Stansted Airport to Luton Airport: Simple Transfer Guide (Best Options + Tips)

Travelling from Stansted Airport to Luton Airport is a common journey for passengers catching connecting flights, meeting family, or travelling across the UK. Since both airports are outside central London, the transfer can be smooth if you choose the right option and plan your time properly.

Whether you want a budget-friendly coach, a direct taxi, or a train route with changes, this guide will help you travel with confidence.

Distance and Journey Time

The road distance between Stansted Airport to Luton Airport is usually around 35 to 45 miles, depending on the route taken.

Typical travel times:

By taxi/private transfer: 50 to 75 minutes (traffic dependent)
By coach: 70 to 110 minutes
By train (with changes): 2 hours 15 minutes to 3 hours+

Traffic around the M25 can affect timings, so always allow extra time, especially if you’re connecting to a flight.

Best Ways to Travel from Stansted to Luton

1) Direct Coach (Most Budget-Friendly)

A direct coach is one of the easiest public transport options because it usually runs airport-to-airport without complicated changes.

Why travellers choose it:

Lower cost than a taxi
Luggage storage included
Comfortable seats
Simple for solo travellers

Things to remember:

Travel time may increase in heavy traffic
You must follow fixed timetables
Less flexible for very early or late flights

2) Taxi or Private Airport Transfer (Fastest and Most Comfortable)

A private taxi from Stansted Airport to Luton Airport is the best option if you want a direct ride with maximum comfort.

Best for:

Families and groups
Business travellers
Passengers with heavy luggage
Tight flight connections

Key benefits:

Door-to-door service
No station changes
Flexible pickup time
Less stress after landing

Tip: If you’re travelling with large suitcases, booking an estate car or MPV is a smart choice.

3) Train (No Direct Route)

There is no direct train between Stansted Airport and Luton Airport, so rail travel usually involves multiple changes through London.

A train journey typically includes:

Train from Stansted Airport towards central London
Underground or station change
Train towards Luton Airport Parkway
Shuttle or transfer to the airport terminal

Pros:

Avoids motorway traffic
Works well if you have plenty of time

Cons:

Multiple changes and walking with luggage
Longer overall journey time
More risk of delays affecting connections

Which Option Should You Choose?

Here’s a quick guide:

Choose a coach if you want a low-cost, direct public option
Choose a taxi/private transfer if you want speed, comfort, and reliability
Choose train routes if you have extra time and prefer rail travel

If you’re catching a flight from Luton, Stansted Airport to Luton Airport reduce stress and avoid missed check-ins.

Travel Tips for a Smooth Transfer

To make your journey easier:

Leave extra time for M25 traffic
Check flight times and terminal details in advance
Keep booking details ready (especially for coaches)
Plan a buffer of at least 2–3 hours before departure
Pick the right vehicle size if you have lots of luggage

FAQs

1. How long does it take from Stansted Airport to Luton Airport?
By road, it usually takes 50 to 75 minutes, depending on traffic.

2. Is there a direct train from Stansted to Luton?
No, there is no direct train, and the route requires multiple changes.

3. What is the cheapest way to travel between the airports?
A direct coach is usually the cheapest option.

4. What is the most reliable option for a connecting flight?
A pre-booked taxi or private transfer is often the most reliable because it’s direct and flexible.

5. Can I travel easily with heavy luggage?
Yes, but taxis and coaches are easier than trains. For taxis, request a larger vehicle if needed.