Parking at Glasgow Airport: A Comprehensive Guide
Glasgow Airport is a key travel hub in Scotland, offering a variety of parking options to suit different needs. Whether you are looking for short-stay parking, long-stay options, or a more premium service, there are facilities designed to ensure your vehicle is safe while you travel. Below is a detailed guide on the various parking services available at Glasgow Airport, including tips on how to choose the best option for your trip.
Table of Contents
- Overview of Parking at Glasgow Airport
- Short-Stay Parking Options
- Long-Stay Parking Options
- Meet and Greet (Valet) Services
- Offsite Parking Options
- Parking for Disabled Travelers
- Electric Vehicle Charging Points
- Tips for Booking Parking at Glasgow Airport
- Frequently Asked Questions
1. Overview of Parking at Glasgow Airport
Glasgow Airport offers a range of parking facilities both on-site and off-site, catering to the diverse needs of passengers. Whether you’re planning a short trip or a long holiday, there are convenient parking options available. The airport’s official parking facilities are located within walking distance or a short shuttle ride from the terminal.
There are also various offsite parking providers offering competitive rates, which are ideal for those looking for budget-friendly alternatives. Booking your parking in advance is highly recommended, as this can help secure a space during peak travel times and often leads to lower rates.
2. Short-Stay Parking Options
Best for: Drop-offs, pick-ups, or short trips.
Location: Close to the terminal.
Short-stay parking is ideal for those who are at the airport for just a few hours or a day or two. It is located conveniently near the terminal, allowing easy access to departures and arrivals. If you’re picking someone up or dropping them off, the short-stay car park provides a quick and hassle-free option.
Features of Short-Stay Parking:
- Proximity to the terminal
- Charged by the hour
- Ideal for short visits or day trips
- CCTV and security patrols
Rates:
Prices can range from £5 for the first 20 minutes, with incremental increases depending on the length of stay. Hourly rates may vary, so it’s worth checking the airport’s official website for the most up-to-date pricing.
3. Long-Stay Parking Options
Best for: Extended trips (over three days).
Location: A short shuttle ride from the terminal.
For travelers who are going on a longer trip, the long-stay car parks are a cost-effective solution. These car parks are slightly further from the terminal, but a free shuttle service runs frequently, ensuring that you can easily access the airport.
Features of Long-Stay Parking:
- Free shuttle service to the terminal
- Secure, monitored car parks with CCTV and regular patrols
- Ideal for longer holidays or business trips
- Pre-booking available for lower rates
Rates:
Long-stay parking can offer excellent value, especially if booked in advance. Daily rates start around £15, but significant savings can be made by booking a week or more in advance, with weekly prices averaging around £50-£70.
4. Meet and Greet (Valet) Services
Best for: Convenience and luxury.
Location: Drop-off near the terminal.
Meet and greet services provide a premium parking experience for travelers who prefer maximum convenience. Upon arrival at the airport, you hand over your car to a valet who will park your car in a secure location. On your return, the valet will have your car waiting for you at the terminal, ready to drive away.
Features of Meet and Greet:
- Drop-off right at the terminal
- Valet service parks your car for you
- Secure parking with CCTV and 24/7 monitoring
- Time-saving, ideal for business travelers or families
Rates:
Meet and greet services typically cost more than standard long-stay parking, but the convenience is unparalleled. Prices start at around £50 for a single day, with discounts available for longer stays.
5. Offsite Parking Options
Best for: Budget-conscious travelers.
Location: Off-airport, with shuttle bus transfers.
Offsite parking providers offer some of the most affordable parking near Glasgow Airport. These car parks are located a short distance from the airport but offer shuttle services to and from the terminal. They are often a cheaper alternative to the official airport car parks, with similar security measures in place.
Features of Offsite Parking:
- Free shuttle transfers to the terminal
- Often cheaper than on-airport parking
- Secure parking facilities with CCTV and security patrols
- Available for both short and long stays
Rates:
Offsite parking can start as low as £30-£40 per week, making it an attractive option for travelers looking to save money. Be sure to book in advance to secure the best rates, as prices can rise during peak seasons.
6. Parking for Disabled Travelers
Best for: Travelers with reduced mobility.
Location: Close to the terminal, or with shuttle services from long-stay car parks.
Glasgow Airport offers parking facilities specifically designed for disabled passengers. These spaces are conveniently located close to the terminal, and additional assistance can be provided if arranged in advance. Blue Badge holders can use designated spaces in both the short-stay and long-stay car parks.
Features of Disabled Parking:
- Designated Blue Badge parking spaces
- Free parking in some cases (check terms and conditions)
- Assistance available upon request
- Shuttle buses are wheelchair accessible
Rates:
Rates for disabled parking are the same as those for standard parking, though Blue Badge holders can often benefit from discounts or even free parking for short periods. It’s best to check the airport’s website or contact customer services to clarify current policies.
7. Electric Vehicle Charging Points
Best for: Travelers with electric vehicles.
Location: Short-stay and long-stay car parks.
Electric vehicle (EV) owners can make use of charging points available at Glasgow Airport. EV charging stations are located in both short-stay and long-stay car parks, allowing you to leave your vehicle charging while you travel.
Features of EV Charging:
- Dedicated charging points for electric vehicles
- Charging available in both short-stay and long-stay car parks
- Charging fees apply (check the provider’s rate)
- Convenient for eco-conscious travelers
Rates:
The cost of charging will depend on the provider, but fees are generally competitive. Some parking providers may offer discounted or even free charging as part of their service, so it’s worth researching before booking.
8. Tips for Booking Parking at Glasgow Airport
Booking your parking in advance is key to securing the best deals and ensuring availability. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:
- Book Early: Prices for parking can increase as your departure date approaches, so booking early can save you a significant amount.
- Compare Options: While the airport’s official parking is convenient, offsite providers can offer better rates, especially for longer stays.
- Look for Deals: Many parking providers offer promotions and discounts throughout the year. Sign up for email alerts or use comparison websites to find the best deals.
- Consider Security: Always choose a parking option with strong security measures, such as CCTV, security patrols, and gated access.
- Check Cancellation Policies: In case your travel plans change, ensure that the parking provider offers flexible booking terms or cancellation policies.
9. Frequently Asked Questions
How far in advance should I book parking at Glasgow Airport?
It’s advisable to book parking as soon as you have confirmed your travel plans. Booking in advance often leads to better rates and ensures you have a spot during busy periods.
Can I turn up and park without booking?
Yes, you can turn up and park without pre-booking, but be aware that prices are usually higher, and availability may be limited, especially during peak travel times.
Is there free parking available at Glasgow Airport?
There is no long-term free parking, but you can park for free for up to 10 minutes in the designated drop-off area. After that, charges apply.
Are there height restrictions in the car parks?
Some car parks may have height restrictions for vehicles, particularly in the multi-storey short-stay car park. It’s important to check with the airport or parking provider in advance if you have a larger vehicle.
What if my flight is delayed? Will I be charged extra for parking?
Most parking providers have a grace period of an hour or two if your flight is delayed. After that, additional charges may apply. Always check the terms and conditions with your chosen parking provider.
Conclusion
Parking at Glasgow Airport is straightforward, with a range of options to suit different budgets and preferences. Whether you’re looking for short-stay convenience, long-stay affordability, or a premium meet and greet service, you’ll find a solution that meets your needs. By booking in advance and considering offsite options, you can make your trip to Glasgow Airport smooth and stress-free.