Trying to decide between Uber or parking at Brisbane Airport? We’ve analysed the rates, drop-off and pick-up procedures, and what's more affordable and convenient, so you don't have to.
If you're arriving from the International terminal, head towards the Passenger Pickup Area designated for buses and coaches. It's important to remember that when you request an Uber, an automatic fee of $3.90 will apply to your journey.
If you're arriving from the Domestic terminal, make your way to the Pre-Booked Express and Ride Booking Pickup Zone.
Travellers getting dropped off at Brisbane Airport at both the domestic or international terminals will do so at the 'Passenger Drop-Off' area, right outside each terminal.
Prices will vary when getting dropped off or picked up at Brisbane Airport, especially during peak times. From Brisbane Airport to Brisbane CBD, expect to pay around $36.00 - $42.00 for a one-way trip in an Uber X - Uber Comfort vehicle. A bigger vehicle, such as an Uber Premier, will cost upwards of $73.00 during peak-hours. Overall, an Uber Pick-Up & Drop-Off at Brisbane Airport will cost approximately $77.46 - $157.38 for a round trip during peak hours. During off-peak hours, travellers can expect to spend $70.28 - $146.76 for a round trip.
Rates are subject to increase or decrease depending on the demand. When many flights arrive back at Brisbane Airport at once, Uber rates are prone to increase, drastically.
Rates to Uber from Brisbane Airport to Brisbane CBD
| Type of Uber | Rates during Peak Hours (7:00 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. & 4:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.) | Rates during Off-Peak Hours |
| Uber X | $38.73 | $35.14 |
| Uber Green | $38.73 | $35.34 |
| Uber Pet | $44.98 | $41.59 |
| Comfort | $46.23 | $41.92 |
| Comfort Electric | $50.20 | $45.28 |
| Uber XL | $56.66 | $52.76 |
| Premier | $78.69 | $73.38 |
Taking an Uber to and from Brisbane Airport is going to cost around $77.46 - $157.38 for a round trip during peak hours and $70.28 - $146.76 for a round trip during off-peak hours. These rates are subject to increase during surge periods. Alternatively, parking at Brisbane Airport for 1 week will cost between $99.00 - $199.00 at any of the long-term car parks, both on-site and off.
When considering the costs of their options, travellers should also keep in mind that extended stays are possible at any of the Brisbane Airport car parks, but overstay fees will apply. For example, Brisbane Airport’s ParkLong lot charges an additional $15 per extra day beyond your reserved parking period.
Cost-wise, Uber will be more affordable for short stays, while parking at the airport will be more cost-effective for stays longer than a few days.
Taking an Uber to and from Brisbane Airport can be a convenient choice, but it does come with factors worth considering, especially if you’re travelling during peak hours or holidays. Demand for rides increases during these times, which can lead to longer wait times and higher fares due to surge pricing. With Uber, there’s also the dependency on driver availability, which can fluctuate based on demand and time of day.
On the other hand, parking at or near Brisbane Airport can offer more flexibility and control. When you park your own car, especially at an independent off-site lot, like Andrews Airport parking, you have the freedom to extend your stay or adjust plans without worrying about surge prices or driver wait times. Many off-site lots even offer a quick shuttle service that gets you to the terminal in 10-15 minutes and may allow for flexibility if you call ahead to notify of any changes. For families or those prioritizing ease, driving and parking at Brisbane Airport is a hassle-free option. With undercover parking at Andrews Airport Parking, and a quick 5-minute shuttle to the terminals, it's an affordable and comfortable choice, perfect for the whole family. For shorter trips, ParkShort provides parking just a 1-2 minute walk from the terminals, adding extra convenience for weekend travellers.
Ultimately, in terms of convenience, Uber may be best for shorter trips, especially if you’re looking to avoid parking costs and don’t mind planning around driver availability. Parking, especially off-site options, tends to be more economical and flexible for longer trips, giving you the ease of having your car ready upon return and reducing dependency on ride-hailing schedules.
For short trips of 2-3 days, taking an Uber to and from Brisbane Airport tends to be more economical, as the ride costs are generally less than short-term parking fees. However, for extended trips of 5 days or more, it often makes more sense to park at the airport or with a nearby off-site provider like Andrews Airport Parking Brisbane. In these cases, you’ll find it more cost-effective and convenient to have your own vehicle waiting for you upon return, avoiding multiple Uber fares and any peak-time surge pricing.
Please note that the information above is provided for reference only, and does not constitute travel advice. For the most recent and relevant information about Brisbane Airport or Uber, you should check their official websites. All information cited is subject to change.
