Parking with Children at Munich Airport
Traveling with children requires extra planning - including parking. This guide covers tips for stress-free parking when traveling with kids, from choosing the right parking option to navigating the airport with little ones.
Best Parking Options for Families
Option 1: Valet Parking (Recommended)
Valet parking is ideal for families because:
- No walking through parking garages with kids
- No lugging car seats, strollers, and bags
- Drop off right at the terminal entrance
- Car waiting when you return - tired kids can get in immediately
- Price: 12-18/day
Option 2: Shuttle Parking (Budget-Friendly)
Shuttle parking offers great value for family trips:
- Significant savings for vacation budget
- Kids often enjoy the shuttle bus ride
- Drivers help with luggage
- Door-to-terminal service
- Price: 6-8/day
Option 3: Terminal Parking (Most Convenient)
If budget allows, parking near the terminal means:
- Shortest walk to check-in
- P1 and P20 closest to entrances
- Covered parking protects from weather
- Easier with strollers in controlled environment
- Price: 35-45/day (expensive for longer trips)
Preparing for Airport Parking with Kids
Before You Leave Home
- Book parking in advance - no searching with kids in car
- Check if provider offers car seat storage/transfer help
- Pack snacks accessible during parking process
- Charge tablets/entertainment for potential waiting
- Print confirmation - in case phone is busy with kids
Timing
- Add 30 minutes extra buffer for unpredictable kid moments
- Avoid rush hour if possible
- Consider flight times - early morning may mean grumpy kids
- Build in bathroom breaks during travel
At the Parking Location
For Shuttle Parking
- One adult stays with kids while other handles check-in
- Ask shuttle driver to help load stroller/car seats
- Have kids use bathroom before boarding shuttle
- Keep entertainment handy for short ride
- Note the shuttle phone number for return
For Valet Parking
- Explain to driver about car seats (stay or remove)
- Document car condition while keeping eyes on kids
- Handover is quick - have kids ready to walk in
- Confirm pickup procedure for return
For Garage Parking
- Note parking spot - take photo of level/section signs
- Hold hands in the parking structure
- Use elevators rather than stairs with stroller/luggage
- Follow signs to terminal carefully
Family Facilities at Munich Airport
Child-Friendly Services
- Family check-in: Dedicated counters with shorter waits
- Stroller rental: Available at airport
- Baby care rooms: In both terminals
- Play areas: Children's zones in departure areas
- Family lanes: At security when available
Eating with Kids
- Multiple family-friendly restaurants
- Fast food options for quick meals
- Shops with snacks and drinks
- High chairs available at most restaurants
Tips for the Return Journey
Before Landing
- Shuttle users: Call or text 20 min before landing
- Valet users: Confirm pickup timing
- Prepare kids that car journey is coming
After Landing
- Bathroom break before leaving terminal
- Have snacks ready for potentially hungry kids
- Keep kids contained while waiting for shuttle/car
- For garage parking: remember your photos of parking spot
The Car Ride Home
- Reinstall car seats carefully (tired mistakes happen)
- Have entertainment ready for potentially overtired kids
- Consider stopping for food if it's late
- Drive carefully - everyone is tired after travel
Special Considerations
Infants and Babies
- Valet best - no carrying infant seat through parking
- Inform provider about rear-facing car seat
- Keep diaper bag accessible during transitions
- Time parking around feeding schedule if possible
Toddlers
- Shuttle can be exciting - "bus ride to airplane!"
- Keep them occupied during any waiting
- Prepare for potential meltdowns in transitions
- Snacks are your friend
School-Age Children
- Involve them in the process
- Let them help take photos of parking spot
- Explain what's happening at each step
- They can help with lighter bags
Cost Considerations for Families
Family trips often mean longer vacations. Compare costs for a 2-week trip:
- Terminal parking: 350-450 (stress-free but expensive)
- Valet parking: 120-170 (convenient + affordable)
- Shuttle parking: 70-95 (best value for family budget)
Tip: The 200+ saved with shuttle parking can fund family activities at your destination!
Conclusion
For stress-free parking with children:
- Book in advance - never search for parking with kids
- Consider valet for maximum ease
- Shuttle parking offers great value + kids enjoy bus
- Add extra buffer time for unpredictable moments
- Prepare entertainment and snacks for transitions
More guides: Valet Parking, Shuttle Parking, and Pro Tips.