Avoid Airport Drop-Off Charges | Luton, Gatwick & Heathrow Travel Tips
How to Avoid Expensive Airport Drop-Off Charges
Smart travel tips for Luton, Gatwick & Heathrow passengers
Why Airport Drop-Off Charges Are Increasing
Most major UK airports now charge vehicles stopping at terminal forecourts. These drop-off fees are designed to reduce congestion and emissions, but for passengers being dropped off or picked up by family members, the cost can feel unnecessary.
Top tip: Using long-stay car parks and shuttle buses can help passengers avoid terminal drop-off charges entirely.
Current Airport Drop-Off Charges (2026)
- London Heathrow Airport: £7 per terminal drop-off
- London Gatwick Airport: £10 per terminal drop-off
- London Luton Airport: £7 per terminal drop-off
If passengers are dropped off and picked up by family members, avoiding these fees on both journeys can result in savings of approximately £15–£20 per trip.
How the Long-Stay Shuttle Option Works
Instead of stopping at the terminal, passengers are dropped off at the airport’s long-stay car park. From there, free shuttle buses transport passengers directly to the terminal.
- Shuttle buses operate frequently, often 24/7
- No terminal drop-off charge applies
- Cost-effective for family drop-offs and pick-ups
- Well signposted and easy to use
Typical Shuttle Times at Major London Airports
London Luton Airport (LLA)
Shuttle buses from long-stay car parks take around 10 minutes and typically run every 20 minutes. Including waiting and walking time, passengers should allow around 30 minutes.
London Gatwick Airport (LGW)
Gatwick shuttle buses operate every 10–12 minutes, 24/7. Journey times usually range between 5 and 20 minutes, depending on terminal and traffic.
London Heathrow Airport (LHR)
Heathrow’s park-and-ride shuttle services take around 15 minutes to reach Terminal 5, with buses running every 10–15 minutes.
Key Things to Plan For
- Waiting time: Shuttle frequency means short waits, but allow up to 20 minutes.
- Peak hours: Busy travel periods may slightly increase journey time.
- Total transfer time: Include walking, waiting, shuttle travel, and terminal entry.
Allowing an extra 20–30 minutes can help you avoid airport drop-off fees while keeping costs down.
Final Travel Tip
For passengers being dropped off or collected by family, long-stay shuttle services offer a smart, budget-friendly alternative to expensive terminal drop-off charges—especially at Luton, Gatwick, and Heathrow.
Ilford,
England, IG6 2LD.+44 203 950 8070
