Overview
Whether you’re flying for a family holiday outside Australia or a short trip to Brisbane, travel always takes a bit of planning. But when you’re travelling with a baby? Let’s just say the checklist gets much longer! Between packing your carry-on bag, prepping for check-in, and making sure everything is within easy reach, there’s already plenty to think about.
This is where parking at Melbourne Airport makes things easier. With parking options just a short stroll from the terminals, you can unload at your own pace, keep your baby comfortable, and walk straight to check-in without extra steps. It’s the most convenient way to start your trip.
Best Parking Options at Melbourne Airport
Choosing the right car park can make travelling with a newborn much easier. Whether you need affordable parking for a long trip or the closest option for a smooth transition from car to check-in, Melbourne Airport offers a range of options to suit families:
- Value Car Park – For families heading off on an extended family holiday, the Value Car Park is a cost-effective choice. Located further from the terminals, it offers a free shuttle bus service running every 15 minutes, 24/7. Value Express is available during peak holiday periods, making it easier for you to unload the car and catch the bus to the terminals while we park your car for you. No need to look for a spot or remember where you parked!
- Terminal Car Park – If convenience is the priority, our Terminal Car Park is a great option. Just a few minutes’ walk to the terminals, no need for a shuttle. Most spots are undercover, and covered walkways will keep you sheltered from the elements, making the transition from car to check-in simple. Families travelling with a pram, carry-on bags, and a baby carrier will appreciate the short walking distance. Available in two locations:
- T1 T2 T3 Terminal Car Park (best for Qantas domestic flights from T1, International flights from T2, and Virgin Australia flights from T3).
- T4 Terminal Car Park (best for domestic Jetstar, Rex, and Link Airways flights from T4, and Virgin Australia flights from T3).
- Premium Self-Park – For those who prefer the closest possible self-parking option, Premium Self-Park offers the fastest access to the terminals. With two locations to choose from based on your terminal (Level 1 of the T1 T2 T3 Terminal Car Park and Level 1 of the T4 Terminal Car Park), Premium Self Park makes it easier for families to skip the queues and get to the terminal faster.
- Premium Valet – Premium Valet allows families to drop off their car and head straight to check-in while the valet team handles parking. Located at Level 1 of the T1 T2 T3 Car Park.
- Qantas Valet – Qantas Valet is ideal for families flying with Qantas. For those travelling with extra luggage or young children, this option eliminates the need to walk long distances from a car park to the check-in area. Plus, you can earn additional Frequent Flyer points just for parking! Optional services like car cleaning are also available. Located at Level 1 of the T1 T2 T3 Car Park.
For those picking up or dropping off passengers, dedicated zones are available near the terminals. This allows parents to take their time without needing to rush through busy kerbside pick-up zones.
Benefits of Airport Parking When Flying with a Baby
From smoother check-ins to an easier trip home after landing, parking at Melbourne Airport makes every part of your journey with your little one more convenient. Here’s how:
1. Park Close to the Terminal
When you’ve got a baby in tow, every extra step counts. Parking close to the terminal means less time juggling bags, prams, and baby essentials while navigating long walkways or waiting for a shuttle. Instead of wrestling with a car seat in a busy drop-off zone or rushing to unload before a rideshare metre ticks up, you can park, take your time getting everything organised, and stroll straight into check-in.
2. Quick Entry and Exit Without Delays
The last thing you need when travelling with a baby is unnecessary delays. Parking at Melbourne Airport means you can drive straight into the car park, find a spot, and start unloading. When it’s time to go back home, there’s no standing around with a pram and carry-on baggage—just pack up, hop in, and drive home.
3. No Need to Worry About Car Seats
Bringing your own car seat is a must when travelling with a baby, but dealing with it in taxis, rideshares, or shuttle buses? No thanks.
Parking at Melbourne Airport means your baby stays safely secured in their own seat right up until you arrive. No installing and uninstalling, no wondering if a rideshare has the right setup. And when you land, your car is right where you left it, ready for the ride home.
4. More Control Over Your Travel Schedule
Travelling with a baby means flexibility is everything. Parking at Melbourne Airport gives you the freedom to arrive on your own terms. If your baby needs extra time for a feed before security screening, you’re not rushing to keep up with someone else’s schedule. You can unload, organise your bags, and head inside when you’re ready.
5. More Space for Prams and Baby Gear
Travelling light isn’t an option when you’ve got a baby. Between nappies, baby food, baby milk, pacifiers, a change of clothes, and favourite toys, there’s a lot to pack. Parking at Melbourne Airport means you can load up your car with everything you need.
A pram or stroller, a baby carrier, and all the extras fit comfortably, so you’re fully prepared for the journey. Plus, luggage trolleys are available. And when you get back, no need to repack or leave anything behind—you just pop everything into your car and head home.
6. Getting Baby Ready Before Take-Off
Having your car nearby means you can take a moment to get your little one settled before heading inside. Once inside, Melbourne Airport has parenting rooms with comfortable spaces for breastfeeding and changing nappies. You can check the airport map online to quickly find the nearest parenting facilities and amenities.
7. Flexible Parking with Grace Periods
Travelling with a baby means plans can change in an instant. Melbourne Airport’s grace periods on parking booked online give you extra flexibility. Whether there’s an unexpected nappy change, a last-minute feed, or you just need a breather before unloading, you’re not racing against the clock.
8. Easier to Return to Your Car if Needed
Newborns have a way of keeping you on your toes, and sometimes, that means an unexpected trip back to the car. Whether you’ve left an essential item behind or need to swap out something from your carry-on luggage, parking at Melbourne Airport makes it simple. Return to your car, grab what you need, and be back on track in minutes.
Start and End Your Trip Smoothly
Airport parking at Melbourne Airport makes travelling with a baby easier. With parking close to the terminal, you can unload at your own pace, keep everything within reach, and head straight to check-in without extra steps.
A simple travel tip? Pre-book your parking online so you can compare options and access online rates. You can also subscribe to Melbourne Airport’s Parking Deals newsletter for updates on offers and parking options before your trip.