Luton Airport to Gatwick Airport Best Travel Options for a Smooth Transfer
Travelling between London Luton Airport to Gatwick Airport can feel stressful, especially if you have a connecting flight to catch. These two airports are located on opposite sides of London, with a road distance of around 70 miles (113 km). Thankfully, there are several reliable ways to make the journey comfortably and on time.
Whether you are a tourist, business traveller, or heading off on holiday, this guide explains the easiest and most affordable ways to travel from Luton Airport to Gatwick Airport.
Distance Between Luton and Gatwick
The journey between the airports usually takes between 1 hour 20 minutes and 3 hours, depending on the transport option and traffic conditions.
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By train: around 1 hour 20 minutes to 1 hour 40 minutes
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By coach: around 2 hours 10 minutes to 2 hours 45 minutes.
By taxi/private transfer: around 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 45 minutes
According to National Express, coach services between the airports run several times daily, while direct Thameslink train services offer one of the fastest public transport options.
Travelling by Train
For many travellers, the train is the quickest and most reliable option.
How the Journey Works
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Take the DART shuttle from Luton Airport to Luton Airport Parkway Station
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Board a direct Thameslink train to Gatwick Airport Station
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Arrive directly inside Gatwick Airport terminal areas
The Luton DART shuttle takes under 4 minutes to reach the station. Thameslink trains then travel directly to Gatwick without needing to change trains.
Advantages of Taking the Train
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Faster than road transport during busy hours
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No worries about motorway traffic
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Frequent departures throughout the day
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Direct airport-to-airport connection
This option is especially useful for passengers with limited layover time.
Travelling by Coach
Coach travel is one of the cheapest ways to get from Luton to Gatwick.
National Express Coach Services operates direct airport coaches with luggage storage and onboard Wi-Fi. Journey times start from approximately 2 hours 10 minutes, with fares often beginning around £19.
Why Travellers Choose Coaches
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Budget-friendly fares
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Direct service between airports
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Comfortable seating
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Extra luggage allowance
However, coaches can take longer during peak London traffic periods.
Taxi and Private Airport Transfers
If comfort and convenience are your priority, a private airport transfer is an excellent choice.
Private taxis offer:
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Door-to-door pickup
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Flexible departure times
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No train changes or waiting
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Ideal service for families and groups
Journey times are usually around 90 minutes depending on traffic conditions.
Many travellers prefer pre-booked airport taxis because they reduce the stress of navigating public transport after a long flight.
Tips for a Smooth Airport Transfer
Allow Extra Time
London traffic and rail delays can happen unexpectedly. If you have a connecting flight, allow at least 4–6 hours between flights when transferring independently.
Book in Advance
Train tickets, coaches, and private transfers are often cheaper when booked early.
Travel Light if Possible
Passengers with only hand luggage usually move through airports much faster.
Check Live Travel Updates
Always review train schedules and road conditions before travelling.
Is a Self-Transfer Between Luton and Gatwick Easy?
Many travellers complete this transfer successfully every day. Reddit users discussing airport connections frequently mention that the Thameslink train is one of the easiest and most dependable ways to travel between the two airports.
If your flights are booked separately, make sure you leave enough time for:
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Immigration checks
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Baggage collection
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Security screening
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Possible transport delays
Final Thoughts
Travelling from London Luton Airport to Gatwick Airport is easier than many people expect. With direct trains, affordable coaches, and private taxi services available, you can choose the option that best matches your travel style and budget.
