Gatwick is the airport of choice for many people in Brighton and across Sussex. It is a short journey from the south coast, it has a wide range of routes across Europe and beyond, and it is easy to reach by train. This guide explains how to get the best from holidays from Gatwick, from choosing a destination and finding good flights to parking, transport and what to do on the day.
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Why fly from Gatwick?
For people living in Brighton, Hove, Worthing, Lewes, Eastbourne and the surrounding towns, Gatwick is usually the closest major airport. That can save hours compared with travelling to a London airport further away, and it can take the stress out of an early departure. Gatwick is served by many airlines, including low cost carriers, full service airlines and holiday operators, so you can often compare several options for the same destination.
The range of destinations means you can plan anything from a quick city break to a beach week or a longer trip. For short getaways, popular routes include Spain, Portugal, Italy, France, Greece, the Netherlands and Germany. For winter sun and summer beaches, the Canary Islands, the Balearics, Cyprus and Turkey are regular choices from UK airports. Flights and schedules change by season, so always check current routes with the airline or a flight comparison site before you plan.
How to get to Gatwick from Brighton and Sussex
By train
Gatwick has its own railway station connected to the terminals, and Brighton is on the main line, so the train is a popular and low stress option. Many services run between Brighton and Gatwick, and the journey is usually relatively short. Check timetables for early morning and late evening, since services can be less frequent at the edges of the day, and check for engineering works, particularly at weekends and bank holidays.
By car
Driving gives you flexibility, especially if you have a lot of luggage, or you are travelling with children. The main road routes are straightforward from the south coast, but traffic can be heavy at peak times, so build in extra time. Parking is a significant cost for a longer trip, so compare official car parks, pre booked off site options and meet and greet services. Always check how far the car park is from the terminal and how the transfer works.
By coach, taxi and lift
Coaches can be a budget option. Taxis and private transfers suit early flights or groups sharing the cost. If a friend or family member is dropping you off, check the drop off rules and charges at the terminal.
Gatwick airport parking tips
- Book in advance. Pre booked parking is often cheaper than turning up on the day, and spaces can sell out at busy times.
- Compare the total cost. Include transfers and any extras in your comparison.
- Read the terms. Check the opening hours, the return process and the rules for late arrivals.
- Allow time. If you use a shuttle bus, add extra time to your journey.
- Take a photo of where you parked. After a long trip, it can be useful.
Popular types of holiday from Gatwick
City breaks
Gatwick is well suited to short city trips. A long weekend in a European capital often works well with a morning flight out and an evening flight home. Read our city breaks guide for advice on choosing a city, how long to stay and ways to save money.
Beach and sun holidays
For beach holidays, look at flights and packages to the Mediterranean, the Canary Islands and the Balearics. A package holiday that combines flights, accommodation and transfers can be convenient, while booking separately can give you more control. Our cheap holidays guide explains how to compare the two.
All inclusive
All inclusive resorts are popular with families and groups. See our all inclusive holidays guide to understand what is usually included and what to check before booking.
Last minute breaks
If you live close to Gatwick you are well placed to take advantage of short notice offers. Read our last minute holidays guide for advice on how last minute deals work and how to prepare so you can book quickly.
Choosing a destination by type of trip
Short weekend away
For a two or three night trip, pick a destination with a short flight and good public transport from the airport, so you spend more time exploring and less time travelling. Cities such as Amsterdam, Paris, Lisbon, Barcelona, Rome and Prague are popular choices from UK airports. Check flight times for both directions, because a very early departure or late return can eat into your trip.
Week in the sun
For a week of sun, consider the Mediterranean in late spring and early autumn, when it is often warmer than the UK but less crowded and sometimes cheaper than peak summer. In winter, the Canary Islands are a regular choice for people looking for warmer weather. Think about whether you want a quiet resort, a lively town or something in between, and read recent guest reviews.
Family holidays
With children, the journey matters as much as the destination. Shorter flights, direct routes and a resort close to the airport can make travel easier. Check baggage allowances for the whole family, whether children need their own seat, and what the airline offers for pushchairs and car seats.
Special occasions
Birthdays, anniversaries and weddings often call for something a little different. Book earlier where you need specific dates, and consider flexible fares so you can adjust if plans change.
When to book flights from Gatwick
There is no single best time to book, because prices depend on demand and capacity. As a rule, popular dates such as school holidays, bank holiday weekends and Christmas fill up early and tend to cost more, so it is sensible to book those well in advance. For quieter periods, you may find better value by watching prices and being flexible. If you can travel midweek or at less popular times of day, you will often have more choice and lower prices.
Tips for finding flights from Gatwick
- Use a flight comparison site to see several airlines at once, then check the airline’s own site for the final price.
- Be flexible on dates where you can. Flying midweek or outside school holidays is often cheaper.
- Check the total price including bags, seat selection and any payment fees.
- Check the departure terminal for your airline, since Gatwick has more than one.
- Consider booking return flights from different airlines, but make sure you have a plan if one is delayed.
- Sign up for fare alerts if you are watching a particular route.
Baggage and airport rules
Low cost airlines often charge for hand luggage above a small bag and for checked bags, and sizes and weight limits vary. Check your airline’s rules before you pack, and measure bags before you leave home. Remember the rules on liquids in hand luggage, which can change, so check the latest guidance on the airport and government websites before you travel.
On the day of your flight
- Check your passport is valid for the destination and the entry rules for the country you are visiting.
- Check in online if your airline offers it, and download your boarding pass.
- Arrive in good time. Airports can be busy, particularly in school holidays.
- Keep your documents and essentials in an easy to reach bag.
- Check the departure screens for your gate, as it is usually announced closer to the time.
Car hire and onward travel
Most people do not need to hire a car in the UK when flying from Gatwick, but one can be very useful at your destination. If you plan to explore beyond the resort or city, read our car hire guide, which covers excess, fuel policies and what to check at pick up.
Protecting your trip
Arrange insurance when you book, and make sure it suits your destination and activities. Our travel insurance guide explains what policies typically cover and what to check in the small print. Also allow for the journey to the airport, since delays on rail or roads can lead to a missed flight, which many policies only cover in specific circumstances.
Making a weekend of it in Sussex
If you are travelling from further away, consider combining your trip with a stay in the area before or after your flight. Brighton and the surrounding coast and countryside make a good base, and our Brighton and Sussex breaks guide has ideas for a night or two either side of your flight. For UK based trips, see our UK holidays guide.
Frequently asked questions
Is Gatwick the best airport for Brighton?
For most people in Brighton and Sussex, Gatwick is the closest major airport, with good rail links and a wide range of routes. The best airport for you depends on where you are going and the airlines you prefer.
How long does it take to get from Brighton to Gatwick?
By train the journey is usually relatively short, but timetables vary, so check your journey on the day. By car it depends on traffic, so allow extra time at peak periods.
How early should I arrive at Gatwick?
Follow your airline’s advice, which depends on the route and time of year. Arriving earlier is wise during school holidays and for early morning flights.
Is it cheaper to book flights and hotels separately?
Sometimes, but not always. Compare package prices with booking separately, and remember that packages can include transfers and extra protection.
Should I park at Gatwick or take the train?
For short trips with little luggage, the train is often cheaper and simpler. For longer trips or large groups, parking can be more convenient, but pre book and compare options.
Can I find last minute deals from Gatwick?
Yes, last minute deals are often available for popular routes, but availability and prices vary. See our last minute holidays guide for advice.
Do I need travel insurance when flying from Gatwick?
It is strongly advisable. Insurance can help with medical costs, cancellation and lost baggage, subject to the policy terms.
Final thoughts
Gatwick makes holidays easy for people in Brighton and Sussex, offering good transport links and plenty of destinations. Plan your journey to the airport, compare flights and packages, protect your trip with the right insurance, and you will be set for a smoother start to your holiday. If you have a question, you can contact us.