Meet and Greet vs Park and Ride: Which Stansted Airport Parking is Best For You?
Compare top airport parking at Stansted from only £5.06 per day
When flying from Stansted, choosing the right airport parking can transform the start of your trip from stressful to hassle-free. The two most popular options are Meet and Greet, offering the safest, quickest and most convenient way to park right by the terminal, and Park and Ride, a cost-effective choice with fast, reliable shuttle transfer to the terminal.
When you compare all Stansted parking options with Holiday Extras, you'll find the best value packages tailored to your trip. Whether your priority is speed, proximity, or savings, understanding the difference between Meet and Greet and Park and Ride helps you pick the ideal option. Use our expert guide to discover secure, trusted, and affordable airport parking for your next journey.
Holiday Extras Recommends...
Searching for the best deal on Stansted Airport parking? Whether you're after the cheapest Park and Ride or prefer the ease of valet-style Meet and Greet parking, comparing your options is the easiest way to secure the lowest price. With rates starting from just £40.40 per week, there's no better time to book and save.
All our parking packages include the option to add Late Return Cover. With flight delays more common than ever, you can relax knowing we'll cover 100% of your overstay fees for up to 48 hours. Enjoy complete peace of mind, plus Free Cancellation and flexible booking options with every recommendation — so you're fully protected if your plans change.
Top Tips for Comparing Parking at Stansted Airport
- Short on time? Choose Meet and Greet to get from your car to the check-in desk in minutes, with no buses, no transfers, and no waiting around.
- Travelling with family or companions? Meet and Greet is perfect for families, elderly passengers, or anyone with limited mobility, while Park and Ride is a great choice for solo travellers.
- Got lots of luggage? If you're travelling with heavy suitcases, prams, or sports equipment, skip the shuttle and go for Meet and Greet - it's the simplest and most convenient option at Stansted.
- Planning a longer trip? Park and Ride is often the most cost-effective choice for extended holidays, while Meet and Greet can offer great value for shorter stays or business travel.
- Know your terminal: Stansted has one main terminal, so all car parks are well-connected, but it's still worth checking how close your chosen service is to departures before booking.
- Look out for added extras: Some Meet and Greet car parks offer EV charging, while Park and Ride let you keep your keys.
- Remember, the cheapest isn't always the best: If convenience matters, spending a little more can save time and reduce stress before your flight.
- For peace of mind: Meet and Greet parking is insured, whereas 'Keep Your Keys' means you park and leave your car at your own risk.
- Check recent reviews: Reading feedback from other travellers gives you real insight into reliability, timing, and customer service.
Browse Cheap Parking Options at Stansted
Our easy-to-use comparison table below makes finding the perfect Stansted parking simple and stress-free. All our packages are listed by price, so if you're looking to save money on your Stansted parking, the best deals are right at the top. You can also read genuine customer reviews to compare services and book with total confidence.
| Car Park | Price p/d | Price p/w | Distance | Transfers | Rating | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
![]() | Short stay green multi storey stansted airport parkingShort Stay, Stansted Airport, Essex, CM24 1RW. MapPhotosReviews | £10.37* | £82.99* | 4-7 mins | 86% | |
![]() | Short stay premium orange zone stansted airport parkingShort Stay Standard, Stansted Airport, Essex, CM24 1RW. MapPhotosReviews | £13.63* | £109.00* | 1-4 mins | 88% | |
![]() | Jetparks stansted airport parkingRoman Lane, Stansted Airport, Essex CM24 1RY MapPhotosReviews | 15 mins | 88% | |||
![]() | Long stay stansted airport parkingLong Stay Car Park, Stansted airport, Essex CM24 1SF MapPhotosReviews | 15 mins | 88% | |||
![]() | Mid stay stansted airport parkingStansted airport, Thremhall Avenue, Essex CM24 1PZ MapPhotosReviews | 7 mins | 90% | |||
![]() | Official meet and greet stansted airport parkingMeet and Greet,
Stansted Airport,
Essex,
CM22 6PL
MapReviews | 2-3 mins | ||||
![]() | Official valet parking stansted airport parkingStansted airport
Essex
CM24 1RW MapPhotosReviews | 1-2 mins | 88% | |||
![]() | Short stay economy blue zone stansted airport parkingShort Stay, Stansted Airport, Essex, CM24 1RW MapPhotosReviews | 7-10 mins | 80% | |||
![]() | Short stay premium red zone stansted airport parkingShort Stay Standard, Stansted Airport, Essex, CM24 1RW. MapPhotosReviews | 1-4 mins | 82% | |||
![]() | Short stay premium yellow zone stansted airport parkingShort Stay Standard, Stansted Airport, Essex, CM24 1RW. MapPhotosReviews | 1-4 mins | 86% | |||
![]() | Short stay stansted airport parkingShort Stay Standard, Stansted Airport, Essex, CM24 1RW. MapVideoReviews | 2 mins | 84% |
*This is an example price for reservations between 18-12-2025 and 25-12-2025, valid as of 18-10-2025. The price per week is the total cost of this car parking for 8 days. The price per day refers to the same product and period, divided by 8.
What's the Difference Between Meet and Greet and Park and Ride at Stansted?
Let's keep it simple! If you're choosing between Stansted's Meet and Greet, Park and Ride or Park and Stroll options, the comparison table below highlights the key differences to help you find the best fit for your trip.
| Key Differences | Meet and Greet | Park and Ride | Park and Stroll |
|---|---|---|---|
| Process | Drive straight to the Stansted terminal, hand your keys to a fully insured driver, and head inside while your car is securely parked for you. | Park at a nearby secure car park and hop on a fast, reliable shuttle transfer that takes you directly to the terminal. You'll park yourself and keep your keys, just bear in mind it's not covered by meet and greet insurance. | Park your car yourself in a nearby car park and take a short, easy walk to the terminal - there's no need for buses or handovers. |
| Proximity | Right next to the terminal! You'll be at check-in within minutes, with zero transfers or waiting. | Usually located a short drive away, with shuttle transfers typically taking up to 30 minutes. | Within walking distance of the terminal and ideal if you prefer a quick stroll instead of a shuttle ride. |
| Price | The premium option, offering maximum convenience and time-saving benefits. | The best-value choice, perfect for budget-conscious travellers who don't mind a short transfer. | Mid-range pricing which combines the affordability of Park and Ride with the ease of walking to the terminal. |
| Best For | Travellers who want ultimate convenience and the reassurance of insurance cover. Great for families, business trips, or heavy luggage. | Ideal for those looking for the cheapest Stansted parking and don't mind a short transfer to save money. | Perfect for travellers who want convenience without the premium price tag. |
Top Park and Ride Services Near London Stansted Airport
When comparing parking options at Stansted Airport, choose from trusted official services offering great-value Park and Ride or convenient Park and Stroll packages close to the terminal. Compare each option by price, transfer time, and customer reviews to find the best fit for your journey. If you opt for a Park and Stroll service, simply park your car and walk to the terminal (usually via a covered walkway) in under 4 minutes!
The car parks below are listed by transfer time, making it easy to see which ones are closest to the terminal. All are secure and offer either a quick shuttle transfer or a short walk to departures. With prices starting from just £5.06 per day, there's never been a better time to book.
Compare the Best Meet and Greet Parking at Stansted
Meet and Greet, sometimes called Valet Parking, provides secure, reliable service and lets you drive right up to the terminal, hand over your keys, and head straight to check-in. It's the ideal choice if you're short on time, travelling with children, or simply want a hassle-free start to your trip. Official Valet Parking is the closest option, at just a 2-minute walk from check-in. With prices from as little as £47.21 per week, you can enjoy premium convenience without the premium price tag.
Take a look below to compare all available Meet and Greet options at Stansted, exclusively available through Holiday Extras. Bear in mind that Meet and Greet is insured for the most secure parking option.
Meet and Greet at Stansted: Why Travellers Love It
- Drop your car just a short walk from Stansted's terminal (no shuttle buses or waiting around).
- Fast and effortless, ideal for families, business travellers or anyone looking for a hassle-free start to their trip.
- Perfect for early departures and late-night returns when you want to get on your way quickly.
- Great choice if you're travelling with lots of luggage.
- Your vehicle is parked safely in a secure car park with CCTV, barrier controls and 24-hour staff patrols.
- Selected Meet and Greet services also offer convenient on-site EV charging.
- Meet and Greet parking is insured.
Things to Keep in Mind
- Usually a little more expensive than Park and Ride due to the added convenience.
- Most Meet and Greet options require you to hand over your keys for secure valet parking.
Park and Ride at Stansted: Why It's a Popular Choice
- One of the most affordable ways to park at London Stansted Airport without compromising on security or reliability.
- Excellent value for longer trips or travellers looking to save while travelling.
- Frequent, reliable shuttle buses connect the car parks to the terminal in just a few minutes.
- All Park and Ride sites are fully secured with CCTV, fencing and regular patrols for peace of mind.
When Park and Ride Might Not Be Ideal
- Involves a short shuttle transfer between the car park and the terminal (usually up to 30 minutes).
- Can be less convenient for those with very young children, heavy luggage or limited mobility.
- Not always the best choice for travellers short on time or arriving late at night.
- You'll park your own car and keep your keys - it's not covered by Meet and Greet insurance.
Which Stansted Parking Option Suits You Best?
Still not sure which Stansted parking service to go for? At Holiday Extras, we make it simple to compare trusted parking options that suit your travel plans and budget. Whether you're jetting off for business or heading away with family, you'll find parking that makes your airport experience smoother from start to finish.
| Your Situation | Recommended Option | Here's Why |
|---|---|---|
| Family with kids | Meet and Greet | Closest access to the terminal with no shuttle transfers needed. |
| Budget-conscious traveller | Park and Ride | Cheapest choice with secure parking and regular transfers included. |
| Business traveller | Meet and Greet | Quickest drop-off at Stansted, saving time before your flight. |
| Long-haul or extended trip | Park and Ride | Great value for week-long or multi-week stays. |
| Early flight or late arrival | Meet and Greet | Skip the shuttle and walk straight to check-in, whatever the hour. |
| Travellers with reduced mobility | Meet and Greet | No shuttle required and help is available with luggage if needed. |
| Travellers who prefer to park their own car and walk to the terminal | Park and Stroll | Park your own car and take a short walk to departures, with no buses or waiting around. |
*Prices displayed throughout are correct at the time of writing and are subject to change depending on availability. Weekly prices are based on 8 days of parking.
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