Are you preparing to travel and worried about the hassle of airport parking? You’re not alone! Finding a convenient place to park your car can be one of the most stressful aspects of booking any kind of trip. With so many variables such as costs, distance, security, and convenience involved in this decision-making process, it’s hard to decide where the best spot is for your vehicle. That’s why we’ve put together this guide – it’ll walk you through everything you need to know about airport parking so that you can make an informed decision about where to leave your car while away on vacation or a business trip!
Types of Airport Parking Options
There are several types of airport parking options that you can choose from, depending on your budget, convenience, and duration of your travel.
Short-Term Parking – This is typically located close to the airport terminals, making it an ideal option if you’re picking up or dropping off passengers. However, it’s the most expensive type of parking due to its proximity to the terminal.
Long-Term Parking – For travelers going on week-long trips or longer, long-term parking is a more cost-effective solution. These lots are generally located further away from the terminals, but shuttle services are often provided. Some airports offer extended parking as well such as the extended stay parking at SFO, or long-term lot at LAX. This option is best for travelers who want to save money on parking but still have the convenience of getting to their terminal quickly.
Economy Parking – Economy lots offer the most competitive rates and are most suitable for budget-conscious travelers. Like long-term parking, these lots are usually a bit further away from the airport terminals, but free shuttles are usually available.
Valet Parking – For the ultimate convenience, you might consider valet parking services. You simply drop off your car at a designated spot, and the valet takes care of parking it for you. When you return, your car will be fetched and brought to you.
On-Airport vs. Off-Airport Parking
One of the key decisions to make when considering airport parking is whether to opt for on-airport or off-airport parking.
On-airport parking, as the name suggests, is provided by the airport itself. This type of parking usually offers a range of options including short-term, long-term, economy, and sometimes even valet parking. The advantage of on-airport parking is its proximity to the terminal buildings. This can significantly reduce the time it takes to get from your car to your check-in desk. However, on-airport parking can be more expensive than its off-airport counterparts.
Off-airport parking, on the other hand, is owned and operated by independent businesses located a short distance from the airport. These lots often tend to be cheaper than on-airport options, making them an attractive choice for budget-conscious travelers. Most off-airport parking services provide complimentary shuttle services to and from the airport, though you might need to factor in a bit of extra time to account for this. Additionally, many off-airport facilities offer perks such as car washes or automotive services while you’re away.
Parking Reservations and Booking
In the era of digital technology, most airports and off-airport parking facilities allow you to reserve and book your parking spot online, which can be a real time-saver. Websites and apps like Park ‘N Fly, The Parking Spot, and airport parking reservations let you compare prices, find discounts, and reserve a parking spot at the airport of your choice.
Pre-booking your airport parking is a great way to ensure a hassle-free start to your trip. This process typically involves specifying your departure and return dates to see available parking options, comparing rates and services, and then making your selection. Once you’ve made a reservation, you’ll usually receive a booking confirmation via email which you’ll need to show (either printed or on your mobile device) when you arrive at the parking facility.
Airport Parking Costs and Fees
When considering airport parking, one of the most crucial factors to consider is cost. Rates can vary widely based on the type of parking you choose, the airport’s location, and the duration of your stay.
Short-term parking, due to its proximity to the airport, tends to be the most expensive option. Prices can range from $3-$4 per hour, reaching up to $25-$36 for a full day.
Long-term parking, while located further from the terminals, offers a more economical rate. Generally, you can expect to pay between $5-$14 per day in a long-term lot.
Economy parking lots provide the most affordable rates, often starting around $4-$10 per day. However, due to their distance from the terminal, ensure you factor in the time for shuttle transportation.
Valet parking, while offering the utmost convenience, is the most expensive option. Rates can range from $30-$50 per day, making it a less popular choice for lengthy trips.
In conclusion, airport parking can be a daunting task. However, if you take the time to consider all your options and do your research on rates and services, you’ll find the perfect spot for your car while away from home. Happy travels!