Ultimate Guide to Gatwick Airport Parking: Park & Ride vs Meet & Greet

blog image John Doe | 01/14/2026

Ultimate Guide to Gatwick Airport Parking: Park & Ride vs Meet & Greet

Traveling from Gatwick Airport can be stressful, but finding the right parking doesn’t have to be. Whether you’re heading off for business or leisure, choosing the best Gatwick parking option can save you both time and hassle. At CompareTheAirportParking.com, we’ve broken down all your options, from budget-friendly Park & Ride to premium Meet & Greet services, so you can make the right choice for your trip.

Gatwick Airport Parking Options

Gatwick offers a variety of parking options tailored to different traveler needs:

1. Park & Ride

  • How it works: You park your car in a secure off-site car park and take a shuttle bus to your terminal.

  • Benefits:

    • Convenient and safe for longer trips.

    • You usually keep your car keys.

    • Shuttle transfers run frequently, often 24/7.

  • Recommended for: Travelers looking for a reliable and cost-effective option with a short shuttle ride.

Popular Park & Ride services include Purple Parking, APH Park & Ride, and Cophall Parking.

2. Meet & Greet / Valet Parking

  • How it works: Drive directly to your terminal, hand your keys to a professional driver, and they park your car securely while you head to check-in. Your car is ready for you at the terminal when you return.

  • Benefits:

    • Ultimate convenience – no shuttle required.

    • Quick terminal access, ideal for families or travelers with lots of luggage.

  • Recommended for: Travelers who value speed and convenience over other factors.

Top Meet & Greet options include I Love Meet & Greet, Maple Manor, ACE Parking, and Purple Parking Meet & Greet.

3. Airport Hotel with Parking

  • How it works: Book a hotel near Gatwick and combine it with parking for the duration of your trip.

  • Benefits:

    • Ideal for early flights or late arrivals.

    • Provides both accommodation and parking in one convenient package.

  • Recommended for: Travelers seeking a stress-free start to their journey.

Gatwick Parking Tips

  • Book in advance: Pre-booking your parking ensures availability and smoother airport arrival.

  • Check transfer times: Park & Ride transfers usually take 10–15 minutes, while Meet & Greet is a short walk.

  • Consider electric vehicle charging: Some off-site car parks offer EV charging bays.

  • Disabled parking: Blue Badge holders can access designated bays, but pre-registration may be required.

Short Stay & Long Stay Parking

  • Short Stay: Close to terminals, ideal for picking up or dropping off passengers.

  • Long Stay: Suitable for travelers who don’t mind a short shuttle transfer to the terminal.

Compare & Choose the Best Gatwick Parking

At CompareTheAirportParking.com, we help you compare parking types to match your travel style:

Type Transfer Recommended For

Park & Ride                   

Shuttle bus                          Travelers seeking a practical, off-site solution

Meet & Greet

Walk to terminal Convenience, families, luggage-heavy travelers                   

Hotel + Parking

Short walk or shuttle Early flights or late arrivals

Conclusion

Gatwick Airport parking doesn’t have to be stressful. By understanding Park & Ride, Meet & Greet, and hotel parking options, you can choose the solution that fits your needs, schedule, and convenience preferences. Booking in advance ensures a smooth start and end to your journey.

Discover and compare Gatwick parking options today at CompareTheAirportParking.com and travel with peace of mind.