10 Best Airport Parking Hacks for Smart Travellers

If you’ve ever circled an airport car park at 4am with a suitcase, a toddler, and a rising panic, you’ll understand the importance of sorting your airport parking well in advance. At I Love Meet and Greet, we believe the start of your holiday or business trip should be as stress-free as possible—and that includes where you leave your car.

Here are our ten best airport parking hacks to save you time, money and hassle.

1. Book Early for the Best Prices

One of the simplest yet most effective hacks is booking your airport parking early. Like flights and hotels, prices fluctuate depending on demand. Booking weeks—or even months—ahead can save you up to 60% compared to on-the-day rates. Set a calendar reminder for when you book your flights and lock in that parking at the same time.

2. Book Direct for Better Prices and Peace of Mind

While comparison websites are useful for browsing, the best prices and most reliable service often come from booking directly with the operator. Not only can you access exclusive offers, but booking direct also gives you confidence that you’ve researched the company providing the service. You’ll know exactly who is handling your car and can check their credentials in advance—something third-party platforms don’t always make clear.

3. Know the Difference: Park and Ride vs Meet and Greet

Before you book, understand the two main types of airport parking. Park and Ride involves parking your car in an off-site facility and taking a shuttle bus to the terminal. It’s often cheaper, but adds extra time and faff—especially with luggage or children in tow.

Meet and Greet, on the other hand, is the ultimate in convenience. You drive straight to the terminal, hand your keys to a professional driver, and walk into Departures. When you return, your car is brought back to you, ready for a smooth getaway.

4. Choose Forecourt Meet and Greet for the Easiest Experience

Not all meet and greet services are created equal. Some operators ask you to meet at short-stay car parks, which can still involve a walk and lifts. At I Love Meet and Greet, we offer forecourt collection—meaning you drop your car right outside the terminal. It’s the quickest, most convenient way to park, ideal for families, business travellers, and anyone with mobility concerns.

5. Check for Discount Codes and Loyalty Schemes

Many parking providers offer promo codes and special deals throughout the year. Sign up to mailing lists or loyalty schemes, and follow your preferred operators on social media to stay updated. At I Love Meet and Greet, our returning customers enjoy exclusive discounts and seasonal offers—because loyalty should be rewarded.

6. Read the Reviews—and Check Independent Sources

Before you hand your keys over, make sure you’re dealing with a professional. Read customer reviews to get a sense of others’ experiences, but also take things a step further by consulting trusted third-party experts like Which? magazine, who independently assess and rate airport parking services. This extra step helps ensure you’re choosing a reputable, secure, and reliable provider.

7. Plan Your Route to the Airport

There’s nothing worse than a traffic jam ruining your perfectly timed check-in. Use apps like Google Maps or Waze to monitor traffic conditions on the day of travel and allow plenty of extra time for delays. If you're using meet and greet parking, notify your driver if you're running behind schedule—good operators will track your arrival and adjust accordingly.

8. Take a Photo of Your Car

For your own peace of mind, take a quick photo of your car before you hand it over. This helps avoid any disputes over damage and gives you a record of mileage. At I Love Meet and Greet, we photograph every vehicle upon handover and maintain a rigorous check-in/check-out process.

9. Pack Essentials in an Easy-to-Reach Bag

Whether you're using park and ride or meet and greet, avoid scrambling through your suitcase in the car park. Keep passports, boarding passes, phone chargers, and travel documents in a separate, easy-to-access bag. This is especially helpful when you're trying to herd a family or catch a business flight.

10. Know Your Airport’s Layout

Airports can be confusing, especially if you haven’t visited in a while. Make sure you know exactly where you’re heading—whether it’s the forecourt for meet and greet, a short-stay car park, or a shuttle bus pick-up point. I Love Meet and Greet provides clear instructions and maps before your travel day, ensuring a smooth and confident arrival.

Why Parking Smarter Matters

The right airport parking choice can set the tone for your entire trip. Save yourself the stress and uncertainty by planning ahead, booking with trusted professionals, and choosing a service that meets your needs. Forecourt meet and greet is not only the most convenient option—it’s often surprisingly affordable when you factor in time, fuel and stress savings.

At I Love Meet and Greet, our leadership team has been making travel easier for over 40 years. With professional staff, secure compounds, and forecourt access at major UK airports, we take care of your car so you can take care of your journey.