How Do I Pay for Short Stay Parking at Gatwick Airport? | A Complete 2026 Guide

blog image John Doe | 11/11/2025

 How Do I Pay for Short Stay Parking at Gatwick Airport? | A Complete 2026 Guide

If you’re flying out of London Gatwick Airport or picking someone up, the Short Stay Parking option is the most convenient way to park just minutes from the terminal. But one common question travellers ask is — how do I pay for Short Stay parking at Gatwick Airport?
Don’t worry — we’ve got you covered. Here’s everything you need to know about payment options, parking locations, pricing, and a few smart tips to save money on your next Gatwick visit.


 What Is Short Stay Parking at Gatwick Airport?

Gatwick Short Stay Parking is the airport’s most convenient on-site parking option — ideal for quick trips, business travel, or picking up passengers. You can park your car within a few minutes’ walk from either the North or South Terminal, unload your luggage, and walk straight into check-in.

Why travellers love Short Stay Parking:

  • ?? Keep your keys — park and go

  • ?? Fully covered and weather-protected walkway to the terminal

  • ?? 24/7 security and Park Mark accreditation

  • ?? Blue Badge spaces for accessible parking

  • ?? Just 4 minutes’ walk to the terminal

At Gatwick, you simply can’t park closer to your flight.

 How Do I Pay for Short Stay Parking at Gatwick Airport?

You can pay for Short Stay parking at Gatwick in several easy ways — whether you prefer to book ahead online or pay on the day. Here’s how:

1. Book Online in Advance (Recommended)

The easiest and cheapest way to pay is by booking online in advance through trusted comparison sites like comparetheairportparking.com.
By booking early, you can:

  • Lock in exclusive online discounts

  • Guarantee your parking space during busy travel periods

  • Skip payment queues at the airport

Simply select your entry and exit dates, choose your terminal, and confirm your booking. You’ll receive a confirmation email with full parking instructions.

2. Pay on Arrival

If you haven’t pre-booked, don’t worry — you can still pay at the barrier when you exit the car park. The barrier automatically reads your number plate as you enter. When you return, insert your ticket at the payment machine or exit barrier and pay using:

  • Debit or credit card (Visa, Mastercard, Amex)

  • Mobile payments (Apple Pay or Google Pay)

Cash payments are generally not accepted, so it’s best to have your card ready.

3. Corporate & myGatwick Members

Regular travellers and business passengers can also pay using corporate accounts or through myGatwick membership, which often includes parking perks and promotional offers.

Where Is Gatwick Short Stay Parking Located?

Short Stay car parks are clearly signposted at both terminals:

North Terminal: Car Parks 5 & 6 (RH6 0PJ)
South Terminal: Car Parks 1, 2 & 3 (RH6 0LL)

Once parked, follow the signs — you’ll reach the terminal in around four minutes via a covered walkway.

 Accessibility & Blue Badge Parking

Gatwick takes accessibility seriously. Each Short Stay car park includes Blue Badge bays, designed for same-level access to terminals.

  • North Terminal: 18 spaces (Car Parks 5 & 6)

  • South Terminal: 55 spaces (Car Parks 1–3)

You can also check detailed accessibility routes through AccessAble, the UK’s trusted provider of access guides.

 Is Short Stay Parking at Gatwick Safe?

Absolutely. Every Short Stay car park at Gatwick Airport is:

  • Barrier-controlled

  • Monitored 24/7 with CCTV and security patrols

  • Certified with the Park Mark Safer Parking Award

This means your car is always in safe, professional hands — giving you peace of mind while you travel.

 Short Stay Parking Prices at Gatwick Airport

Short Stay parking rates at Gatwick start from £7 for 30 minutes, perfect for quick pick-ups or drop-offs.

If you plan to park for more than a few hours or overnight, pre-booking online through comparetheairportparking.com can save you up to 40% off standard drive-up rates.

Booking ahead not only locks in a lower price but also ensures availability — especially during holidays and peak seasons.

Evening & Commuter Parking Options

If you’re planning a short evening trip or commute, Gatwick offers flexible parking deals within the Short Stay car parks:

  • Evening Special: Park between 5 PM and 2 AM for just £25 when booked online. Perfect for dinner in London or evening flights.

  • Commuter Parking: Ideal for regular travellers — park at Gatwick and take a quick train to London or Brighton.

Both options are located in the South Terminal Short Stay area.

Pro Tips to Save on Gatwick Short Stay Parking

Want to save money and time? Here’s how:

  1. Always pre-book via trusted sites like comparetheairportparking.com for instant savings.

  2. Use loyalty or discount programs like myGatwick or Blue Light Card.

  3. Check your vehicle height: some car parks have limits (1.8m–2.1m).

  4. Choose the right terminal — North and South have separate Short Stay entrances.

  5. Arrive early to avoid stress, especially during peak hours.

 Final Thoughts: Paying for Short Stay Parking at Gatwick Is Easier Than Ever

Whether you’re catching a flight, meeting family, or on a quick business trip, Gatwick Short Stay Parking offers unbeatable convenience right next to the terminal.
With simple payment options — from contactless cards to online pre-booking — you can park, pay, and be on your way in minutes.

Ready to find the best Gatwick parking deal today?
?? Visit comparetheairportparking.com and secure your Short Stay spot now for the lowest guaranteed price!