits beside the airport terminals for Qantas, Virgin Australia and all international terminal flights.
• The T4 Terminal Car Park is just 100 metres from Terminal 4, ideal for Jetstar, Link Airways, and Rex flights.

Both offer a mix of undercover parking and outdoor parking. Clear signage helps you find the best row based on your terminal. For example, Row M is closest to Terminal 1, while Row F provides the easiest access to Terminals 2 and 3.

This car park is also well suited for pick-up and drop-off. The first 15 minutes are free, giving you enough time to unload bags or wait while your group makes their way outside. That flexibility can be helpful if you're coordinating multiple travellers or waiting on different arrival times.

Premium Self-Park: Skip the Wait and Stay Nearby

If your group wants to be parked and inside within minutes, Premium Self-Park is the fastest self-parking option. Located on Level 1 of the T1 T2 T3 and T4 Terminal Car Parks, these bays sit right near the terminal access points.

You stay in control. Just park, unload, and make the short walk to check-in. The indoor parking setup also provides cover from the weather—handy if you're travelling with luggage, young kids or people who need a bit more time. From here, you can walk directly into Terminals 1, 2 and 3 using the link bridge, while Terminal 4 is just 100 metres away, with a flat, covered path from the car park to the terminal doors.

Premium Valet: Hand Over the Keys and Go

Don’t want to deal with parking at all? For group trips where a smoother start makes all the difference, Premium Valet keeps things moving. Instead of searching for a bay or unloading bags across levels, you just pull up, hand over your keys, and walk straight to check-in.

Located on Level 1 of the T1 T2 T3 Terminal Car Park, this valet service works well for group travel where time, convenience or coordination is a priority. The valet parking area is also undercover and positioned right next to the terminal entrances. The service runs daily from 4 AM to 1 AM, with friendly staff ready to assist 24/7.

Qantas Valet: Quickest Option for Terminal 1

If your group is flying Qantas, this is the most direct way to reach Terminal 1. Qantas Valet is located on Level 1 of the T1 T2 T3 Terminal Car Park, with the drop-off point right next to the Qantas terminal doors.

While this valet parking service is designed for Qantas travellers, it is available to all passengers. There's no need to pre-book here. Just drive up and head inside while the staff take care of the rest. Qantas Frequent Flyers can earn points when using this service. Plus, you get the option to book car cleaning so you can return to a freshly cleaned vehicle.

Not only will you save money compared to drive-up parking rates, but you’ll also be able to compare options and add extras ahead of time. For even more value, sign up for the Parking Deals newsletter to receive exclusive offers, seasonal discounts and parking tips sent straight to your inbox! Here’s how to book parking in just a few steps:

Step 1: Visit the Melbourne Airport parking website. Head to melbourneairport.com.au/parking to get started.

Step 2: Enter your entry and exit dates. You can pre-book parking from as early as 12 months in advance, or as little as two hours before your arrival at the car park.

Step 3: Choose your parking option. Pick the car park that suits your trip. At this stage, you can also add extras like the Overstay Guarantee. This add-on covers overstay fees if your return is delayed due to flight cancellation, border closure or illness, so long as it’s beyond your control and supporting documents are provided.

Step 4: Enter your details and payment. Provide your flight details and then pay securely using a credit card, debit card, Apple Pay or Google Pay.

Step 5: Check your confirmation email. You’ll receive a booking summary and a QR code, which you’ll scan when entering and exiting the car park.

Every online booking includes a grace period—one hour on either side for stays under four hours, and two hours before and after for bookings over four hours. If your return changes, you can adjust your booking anytime using Manage My Booking up to two hours before your entry time.

A bit of preparation goes a long way, especially when you’re coordinating multiple people, vehicles or check-in times. Here are a few things to keep in mind to make your parking experience at Tullamarine Airport as smooth as possible:

• Know where your terminal is before you park. Group coordination is easier when everyone parks close to the right terminal. Confirm your airline’s terminal so you can choose the car park with the shortest walk.
• Allow extra time if you're using Value Car Park. The shuttle runs every 15 minutes, but allow a buffer in case your group needs more time to unload or get organised before the transfer.
• Check for road delays and disruptions before you leave. Traffic around Tullamarine Airport can build up quickly. Use live traffic updates or Google Maps to avoid last-minute hold-ups, especially during peak travel periods.
• Have your QR code ready to scan. Save it to your phone or digital wallet for quick entry and exit, so you're not holding up the group at the boom gate.
• Plan for more time during public holidays or school breaks. Melbourne is one of Australia’s busiest travel hubs. Group drop-offs, shuttle boarding and terminal queues all take longer when the airport is at capacity.

If your group includes someone with accessibility needs, you’ll find accessible parking bays across all onsite car parks. These bays are positioned near lifts, walkways and terminal entrances to help make the journey smoother. You can also book Kerbside Assistance ahead of time for help between the car park, terminal and check-in.

Planning a group getaway comes with a few moving parts, but parking doesn’t have to be one of them. For more information on available services and facilities, visit Melbourne Airport’s Online Mobility Hub, check the FAQs, or get in touch with our friendly customer service team before your trip.