If you’re heading to Gatwick Airport in 2025, whether you’re off on holiday or seeing someone off, there’s one detail you shouldn’t ignore: the Gatwick drop off charge.
It’s a small thing, but forgetting about it can cost you big. And with rules constantly changing, many travellers get caught out. That’s why at Minicabs.co.uk, we’ve broken it all down for you in plain English, no jargon, no confusion, just everything you need to know before you travel.
What Is the Gatwick Drop Off Charge?
In short, if you’re dropping someone off at the North or South Terminal, there’s a fee. You can’t just pull up outside the terminal, wave goodbye, and drive off anymore, at least not without paying.
Gatwick Airport introduced the drop-off fee a few years ago to reduce traffic congestion and encourage more sustainable ways of getting to the airport. It’s now a permanent feature, and the rates have been updated for 2025.
So if you’re planning to swing by with a quick “See you soon,” here’s what you need to know.
Gatwick Drop Off Charges in 2025
Here’s what it’ll cost you:
- £7 for up to 10 minutes
- £1 extra for each minute after that, up to 20 minutes
- Maximum daily charge: £27
- You can only stay for a maximum of 30 minutes
You’ve got until midnight the next day to pay, miss that, and you’ll be looking at a £100 fine, which drops to £60 if you pay within 14 days.
And no, there’s no free drop-off option right at the terminal. But don’t worry, we’ll tell you how to avoid paying at all (legally) a bit later.
How to Pay the Drop Off Charge
It’s pretty simple, as long as you don’t forget.
You can pay online via Gatwick Airport’s official website, or better yet, sign up for AutoPay if you travel often. That way, your car gets registered, and charges are automatically deducted, no stress.
Just don’t leave it too late. Remember: midnight the next day is the cut-off.
What If You Don’t Want to Pay?
Good news: there is a free option.
If you’re not in a rush and don’t mind a short ride to the terminal, you can use the Long Stay Car Park. It’s free for up to 2 hours, and there’s a shuttle bus that’ll take you or your passengers straight to the terminal. It’s a great alternative, especially if you want to walk someone in or help with luggage.
Drop Off or Park – Which Is Best?
That depends on how much time you’ve got, and how much you want to spend.
Drop Off Zone:
- Right outside the terminal
- Quick and easy
- But you’ll pay for the convenience
Long Stay Parking:
- Free for 2 hours
- A short shuttle ride to the terminal
- Great if you’ve got extra time or don’t want to rush
If you’re only planning to stop for a minute or two, the drop-off zone might be worth it. But if you’re the type who likes to walk your loved ones to the terminal or wave goodbye from the door, the long-stay option is a smarter pick.
Here’s Where Minicabs.co.uk Makes Life Easier
Now, if all of this feels a bit too much, parking options, drop-off fees, and payment deadlines, we get it. You’ve already got enough on your plate when travelling.
That’s where we come in.
At Minicabs.co.uk, we take care of the Gatwick airport drop off process for you. Book your ride with us, and you won’t need to:
- Worry about where to stop
- Stress over how to pay the Gatwick drop off charge
- Risk a fine for missing the deadline
Our professional drivers know the airport like the back of their hand. They handle everything,from timing the drop-off perfectly to ensuring you’re at the right terminal without any confusion.
We even factor in the Gatwick drop off payment in your fare. No surprises. No hidden fees. Just smooth, stress-free travel.
Why These Charges Exist in the First Place
You might be wondering, “Why are airports charging for drop-offs now?”
It’s not just about money it’s about traffic. The forecourts at Gatwick were getting clogged with vehicles. These fees help cut down congestion, keep things moving, and lower emissions around the airport .
That said, it doesn’t make it any less annoying when you’re just trying to drop someone off. But knowing the rules, and having someone like Minicabs.co.uk to manage it all, makes a big difference.
Travelling Through Gatwick? Here’s What to Keep in Mind
Whether you’re flying out or picking someone up, these quick tips will help you navigate Gatwick like a pro:
- Know your terminal – Gatwick has North and South terminals. Make sure you’re heading to the right one.
- Check traffic updates – Always leave with extra time, especially during peak hours.
- Use AutoPay if you go often – Saves you from ever forgetting to pay.
- Book a reliable minicab – Like us. Seriously. It makes everything easier.
- Stay updated – Gatwick sometimes updates charges or routes. Check their site before heading out.
FAQs
1. Can I drop someone off at Gatwick without paying?
Not at the terminal, but yes, you can use the Long Stay Car Park for two hours free with shuttle service.
- How long do I have to pay the drop off charge?
You must pay by midnight the day after your drop-off, or you risk a £100 fine.
- What happens if I forget to pay?
You’ll get a Penalty Charge Notice (PCN) for £100. It’s reduced to £60 if you pay within 14 days.
- Does Minicabs.co.uk include the drop off charge in its price?
Yes, we include all fees in our fare, so you know exactly what you’re paying.
- Is it cheaper to park or to drop off
If you’ve got time, parking in the Long Stay lot is free for 2 hours and includes a shuttle. If you’re in a rush, dropping off directly is faster but comes with a fee.
Don’t Let Drop-Off Charges Slow You Down
Planning makes all the difference. Whether you’re dropping off, flying out, or picking someone up, knowing how the Gatwick drop off charge works can save you money, stress, and unnecessary fines.
Or, better yet, let us handle it for you.
Book your Gatwick airport transfer today at Minicabs.co.uk and travel with confidence. We’ll handle the roads, the charges, the parking, and you can focus on your journey.
