When planning a trip from Perth Airport, parking is often one of the biggest considerations. Should you choose on-site Perth Airport parking right at the terminal, or save money with an off-site option? While both have pros and cons, there’s another factor travellers overlook, whether it’s cheaper and more convenient to avoid parking altogether and use Universal Cabs for Perth Airport transfers instead.
This guide breaks down Perth Airport parking costs, compares options, and helps you decide what works best for your budget, schedule, and peace of mind.
1. Understanding Perth Airport Parking Options
Perth Airport offers two main parking categories:
- On-site parking – Located within walking distance or via shuttle to Perth Airport arrivals and Perth Airport departures.
- Off-site parking – Run by private operators near the airport, often with a free shuttle to the airport terminal 1 departures and other terminals.
Both options come with hourly, daily, and long-term rates, but costs vary depending on season, time of day, and location.
2. Perth Airport Parking Costs – On-Site
On-site parking at Perth Airport is managed by the airport authority. Prices are higher due to proximity and security.
| Parking Type | First 1 Hour | Daily Max | Weekly Rate |
| Short-Term (T1/T2/T3/T4) | $10 | $60 | $350+ |
| Long-Term | $10 | $35 | $210 |
| Premium Covered | $15 | $65 | $400+ |
Advantages:
- Closest to Perth Airport departures and arrivals.
- 24/7 surveillance.
- Covered options are available.
Disadvantages:
- High cost, especially for multi-day trips.
- Limited availability in peak holiday periods.
3. Perth Airport Parking Costs – Off-Site
Off-site airport parking operators are typically 5–10 minutes from Perth Airport.
| Operator Example | Daily Rate | Weekly Rate |
| Airport Park & Ride | $15 | $90 |
| Secure AirPark | $12 | $80 |
| Budget Airport Parking | $10 | $70 |
Advantages:
- Cheaper than on-site parking.
- Free shuttle service to Perth airport departing flight terminals.
- Often includes car detailing or maintenance add-ons.
Disadvantages:
- Requires extra time for shuttle transfer.
- May not be covered parking.
4. Comparing Perth Airport Parking to Universal Cabs
While many travellers compare on-site vs off-site parking Perth Airport, they forget to factor in the cost of not parking at all.
Here’s how Universal Cabs compares for a return Perth Airport transfer:
| Route Example | Parking (7 Days On-Site) | Parking (7 Days Off-Site) | Universal Cabs Return Fare |
| Perth CBD – Airport | $210 | $90 | $100–$120 |
| Cannington – Airport | $210 | $90 | $85–$95 |
| Joondalup – Airport | $210 | $90 | $120–$140 |
| Fremantle – Airport | $210 | $90 | $120–$140 |
Why are taxis cost-effective?
- No long-term parking fees.
- No risk of damage to your car while away.
- 24/7 availability for international airport Perth departures or early morning domestic flights.
- Door-to-door service, no dragging luggage through car parks.
5. Peak vs. Off-Peak Parking & Taxi Demand
Perth Airport parking rates can surge during school holidays and major events. Similarly, demand for taxis in Perth rises during these periods, but Universal Cabs offers fixed fares if you pre-book.
Peak parking periods often mean:
- Premium parking is selling out weeks in advance.
- Off-site operators are increasing daily rates.
By booking a Universal Cabs Perth Airport transfer, you bypass these issues entirely.
6. Perth Airport Parking & Terminals Overview
Terminal 1 (International) – Closest parking is Premium & Long-Term A:
Terminal 1’s nearest parking options are the Premium and Long-Term A lots, offering quick access for international travellers. These provide convenient, secure parking with shuttle or walking distance to the terminal.
Terminal 2 – Adjacent short-term parking and shuttle access:
Terminal 2 features adjacent short-term parking for quick drop-offs and pickups, with shuttle services available for longer stays. This suits regional flight passengers needing easy terminal access.
Terminal 3 & 4 – Domestic services, with nearby open-air parking:
Terminals 3 and 4 handle domestic flights, supported by nearby open-air parking lots. These provide budget-friendly options within short shuttle or walking distance of the terminals.
If your flight is from airport terminal 1 departures, on-site parking is most convenient, but it’s also the most expensive.
7. Tips for Saving on Airport Parking Perth
If you still prefer driving to the airport:
- Book online in advance and rates are lower than drive-up prices.
- Consider off-site parking for trips longer than three days.
- Look for promo codes with private parking operators.
- Travel outside peak Perth Airport departure flight windows if possible.
8. Why Universal Cabs is the Alternative to Long Term Parking Perth Airport
For many travellers, booking a Universal Cabs Perth Airport transfer is not just about saving money, it’s about reducing hassle.
Benefits of choosing Universal Cabs over parking:
- 24/7 availability for Perth Airport arrivals and departures.
- Fleet includes maxi taxis and wheelchair-accessible vehicles.
- Avoid navigating busy car parks.
- No hidden fees, what you’re quoted is what you pay.
- Option to pre-book for international airport Perth departures.
9. The Verdict – Parking vs Perth Taxi
When comparing Perth Airport parking to using a taxi in Perth for transfers, the decision depends on:
Trip length – Longer trips favour taxis over parking fees:
For extended trips, daily parking fees quickly add up, making taxis a more economical choice. Taxis charge a fixed fare regardless of how long you’re away, saving money on longer stays.
Convenience – Door-to-door service beats shuttles and walking:
Taxis provide direct pick-up and drop-off from your doorstep to the terminal, eliminating the need for shuttle transfers or long walks with luggage. This saves time and reduces travel stress.
Cost – For many suburbs, a return taxi fare is cheaper than a week of parking:
In many Perth suburbs, the total cost of a round-trip taxi to the airport is less than paying for a full week of airport parking. This makes taxis a budget-friendly alternative for many travellers.
Conclusion
Choosing the right Perth Airport parking option depends on your budget, trip length, and convenience needs. While on-site parking offers proximity to terminals, off-site parking provides more affordable rates for longer stays.
For those searching for a hassle-free alternative, booking a reliable taxi near me, Universal Cabs, can save time, reduce stress, and often cost less than a week of parking. Evaluate your priorities to make the best choice for a smooth start and finish to your journey.
FAQs
Q: How much is Perth Airport parking per day?
On-site parking starts around $35 per day, while off-site options can be as low as $10–$15 daily. Prices vary based on location and booking time.
Q: Is off-site parking safe?
Most reputable off-site parking providers use CCTV and secure fencing for safety, though it’s outside airport property. Always choose trusted operators for peace of mind.
Q: How far in advance should I book Perth Airport parking?
It’s best to book at least 2–4 weeks ahead during peak travel seasons to secure your spot and get better rates.
Q: Can Universal Cabs take me to the airport at 3 am?
Yes, Universal Cabs offers 24/7 airport transfers, covering all Perth Airport departures, including very early morning and late-night flights.
