The school holidays are among the busiest days at Melbourne Airport, with families jetting off on their much-anticipated getaways. During this peak travel period, demand for airport parking spaces is high, so booking online in advance can make all the difference.

Taking care of airport parking early, especially when travelling with kids, means one less thing to think about before your flight. But with several car parks to choose from, which one is right for you?

With more travellers flying during public holidays, it's important to choose the right parking option for your trip. Whether you want budget-friendly parking, the closest walk to check-in, or a valet service, Melbourne Airport has options to suit different needs.

Value Car Park

For a budget-friendly parking option, the Value Car Park is a great choice. A free shuttle bus runs every 15 minutes round the clock. During school holidays, Value Express is available as an upgrade for a one-time payment from $24 (Value Car Park fees starting from $12 per day still apply). You can add this service when booking online or upgrade on arrival.

With Value Express, you simply drop off your car in a designated area near Bus Stop B, and valet staff will park it for you. This service is a holiday special (available during school holidays only). Dates and times can be found on our Value Express page.

Terminal Car Park

For even quicker access to check-in, the Terminal Car Park is a convenient option. Located near the terminals, it allows you to park within walking distance of your flight, no need to catch a bus. You get easy access to all terminals, making it a great choice no matter which airline you're flying with.

For the shortest walk to check-in, here’s where to park based on your terminal:

• For Terminal 1 (Qantas domestic terminal), the closest parking spaces are in Row M of the T1 T2 T3 Terminal Car Park.
• For Terminal 2 (international flights) and Terminal 3 (Virgin Australia domestic flights), park in Row F of the T1 T2 T3 Terminal Car Park.
• For Terminal 4 (domestic flights with Jetstar, Rex, and Link Airways) or for Terminal 3 (Virgin Australia domestic), the T4 Terminal Car Park is the closest and most convenient walk to the check-in counters.

With online rates starting from $49 per day, it is a smart choice for short trips, weekend getaways, or anyone wanting to save time before their flight. If you're only stopping by for a quick pick-up or drop-off, the first 15 minutes of parking here are free.

Premium Self-Park

Located on Level 1 of the T1 T2 T3 Terminal Car Park and Level 1 of the T4 Terminal Car Park, Premium Self-Park offers the closest self-parking option. These undercover parking spaces are right near the terminal walkway entry points, so you can get to check-in faster and more easily. It’s just a short walk to Terminals 1, 2, and 3, and about 100 metres from Terminal 4. Online rates start from $79 per day.

Premium Valet

If Premium Self-Park is the closest self-parking option to the terminals, Premium Valet makes parking even easier. Instead of parking yourself, simply drop off your car, hand over your keys, and head straight to check-in while the valet team takes care of the rest.

Located on Level 1 of the T1 T2 T3 Terminal Car Park, it provides undercover parking with easy access to the terminals. This is a great choice for business travellers, families, or anyone wanting a quicker start to their trip during the school holidays when check-in queues are more likely.

The Premium Valet service operates from 4 AM to 1 AM, with customer support available 24/7. Online rates start from $79 per day.

Qantas Valet

For Qantas travellers wanting the quickest route from their car to check-in, Qantas Valet is the best option. Located on Level 1 of the T1 T2 T3 Terminal Car Park, it offers the most direct access to the Qantas domestic terminal. While it is ideal for Qantas passengers, anyone can use this service.

Plus, there’s no need to book online. Simply pull up, drop off your car, and head straight inside. The valet team will handle parking, making your airport experience smoother.

Melbourne Airport offers accessible parking in every on-site car park for travellers with a valid Accessible Parking Permit. Plus, lifts with wide doors, low-height controls, and Braille panels help with access from the moment you arrive. Support services are also available on demand, but booking special assistance in advance can help make your trip smoother.

If you’re assisting someone with a Companion Card, you can claim a full refund on Terminal Car Park fees for stays of two hours or less, provided proof of travel is shown.

Planning airport parking ahead helps you avoid extra costs and unnecessary delays. Here’s how to save time and money during this busy period:

• Book online for lower rates than drive-up prices. All online bookings also include a grace period.
• Subscribe to Melbourne Airport’s Parking Deals newsletter for exclusive discounts, access to upgrades, and parking tips.
• Opt for add-ons. The Overstay Guarantee protects you from additional charges if your return flight is delayed, while Value Express allows for a faster parking experience. If your plans change, you can extend your booking online via Manage My Booking before your scheduled exit time.
• Use the free one-hour parking at the Wait Zone if you're picking up passengers, or take advantage of designated pick-up and drop-off zones for quick stops.
• Check for road delays and disruptions at the airport ahead of time to avoid unexpected hold-ups.

Following these travel tips will help you save money and get you to check-in smoothly during school holiday periods.

With more people travelling during the school holidays and long weekends, Melbourne Airport gets busier. Flights to popular destinations are in high demand, and parking is no different. To book parking online:

1. Visit the official Melbourne Airport Parking page.
2. Choose your entry and exit dates.
3. Select your car park and any add-ons, such as Overstay Guarantee or Value Express.
4. Pay with debit/credit card, Apple Pay, or Google Pay.
5. Receive a confirmation email with a QR code for easy entry and exit.

Why leave parking until the last minute? A quick online booking now means one less thing to think about before your trip. You’ll also save on parking fees and have more to spend on fun!