**Bristol Airport Travellers Reveal Simple Hack to Avoid £7 Drop-Off Fee Following Major Transport Overhaul**
Bristol Airport’s recently unveiled £60 million transport interchange has brought significant changes for passengers and motorists, especially with the new drop-off and pick-up arrangements. Announced just two weeks ago, the transformation includes not only an expanded bus and coach hub but also sees the introduction of a revamped “drop-off and pick-up” zone situated atop a modern multi-storey car park. While the airport aims to improve efficiency and access, the new system has prompted debate among regular visitors regarding parking fees and alternatives.
As the busy summer holiday rush gets underway, airport authorities are keen for travellers to familiarise themselves with seven key amendments outside the terminal. Among the most notable modifications are the repositioned meet-and-greet area, the enlarged multi-storey car park, and altered short-stay parking. Under the revised layout, all arriving passengers—whether by private car, coach, or shuttle—enter the terminal through a purpose-built covered walkway, providing added convenience and shelter.
The designated location for collecting or dropping off passengers, previously housed within the short-stay car park, now sits in the heart of the new transport interchange. There are also provisions for minibuses and vehicles exceeding standard height, ensuring larger groups can access the terminal easily. These changes reflect Bristol Airport’s efforts to streamline operations and accommodate increasing passenger numbers, but they have not been universally welcomed.
One major point of contention is the payment structure at the new drop-off zone. Maintaining its rate from the previous arrangement, the airport charges motorists £7 for a stay of up to ten minutes, a fee which has drawn frustration on social media platforms and local news websites. A vocal group of passengers are questioning whether this fee is justifiable, given the brief nature of most drop-offs and the rising cost of travel generally.
Many holidaymakers and those greeting arrivals have expressed their dissatisfaction online. As reported by Bristol Live, some passengers argue that ten minutes is adequate for a quick drop-off, while others believe a free grace period should be introduced. “Charging £7 for someone to get out of a car at a drop-off point is a joke,” wrote one commenter. Another echoed: “Bristol should make the first ten minutes free—after that, introduce a charge.”
For those requiring longer stays, prices climb swiftly. The cost rises to £9 for 20 minutes, then to £13 for 40 minutes, topping off at a hefty £30 for an hour. Meanwhile, the neighbouring short-stay car park charges £15 per hour, a rate that can quickly add up for those waiting on delayed flights.
However, seasoned Bristol Airport users have revealed lesser-known tactics to avoid these fees entirely. The most notable tip, frequently shared across local forums and Bristol Live’s comment section, directs drivers to the official ‘Waiting Zone’ by the Silver Zone car park. This area offers up to one hour of free parking—a rare find at a busy UK airport. Users have been quick to reassure new passengers about the value of this option, suggesting it is both simple and significantly more affordable.
The official airport website provides details on the location and use of this free zone: situated near the Car Rental Centre and supported by regular bus services to the terminal, the Waiting Zone allows drivers to stay at no cost for 60 minutes. Walking from the Waiting Zone is straightforward, thanks to clearly marked routes and a covered pedestrian bridge, ensuring passengers can reach the check-in desks efficiently.
A handful of commentators go a step further, advising travellers to consider public transport entirely. One regular suggested: “Skip driving—my last return journey by train and bus cost just £15 for the week. In comparison to up to £180 for on-site parking, it’s a no-brainer.”
As with many large airports, Bristol’s approach to drop-off and pick-up charges continues to provoke debate, especially as families look for ways to save money during the expensive holiday season. Nevertheless, the existence of this cost-saving alternative shines a light on the importance of researching options before travelling—and demonstrates how savvy planning can make a big difference for airport visitors.
With further improvements and tweaks likely in the pipeline as the airport adjusts to passenger feedback, those using Bristol Airport are advised to check official channels for the latest updates and determine the most suitable option for their journey.