As the July school holidays creep up on us, we think it’s about time to start planning a winter getaway. If you’re keen to take a trip, make Newcastle Airport your starting point. With 13 destinations to choose from, deals on parking, and no crowds to be found, booking a last-minute holiday has never been easier or more appealing.

Exciting destinations await

Whether you’re craving a sun-soaked, outdoorsy escape or an immersive, bustling city break, Newcastle Airport has you covered with over 250 weekly flights.

Cairns promises incredible access to snorkelling and diving on the Great Barrier Reef, while the Gold Coast beckons with its stunning beaches and thrilling theme parks, and Brisbane pairs a big city atmosphere with lovely parks and riverfront activities.

Image credit: Tourism and Events Queensland

If you’re in the mood for exploring in the southern states, jet off to Adelaide, which boasts beautiful wine regions and a thriving dining scene, or Melbourne, which offers incredible cultural events, kid-friendly museums, and shopping, plus a world-class zoo.

Make holiday travel more enjoyable

Usually when we think of travelling during the holidays, scenes of chaotic airports and traffic jams come to mind.

Departing from Newcastle Airport means you can leave those ordeals behind. You'll avoid notorious M1 traffic, keep clear of airport crowds, and enjoy shorter lines. The result is a travel experience that’s stress and hassle free – you can slip into holiday mode from the get-go.

Plus, you can take advantage of the airport’s special parking deals these holidays to make life even easier (and kinder on your wallet): park for 4 days for just $49* or for 7 days at only $77*. If you're simply dropping off or picking up, enjoy two hours of free parking in the Long Stay Saver car park.

Eat, drink, and shop before you take off

We have to admit – one of the best parts of heading to the airport is the pre-flight drink at the bar, followed up with a snack and a bit of retail therapy.

Get your caffeine fix at Hunter & King Coffee Co or Nine Bays Espresso, where you can savour freshly-brewed coffee and delicious pastries. 

If you're at the airport for an early flight, check out Valley and Wine, where you can nab a Breakfast Brioche and a small coffee for $17**.

If you’re after a more substantial meal, head to Broughton & Bay Bar. Get nachos and a margarita for just $35 thanks to the Chip Dippin Margarita Sippin Holiday Vibes deal**.

Don't forget to grab any last-minute travel essentials or a good book from News Travels. Or, treat yourself with some local gourmet Hunter Valley Chocolate goodies – think three 45g bars for $25 or two 150g chocolate bars for $40**.

Tips for last-minute travel

- Be flexible with dates: flexible travel dates usually means cheaper flights – Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays typically have the best deals.

- Check special offers: sign up to Newcastle Airport’s email newsletter and tick the deals box to be notified of any airfare sales.

- Don’t forget to use your points: Flybuys and Reward points soon build up doing the weekly shop, which can be converted to frequent flyer points and used to lower the cost of your trip.

For all the latest sale offerings and most up-to-date news head to the Newcastle Airport website, Facebook, and Instagram, or subscribe to the Newcastle Airport newsletter.

*Offer valid for online bookings only for our Mystery Car Park offer. Your parking location will be revealed upon booking confirmation. Subject to availability, offer may be withdrawn or amended at any time. Not in conjunction with any other offer.

**Promotions featured in this article have varying validity dates. Retailer confirmation upon purchase.