Your Ultimate Heathrow to Gatwick Transfer Solution: Tips, Costs & Best Services

Traveling between London’s major airports, never mind flying, can be something of a hassle as much as possible, but least visiting an airport in one end and flying into the outside by way of the other, as in the case of traveling from Heathrow to Gatwick, it might even get to be one of the most excruciating ways to travel.

But with the right planning and services, your Heathrow airport transfer can become smooth, quick, and economical.

In this guide, we’re going to consider some of the best ways to travel between Heathrow and Gatwick; the cost involved; and some tips that can help you make your trip as smooth as possible. So whether you’re heading from Heathrow to LTN, or Heathrow to STN, or all the way to Gatwick, this article will help you make the best travel decisions.

Reasons to Plan Your Transfers from Heathrow to Gatwick

No connection of direct trains joins the two airports. And traffic can vary wildly based on the time of day, which means that advance planning is even more necessary if you’re running on a tight schedule. 

Thus knowing beforehand how much each type of transport would take you saves you from delays, missed connections, and unnecessary stress. 

Transfer Options From Heathrow to Gatwick

There are several alternatives for traveling between Heathrow and Gatwick airports, each with its advantages, disadvantages, and price ranges.

1. Private Airport Transfer (Most Convenient)

Private taxi transfers are usually the most stress-free and comfortable option. Given the door-to-door service, professional drivers, and luggage assistance, this would be best for families, groups, or travelers with tight schedules.

Estimated Costs: £75–£95

Approx. Journey Time: 1.5 hours depending on traffic 

Pros:

• It is direct and hassle-free.
• No vehicle change needed.
• 24/7 availability.

Disadvantages:

It is more expensive than public transportation.

2. National Coach of France

National Express Coach is indeed a great economical way of travel directly from Heathrow to Gatwick.

• Estimated Cost: £20 – £30
• Travel Time: 1.5 – 2 hours 

Pros:

• Cheaper option
• Frequent departures 

Cons:

• Fixed schedule
• Less comfort with lots of luggage 
• Can be delayed by road traffic

3. Train + Tube Combo (Least Convenient)

There is no direct train from Heathrow to Gatwick. This means that you must change several trains:

• Heathrow to Paddington (via Heathrow Express or Elizabeth Line)
• Paddington to Victoria (via Tube)
• Victoria to Gatwick (Southern or Gatwick Express)
• Cost estimate: £35-50 
• Travel time: 2+ hours

Pros:

• Frequent schedules

Cons:

• Inconvenient with luggage
• Requires a lot of transfers

Airport Transfer Options From Heathrow

The situation is more or less the same if the next stop is Luton (LTN) or Stansted (STN), as there is no direct train link, yet distance to travel requires a bit of thinking ahead.

• Heathrow to Luton Airport (LTN)
• Distance: ~34 miles
• Best: Private taxi or coach
• Time: 1-1.5 hours
• Cost: Approx. £60-80

Another option is to use public transport. However, it is not a good choice if you have luggage to carry since this involves changing a number of times by train and coach.

Heathrow to Stansted Airport (STN)

• Distance: ~60 miles
• Best: Private taxi or coach
• Time: 1.5-2 hours
• Cost: Approx. £80-100

There are no direct train services between Heathrow and Stansted Airport. Transfers through central London will make the journey much longer and backbreaking.

Airport Transfer Tips for Smoothness

No matter if it’s Heathrow to Gatwick or Heathrow to LTN or Stansted, these little tips can help keep your journey free from worries.

1. Book Well In Advance

Whether you’re using a coach or private transfer, ensuring that you book your seat well in advance also leaves room for better prices.

2. Avoid Rush Hours

Travel at off-peak times responsible for traffic delays i.e., between 7-9 am and 4-7 pm.

3. Allow Buffer Time

Any unforeseen delays should be accounted for; ensure you have approximately 4 to 5 hours between interconnecting flights at different airports.

4. Travel Light

Scale down on luggage if possible. Public transport means lugging some baggage, and tube stations and platforms are not always friendly.

Closure

Though transferring between London’s airports can sometimes be convoluted, you do not have to make it a bother. It’s all about taking that little extra effort: Whether traveling from Heathrow to Gatwick, Heathrow to LTN, or Heathrow to STN. 

Private transfer gives maximum comfort and convenience, especially if you carry luggage. Coaches would be a more balanced alternative between price and comfort. While, trains are fine for light travelers who know the transport system. 

Depending on one’s choice, one can make an airport transfer from Heathrow part of the journey rather than a headache to contend with, depending on the route, time, and budget.