If you’re planning a family holiday this summer, chances are you’ve already braced yourself for the big expenses such as flights, accommodation and spending money.
But there’s one cost many families overlook, and it can quietly add nearly £200 to your trip before you’ve even reached the airport.
Airport parking is fast becoming one of the most expensive “hidden” extras.
The surprising part is that many families are paying far more than they need to, often out of habit rather than choice.
Here’s what’s really going on, and how to avoid overpaying.
Why families are overspending before take-off
According to research by Confused.com, for a typical four-day trip, short-stay airport parking can average around £93.90, with some prices climbing as high as £189. Even long-stay options sit at around £59.
Compare that to a return taxi, which holidaymakers say costs roughly £92 on average, and you can see the issue.
In some cases, families are paying almost double simply by defaulting to parking.
Despite this, only around a quarter of travellers actually compare the cost of parking with a taxi before booking. That means many are missing out on easy savings.
Why it matters where you fly from
Where you’re flying from matters too. In England, short-stay parking is significantly more expensive than elsewhere in the UK, with prices far higher than in Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland.
So depending on your airport, the difference can be substantial.
Even though cost is the biggest concern for most travellers, convenience often wins out.
Families tend to book what feels easiest, especially when juggling luggage, children and tight schedules.
6 simple ways to save money on airport travel
1. Always compare taxi vs parking
Don’t assume driving is cheaper. A return taxi can often undercut parking, especially for shorter trips. For families, this can mean savings of £50 to £100 or more.
2. Avoid short-stay parking where possible
Short-stay is designed for convenience, not value. If you’re going away for more than a day or two, it’s usually the most expensive option by far.
3. Book as early as you can
Like flights, parking prices rise closer to your travel date. Booking early can lock in much lower rates and avoid last-minute price spikes.
4. Look at long-stay or park-and-ride options
Long-stay parking averages around £59 and is often far better value. Park-and-ride services can be even cheaper, with a short shuttle transfer included.
5. Share the cost where you can
If you’re travelling with extended family or friends, splitting a taxi can bring the cost down significantly per person and remove the need to park altogether.
6. Use comparison tools before booking anything
This is where many families lose money. A quick comparison between taxis, parking and other options can highlight the cheapest route instantly and help you avoid overpaying.
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There’s also a common assumption that booking parking alongside flights guarantees the best deal. In reality, that’s not always the case.
Almost one in five people book transfers at the same time as their flight without checking alternatives, and more than a quarter say they were caught off guard by how expensive parking turned out to be.
The good news is that with a bit of planning, these costs are one of the easiest to cut.
Are you travelling soon? Let us know in the comments below.
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