Flying out soon? Maybe it’s a quick trip to Sydney or a well-deserved holiday overseas. However your travel plans look, how you park can make a real difference to how your trip begins. A bit of planning makes things easier from the get-go, and it doesn’t take much to get it right.
Melbourne Airport has a range of parking options that are close to the terminals and easy to book online. Plus, with the right choices upfront, you can save time and move through the airport with less to think about. Here’s how to park smarter before your next trip.
1. Check Your Terminal Before You Book
Before choosing a parking facility, it’s worth confirming which airport terminal your flight departs from. At Melbourne Tullamarine Airport, all terminals are either a short walk or shuttle ride from different on-site parking areas, so knowing this in advance can help you pick the most convenient option.
- Terminal 1: Qantas domestic flights
- Terminal 2: All international flights
- Terminal 3: Virgin Australia domestic flights
- Terminal 4: Jetstar, Rex, and Link Airways
Both the T1 T2 T3 and T4 Terminal Car Parks are located directly across from their respective terminals. The T1 T2 T3 car park connects to Terminals 1, 2 and 3 via a covered link bridge, while the T4 Terminal Car Park is just a 100-metre walk from Terminal 4.
2. Match Your Car Park to Your Flight and Travel Style
Think about how long you’ll be away, how you like to move through the airport, and whether you'd rather park yourself or have someone else do it for you. Melbourne Airport has a few different on-site options to suit different travel styles:
- Value Car Park: A great choice for longer stays or travellers wanting budget-friendly parking. Just off Airport Drive, Value Car Park offers outdoor parking spaces connected to all terminals by a free shuttle bus service running every 15 minutes, 24/7. The shuttle stops at Terminal 1 and Terminal 4, making it a convenient option if you’ve got a bit more time before check-in.
- Terminal Car Parks: Ideal for both short-term parking and long-term parking, these multi-level car parks put you just a short walk from the terminals. Terminal parking is available in two locations: the T1 T2 T3 Terminal Car Park, and the T4 Terminal Car Park. Both options offer quick access to check-in and are a good fit if you’d rather skip the shuttle and be closer to your gate.
- Premium Self-Park: A smart pick if you’re after convenience. This parking option gives you access to undercover parking spaces just a short walk from check-in. Located on Level 1 of the T1 T2 T3 and T4 Terminal Car Parks, it’s ideal if you want to park yourself and head straight inside without extra steps.
- Premium Valet: If time’s tight or you just want the quickest way in, valet parking is the simplest option. With Premium Valet, you can drive straight to Level 1 of the T1 T2 T3 Terminal Car Park, hand over your keys, and walk straight inside. It’s a good choice if you’re flying with kids, carrying bulky luggage, or prefer to keep things moving.
- Qantas Valet: Located closest to Terminal 1, Qantas Valet is ideal if you’re flying with Qantas and want a fast, hands-off parking experience. Just drive up to Level 1 of the T1 T2 T3 Terminal Car Park, drop off your keys, and head straight to check-in.
3. Pre-Book Online for the Best Rates
The earlier you book, the better the value. Online parking rates are lower than drive-up prices, and booking ahead gives you more choice across the available parking options. Online bookings can be made up to 12 months in advance. It’s one of the easiest ways to park smarter and avoid unnecessary decisions on the day you fly.
4. Subscribe for the Latest Melbourne Airport Parking Deals
Want an even better deal next time? Subscribe to Melbourne Airport Parking Deals newsletter to get early access to limited-time offers, seasonal discounts, and exclusive deals that aren’t always listed on the website. It’s a quick step that can help you save more on your next trip.
5. Add Smart Extras When Booking to Save Time or Money
Some extras can make your trip smoother before you even reach the terminal. These optional add-ons can be selected during online booking, depending on your parking choice and travel plans:
- Value Express is a valet-style parking service available in the Value Car Park during peak travel periods like school holidays. You just drop your car off near Bus Stop B, and our friendly staff will park it for you.
- Overstay Guarantee covers extra charges if your return flight is delayed due to cancellations or border disruptions. A helpful option if your plans might change.
- Car wash and cleaning services are available with Qantas Valet. You can choose to have your car cleaned while you're away, so it’s ready when you return.
6. Use the Grace Period and Booking Flexibility to Your Advantage
Plans can shift, especially around flights. Fortunately, all online bookings at Melbourne Airport come with a built-in grace period, so you won’t be rushed getting in or out. You’ll get up to one extra hour before and after your booked time for short stays, and up to two hours for longer ones. That gives you a bit more time to browse duty free shops, grab a bite, or handle delays without the pressure.
If your travel plans do change, you can update your entry or exit time using Manage My Booking up to two hours before your scheduled entry or exit. It’s a simple way to park smarter and stay flexible on the day you travel.
7. Use the Wait Zone or Free Short-Term Parking for Pick-Ups and Drop-Offs
Picking someone up or dropping them off? Melbourne Airport has dedicated pick-up and drop-off zones outside each terminal for quick stops. If you need a bit more time, you can park for 15 minutes for free in any of the Terminal Car Parks—handy if you’re walking someone to check-in or waiting for them to come through arrivals.
If you’re arriving early, head to the Wait Zone on Mercer Drive, where you can stay for up to one hour at no cost. It’s a smarter option than circling the terminal.
8. Pack Based on How Far You Are From the Car Park
The airport car park you choose can shape how you pack, too. If you’re parking further from the terminal, consider using smaller, wheeled bags that are easier to manage. Keep heavier items low in the bag, and your essentials (phone, boarding pass and snacks) easily accessible.
If you're parking closer, you've got more flexibility. A tote or shoulder bag might be all you need for a short getaway, and you won’t need to think as much about load balance or weight. It’s a small detail, but packing with your parking location in mind can save you time, effort, and a few awkward reshuffles before your trip even begins.
9. Plan Ahead If You Need Accessible Parking
If you or someone you’re travelling with needs accessible parking, it’s worth planning ahead. All car parks at Melbourne Airport offer dedicated accessible parking bays close to lifts, shuttle stops or terminal entry points. These bays are available to anyone with a valid Disability Parking Permit. Bays are clearly marked and located near lifts with wide doors, low-height controls and Braille panels.
If you’re assisting someone with a Companion Card, you can apply for a full refund on parking fees for stays under two hours. Just keep your receipt and submit it through the Parking Refunds page online.
Need extra help? You can pre-book Kerbside Assistance to move between drop-off zones, check-in and baggage claim, or arrange Terminal Assistance through your airline. Melbourne Airport’s Online Mobility Hub also has details on accessibility features across terminals and car parks.
Take the Guesswork Out of Airport Parking
Smarter parking isn’t about finding the one perfect option, but about knowing what matters most for your trip. That might mean being closer to check-in, saving money by booking early, or adding extras to make the parking experience that much smoother.
So next time you're heading to Tullamarine, think ahead. With a few decisions made early, you can move through Melbourne Airport with more confidence. It’s a small part of your travel day, but it sets the tone for everything that comes next.