8 fab tips for Melbourne Flyers

Melbourne’s a marvelous city to live and work in.

And with attractions like its international comedy festival, international flower and garden show, Arts Centre Melbourne and the ACMI gallery, it’s no wonder some Melburnians find it tough to tear themselves away from their home town for adventures further afield.

However, if a trip from the city’s Tullamarine Airport is on the horizon, some advice on what to eat, where to park and staying stress-free won’t go amiss — here are eight fab tips for Melbourne flyers.

1. Kids’ adventures

If you’re travelling with family, tantrums and delays can make you tear your hair out. But there is an alternative — taking kids to Melbourne’s Gumbaya theme park is the perfect pitstop to keep them onside, with water slides, thrilling rides, amazing native animals and much more.

2. Beaches

If the beach is more your bag, build in time for a spot of sun, sand and surf at super spots like Port Phillip Bay, Albert Park, St Kilda or Sandringham. But don’t miss your flight while trying to catch the perfect wave!

3. Airport hotels

When you’re travelling in to Tullamarine from slightly further afield, staying overnight at an airport hotel the day before departure allows you to regroup, refresh and revive yourself. Options include the Holiday Inn, Ibis and Airport Tourist Village — find a deal on trivago.com.au and book early.  In town and need to print then check out Printer Services Melbourne for great options.

4. Airport Kids’ Zone

When you arrive at Melbourne Airport with a herd of high-energy youngsters, you might be looking for a place for them to burn themselves out before boarding your flight. The cool children’s playground in the T2 International Terminal fits the bill perfectly, with climbing frames and soft play areas aplenty.

5. Airport parking

It’s possible to reach the air hub via public transport — but unless you want to arrive sweaty and stressed after an overcrowded journey, driving there in your own vehicle is much more pleasant and convenient. Booking Melbourne airport parking with Looking4.com lets you bag a bargain and fly with peace of mind.

6. Prayer rooms

Religious or spiritual travellers can sometimes struggle to find serene spaces in busy airports. But if you fall into this category, Melbourne’s got your back — there are 24/7 prayer rooms on the ground floor between terminals 2 and 3, and at International Departures after passport control.

7. Baby change facilities

Taking a flight can be fraught with logistical challenges, but when your child’s still in nappies, it can turn anxiety levels up to overdrive. Fear not — Melbourne Airport boasts a bevy of baby change facilities which are clearly signposted throughout all terminals.

8. Retail therapy

Treating yourself or your family to a little pre-flight retail therapy is one surefire way to calm nerves and cultivate a positive atmos. And shopping at Melbourne Airport is eclectic — you’ll find everything from Aussie tourist trinkets to luxury shoes and accessories.

That’s our list! Share your own Melbourne Airport travel tips in the comments section.