The HolidayParking travel guide
Shuttle or valet?Start your trip relaxed.
Your bags are packed. Now for the airport parking. Whether you take a shuttle to the terminal or hand over your car there, both options can work well. The right choice depends on what matters to you.
Compare parking servicesThe difference is how you reach the terminal.
With shuttle parking, you drive to your booked airport car park and take a transfer to the airport. With valet parking, you drive to the agreed terminal meeting point. A member of staff takes your car to the booked car park. Valet describes a service, not where your car stays during your trip.
The key differences
Which arrival suits you?
| What matters | Shuttle | Valet |
|---|---|---|
| Where to drive | To your booked airport car park. | To the agreed terminal handover point. |
| Reaching the terminal | Shuttle transfer, with luggage moved between vehicles. | Walk to the terminal with your luggage after handover. |
| Car keys | Keep or hand over your keys, depending on the offer. | Hand over your keys so staff can drive your car. |
| Time to allow | Check-in, waiting, transfer and walking inside the terminal. | Arrival, coordination, handover and possible waiting. |
| Returning home | Shuttle collection at the agreed point, then back to your car. | Car returned at the agreed point after coordination. |
| Price | Check the total for your dates and all passengers. | Check the total including service and possible extras. |
Shuttle is not always cheaper, and valet is not always faster. Price and timing depend on the specific offer. Follow the instructions in your booking confirmation for either service.
How each parking service works.
Shuttle: arrive, transfer, take off.
Before leaving
Check the car park address, agreed arrival time and transfer instructions. Arrange child seats, oversized luggage or additional assistance according to the provider’s requirements.
At the car park
Check in with your provider and confirm the vehicle and key arrangements. Take your luggage on the shuttle to the specified terminal or stop.
After landing
Follow the collection instructions in your confirmation. Contact the provider at the specified stage and go to the agreed meeting point. The shuttle returns you to your car.
Valet: drive up, hand over, depart.
Before leaving
Check the terminal, meeting point and advance call requirements. Use the agreed address: an arbitrary stop outside the terminal is not a valet meeting point.
At handover
Give your car and keys to the booked provider. Record the vehicle’s condition and mileage together, and take your documents and valuables. Staff drive your car to the airport car park.
After landing
Arrange the return as described in your confirmation. Collect your car at the agreed meeting point, check it together and continue home.
What matters most on your way to the airport?
Keeping the total cost down.
Compare both services for the same dates. Check how many passengers are included and whether night service, oversized luggage or a larger vehicle costs extra.
Travelling with children or lots of luggage.
Valet avoids changing to a shuttle. Shuttle parking can also suit you if child seats and luggage arrangements are confirmed. For reduced mobility, check the exact process and accessibility before booking.
Keeping your car keys.
Valet requires you to hand over your keys. For shuttle parking, look specifically for an offer that lets you keep them. The word “shuttle” alone does not tell you the key policy.
Five details to check before booking.
- Times and meeting points
Do operating and transfer hours fit both flights? Which terminal is served? Also allow the time recommended by your airline and airport, including when using valet.
- Total cost and extras
Check passenger numbers, luggage, vehicle dimensions and possible surcharges. Compare the price for the entire parking period.
- Parking location and facilities
Cover, fencing and monitoring depend on the specific offer. The service type alone does not describe the facilities or security of the airport car park.
- Keys and vehicle handover
Read the key policy and vehicle inspection procedure. With valet, having a member of staff drive your car is part of the service.
- Changes and returning home
Check amendment and cancellation terms, as well as arrangements for delays or longer stays. Keep the provider’s phone number handy.
Common questions when choosing
Do I hand over my keys with shuttle parking?
It depends on the offer. Some providers need your keys, while others do not. Check the description of your chosen airport car park.
Does valet mean my car stays at the terminal?
Not necessarily. The handover usually happens at the terminal. The provider drives your car to the booked car park. Check the offer for the location and facilities.
Can I arrive later if I use valet?
Allow enough time for handover and possible waiting. Your airline and airport’s check-in, security and boarding requirements still apply.
What if my return flight is delayed?
Tell the provider as early as possible and coordinate collection or vehicle return. Any extra charges for a longer stay depend on your booking terms.
Your parking choice. A relaxed start.
Choose your airport and travel dates, then compare the available airport car parks and their services.