Flying can be a stressful experience. Between checking in, going through security, and finding your gate, there’s a lot to keep track of. The last thing you need is to spend ages waiting for an unreliable “on-demand” airport transfer, especially if you’re travelling with heavy luggage. You just want to get to your flight on time without rushing or worrying about your car.

This blog post is here to help. We’ll break down why on-site parking at Tullamarine Airport is worth it and help you find the closest parking options to your terminal.

Parking onsite at Melbourne Airport is the closest you can get to the terminals. Here's why this can make your journey even easier:

1. Quick Access to Airport Terminals

Parking on-site at Melbourne Airport means you can get to the terminals in just a few minutes. The closer your parking, the less time you spend walking with your bags or figuring out your way to check in. This reduces hassle, especially compared to off-site parking options that rely on "on-demand" shuttle bus services, which may not be available when you need them. On-site parking at Melbourne Airport offers a faster alternative.

2. Easier Navigation for Travellers with Luggage

When you've got lots of bags, even a few extra metres can feel like a marathon. Parking onsite can simplify your experience, making it easier to move luggage from your car to the terminal without hassle.

3. Comfort for Late Flights and Early Departures

Late-night arrivals and early-morning departures can be challenging. When you park close to the terminal, you reduce the time spent walking in the cold, dark, or early hours. This makes your trip more comfortable, whether you're catching an early flight or getting home after a long journey.

4. Avoid Delays, Especially When You’re Running Late

Running late for a flight is always stressful, but having a parking spot nearer to the terminal can be a lifesaver. Shuttle bus rides are much shorter, and some parking spaces are literally just a few minutes walk to check-in. It’s something you’ll really come to appreciate when every minute counts.

5. Flexibility for Tight Schedules

Business travellers often have tight schedules that leave no room for delays. By parking close to the terminal, you ensure you can get in and out quickly, which is essential for those meetings or tight layovers.

6. Ideal for Families Travelling with Kids

Travelling with children can be a challenge, and anything that makes the process easier is welcome. Closer parking means you can get your family and luggage into the terminal more easily. Shuttle bus rides are shorter. And if you park in our Premium Parking spaces, check-in is just a short walk away.

7. No Waiting or Delays When Returning Home

When you return from your trip, you want to get home as quickly as possible. If you park onsite, getting to your car from the arrival gates is much more straightforward. The Value Car Park is just a shuttle bus ride away, while the undercover spaces are within walking distance from the terminals. That means you can head home sooner and sleep in your own bed before the jet lag catches up.

8. Enjoy More Time at Home and Less on the Road

Parking closer to the terminal saves you precious time. Instead of spending it walking miles to your car or waiting for unreliable offsite transport, you can get home faster and spend more time doing the things you enjoy.

Aside from proximity, parking onsite at Melbourne Airport brings plenty of benefits that add ease and efficiency to your travel experience:

1. Parking Options That Fit Every Traveller’s Needs

Melbourne Airport's on-site parking includes a range of parking facilities that suit different preferences. If you like to park and go, self-parking is available at all terminals. We also offer Valet Parking services. Simply drop off your car, and our friendly staff will handle the parking for you.

For those who want a little extra comfort, Premium Car Parks provide undercover parking that keeps your vehicle safe from the elements and gives you easy access to the terminals.

2. Monitored Parking Spaces Minutes from Check-in

Keeping their car safe is a top concern for most travellers, and Melbourne Airport has addressed that with regular patrols throughout the on-site parking areas. Staffed facilities add an extra layer of safety, while undercover parking options protect your vehicle from harsh weather.

3. Short-Term and Long-Term Parking Options

Whether you need to park for a few hours or several days, Melbourne Airport car parks have both long-term and short-term parking options. Our hourly and daily rates make it easy to choose what suits your schedule best, so you're only paying for what you need. Short-term parking is ideal for quick pick-ups or drop-offs, while long-term parking is perfect for extended travel. We even have a Wait Zone, just off the Tullamarine Freeway where you can park free for an hour.

4. Friendly Staff and Customer Service Team at Your Service

On-site parking at Melbourne Airport also means you have access to a customer service team and friendly staff who can assist with bookings, shuttle bus services, and general on-site support. Having someone to help when things get a little confusing or when plans change can make a huge difference, especially during stressful travel days.

5. Easy QR Code Entry and Exit

Melbourne Airport car parks feature a modern QR code entry and exit system. This system offers easy access to the parking areas and ensures only authorised users can enter. You won't have to worry about tickets or handling cash; just scan your QR code at the gate, and you're good to go.

6. Online Booking Option

With on-site parking, you can also enjoy the convenience of online booking. This means you can book parking ahead of time without needing to worry about taking out your credit card on the day. Online parking rates are also often cheaper than drive-up rates. That means you not only have to worry about where to park when arriving at the airport, but you also get the best rates available. Plus, all online bookings come with grace periods for both before and after your booked hours, giving you more flexibility.

Melbourne Airport has several parking options, all within a short walk or a short bus ride away from the terminals. But choosing the nearest option often depends on which airline you're flying with. Qantas domestic flights leave from Terminal 1, Virgin Australia operates from Terminal 3, and Rex and Jetstar fly from Terminal 4. International flights, meanwhile, depart from Terminal 2.

Here's a quick guide to your onsite parking options and their proximity to the terminals.

1. Value Car Park

Our Value Car Park offers a budget-friendly option with convenient access. It's a little farther out, but there's a free shuttle service with stops at all terminals. The best part is this shuttle service runs every 15 minutes, 24/7. So you're never left without a ride, no matter how late your flight is. This makes it a great choice for those looking for an affordable parking solution without sacrificing accessibility.

2. Terminal Car Park

If you prefer to be right next to the terminal, the Terminal Car Park is a solid choice. It provides direct link bridge access to Terminals 1, 2, and 3 and is just 100 metres away from Terminal 4. Parking is also free for the first 15 minutes, making it perfect for quick pick-ups and drop-offs.

3. Premium Self-Park

Located on Level 1 of the Terminal 1, 2, and 3 Car Park, our Premium Car Parks are simply the best spots in the house. It offers self-park undercover parking spaces with easy access to all terminals. It's great for those who want a prime spot, with the convenience of being able to park their car themselves and head directly into the terminal without hassle.

4. Premium Valet Parking

Valet Parking services are available for those looking for an extra level of convenience. Simply drop your car off on Level 1 of the Terminal 1, 2, and 3 car park and let a professional take care of it. It's also near Terminal 4, making your journey to the check-in counter as easy as handing over your keys.

5. Qantas Valet Parking

Qantas Valet Parking is a premium option available for Qantas travellers. Located on Level 1l of the Terminal 1, 2, and 3 Car Parks, it provides convenient access with a dedicated check-in counter. Plus, you can opt for car cleaning and earn Frequent Flyer points just for parking. You don’t even need to book ahead—just drive up, hand over your keys, and our friendly staff will take care of the rest.

Parking closer to Melbourne Airport terminals means less walking, less waiting, and more convenience. It makes your entire travel experience smoother, whether you're departing for a holiday, a business meeting, or simply picking up loved ones. Don’t waste time with off-site shuttle buses or long treks to find your car—instead, choose on-site parking for a seamless parking experience.

Ready to make your trip easier? Book now and experience the convenience of Melbourne Airport’s on-site parking.