Shuttle vs. Walking Distance Parking at Brisbane Airport

Not sure whether to choose shuttle parking or walk-to-terminal parking at Brisbane Airport?

This quick guide compares costs, travel time, and convenience to help you make the best choice.

What is Shuttle Parking at Brisbane Airport?

Shuttle parking involves leaving your car at a car park located a 5 - 10 minute drive from the terminal. A free shuttle transfers you to and from the airport. 

Pros:

• Lower cost than terminal car parks
• Most affordable Brisbane Airport parking options
• Free shuttle service included
  
  • Private car parks (e.g., Andrews Airport Parking) run on-demand transfers
• Official on-site car parks (e.g., AIRPARK) operate scheduled shuttles every 10–15 minutes
• Ideal for long-term Brisbane Airport parking
• Enhanced security: 24/7 CCTV, perimeter fencing, gated access, on-site staff

Cons:

• Potential wait time for official car park shuttles
• Slightly longer travel time to terminal
• Less convenient with heavy luggage, children, or mobility concerns

Most Affordable Brisbane Airport Shuttle Parking (as of May 2025)

• Andrews Airport Parking, $153.00 a week
• AIRPARK, $127.00 a week
• AIRPARK 2, $127.00 a week

🧠 Tip: Shuttle parking is best suited for travellers staying 3+ days or budget-conscious flyers.

What is Parking within Walking Distance?

Walk-to-terminal parking allows you to park directly on-site or nearby, within a 2 - 8 minute walk to the terminal.  No shuttle is required. 

Pros:

• No waiting
• Faster access to the terminal
• Best for short stays and early-morning or late-night flights 

Cons:

• Highest cost among all parking types
• Pricing often comparable to valet parking
• Limited availability during peak periods or holidays
• Still requires a few minutes of walking, potentially with luggage

Most Affordable Brisbane Airport Parking within Walking Distance (as of May 2025)

• ParkLong, $191.00 a week
• ParkPremium, $217.00 a week
• ParkShort, $459.00 a week

🚨 Did you know? The closer you park to the terminal, the more you’ll pay. In fact, ParkShort can cost over 3.5x more than AIRPARK for the same 7-day stay.

Comparison Table of Brisbane Airport Car Parks with Shuttle Services and within Walking Distance: 

^{The rates shown above are online rates and therefore will differ daily, and may not be the same rates displayed at the time of publication. For the most updated online rates for your parking duration, visit the Brisbane Airport parking website.} 

Which Should You Choose?

🚌Choose shuttle parking if you want to save money and don’t mind a short transfer.

🚶‍♀️Choose walking distance parking if you want speed and convenience, especially for short stays.

How early should I arrive if using shuttle parking at Brisbane Airport?

Plan to arrive at least 30 minutes earlier than normal to allow for shuttle transfer time. 

Off-site, private car parks offer on-demand shuttle transfers ready for you as soon as you arrive, so you never have to wait. 

On-site, official car parks offer scheduled shuttle transfers that run every 10 - 15 minutes, so you will have to queue or wait for the next bus to arrive. 

Is parking within walking distance open 24/7?

Yes, all on-site Brisbane Airport car parks are accessible 24/7. 

What is the cheapest parking at Brisbane Airport?

Shuttle car parks, like AIRPARK ($127 a week) and Andrews Airport Parking ($153 a week) typically offer the most competitive rates, especially for stays over 3 days.