FAQs

The airport is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

To find out which terminal you need to check-in at, use our which terminal guide.

• Long-haul: check-in opens four hours before scheduled departures.
• European: check-in opens three hours before.
• UK and Ireland: check-in opens two hours before.

We advise that you arrive at least two hours before your flight to allow plenty of time. Find out more information about check-in.

Day before check-in is available for TUI, easyJet and British Airways passengers. Find out more information about day before check-in.

Ultimately this is down to your airline – however there are general rules:

For international travel - a valid passport is normally required. For some countries your passport will need to be valid for at least six months after your intended return and you may also need a visa.

Before travelling you should check your destination country's entry requirements and allow enough time to renew your passport and/or apply for a visa at the relevant embassy or consulate. It may also be worth carrying additional photographic ID separate from your passport.

For UK citizens – if your passport is lost or stolen you must report it to the UK Passport Service by calling 0871 875 6859. All travellers to the US wanting to travel on the visa waiver programme now need travel authorisation in advance, in addition to having a machine readable passport. Please complete the US Department of Homeland Security’s Electronic System for Travel Authorisation in advance online.

If you are travelling to Canada you need a valid ETA. These can be applied for easily online at www.Canada.ca/eta. The fee is CAD$7.00, and the ETA is valid for 5 years or whenever your passport expires. If you forget to do this prior to arriving at London Gatwick, you can apply online via your smartphone at the airport, or our staff at the Sky Break desks in both of our terminals can assist you.

There are two British Airways lounges in the South Terminal:

• British Airways Club Lounge
• British Airways First Lounge

Check the British Airways website for opening hours and eligibility.

Emirates have a lounge in the North Terminal where their flights operate from.

It is available to First Class and Business Class passengers, and if you’re an Emirates Skywards Platinum or Gold member.

See their website for opening times and more information.

at London Gatwick, along with invite-only lounges from airlines such as British Airways and Emirates, we also have a range of lounges available for anyone to book. You can book them on our website. Why not add a lounge to your car parking booking?

In the North Terminal, along with invite only lounges from airlines such as British Airways, we also have a range of lounges available for anyone to book. They are:

• The Gateway - click here to find out more and book
• No1 Lounge - click here to find out more and book
• Plaza Premium Lounge - click here to find out more and book
• Clubrooms - click here to find out more and book

In the South Terminal, along with invite only lounges from airlines such as Emirates, we also have a range of lounges available for anyone to book. They are:

• My Lounge - click here to find out more and book
• No1 Lounge - click here to find out more and book

All of this information can be found on our live flight departure screens which are all around both terminals and on our website. The screens are updated with the latest information by the airlines.

You should check with your airline or on your ticket for their on-board baggage rules. 

Please check with your specific airline as rules and regulations may vary.

Any liquid, gel, cream, paste, spray or aerosol are restricted items. This includes drinks, water, toiletries, perfumes, cosmetics as well as food items that contain high volumes of liquids, such as soups or yoghurts. It also applies to spreads, jams and preserves. See our security advice for more information about liquids.

There is no specific limit on how many containers you can carry through. If you do take liquids in your hand luggage containers must hold no more than 100ml. Due to new security screening technology, these no longer need to be placed in a clear plastic bag at London Gatwick. This means you may leave your liquids inside your cabin luggage when passing through security.

The container size is measured, regardless of how much liquid it contains. It must also state the capacity of the container.

If you’re travelling with children you can do the following:

• carry milk powder in your hand luggage (there are no limits for powder formula).
• carry ready-to-drink cartons of formula and self-prepared milk or sterilised water in your hand luggage.
• carry baby food in your hand luggage.
• take an additional item of hand luggage (even when travelling with a child who has no seat assigned to them).
• take buggies to the gate (although you will need to take your child out while it’s being x-rayed).
• take baby car seats through security for use on the plane.

We always recommend to check baggage restrictions with your airline to be sure.

You’re allowed to take essential medicines sufficient for your trip. There is no limit on the amount, but you will be asked to provide proof such as a doctor's letter or prescription. All medicines will be subject to additional security screening. See our security advice for more information about medicines.

Oversized liquids purchased as duty free or tax free must be in a clear sealed, tamper proof bag with the receipt inside of the bag. If in doubt, ensure that your duty free purchases are checked in to the hold of the aircraft.

Yes, you can take knitting needles or crochet hooks with you both in your hand baggage and hold luggage.

Find out more about items you can and can’t take through security.

If you have a pace maker or any other medical device that may be affected by walking through an archway metal detector, please advise our security officers prior to going through security. Make sure you have your medical card to state that you are wearing a sensitive medical device.

If you have a hip/joint replacement or any metal implants in your body, they are likely to set off the metal detector. If this happens, you will need to be searched by one of our security guards. There is no need to bring any proof of metal implants with you but letting our security guards know may be helpful.

By removing shoes, metallic jewellery, belts or any other removable items you greatly reduce the chance of activating our walk through metal detectors, therefore speeding up your journey through security. We advise that any high value items you remove are placed into your hand baggage to keep them safe and secure.

Yes, anyone can request a private search for either themselves or for their hand baggage if you have a valid reason, for example a condition that you may wish to be dealt with privately or if you’re carrying items that you do not wish to be searched in a public area. Just ask a member of staff and we will arrange this for you.

Any searches carried out in private are witnessed by an additional security officer and you are welcome to have a travelling companion be there with you too.

You have the right to refuse to go through our security scanners, however your reasoning will be questioned by a member of staff for security reasons. The alternative can be a body search carried out in a private search area. Find out more about our security scanners and how they work.

Once through security, there is no way to exit before getting on your flight. Please note, there is no facility to smoke once through security.

No, passengers do not need to remove liquids from their bags now that next generation security lanes have been successfully rolled out across London Gatwick.

Liquids still need to be in containers that hold no more than 100ml, but can be left in cabin luggage to be screened.

Please note that many airports around the world have not introduced this technology yet, so you are likely to still need to use plastic bags when returning from your destination.

If you need special assistance at the airport, please make sure you've booked it in advance through your airline. Once booked you will be met on your arrival by our dedicated team and assisted through the airport. More information for passengers with reduced mobility.

We have partnered with AccessAble, the UK’s leading accessibility information provider, to create detailed access guides for the airport. The guides cover the terminals, car parks, and train station to make your journey as easy and enjoyable as possible. The guides may also help you make decisions about the type of assistance you might require when you travel through London Gatwick.

Find our detailed access guides by clicking on the button below.

If you have a condition or disability and you feel that assistance from staff at London Gatwick would make your journey easier, then you should book assistance. From difficulties with mobility, to hidden disabilities like Alzheimer’s and ADHD, our staff are on hand to help you every step of the way.

Yes, if you have a disability or you experience mobility difficulties and need help to get to your flight, you should contact your airline at least 48 hours before you fly to let them know you need assistance. 

Our special assistance page will tell you more about all the available facilities and what to do if you have pre-booked assistance. 

If you arrive at the airport without booking special assistance, please head straight to one of our assistance desks and we will try to help as best we can, but we do give priority to passengers who have booked in advance. Find out more about booking assistance.

If you feel you don’t need assistance through the airport then that is entirely your choice. We do offer a special lanyard for our passengers with hidden disabilities or disabilities they do not want to share details of. This will identify you to staff as someone who may need additional support or understanding and our staff have been trained to recognise the lanyards and act accordingly. Find out more about how we can help you.

The Special Assistance desks and reception area opens at 04:00. If you arrive before that time, the desks will not be manned and you will have to wait until the service is open.

If you have booked special assistance and are unable to travel through the airport without a carer or companion, we will ensure that they can accompany you throughout the entire journey. If you are travelling in a larger group then it would be best to nominate one person to stay with you. Companions may be asked to vacate our mobility equipment should it be required for special assistance passengers. 

Yes. To get assistance at the airport you need to book through your airline, so they will be aware of your needs. Your assistance will continue for as long as you need it on your journey.

Most public transport operators have arrangements for passengers with special needs and information about these services can be found on our train and coach/bus pages. There are blue badge spaces and extra help on hand in our airport car parks if you’re arriving at the airport by car.

Please note Blue Badge parking spaces are subject to availability on a first-come-first-served basis.

Assistance dogs are the only dogs allowed into the terminal buildings except for those animals travelling on flights.

It is important that you make sure your airline is aware that you are travelling with your assistance dog at least 48 hours before you travel so that you are given help at London Gatwick. When you arrive at the airport please go to our special assistance reception desk where staff will be happy to help you. 

Any dogs travelling out of the UK must be fully vaccinated and micro-chipped and need to be registered with the European Pets Travel Scheme (PETS) and importation rules of other countries outside the EU. 

• More advice about the Pets Travel Scheme and flying with your assistance dog 
• Find our more or register for the PETS scheme

If your assistance dog needs a "Service Animal Spend Area" then please speak to a member of our Special Assistance team. 

Departing from London Gatwick

If you are flying from London Gatwick with your own equipment you can take it right up to the departure gate. Please make sure your airline knows in advance that you'll be travelling with your own equipment.

Once you're through security, please go immediately to the assistance desk located in the departure lounge.

Depending on which gate your flight departs from, it may be necessary for our assistance team to escort you to the aircraft via an alternative route.

If you are travelling with an electric wheelchair or mobility scooter staff will meet you at the departure gate to help you make sure your scooter is safely turned off for the flight or your wheelchair folded. It helps us keep delays to a minimum if you know how your device works in advance. 

Arriving at London Gatwick

When you arrive at London Gatwick, your wheelchair or mobility aid should be there as you disembark the aircraft.

Don't forget to advise your airline that you have your own equipment so that ground staff can get it back to you more quickly.

Staff will unload your wheelchair or scooter from the hold along with the other baggage and cargo that's carried in the hold. Once this has been unloaded it will be brought up to the aircraft door via the nearest lift.

In the unlikely event that your mobility aid is lost or damaged during flight, then please report this immediately to the airline. You will need to complete a report in the baggage reclaim hall and you will get a reference number. London Gatwick will lend you a wheelchair until yours is returned or repaired. 

We try to engage with a number of organisations working with hidden disabilities, such as the National Autism Society, RNIB, Mencap and Alzheimer’s Society.

Our Passenger Advisory Group (PAG) forms part of the formal Gatwick Airport Consultative Committee (GATCOM*) and takes a keen interest in the comfort, care, safety and security of passengers using the airport. They make recommendations to London Gatwick for improvements in these areas, as well as reviewing feedback from our passengers. PAG is made up of a cross section of both regular and occasional air travellers, and they all bring some knowledge of the airport and a genuine interest in the way our services and facilities interface with passengers. 

As part of their role PAG members monitor services and facilities at the airport and actively work with London Gatwick to improve the passenger experience. Members are also encouraged to work independently with the airport to build relationships with key managers and project leaders. PAG also has a sub-group with a particular interest in our assisted services.  

Members visit the airport several times a year, monitoring and assessing facilities in order to make recommendations. These visits include formal quarterly meetings with London Gatwick. 

* The Gatwick Airport Consultative Committee (GATCOM) is constituted to meet the requirements of Section 35 of the Civil Aviation Act 1982 for an airport “to provide adequate facilities for consultation with respect to any matter concerning the management or administration of the airport which affects the interests of users of the airport, local authorities and any other organisation representing the interests of persons concerned with the locality in which the airport is situated.

Have a look at our service level agreement on the Spcial Assistance page here for what you should expect from us as a passenger with reduced mobility or a disability while you are at the airport.  

We publish performance against these service standards every six months. You can view all our performance reports on our reporting page and the bi-annual reports which include PRM data are clearly marked. 

We welcome all feedback to improve the services we offer. To say thank you or to make a complaint, please complete our online feedback form and we will look into any issue you may have raised.

Most questions you may have can answered using our FAQs or on the Special Assistance page, but if not, or if you have a special requirement please also use the online feedback form.

You can smoke outside the terminal buildings in the designated zones which are clearly marked.

There’s no smoking once you’ve passed through security and there are no smoking facilities for passengers connecting from an international to international flight. However, at South Terminal, the My Lounge airport lounge features an outdoor terrace where passengers can smoke if they wish.

E-cigarettes have the same restrictions and can only be used in the designated areas outside the terminal buildings.

You can book a lounge at the airport to get some work done or have a meeting.

We also have free Wi-fi available throughout the airport.

For those wanting to save time and get through security as quickly as possible, you can book Fast Track Security for a speedy transition into the departure lounge.

We have chapel and prayer rooms open to people of all faiths.

Gatwick has water fountains available after security in both terminals and all the restaurants and bars will fill bottles for free.

North Terminal – There are two fountains on the right-hand side of the entrance to the World Duty Free store, after security. There are also water fountains near the toilets on the lower level by WH Smith and on the upper level by Wagamama’s.

South Terminal – There's a fountain on the upper level next to the Grain Store and the toilets. There is another on the lower lever, next to Harrods, at the entrance to the toilets.

There are also water fountains in the Immigration halls outside the toilets before going through Passport control.

We have a selection of hotels at the airport, perfect for an overnight stay before or after your flight. See more information about our hotels and to book a stay.

Find out more about the lounges we have to offer and book online. 

We have a free shuttle that will take you to and from both terminals with a journey time of around three minutes. There are signs in both terminals directing you to the shuttle.

The train station in the South Terminal. So as soon as you get off the platform just follow the signs to your check-in area. If your flight is departing from the North Terminal you just need to hop our free shuttle service which is just on your right as you come out of the train station.

If you have lost items within the airport itself, let the lost property office know by completing a form.

If you have lost your baggage, or items while on an aircraft or airline bus, contact your airline directly.

We have a service centre desk in each terminal; in the South terminal opposite zones J to K and in the North terminal atrium opposite zone D.

Only assistance dogs or dogs travelling on flights are allowed in our terminals.

There are cafés, restaurants and places to get takeaway food in both terminals before Security. See all our restaurants.

Browse our shopping directory to see all our shops.

Please visit the HM Revenue and Customs website for full details of allowances and when tax and duty are payable.

South Terminal

You can pre-order baby milk from Boots to pick up at their store after security in the departure lounge. See more here. You can also buy milk there without pre-ordering, as well as other products such as baby food.

North Terminal

You can buy baby milk at Well Pharmacy, which sits within the large WH Smiths store at the far left end of the departure lounge after security. They do not currently offer a pre-order service however. They also stock various other items such as baby food.

Free Gatwick Wi-Fi cannot be accessed until you arrive at the airport. When you arrive, please follow the steps below to connect:

1. Choose 'Free Gatwick Wi-Fi' from the available wireless networks.
2. A pop-up screen will appear with a sign-up form. Follow the instructions.
3. Click the button to get online.
4. If you would like to access exclusive offers and discounts through myGatwick, simply add your name and a password to create an account.

All found documents are returned to the British Passport Office or your embassy. Any enquires about lost or stolen British passports can be made to the Passport Office: 0300 222 0000. For all other documents contact your embassy.

Certain countries will need a visa to enter the UK. Please contact the UK embassy in the country that you are located for further information, or check online.

Anyone that’s over 12 years old and has a chipped passport from a supported country can use the e-passport gates. Find out more about e-passport gates, which nationalities can use them and going through passport control.

It depends where you’re arriving from and departing to, whether your hold bags are checked through to your final destination and if you have your boarding card. It’s all explained here.

If you are travelling with a young baby or have a disability please speak to a member of staff and they will be happy to show you to an appropriate lane.

There's certainly a quicker way to the border with our Fast Track Passport Control service. Find out more and book here.

Find out more about which coaches and local buses operate services to and from London Gatwick here.

Most operate from the lower South Terminal forecourt, although some also stop at the North Terminal on the lower level outside International Arrivals.

There are National Express ticket desks in both terminals, or you can book in advance online.

Find out more about coaches and buses at London Gatwick.

London Gatwick is 28 miles (45km) south of London, linked directly to the M23 at Junction 9 and to the A23 London-Brighton road. The M25 is just a ten-minute drive away with connections to the UK's national road and motorway network. 

You can use our journey planner to get directions to and from London Gatwick.

If you’re using a satnav, our postcodes are:

South Terminal: RH6 0NP

North Terminal: RH6 0PJ

If you have booked parking at the airport, please refer to the location details on your booking confirmation email as the entrance of your car park may have a slightly different postcode.

We have 24-hour filling stations at both our North and South Terminals.

We have a selection of car hire companies at London Gatwick. Find out more and book.

If you’re picking someone up, you will need to park in one of our car parks. Find out more about picking up.

GRIDSERVE Electric Forecourt®

London Gatwick has become the first international airport to open an Electric Forecourt®, a dedicated electric vehicle (EV) charging station.

The site has 30 high-power and low-power electric vehicle chargers available via contactless payment - alongside high-speed Wi-Fi, a lounge area, Costa Coffee and Little Fresh convenience store. All charging bays are powered by 100% net zero energy, with the fastest chargers capable of adding up to 100 miles of range in 10 minutes.

The Electric Forecourt® is located on the Ring Road South approach to London Gatwick’s South Terminal. The building is open every day from 4:30am to 10:00pm, with chargers available 24/7 year-round.

Charging whilst away

For those who wish to charge their car while away on your travels, there are eight 22kW charging points in our North and South Terminal Short Stay car parks. In the North Terminal, you can find them in Car Park 5, Level 3 and Car Park 3, Level 1 in the South Terminal.

EV charging can also be booked for a small fee when you book our Valet Parking at either terminal. We can provide a two hour charge duration on our Type 2 (22kW) fast chargers, delivering up to 44kWh.

We have dedicated drop-off zones outside each terminal. These are charged at a minimum of £6. Find out more about dropping off.

Our taxi partner, Airport Cars Gatwick, have kiosks in both our terminals. You can also book a taxi online.

Yes. The train station is located at the South Terminal and is also just a few minutes from the North Terminal by a free shuttle.

There are fast and frequent trains between London Gatwick and central London, as well as many other destinations across the UK. Find out more about our rail links.

You can buy tickets at the station or at the rail information desks located in arrivals at both terminals. You can also buy tickets in advance online - see here for more details.

Yes, you can use either Oyster or contactless payment cards at London Gatwick to travel to or from central London.

Contact your onward airline to discuss your options. Your Service Centre – operated by Skybreak, which is located in South Terminal Check In Zone J or on level 2 in North Terminal may be able to help with alternative travel arrangements. They offer re-protection services for missed connections on behalf of the following airlines; TAP, Qatar Airways, Norwegian, Swiss and Air Europa. For other airline carriers, they will be able to provide alternative travel arrangements.

Once you land at London Gatwick, collect your bags from Baggage Reclaim and proceed through customs.

Once you’ve exited the baggage reclaim hall, you can just hop on the shuttle between the terminals; it’s free and takes just two minutes.

We have lots of different parking options to suit all budgets and families right here at the airport. Try our parking option tool which will help you decide which is best for you. 

You can carry enough baby milk or baby food for your journey in your hand luggage, but you should pack the rest in your checked-in baggage. Find out more about what you can and can’t take through security.

There are no restrictions on taking baby formula in powder form through security.

We’ve created special assistance and family lanes in security for departing families. Simply follow the signs for the assistance and family lanes after you've checked in.

You can warm baby bottles in Pret a Manger in both South and North Terminals.

There is a child friendly play area after security in the North Terminal, on the lower level at the far left end of the departure lounge opposite WHSmith.

We do not have pushchairs available to use. If you’re departing, you can take your pushchair to your gate before your flight. When arriving, your pushchair will be returned in the baggage hall with the rest of your luggage.

Yes, these are located in both terminals before and after security. 

To find out which terminal your airline operates from, use our which terminal guide before you travel.

Please refer to our live flights page to view arrival times.

Please refer to our live flights page to view departure times.

Visit our live flights page to find your flight, and click the 'Email Alerts' switch to receive updates.

Alternatively, you can use our London Gatwick chatbot, GAIL, who is ready to answer any questions you may have on flight information. Simply click here to open the assistant in Facebook Messenger.

You should contact your airline – see our which terminal page to find your airline and click on it to visit their website and find contact details.

Mostly flights and trips go smoothly, however there are occasions when something may not go to plan, for example, your flight is substantially delayed or cancelled or your bags do not arrive at your destination with you. For any of these issues, in the first instance, please contact your airline directly. To find out more information about your rights as a passenger if you are departing from or arriving at any EU airport on a flight operated by an EU airline, then your please visit the CAA website where all your rights are explained in detail.

Visit our book a flight page to search for flights and prices. Alternatively you can contact your airline directly If you're already at the airport and are looking for on-the-day fares and booking services, Your Service Centre, operated by SkyBreak, can help. You will find their desk located in the check in zones in North and South Terminal.

Luggage trolleys are available all around both terminal buildings.

They are operated using a coin deposit system. You will need a £1 or €1, which is refunded when the trolley is returned.

For health and safety reasons, children or adults must not ride on the trolleys.

If you are a Blue Badge holder being dropped off at the airport by friends or by taxi you are exempt from drop-off charges, as long as you register your number plate in advance.

The Blue badge exemption is valid for a 30 minute free drop off session, up to three hours of your chosen start time. You are not permitted to leave your vehicle unattended on the Drop-Off Terminal Forecourts.

You can register anytime from three months before your flight up to the day before you travel, each time you fly. The vehicle owner can also register their number plate on behalf of the Blue Badge holder being dropped off, as long as they can provide evidence of a Blue Badge.

An exemption can be applied for by creating an online account and providing the information below.

• Passengers name/s
• Date of flight(s)
• Vehicle number plate
• A photo or scan of the Blue Badge

Your account can be used to register and view your exemptions for upcoming visits to the airport, you must apply for each exemption in advance through your account.

Confirmation of a successful application will be sent by email. Please check the number plate details on the confirmation email carefully and contact NCP if any changes are made to the number plate being used before travelling to the airport.

If you are arriving by taxi you can register for an exemption using the taxi number plate. You can request this from the taxi company in advance and use the confirmation email to show your taxi driver that you are exempt. You must register the taxi details in advance to be exempt from the drop-off charge.

If the vehicle is registered to an Autopay account, please ensure this is disabled when utilising a Blue Badge drop-off exemption, in order to avoid charges being debited automatically.

An exemption must be applied for before the date of travel to allow adequate time for it to be processed. Applications on or after the date of travel may not be accepted.

We recommend that all passengers use the Short Stay car parks for picking up as this tends to take longer than dropping off. Please note that normal charges apply in the car parks.

Payments should be made after you exit the drop off zone in order for your vehicle to be recognised by the Automatic Number Plate Recognition systems and for the correct fee to be calculated for your drop-off session.

Auto Pay accounts should be set up before you enter the drop off zone in order for your account to be debited.

Yes, you can create an AutoPay account where you can register your vehicle details and add a payment card which is automatically debited after each use of the drop off zone. This works similar to the 'Dart Charge' system for the Dartford Crossing.

Local commuters are NOT exempt from the drop off charge at London Gatwick, however, the Local Commuter Scheme can provide access to London Gatwick station for people living close to the airport who regularly use the station to commute. The scheme is open to residents living within the specified postcode sectors below, which have limited or no other public transport options nearby:

• RH6 0
• RH6 9
• RH11 0

The scheme has a £50 annual membership fee per household to cover administration costs and provides access for two free visits per day to the South Terminal drop off zone. Each household may register two vehicles.

Residents eligible for the scheme can apply for their permit by providing the details below:

• Name
• Address
• Vehicle registration details (up to two per household)
• Evidence of eligibility (recent utility bill/car insurance certificate)

Our operations partner, NCP, will review each application and, if approved, will be in contact to arrange for payment.

As circumstances can change, there is provision for vehicle details to be updated twice a year by amending the account details. Members will be contacted to renew membership the following year.

Anyone who does not wish to pay the forecourt charge will be able to drop off or pick up passengers in the airport’s long-stay car parks with two hours free parking and a free shuttle bus to the terminals. Follow the signs for 'North Terminal long stay' or 'South Terminal long stay', depending on which terminal your passenger is flying from.

Take a ticket at the barrier, park your car in a bay in an open zone and catch the free shuttle bus to the terminal. Once you’ve picked your passenger up and are ready to leave, simply scan the ticket on exit for free parking for up to two hours.

To maintain visitor safety, red routes will be in operation around the airport site. If you see areas designated as red routes, please be aware that you are not allowed to stop, unload, wait or park. If you are dropping off passengers, please use the drop off zones or the free option in our long stay car parks.

Red routes are clearly marked around the airport roads with signage and double red line road markings. London Gatwick operates a vehicle monitoring and enforcement operation. Any vehicle seen contravening the Red Route restrictions will face an enforcement charge of £100 (reduced to £60 if paid within 14 days).

Payment must be made by midnight the day after the visit to the drop off zone. To pay the charge and avoid a fine, click here.

Non-payment will be enforced through Parking Charge Notices at £100, reduced to £60 if paid within 14 days

Taxis will be able to add the drop-off charge to the taxi fare as many already do when picking passengers up from the short stay car parks. 

Local commuters living within a limited number of postcode sectors close to the airport (RH6 0, RH6 9, RH11 0) with limited access to public transport can apply for a permit which covers two visits per day to use the train station by paying an annual £50 charge. The scheme is now open to applicants.

If you do not live within those postcode areas, you will need to pay the drop off charge each time you are dropped off at the airport to use the train station.

Anyone who holds an ID to work at the airport can apply for an exemption from the drop off charges. To apply, complete the Forecourt Access Request form and submit this to your authorised signatory.

All pickups should take place in the short stay car parks as it often takes more time to collect passengers. Alternatively you can park for free in our long stay car park for up to two hours, using our free shuttle bus to the Terminal. You can use this for drop offs too.

The North Terminal forecourt drop off area is on the lower level between the Sofitel and the multi-storey car park and is signposted from the approach roads.

The South Terminal drop off area is located on the lower level and is signposted from the approach roads.

To query your drop off charge or for any other payment issues please contact NCP here or call 0345 050 7080 (select option 4)

We have now added What Three Words to our parking product pages to help you to easily find the entrance to the car park you have booked at London Gatwick on the day of your arrival.

What Three Words is a free location-mapping tool that has assigned a unique three word tag to every three metre square in the world, including the entrances to each of London Gatwick's car parks. These tags will direct you to the exact location of where to enter our car parks.

You can find the links on each of our car park product pages (Short Stay, Long Stay etc) under the Directions section. Just click through to the What Three Words page to view on a map, and select your preferred navigation provider (Google Maps, Waze etc), or download the free What Three Words app and enter the three word tag to start navigating.

For more info on What Three Words, click here.

If you choose our Valet Parking option, your car will be moved to a secure on-site storage facility whilst you are away and will be ready waiting for you upon your return.

If parking in our Long Stay, Short Stay or Mid Stay car parks, you’ll keep your keys with you whilst you're away so your car will not be moved.

In the Short Stay, Mid Stay and Long Stay car parks, the spaces are 2.4 x 4.8 metres wide and in Premium Short Stay, they are extra wide bays.

You can change your car park booking up to 24 hours before your time of arrival. Visit Manage my Booking with your booking reference and email address, to make changes to your contact details, car registration details and car park up to 24 hours before your scheduled entry time. You can also cancel your booking up to 24 hours before your time of arrival.

When you have logged in, follow these steps:

1. Click 'Order history'.
2. Click 'View/Edit details'.
3. Click 'Amend order' at the bottom of the page.
4. Click 'Edit parking details' and follow the process on screen to amend your order.

To amend your car registration, select 'Amend Registration' after step 2 and follow the process on screen.

Remember, you can only view and amend your booking via our official website.

London Gatwick's parking site uses industry standard SSL encryption. This protects your personal information, including credit/debit card details, your name and your address.

There are designated bays for motorcycles in our Short Stay car parks.

You can access the car park up to two hours before the time listed on your order confirmation.

However, our car park prices apply to 24-hour periods, which means that if your earlier arrival time to the car park runs into a new 24-hour period, you will have to pay for an extra day charged at our standard overstay prices.

The fees are applied per day you are earlier than your original booking. Fees for each product are:

• Short Stay Parking: £50.00 each day
• Premium Short Stay Parking: £60.00 each day
• Mid Stay Parking: £60.00 each day
• Premium Mid Stay Parking: £80.00 each day
• Long Stay Parking: £15.00 each day
• Gatwick Holiday Parking: £15.00 each day
• Valet Parking: £30.00 each day

You may be able to book a parking space the day before you need it, although we cannot guarantee this. If you are booking for 24 hours or more we advise booking in advance to guarantee a space, particularly during peak seasons. All online prices, unless stated otherwise, are for a minimum of 24 hours.

We're afraid we cannot offer a refund on bookings that aren’t used due to a vehicle breakdown. If this does happen, please contact our customer service team on 0330 333 9268 who will be able to assist you.

You can cancel or change your car park booking up to 24 hours before your time of arrival. Visit Manage my Booking with your booking reference and email address to cancel your booking, make changes to your contact or car registration details and car park up to 24 hours before your scheduled entry time.

When you have logged in, follow these steps:

1. Click 'Order history'.
2. Click 'View/edit details'.
3. Click 'Cancel order' at the bottom of the page.

You can amend the details of the car attached to your booking up to 24 hours before you’re due to arrive at the airport.

Simply log in to Manage my Booking then follow these steps:

1. Click 'Order history'
2. Click 'View/edit details'
3. Click ‘Amend registration’ and follow the instructions to change your car registration details. Click 'Confirm changes' to finish.

If you need to make any changes within 24 hours of your arrival time, please speak to a member of the team at the customer service desk or press the intercom button on the barriers on your arrival.

Remember, you can only view and amend your booking via our official website.

Short Stay parking

There are eight 22kW charging points in our North and South Terminal Short Stay car parks.

In the North Terminal, you can find them in Car Park 5, Level 3 and Car Park 3, Level 1 in the South Terminal.

You can get live availability from POD Point Open Charge, but no pre-booking is necessary as they operate on a first-come first-serve basis. Once you arrive at the charging point, you will need to follow the below steps:

1. Download the POD Point Open Charge app and register for a free account - it only takes a few seconds
2. Roll up, take your parking ticket and plug your vehicle in to one of the charging points. These are located in Car Park 3, Level 1 in the South Terminal and Car Park 5, Level 3 in the North Terminal
3. Use the Open Charge app to find the correct charging point and confirm your charge within 15 minutes of having plugged your car in

Valet Parking

EV charging can be booked for a small fee when you book our Valet Parking at either terminal. We can provide a two hour charge duration on our Type 2 (22kW) fast chargers, delivering up to 44kWh.This must be pre-booked when you book your parking.

All of our car parks are fully compliant with the Equality Act 2010. However, if you need an extra helping hand, special assistance phones can be found within our Short Stay and Mid Stay car parks, as well as close to the Long Stay shuttle bus stop at the terminal.

More information can be found on our special assistance page.

Please note Blue Badge parking spaces are subject to availability on a first-come-first-served basis.

If you are parking in either our Short Stay or Long Stay car parks, you will be able to keep your keys with you whilst you are away. If you choose our Valet Parking option, your car will be moved to a secure storage facility on the airport campus whilst you are away, so you will leave your keys with us.

The cost of our car parks are the same whether you are booking them online or over the phone, however there is a £5.00 surcharge when booking via our call centre.

Our Short Stay South car park has a height restriction of 2m. In the North Terminal, Short Stay Car Park 5 has a height restriction of 1.8m, whilst Car Park 6 and Mid Stay Car Park 7 can accommodate vehicles up to 2.1m. 

In the South Terminal, the high sided vehicle area is located after the entrances to the Short Stay car parks, on the left-hand side.

In the North, there is no high-sided vehicle parking in our Short Stay car parks. Instead, we advise you use the Long Stay car park, or park in the South Terminal and take the free shuttle over to the North.

If you’re a Blue Badge holder and are parking in the Premium Short Stay parking area for less than four hours, you’ll be charged the standard Short Stay rate.

When you’re at the entry barriers, press the ‘Assistance’ button. On your way out, press the intercom again to be let out of the Premium area, then pay the usual Short Stay price at the ticket booth.

If you’re planning to leave your car for more than four hours, the Premium Parking rate will be applied for the whole parking period.

We do not offer any other discounts for Blue Badge holders; however, all car parks contain Blue Badge bays that are well located for easy access to the airport.

Please see our full list of prices .

Our Summer Special parking option is the most cost-effective option for those traveling for five days or more during the summer period.

Explore our range of affordable London Gatwick parking options to find the right parking to suit your travel needs.

You can request to be resent your email confirmation by logging in to manage my order.

Once you’ve completed the booking process, you’ll receive a confirmation email with an order number starting with DW and ending with the first three letters of your first name. Don’t forget to make a note of this number before you leave for the airport.

If you don't receive an email confirmation, please get in touch with us via our online feedback form if you have not received an e-mail within 24 hours of your scheduled arrival date.

All of our Short Stay car parks have pay-on-foot machines dotted throughout them which accept cash and card payments. Payment at other car parks can be made at the exit barriers. Our Mid Stay car park in the North Terminal is pre-book only.

All of our car parks have automatic number plate recognition (ANPR) in place. Simply pull up to the entry or exit barrier and wait a few seconds for the system to recognise your number plate. It will be scanned and once recognised, the barrier will lift.

Upon arrival, if your registration is not recognised after 15 seconds, press the button for a ticket and the barrier will rise. You’ll then have to get your booking validated at the customer service office, which can be found at the car park exit.

Our Mid Stay car park has ANPR in place but is barrierless.

Your airline will advise you on how early you should arrive at the airport. Please remember however to allow enough time to comfortably park your car and make your way from the car park to the terminal, particularly if you are parking in the Long Stay car park - the bus transfer takes 20 minutes from the North Terminal car park and around 10 minutes from the South Terminal.

You can book parking at London Gatwick up to a year in advance of your travel date. We recommend booking in advance to enjoy the best prices.

Our car parks are open 24 hours a day, 365 days of the year.

There is no minimum or maximum length of stay in our Short Stay car parks.

If you are picking someone up from the airport, than you can park in the North or South Terminal Short Stay car park for up to 30 minutes for £5. Parking for a full day in our Short Stay car parks without pre-booking first will cost £45. If you wish to park any longer than this, we recommend pre-booking your Short Stay parking as far in advance as possible in order to enjoy the best rates.

Our free shuttle buses operate a 24-hour service between the Long Stay car park and the terminal building, 365 days a year. It takes between 5 to 10 minutes to reach the South Terminal and 10 to 20 minutes to reach the North Terminal.

The buses run regularly – approximately every 12 minutes. During peak periods, buses may be busy, which means you may have to wait for the next one, so please factor in this time when planning your arrival time.

The cost of parking at London Gatwick varies by car park and your date of travel.

We recommend booking as early as possible, as this often results in a reduced price and protects you from future fluctuations. Additionally, you can relax, knowing there is a space reserved for you.

If you haven't pre-booked, you can view the roll-up prices for each car park here.

London Gatwick car parking prices change daily, similar to the way airlines price their tickets.

We always recommend booking your parking at the time you see a satisfactory price, as there is no guarantee this will be the same the following day.

In addition, prices between terminals may vary, so if you’re looking for a cheaper price and are happy to transfer between terminals, it’s worth checking both options before booking.

Our car parks are all secured with ANPR barrier controlled entry and exit and regularly patrolled by London Gatwick security staff. All of our car parks are also well-lit and Park Mark approved.

Our Long Stay car parks also have perimeter fencing.

A bus transfer to the terminal is included in the price of our Long Stay parking options.

No, there are no card fees when booking with a credit or debit card.

Evening Special parking is only available to pre-book, at a cost of £20. Customers rolling up to the Short Stay car park without a booking will have to pay the standard Short Stay roll-up price.

We have partnered with AccessAble, the UK’s leading accessibility information provider, to create detailed access guides for our car parks. The guides cover information about blue badge parking, how to get assistance and the routes into our terminals.

• Detailed access guides for North Terminal car parks
• Detailed access guides for South Terminal car parks

• 0-2 hours: free
• 2 - 24 hours: £38.00
• Each subsequent day: £32.00

• Up to 30 minutes: £8.00
• 30 minutes - 1 hour: £13.00
• 1-2 hours: £18.50
• 2-3 hours: £23.50
• 3-4 hours: £30.00
• 4-5 hours: £36.00
• 5-6 hours: £43.00
• 6-12 hours: £62.00
• 12-24 hours: £75.00
• Each subsequent day: £75.00

• Up to 30 minutes: £6.00
• 30 minutes - 1 hour: £10.00
• 1-2 hours: £15.50
• 2-3 hours: £19.50
• 3-4 hours: £23.50
• 4-5 hours: £27.50
• 5-6 hours: £31.00
• 6-12 hours: £50.00
• 12-24 hours: £60.00
• Each subsequent day: £60.00

Although we do not provide storage space specifically for motorcycle accessories, there are luggage facilities available inside the terminal that can be used to store helmets at an extra cost.

Our operations team can provide a jump start if needed. Just press the help buttons found around the car park for assistance.

If you pre-book your parking, you are guaranteed a space, so there’s no need to worry.

Please consider however that if you turn up on the day, there is a chance that you’ll be diverted to an alternative car park that may cost more. To enjoy the best possible rates and guarantee your space, we always recommend pre-booking in advance .

If you’re likely to need your Blue Badge whilst travelling, taking it with you isn’t a problem.

Park up as normal and call 0800 678 3353 or use the intercom button on the payment machines, and NCP will validate the Blue Badge use for you

If your flight is significantly delayed and you go over your car park exit time, you will be charged an overstay charge based on the number of days you have stayed on top of your original booking. Fees for each product are:

• Short Stay Parking: £50.00 each day
• Premium Parking: £60.00 each day
• Long Stay Parking: £15.00 each day
• Gatwick Holiday Parking: £15.00 each day
• Valet Parking: £30.00 each day

The cheapest parking option at London Gatwick South and North Terminals depends on the length of your stay. For drop-offs or collections, the Long Stay car park is free for stays under 2 hours and is a 5 - 10 minute bus ride to the South Terminal and 10 - 12 minutes to the North Terminal.

The best way to ensure the cheapest price possible is to book ahead.

If you return from your trip later than planned for whatever reason, an overstay fee will apply. The fees are applied per day you are later than your original booking. Fees for each product are:

• Short Stay Parking: £50.00 each day
• Premium Short Stay Parking: £60.00 each day
• Mid Stay Parking: £60.00 each day
• Premium Mid Stay Parking: £80.00 each day
• Long Stay Parking: £15.00 each day
• Gatwick Holiday Parking: £15.00 each day
• Valet Parking: £30.00 each day

Visa, MasterCard and American Express are all acceptable methods of credit and debit payments. PayPal, Apple Pay and Google Pay are also accepted. Unfortunately, we can’t accept Solo, Electron cards, or cheques.

Blue Badge parking bays are located in all car parks at London Gatwick, in both the North and South Terminals.

Visit the relevant car park pages for more information. Please note Blue Badge parking spaces are subject to availability on a first-come-first-served basis.

You can find a full list of directions on the relevant car parking page. Scroll to the bottom of the page and click on the terminal where you have booked. You will find written directions, links to Google Maps and to the What3Words location.

• Click here for Short Stay
• Click here for Mid Stay Parking
• Click here for Long Stay
• Click here for Valet Parking
• Click here for Premium Short Stay

Your booking confirmation email will also contain a link to the car park's location in Google Maps.

Your booking reference can be found on the confirmation email sent to you after booking. It begins with DW and ends with the first three letters of your first name DW123456789HAR).

If you cannot locate your confirmation email, you can login to Manage my Booking to view it. You can also choose to have your confirmation email resent should you wish.

You can drop off passengers in the designated drop-odd zones just outside the North and South Terminal buildings. There is a minimum £6 charge for this.

If you’re picking someone up, you can park in the Short Stay car park, this will be charged at the standard roll-up price for the Short Stay car park.

Alternatively, you can use the Long Stay car park for free if your stay doesn’t exceed two hours, although, you will have to allow enough time to take a bus to the terminal building (this takes 5 to 10 minutes for the South Terminal and 7 to 12 minutes for the North Terminal).

Find out more about our passenger collection options.

The best parking option for you depends on how long you’re going away for, when you’re travelling and whether you prioritise price over distance from the terminal.

If you're unsure, then you can try our handy Help Me Choose tool.

Cancellations

For any London Gatwick parking, lounge, Fast Track Security and Fast Track Passport Control booking, you do not have to pay an administration fee to cancel your booking and will receive a full refund when you cancel at least 24-hours before your arrival time. Within 24-hours of your arrival time you will still not pay an administration fee but you will not receive a refund. Visit Manage my Booking to do this*.

Amendments

For amendments to your booking, you will also not be charged an administration fee. If there is a difference in price for your amended booking, for example if you move your parking booking to a different arrival date or terminal that is more expensive, you will have to pay that difference. Visit Manage my Booking to do this*.

Over the phone

If you choose to amend or cancel over the phone with our call centre, you will be charged a £5.00 administration fee. We recommend you use Manage my Booking to amend or cancel for free.

*Remember, you can only view and amend your booking via our official website.

Please email earlyreturns.lgw@ncp.co.uk

quoting your car registration and booking reference to inform us of your new return time so we can have your car ready for you on your return.