Space Shuttle Parking® vs Blu Emu Car Park
Finding the perfect space for airport parking can be challenging, whether it is for a few hours or a couple of days. Especially when it comes to parking at Sydney Airport, think twice before booking your next space. With short- and long-term parking starting at $77.20 per day at the Domestic Terminal and $78.80 per day at the International Terminal, it is arguably among the most expensive airport parking rates in the country.
So, your next best option is to choose one of the purpose-built airport car parks located close to the Sydney Airport. This blog takes a closer look at Blu Emu Car Park and Space Shuttle Parking.
Let’s find out which is most suitable for your needs based on location, parking options, convenience, and prices.
Parking Facility Overview
Blu Emu Car Park
Blu Emu Car Park is Sydney Airport’s official long-term parking facility, offering travellers a more affordable alternative to terminal parking. Located within the airport precinct, it is a popular choice for holidaymakers, families, and business travellers looking for convenient airport parking.
Its core service offering includes open-air parking and complimentary shuttle bus transfers between the car park and Sydney Airport’s domestic terminals.
Space Shuttle Parking®
Space Shuttle Parking is a purpose-built airport parking facility located in Mascot, just minutes from Sydney Airport. Established to provide a more convenient and customer-focused airport parking experience, it caters to both domestic and international travellers.
Our mission is to combine affordability, convenience, and security while delivering a hassle-free travel experience. Key advantages include close proximity to the airport, undercover parking, on-demand shuttle transfers, 24/7 security, EV charging facilities, and a range of additional traveller services.
The Verdict:
While both offer affordable parking, Space Shuttle Parking provides a more well-rounded experience, including short- and long-term parking, covered parking, and additional amenities such as EV charging stations and car washing services.
Location
Blu Emu Car Park
Although Blu Emu Car Parking is located on airport land, it is approximately 6 km from the Sydney domestic airport terminal. Therefore, via the Blu Emu Car Parking shuttle bus, it takes about 15-20 minutes to reach the Blu Emu Car Parking space from the domestic terminal, which may be affected by heavier traffic during peak times.
Note: Blu Emu Car Parking does not shuttle passengers to the international terminal, only the domestic terminal.
Space Shuttle Parking®
Space Shuttle Parking® is conveniently located at 289 King St, Mascot, making it the closest multi-level airport car park to the airport. You are approximately 4 minutes (400 metres) away from the Domestic terminal and 1 km (10 minutes) from the International terminal.
The Verdict:
Space Shuttle Parking earns more favourable points thanks to its proximity to Sydney Airport and its ability to transport passengers to both Domestic and International terminals.
Shuttle Bus Convenience
Blu Emu Car Park
Blu Emu Car Parking offers a free shuttle bus service to the domestic terminal every 15 minutes during peak times and 20 minutes during off-peak times. Due to large shuttle buses and multi-stop shuttle service, the travel time within the Blu Emu Car Parking takes passengers extra time to get to and from the vehicle and airport, depending on the car’s location within the car park. There is no service provided for the International terminal.
Space Shuttle Parking®
Space Shuttle Parking provides a 24-hour free on-demand shuttle service between normal hours 4.30 am to 11 pm, and a small fee for after-hours service between 11 pm and 4:30 am to both the Domestic and International terminals. With the biggest and best-in-class Sydney airport shuttle buses, the shuttle service operates directly between the car park and airport terminals.
The Verdict:
Passengers would prefer Space Shuttle Parking over the Blu Emu Car Parking, as it offers the largest fleet of 6 large VW Crafters and Ford Transporters for direct, quicker on-demand shuttle service to Domestic and International terminals.
Parking Options
Blu Emu Car Park
Blu Emu Car Parking at the Sydney airport offers only open-air parking. There is no option for undercover parking available.
Space Shuttle Parking®
Space Shuttle Parking is a purpose-built 9-level car park with over 1,300 spaces. 8 levels are undercover, with up to an extra-high 2.6m clearance. The rooftop is mostly covered with awnings and sails, providing 2.25m clearance and protection from the harsh sun and rainy weather.
The Verdict:
Space Shuttle Parking wins this round, as undercover parking is in greater demand, especially at great rates. For passengers who need long-stay airport parking for more than a day, protecting the car from wind and rain is an important factor without costing more.
Security
Blu Emu Car Park
Blu Emu Car Parking has no 24/7 security, and the CCTV coverage is also limited. The car park is not operated by staff.
Space Shuttle Parking®
Space Shuttle Parking has 24/7 on-site security, staffed 24 hours, full CCTV coverage across all levels, and number plate recognition at boom gates to ensure your car is safe and secure at all times. The car park is well-lit and provides security for both passengers and vehicles 24 hours a day.
The Verdict:
Space Shuttle Parking offers superior security arrangements and facilities, providing better security for both passengers and vehicles 24 hours a day.
Additional Features
Blu Emu Car Park
Blu Emu Car Parking at Sydney Airport features designated accessible parking bays and offers wheelchair-accessible free shuttle buses. It, however, lacks additional conveniences, such as a car wash, café, hotel, and EV charging.
Space Shuttle Parking®
Space Shuttle Parking has an on-site Travelodge Airport Hotel and Cafe. They also provide on-site hand car wash service, so you can return from your flight to a freshly cleaned and spotless car. The car park also offers parking assistance for disabled individuals.
The Verdict:
When choosing a car park, these additional features are more of a luxury than a necessity. But, for those who want a car wash or an airport hotel, Space Shuttle Parking will have a greater appeal.
Shuttle Bus Child Seats
Blu Emu Car Park
Blu Emu Car Parking does not provide child seats, which can make it less convenient for families travelling with infants or toddlers. This may require parents to bring their own, adding to their travel load.
Space Shuttle Parking®
Goes the extra mile for families by offering child seats on request for its shuttle bus service. This thoughtful addition ensures safety and comfort for young travellers from 6 months, making it the go-to provider of shuttle service to Sydney Airport for families with children.
The Verdict:
Space Shuttle Parking is the better choice for family-friendly travel, offering child seat options for added safety.
Live Flight Times
Blu Emu Car Park
Blu Emu Car Parking does not provide live flight time updates, meaning travellers must rely on their devices or airport screens to get this information. This can be less convenient, especially for those in a rush.
Space Shuttle Parking®
Offers live flight-time displays on-site, ensuring travellers are always kept updated on flight changes or delays. This modern feature enhances its reputation as one of the best parking options near Sydney Airport, saving travellers the hassle of manually checking flight schedules.
The Verdict:
Space Shuttle Parking wins out over Blu Emu Car Parking with the added convenience of on-site live flight-time displays, which are ideal for keeping passengers informed of plane movements at Sydney Airport.
Free Car Jump Start
Blu Emu Car Park
Blu Emu Car Parking does not provide a free car jump-start service, so travellers will need to make their own arrangements in case of a battery issue.
Space Shuttle Parking®
Offers peace of mind with its free car jump-start service, ensuring travellers never have to worry about a dead battery upon return. This service further solidifies its position as one of the best parking options at Sydney Airport, adding a layer of reliability for its customers.
The Verdict:
Space Shuttle Parking stands out over Blu Emu Car Parking for its stress-free return experience, with complimentary car jump-start assistance if needed, making it one of the most reliable airport car parks at Sydney Airport.
Car Park Lifts
Blu Emu Car Park
Blu Emu Car Parking does not have lifts, as the car park is entirely outdoor at ground level. Walking distances between parking spaces and pickup locations may be long and inconvenient, especially in bad weather with no undercover walkways.
Space Shuttle Parking®
Features well-maintained 2 fast lifts to all 9 levels that offer easy and quick access from the parking space to the pickup point, all undercover within the car park. This is especially beneficial for travellers with heavy luggage, mobility challenges, or those simply seeking added convenience. This accessibility feature also reinforces its suitability for short-term airport parking in Sydney.
The Verdict:
Space Shuttle Parking prioritises customer convenience with its fully equipped car park lifts, making it a better and more practical option for airport parking.
Onsite Travelodge Hotel Sydney Airport
Blu Emu Car Park
Blu Emu Car Parking does not have an on-site hotel, making it less convenient for travellers requiring overnight stays in close proximity to the car park.
Space Shuttle Parking®
Conveniently located on-site with the 4 Star Travelodge Hotel Sydney Airport, travellers can stay overnight if they have an early flight or need rest after a long journey. This added convenience is particularly appealing for those seeking long-term airport parking in Sydney, with nearby lodging and quick access to the on-demand shuttle bus service for direct transfers to Sydney airport terminals.
The Verdict:
Space Shuttle Parking® is a superior choice for travellers looking for parking with easy and quick access to nearby Hotel accommodation and on-demand shuttle bus transfers to Sydney airport terminals.
Loyalty Program
Blu Emu Car Park
Blu Emu Car Parking pricing and specials do not include a loyalty program.
Space Shuttle Parking®
Space Shuttle Parking offers competitive rates and services tailored to meet your parking needs.
The Verdict:
If you are looking for a car park that offers affordable, reliable services without requiring a loyalty program, Space Shuttle Parking is an excellent choice.
EV Charging Spaces
Blu Emu Car Park
Unfortunately, Blu Emu Car Parking does not accommodate electric vehicles, as no EV charging stations are available. This lack of facility may deter EV owners from using their services.
Space Shuttle Parking®
Space Shuttle Parking houses Sydney Airport’s largest EV charging facility. It leads in sustainability by offering 40 22Kw fast EV charging spaces for electric vehicles to support the growing trend of eco-friendly car owners. This feature makes it especially appealing for those needing long-term airport parking in Sydney while ensuring their car is fully charged.
The Verdict:
When it comes to Space Shuttle Parking vs Blu Emu Car Parking, Space Shuttle Parking is the preferred choice for eco-conscious travellers, offering the largest number of state-of-the-art EV charging stations.
Price Comparison
Blu Emu Car Park
Blu Emu Car Parking offers economy airport parking rates for daily, weekly, and long-term stays. Pricing can vary depending on travel dates, booking periods, and seasonal demand. Travellers should also consider transfer times and the limited range of included facilities when assessing overall value.
Space Shuttle Parking®
Space Shuttle Parking provides competitive rates across daily, weekly, and extended parking periods. Whether parking for a few days or several weeks, travellers benefit from additional value through undercover parking, on-demand shuttle transfers, enhanced security, EV charging facilities, and a range of customer-focused services.
The Verdict:
While both providers offer parking options for short- and long-term stays, Space Shuttle Parking delivers better value for money thanks to our broader range of included facilities and services. Travellers can also enjoy a more convenient parking experience without paying extra for essential features such as security, undercover parking, and direct shuttle transfers.
Customer Reviews & Customer Experience
Blu Emu Car Park
Blu Emu Car Parking is a popular choice among travellers looking for airport-operated parking and affordable long-term parking options. Passengers generally appreciate its accessibility and straightforward parking experience.
Space Shuttle Parking®
Space Shuttle Parking is known for our convenient location, direct shuttle transfers, undercover parking, and helpful customer service. Travellers also benefit from the added convenience of features such as EV charging, hotel accommodation, and enhanced security.
The Verdict:
For travellers seeking a more convenient, feature-rich airport parking experience, Space Shuttle Parking offers a stronger overall customer experience.
Conclusion
Finding a decent parking space at Sydney Airport has become a challenge for most car drivers. However, when it comes to airport parking, Sydney Airport is almost notorious for its obscene parking charges at domestic and international terminals.
When comparing Blu Emu Car Parking with Space Shuttle Parking in terms of facilities, convenience, and service, Space Shuttle Parking is your first choice for Sydney Airport parking.
We offer the best airport parking experience with 24-hour access, a manned car park, and exclusive 24-hour on-demand shuttle service. Space Shuttle Parking dominates the market with the largest bays, the highest vehicle clearance, and the biggest on-demand shuttle bus fleet. Coupled with the best Sydney Airport pricing and Price Beat Guarantee, Space Shuttle Parking is the obvious airport parking choice, providing first-class airport parking at economy rates!
Blu Emu Car Park | Space Shuttle Parking® | Location |
|---|---|---|
Shuttle Bus Convenience | ||
Parking Options | ||
Security | ||
Additional Features | ||
Shuttle Bus Child Seats | ||
Live Flight Times | ||
Free Car Jump Start | ||
Car Park Lifts | ||
Onsite Travelodge Hotel Sydney Airport | ||
Loyalty Program | ||
EV Charging Spaces | ||
FAQs
How far is Space Shuttle Parking from Sydney Airport?
Space Shuttle Parking is located approximately 400 metres from the Domestic Terminal and around 1 km from the International Terminal.
Does Space Shuttle Parking offer shuttle service to the International Terminal?
Yes. Space Shuttle Parking provides complimentary on-demand shuttle transfers to both Domestic and International terminals.
What are the main differences between Blu Emu and Space Shuttle Parking?
The main differences include location, shuttle convenience, undercover parking, security, EV charging facilities, and additional customer services.
Can I book Space Shuttle Parking online?
Yes. Travellers can easily reserve their parking space online before arriving.
Does Space Shuttle Parking have 24/7 access?
Yes. The facility operates 24 hours a day, allowing travellers to access their vehicles whenever required.
What is the best alternative to Blu Emu Car Park near Sydney Airport?
Space Shuttle Parking is a popular alternative to Blu Emu Car Park thanks to its convenient location, undercover parking, direct shuttle transfers, and additional traveller services.
Does Space Shuttle Parking accept walk-ins without booking?
Yes, subject to availability. However, advance bookings are recommended to secure the best rates and guarantee a parking space.
