Let’s be honest — nothing kills pre-vacation excitement faster than circling an airport parking lot, watching the clock tick, and wondering if you’re about to miss your flight. Toronto travelers know this feeling all too well. Between expensive airport rates and confusing off-site options, finding secure and affordable long-term parking in Toronto can feel like another chore on your travel checklist.
But here’s the good news: with a little planning and the right information, you can park smart, save money, and start your trip stress-free. This guide walks you through everything you need to know — from the best places to park near Toronto Pearson (YYZ) and Billy Bishop (YTZ), to insider tips that make parking simpler and safer.
Why Long-Term Parking in Toronto Needs Planning
Toronto’s two main airports — Pearson International (YYZ) and Billy Bishop (YTZ) — handle millions of passengers every year. And while that means plenty of parking choices, it also means prices fluctuate wildly based on demand.
Airport parking can cost anywhere from $15 to $50 a day, depending on where you park and how early you book. Without a plan, you risk overpaying or scrambling for a last-minute spot miles from your terminal.
The key is balance: finding parking that’s secure, close enough for convenience, and affordable enough that you don’t feel like you just bought another plane ticket.
1. Know Your Options at Toronto Pearson (YYZ)
Pearson is Toronto’s largest and busiest airport, so it naturally offers a range of parking choices for different budgets.
On-Site Parking:
- Value Park Garage & Lot: The most cost-effective on-site option. It’s about a 10-minute ride from terminals using the free Terminal Link Train. Great if you want covered parking but don’t want to pay premium rates.
- Daily Park Garage: Slightly closer to terminals, with covered access and easy check-in. Perfect for business travelers.
- Terminal Parking: This is the most convenient but also the most expensive — expect rates of $45–$50 per day.
If you’re parking for a week or longer, the Value Park Lot usually offers the best deal, averaging $30–$35 per day or lower if booked online in advance.
Off-Site Parking Around Pearson:
You’ll find several trusted off-site lots that cost far less and include free shuttles to the terminals. Some of the most reliable ones are:
- Park’N Fly Toronto – Canada’s largest off-site provider, open 24/7, with both indoor and outdoor lots.
- Skyway Park – Locally owned, often 30–40% cheaper than the airport.
- EZ Airport Parking – Offers long-term rates and optional car wash or detailing while you’re away.
Average off-site price: $15–$22 per day, with weekly or monthly discounts.
Booking online through their official sites or comparison platforms like Parkopedia can save an extra 10–20%.
2. Long-Term Parking at Billy Bishop (YTZ)
If you’re flying out of Toronto’s downtown airport, convenience is unbeatable — but parking is limited and pricier.
On-Site Parking:
Billy Bishop’s Main Airport Lot sits just before the ferry terminal entrance, making it the closest option. Rates hover around $35 per day or $130–$150 per week.
An overflow lot on Eireann Quay offers slightly lower prices and free shuttle service to the terminal.
Nearby Downtown Lots:
If you’re okay with a short walk or Uber, check:
- Harbourfront Centre Parking Garage – roughly $25–$28 per day, with plenty of spots during off-peak hours.
- SP+ Parking at Bathurst Quay – occasionally offers discounts for multi-day stays.
These aren’t airport-run, but they’re safe, well-lit, and close enough for short trips.
3. How to Choose the Right Parking Spot (Without Overpaying)
Finding the right spot depends on what matters most — cost, convenience, or security.
- If you value convenience: Choose on-site parking at Pearson or Billy Bishop. It costs more but saves time if you have tight flight schedules.
- If you’re budget-conscious: Go with off-site lots. Many offer loyalty programs, CAA discounts, or weekly flat rates that can cut your total cost in half.
- If safety’s your top priority: Pick lots with 24-hour surveillance, gated entry, and well-lit areas. Reputable companies clearly list their security measures online.
Also, don’t forget to remove valuables, lock your car, and take a photo of your parking space number before heading to the shuttle.
4. Insider Tips for Stress-Free Long-Term Parking
A few small tricks can make a big difference:
- Book Early: Prices rise the closer you get to your flight date — just like airline tickets.
- Check for “Park, Stay & Fly” Hotel Packages: Many Pearson hotels (like Alt, Holiday Inn, and Sandman Signature) include up to two weeks of parking with a one-night stay. It’s often cheaper than paying airport rates alone.
- Use Apps & Aggregators: Websites like AirportParkingReservations.com or ParkSleepFly.ca let you compare prices instantly.
- Watch Shuttle Schedules: Choose lots with frequent, round-the-clock shuttle service — ideally every 10–15 minutes.
- Ask About Weather Protection: In winter, indoor or covered parking is worth the small upgrade. It saves you from scraping ice off your windshield at 2 AM when you get back.
5. Is Off-Site Parking Really Safe?
Many travelers worry that cheaper off-site lots might mean less security. But the reality is — most top-rated off-site providers in Toronto have better monitoring systems than older airport garages.
They often include:
- CCTV cameras covering every row
- Security staff patrolling overnight
- Gated entries with license plate recognition
- Insurance coverage for added protection
If you’re unsure, read recent Google reviews before booking. You’ll quickly see which lots are consistent with customer satisfaction and which ones to avoid.
Final Thoughts: Make Parking the Easiest Part of Your Trip
Travel is stressful enough — traffic, luggage, flight delays. Parking shouldn’t add to the chaos. By comparing your options, booking early, and focusing on both security and value, you can make long-term parking in Toronto simple and affordable.
Whether you’re flying from Toronto Pearson (YYZ) for a two-week vacation or catching a short hop from Billy Bishop (YTZ), the right parking choice means one less thing to worry about.
So take five minutes to plan ahead, secure your spot, and breathe easy. Your next trip starts the moment you park your car — and when you return, it’ll be right where you left it. Safe, sound, and ready to take you home.
