The winter school holidays are the perfect time for a family getaway. Whether you're escaping to the Gold Coast for some warmth or flying to Sydney to see family, it’s a busy time to travel. With more people flying, a little planning goes a long way, especially when it comes to airport parking. Here’s what you need to know before heading to Melbourne Airport this holiday season.

Parking at Melbourne Airport is simple, but leaving it to the last minute can mean paying more than you need to. Here’s why it’s worth booking ahead:

• Save on drive-up rates. Online bookings cost less than paying on arrival. Plus, the price shown at the time of booking won’t change later, so there are no surprises.
• Get more parking options. Booking in advance gives you access to more spaces, including those within walking distance of the terminals or more budget-friendly ones.
• Benefit from a built-in grace period. Online bookings include a grace period before and after your booked time, giving you extra flexibility if your plans change.
• Add the Overstay Guarantee for peace of mind, or extend your booking. If your return flight is cancelled or delayed due to unforeseen circumstances, this optional add-on can help you avoid extra parking charges. You can also extend your booking online via Manage My Booking before your scheduled exit time.

Discounts and deals may be available when booking online, too. Want first access to the latest news and the best parking offers? Subscribe to Melbourne Airport’s Parking Deals newsletter and stay in the loop!

With more travellers flying during the winter school holidays, choosing the right parking facility can make all the difference. Whether you’re flying interstate or heading overseas, knowing your options can help you find the right parking space for your needs.

Value Car Park

If you’re after affordable parking these school holidays, the Value Car Park is the best option for the budget-savvy traveller. It’s perfect for longer trips, offering some of the lowest car park fees with online prices starting from $12 per day​. A free shuttle bus service runs every 15 minutes, 24/7, connecting travellers to all terminals. 

For a faster parking experience, the Value Express holiday special is a valet-like service that lets you drop off your car in a designated area, and our friendly staff will park it for you. When you return, they’ll bring it back. No need to look for a spot or remember where you parked!

Terminal Car Park

Our Terminal Car Parks are the convenient option for those looking to park on-site, without requiring shuttle service. Located right next to the terminals in two locations, they offer undercover and outdoor parking options perfect for both short and long trips.

• The T1 T2 T3 Terminal Car Park is best suited for travellers flying domestic Qantas (T1), International (T2) and domestic Virgin Australia (T3).
• The T4 Terminal Car Park is best suited for travellers flying domestic with Jetstar, Rex, or Link Airways (T4) and domestic Virgin Australia (T3). 

Just stopping by for a quick pick-up or drop-off? You can park here for free for 15 minutes, no booking needed. If you need extra time, the Wait Zone on Mercer Drive offers up to 60 minutes of free parking, so you can wait until your passenger is ready before heading to the pick-up area​.

Premium Self-Park

Want the shortest walk to check-in? Premium Self-Park offers the closest undercover parking spots to the terminals. Located on Level 1 of the T1 T2 T3 Terminal Car Park and Level 1 of the T4 Terminal Car Park.

Premium Valet

Want to skip parking altogether? With Premium Valet, you can drive up, drop off your keys, and head straight to check-in. Located on Level 1 of the T1 T2 T3 Terminal Car Park, this option is perfect if you’re travelling with kids.

Qantas Valet

Flying Qantas? Qantas Valet Parking is the most convenient option for Qantas passengers, but those flying with other Australian and international airlines can use it, too. That said, Qantas Frequent Flyers can earn points when they park here.

Located on Level 1 of the T1 T2 T3 Terminal Car Park, this service lets you pull up, hand over your keys, and head straight to check in — no booking required. Plus, you can opt for a car cleaning service so you can return to a freshly cleaned vehicle.

The holiday periods are a busy time at Tullamarine, but getting to your gate on time doesn’t have to be complicated. To pre-book your parking online, just follow these steps:

1. Go to the Melbourne Airport Parking page.
2. Enter your entry and exit dates and times.
3. Choose your parking option and add-ons.
4. Complete your booking and pay via credit card, debit card, Google Pay, or Apple Pay.
5. Wait for the confirmation. You’ll get a QR code via email, which you’ll use to enter and exit the car park.

If your plans change, you can update your booking anytime using the Manage My Booking feature on the Melbourne Airport website. Changes or cancellations can be made up to two hours before your scheduled entry time. But if you’re within the two-hour window, you can get in touch with our friendly customer service team for assistance.