Early checkin Parking options

We have just booked a last minute break to Lake Garda for a week, flying LGW North on a Thomson charter that departs at 06:10 so checkin 04:10 onwards. Exploring options (a) very early taxi from home (about 03:00 leaving home) or (b) overnight hotel plus parking gatwick north or (c) early drive from home then long term car park then shuttle to terminal. Any experience or advice would be welcome. Had a quick look at the Copthorne which is £85 plus £12.50 private taxi (each way) to/from terminal. Seen some issues around cars left in long term parking being used while customer on holiday so bit unsure which way to go.
Thanks

Used the Menzies hotel in Harley last month , about a five minute drive to the airport , they take your keys and you have to write your mileage and a four digit number on the envelope you put them in so you shouldn't have any worries about your car being used , they also book a cab for you which was about the same price I think

Sorry that should have read horley not Harley

Used the Menzies hotel in Harley last month , about a five minute drive to the airport , they take your keys and you have to write your mileage and a four digit number on the envelope you put them in so you shouldn't have any worries about your car being used , they also book a cab for you which was about the same price I think

That's what I would do
I know its totally relevant but I used a stay park and fly option at LHR which worked out alright.

[buns]

Needsomesun

IMHO, the Copthorne rooms leave a lot to be desired, having used the place when attending functions there.

I would be tempted by the new Premier Inn that is right outside the North Terminal (next to the Sofitel) and park at Airport

buns

As buns has said, another vote for the new Premier Inn at North Terminal - their park and fly options are excellent and include parking in the LGW Valet car park (short stay, 30 seconds from terminal).

The hotel opened last November, nice and new - i've done this twice since (used to book hilton at LGW S) but will always book the Premier inn now.

(There are around 6 premier inns near LGW, it's the one directly in the North Terminal).

Thanks to everyone for the advice and suggestions. Think we might opt for the Premier Inn - £125 for room one night and up to 8 days parking seems good value.

Thanks for posting about the Premier Inn at Gatwick north, have just booked a holiday with First Choice to Cape Verde in February and was looking at the Sofitel, but the Premier INN is half the price and we can get a meal there as well.