When flying out of Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ), one of the first things you’ll need to plan is parking. Whether you’re heading out for a short trip or leaving for a longer vacation, Toronto Pearson offers a variety of parking options that cater to different needs, preferences, and budgets.
With the airport’s size and high volume of travelers, it’s essential to know your options ahead of time so you can make an informed choice that suits your travel schedule. Here’s a breakdown of the best long-term and short-term parking options at Toronto Pearson to ensure your trip starts off smoothly.
Short-Term Parking at Toronto Pearson
Short-term parking is ideal for those who are picking up passengers or need a place to park for a few hours while waiting for a flight. These options are typically located closest to the terminals and are perfect for stays under 24 hours.
1. Terminal 1 Short-Term Parking
Located right beside Terminal 1, this parking area is convenient for short visits or quick pick-ups. The lot is designed for stays of a few hours and offers easy access to the terminal.
- Hourly Rate: $5 for the first hour, $4 for each additional 30 minutes.
- Location: Just a short walk to Terminal 1.
- Best For: Quick drop-offs or pick-ups.
2. Terminal 3 Short-Term Parking
Similar to Terminal 1, the Terminal 3 Short-Term Parking lot is located directly adjacent to the terminal, making it ideal for people who need to park for a short period.
- Hourly Rate: $5 for the first hour, $4 for each additional 30 minutes.
- Location: Right next to Terminal 3 with easy access to check-in counters.
- Best For: Short stays or picking up arriving passengers.
Tip: Short-term parking lots are often busy, especially during peak travel times (holidays and weekends), so be sure to allow some extra time to find a spot.
Long-Term Parking at Toronto Pearson
Long-term parking is best for travelers leaving for extended trips, whether for business or vacation. These lots are further away from the terminals but offer more affordable rates, and many of them provide shuttle services to bring you directly to your terminal.
1. Daily Park Lot
The Daily Park Lot offers affordable long-term parking while still being relatively close to the terminals. This lot is one of the best-value options for travelers looking for extended parking.
- Daily Rate: $18 per day.
- Location: A short shuttle ride away from both Terminal 1 and Terminal 3.
- Best For: Budget-friendly long-term parking with a moderate walking distance or a quick shuttle ride to the terminal.
2. Long-Term Parking Lot
For those looking to save even more, the Long-Term Parking Lot offers more affordable rates compared to premium long-term parking options, with a slightly longer shuttle ride.
- Daily Rate: $14 per day.
- Location: A little further than the Daily Park Lot, with shuttles running every 10-15 minutes to both terminals.
- Best For: Travelers on a budget who don’t mind a longer shuttle ride.
3. Value Park Garage
The Value Park Garage is a great choice for travelers seeking convenience at a lower cost. It’s a covered garage, offering more protection for your car compared to open lots.
- Daily Rate: $18 per day.
- Location: A 5-minute shuttle ride from Terminal 1 and Terminal 3.
- Best For: Travelers who prefer covered parking for extra protection from the elements.
Tip: For long-term parking, always book your space in advance if possible, especially during peak travel seasons, to ensure availability and potentially save on rates.
Premium Parking Options
If convenience and proximity to the terminals are your priorities, Pearson also offers premium parking options for a higher rate. These are designed for travelers who prefer to park as close as possible to the terminals and don’t mind paying a little extra for added convenience.
1. Terminal 1 Premium Parking
Located closest to Terminal 1, the Premium Parking lot provides a quick walk to check-in counters. This option is perfect for those looking for maximum convenience.
- Hourly Rate: $6 per hour.
- Daily Rate: $35 per day.
- Location: Directly in front of Terminal 1.
- Best For: Travelers with limited time who prefer quick and easy access to the terminal.
2. Terminal 3 Premium Parking
Similar to the Terminal 1 Premium Parking, the Terminal 3 Premium Parking lot is directly adjacent to Terminal 3, allowing travelers to quickly get in and out of the airport.
- Hourly Rate: $6 per hour.
- Daily Rate: $35 per day.
- Location: Directly in front of Terminal 3.
- Best For: Those who want to park closest to their departure gate and are willing to pay for convenience.
Other Parking Services at Toronto Pearson
1. Valet Parking
If you’re looking for the ultimate convenience, Valet Parking offers a premium, hassle-free experience. With valet services available at both Terminal 1 and Terminal 3, you can drive directly to the curb, and a valet will take care of your parking while you head straight to the terminal.
- Daily Rate: $45 per day.
- Best For: Travelers who want the highest level of convenience, are short on time, or prefer not to deal with parking at all.
2. Park ‘N Fly
Park ‘N Fly is an off-site parking service that provides shuttle buses to both terminals, typically at a lower cost than on-site options. This is a great choice for those who want a balance between affordability and convenience.
- Rates: Starts around $13 per day.
- Location: Off-site, with shuttle buses operating 24/7.
- Best For: Travelers looking for a cheaper alternative to airport parking while still having convenient access to the terminals.
Parking Tips and Things to Keep in Mind
- Book in Advance: To secure a space, especially during peak travel times (holidays and busy weekends), it’s a good idea to reserve your parking online in advance. This not only guarantees you a spot but can also save you money.
- Check for Discounts: Many parking lots offer discounts for extended stays (7 days or more), so be sure to check for any available deals.
- Know Your Lot: Before you leave your car, make a note of your parking lot location (e.g., Lot 1, Lot 2) and the level or section, as it’s easy to forget where you parked in larger lots.
- Use Parking Apps: Consider using a parking app or Toronto Pearson’s official app to track lot availability in real-time and receive updates on any changes in parking conditions.
- Handicapped Parking: Toronto Pearson offers accessible parking spaces at all parking locations. These spots are located close to terminal entrances, making it easier for passengers with disabilities.
Conclusion: Finding the Right Parking at Toronto Pearson
With a variety of options for long-term and short-term parking, as well as premium services and budget-friendly choices, Toronto Pearson International Airport makes it easy to find parking that fits your needs and budget. Whether you’re looking for quick, convenient parking near the terminal or a more economical option for a longer stay, planning ahead will ensure a smoother, stress-free experience as you start your journey.