When planning a trip, most people focus on flights, hotels, and spending money — but airport parking often gets overlooked until the last minute. Many travellers end up paying more than expected because of hidden charges and avoidable fees. To help you steer clear of surprises, here are the most common hidden costs at Manchester Airport — and how to avoid them.
1. Last-Minute Booking Premiums
One of the most common mistakes is turning up without booking in advance. Same-day rates for Short Stay parking can be extremely high — sometimes over £60 for just one day. Many travellers assume it’s fine to ‘just show up’, but the airport charges a premium for that convenience.
How to avoid it:
Always pre-book online. Even booking a few hours before arrival can reduce your cost by up to 70 percent. Most official car parks offer generous discounts for advance reservations.
2. Drop-Off and Pick-Up Charges
Many people don’t realise that dropping off a passenger at the terminal entrance comes with a fee. Manchester Airport charges for using the dedicated drop-off zone — currently around £5 for five minutes, with charges increasing if you stay longer. Staying too long can result in additional penalties.
How to avoid it:
Use the free drop-off area at JetParks 1 instead. It’s free for up to an hour and includes a shuttle bus to the terminals. It takes a few extra minutes but saves money.
3. Overstay Charges
Unexpected delays happen — a late flight, baggage reclaim issues, or traffic jams can mean you stay longer than planned. Most car parks allow only a short grace period; if you exceed it, you may be charged for an extra full day.
How to avoid it:
When booking, always round up your return time and allow some buffer. Paying for an extra hour upfront is cheaper than paying overstay penalties. Some car parks also offer flexible booking options for a small fee, which can be worth it.
4. Meet & Greet Extras
Meet & Greet parking is convenient but can come with hidden risks if you don’t read the details. Some third-party companies add unexpected admin fees or park your car off-site in unsecured areas. Some travellers have returned to find extra miles on the car or minor damage.
How to avoid it:
Book only with official Manchester Airport Meet & Greet services or providers that hold a Park Mark security award. Read reviews, check their terms and conditions, and avoid deals that seem too good to be true.
5. Forgotten Extras
Small charges can quickly add up. For example, some car parks charge extra if you stay overnight in a short-stay car park, even if you’re inside the terminal for just a few hours. Some off-site car parks may also charge for shuttle transfers if you don’t book directly.
How to avoid it:
Check exactly what’s included when you book. Read your confirmation email and bring it with you, so there are no surprises at the barrier or shuttle bus.
Quick Tips to Keep Costs Down
- Always compare prices on the airport’s official website and trusted comparison sites.
- Book as early as possible to secure lower rates, especially during busy travel periods.
- Consider trusted off-site options like JetParks, which are usually cheaper and include free, frequent shuttles.
- Look for discount codes — many travel blogs and newsletters share parking vouchers.
- Double-check your booking confirmation and keep it handy for quick entry and exit.
Final Thoughts
Parking at Manchester Airport doesn’t have to come with unexpected costs. With a little preparation and knowledge of common hidden charges, you can keep more money in your pocket and enjoy a stress-free start to your trip.
Plan ahead, choose the right option, and travel confidently knowing there won’t be any surprises when you return. Safe travels!