Packing, flights, souvenirs – there's a lot to think about when you're jetting off on a trip. But what about your car? Leaving it at the airport for a week or two can feel nerve-wracking. Will it be safe? Will you return to a flat tyre or, worse, a broken window?

You're not alone. Many travellers worry about their car while they're jetting off, especially if it’s a longer trip. But fear not! This blog will show you exactly what to do to keep your car secure while you're away. We'll cover everything from choosing a secure parking facility to prepping your car itself.

So, relax, breathe easy, and keep reading – we've got your car covered (literally!).

Airport car parks, especially offsite parking services, have different safety features, offering varying levels of security. But in general, onsite parking spaces like at Melbourne Airport are designed to keep your car safe. Our onsite parking lots are equipped with several safety features to protect your vehicle while you are away, such as:

• CCTV Cameras: Round-the-clock monitoring to deter potential security breaches and ensure any suspicious activity is quickly noticed.
• QR Code Access: Entry and exit use QR codes, making sure only allowed cars get in.
• Regular Patrols: Security teams patrol the parking areas frequently to ensure everything is as it should be.
• Online Booking: You can book your parking online before you arrive. No need to take out cash or credit cards and queue up at the ticket machines.
• Help Points: Located throughout the parking areas, these points provide immediate assistance if needed.
• Accessible Parking Facilities: Easily accessible parking spots are available close to the airport terminals for those who need them.

So, if you’re looking for a good spot to leave your car at Melbourne Airport, we highly recommend parking onsite. With 24/7 monitoring, easy access, and well-lit areas, you can have peace of mind and focus on your travels, knowing your car is in good hands.

While our onsite airport parking services have pretty tight security, it doesn’t hurt to take a few extra precautions of your own. Here are some practical tips to help keep your car safe while you're away:

• Remove Valuables: Before you leave, take out any valuables or items that might tempt a thief. Even small things can attract unwanted attention.
• Lock Up: Double-check that all doors, windows, and the boot are locked. Also, activate your car's alarm if it has one.
• Use a Steering Lock: For added security, use a physical steering lock. It’s a visible deterrent that can make thieves think twice.
• Check Your Car Battery: Make sure your battery is in good condition to prevent it from dying while you're away. But if you’re car battery is flat upon return, no worries. Just find the nearest Help button to contact our friendly customer service team and we will send someone to assist you.
• Document Your Car’s Condition: Take photos of your car from different angles to document its condition before you leave. This can be helpful if you need to report any issues upon your return.
• Pump up the tyres: Properly inflated tyres are less likely to go flat while you're away. A flat tyre can make it difficult to move your car when you return.
• Inform Someone: Let a friend or family member know where your car is parked and when you plan to return.
• Use Covered Parking: If possible, opt for covered parking spaces to protect your car from the elements. Most of our undercover parking options also offer direct access to airport terminals via walkways, so you can walk comfortably to the check-in counter, no matter the weather.

Still not sure about leaving your car at the airport? You might be surprised to know it can actually be safer than parking at home. Here's why:

• 24/7 Monitoring: Melbourne Airport has security cameras keeping an eye on parking lots 24/7. This can help deter theft and vandalism.
• Regular patrols: Security staff often patrol airport parking areas, which adds another layer of protection for your car.
• Less opportunity for crime: Your car is less likely to be a target at a busy airport with many people coming and going compared to a quiet residential street at night.
• Controlled access: Melbourne Airport’s car parks have controlled entry and exit points. This reduces the chance of unauthorised people entering the lot.
• Convenience upon return: Your car is waiting for you when you land, ready for the drive home. No need for taxis or arrange pick-up.

While you may need to shell out a parking fee, it’s nothing compared to the peace of mind you get knowing your car is safe. Think of it as an investment in a stress-free travel experience. You can return from your trip feeling refreshed and ready to hit the road instead of worrying about your car waiting unattended at home.

So, you’re ready to park onsite at Melbourne Airport? Smart choice! Tullamarine has heaps of long-term airport parking options for any budget and preference. Choose from:

• Value Parking: From just $12 a day when you book online, this is the perfect long-term car park for budget travellers. It’s an open-air lot a bit farther from the terminals, but there’s a free shuttle bus service that runs every 15 minutes, round the clock.
• Terminal Parking: With direct link bridge access to Terminals 1, 2, and 3, and just 100m from Terminal 4, these parks let you walk straight to the terminal doors. Plus, parking for the first 15 minutes is free, making them perfect for both long-term and short-term parking.
• Valet Parking: Drop your car off at Level 2 of the Terminal 1, 2, & 3 Car Park, and we’ll take it from there. It’s perfect if you want a hassle-free start to your trip. The team is available 24/7, so help is always on hand.
• Premium Parking: These undercover parking spaces are simply the best spots in the house. Located on Level 2 of the Terminal 1, 2, & 3 Car Park and on Level 1 of the Terminal 4 Car Park, you just park, lock up, and stroll to check-in.
• Business Parking: Directly opposite Terminal 1, this option is tailored for business flyers, especially those on Qantas. It’s just a short walk to Terminal 1l, making it easy to get from your car to the gate.
• Qantas Valet Parking: Located right at the Qantas domestic terminal, this valet service lets you drop off your car and stroll directly into the terminal. It’s ultra-convenient, with optional car cleaning services and no booking required.

These parking options are also available at hourly parking rates, making them flexible for both short visits and longer stays. If you’re just dropping someone off or need a spot for a couple of hours, this flexibility can be a real money-saver.

More than security, the best part about parking onsite at Melbourne Airport is the convenience. And it goes way beyond just being close to the terminals. I’m talking about being able to pre-book parking online! Yes, as mentioned, Melbourne Airport now has an online booking platform where you can book parking before even arriving at the airport. Here’s how:

1. Visit the Melbourne Airport Parking page.
2. Input your entry time and date as well as when you expect to exit the car park on return. We suggest adding at least 2 hours from your flight time and date to allow for flight delays and security hold-ups.
3. Choose the terminal you’re flying from or arriving at. Terminal 1 is for Qantas domestic flights, while Terminal 2 is for international flights. Opt for Terminal 3 if you’re flying domestic Virgin Australia and Terminal 4 for all other domestic flights.
4. Our platform will display all the available parking options based on your travel details and the total parking cost for the entire duration of your stay. Choose the parking option that best suits your needs and budget.
5. Pay for your booking. We accept all major credit cards as well as Google Pay and Apple Pay.

Once your booking is confirmed, you’ll receive an email with a QR code. When you arrive at the airport, just scan this QR code at the gate to enter and exit the car park. It’s that easy!

The best part? All online bookings automatically come with grace periods for both before and after your booked hours. Bookings under four hours come with a one-hour grace period, while longer ones enjoy two-hour grace periods. You can even add an Overstay Guarantee to your booking to avoid additional parking charges should your flight be delayed due to certain circumstances.

So, don’t let worries about your car’s safety hold you back from your next adventure. Park onsite at Melbourne Airport to ensure your car is well-monitored while you’re away. Pre-book your parking online today and enjoy peace of mind right at the beginning of your journey.