Airport-to-Airport Car Transfers: What You Need to Know When You Fly from One Airport and Return to Another

Travel can often be unpredictable, especially when it comes to flights. One increasingly common scenario for travellers is flying out of one London airport—say Gatwick—and returning into another—like Heathrow or Stansted. This type of journey can present a logistical challenge: how do you get from one airport to the other without returning to your car parked at the departure point?

Fortunately, there are a variety of options available for transferring between London airports, ranging from public transport to taxis, and even specialist car transfer services. Here’s what you need to know.

1. Bus Transfers

Bus transfers are often the most affordable option, although they can take longer than other modes of transport.

Gatwick to Heathrow:

• Operator: FlixBus provides direct services.
• Cost: From £16.
• Duration: Typically around 50 minutes, though this can vary based on traffic.

Gatwick to Stansted:

• Operator: National Express runs regular services between these airports.
• Cost: Fares start at £7.50 one-way.
• Duration: Around 4 hours and 55 minutes—considerably longer, due to multiple stops and traffic conditions.

While buses are budget-friendly, they may not be the best choice for those on a tight schedule.

2. Train Transfers

London’s rail network offers another viable way to move between airports, though it often involves transfers and some navigation.

Gatwick to Heathrow:

• Route: There's no direct train between the two. Most travellers take a train from Gatwick to Farringdon, then switch to the Elizabeth Line to reach Heathrow.
• Cost: Tickets start from £23.30 when booked in advance.
• Duration: Around 1 hour and 28 minutes in total.

Gatwick to Stansted:

• Route: Typically involves taking the Gatwick Express or Southern service to Victoria, transferring to the Underground to Liverpool Street, and then taking a Greater Anglia train to Stansted.
• Cost: From £25.70.
• Duration: About 1 hour and 47 minutes, depending on transfer times and services.

Trains offer a quicker alternative to buses, but they require multiple changes and can be tricky with luggage or during peak travel hours.

3. Taxi Transfers

Taxi or private car hire is by far the most convenient option, particularly if you're carrying heavy luggage or travelling with children. It’s door-to-door, with no changes and full control over timing.

Gatwick to Heathrow:

• Cost: Prices start from around £59, depending on the provider and type of vehicle.
• Duration: Around 40 to 50 minutes for the 39-mile journey, though this can increase during rush hour.

Gatwick to Stansted:

• Cost: Typically ranges between £75 and £130.
• Duration: Usually takes 1 hour 10 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes, covering roughly 71 miles.

This option offers comfort and speed but is often the most expensive unless costs are shared with other passengers.

4. Drive-Yourself Options

Some travellers opt to rent a car to make the transfer themselves. This allows for flexibility and can be cost-effective for small groups.

However, there are drawbacks:

• One-way drop-off fees can be high.
• Rental costs vary greatly depending on vehicle type, insurance, and duration.
• Fuel costs and navigating unfamiliar roads can be stressful.

Unless you're already familiar with UK roads and confident driving in and around London, this option may add more stress than it removes.

5. Simplify It with I Love meet and greet’s Car Transfer Service

If you've driven your own car to the airport and are concerned about how to retrieve it when you land at a different airport, I Love meet and greet offers a seamless solution.

Their airport car transfer service is designed for exactly this scenario. Here’s how it works:

• You drive your car to your departure airport, where a uniformed I Love meet and greet driver collects it.
• Your car is then driven securely and professionally to your arrival airport while you enjoy your holiday or business trip.
• When you land, your car is ready and waiting for you, just as it would be with a traditional meet and greet parking service.

This service removes the need to book inter-airport transport or return to your departure point to collect your vehicle.

Why choose I Love meet and greet?

• Convenience: One booking covers both ends of your journey.
• Time-saving: Avoid the stress of public transport or costly taxis.
• Reputable service: Operated by experienced, professional drivers with full insurance.
• Flexible: Works perfectly for families, business travellers, and anyone with tight schedules.

To learn more or book a car transfer service, visit I Love meet and greet – Car Transfers.

In summary

While the idea of flying out of one airport and returning to another may seem complicated, a little planning makes all the difference. Whether you’re looking to save money with buses and trains or you want the ease of a direct car transfer, there’s an option to suit every type of traveller.

And for the ultimate convenience, let I Love meet and greet handle the logistics so you can focus on enjoying your trip from start to finish.