How To Save On Airport Parking

When budgeting for a trip, you probably do not consider the cost of parking your car while you are away, making airport parking fees a rather unpleasant way to end your vacation. To avoid big parking bills when you get home, consider these alternatives the next time you go to the airport.

Choose the best lot

Before you leave for the airport, check its website to determine your parking options. Many people simply pull into the first parking lot they pass, but using a short-term parking lot when you are away for days can cost a great deal of money. Know the rates for each lot, and choose the one that offers the best deal for the duration of your trip. While long-term parking may seem inconvenient because it is usually located farther from the airport, suffering through a brief (and complimentary) shuttle trip can save you a lot of cash.

If you are traveling as a family and do not want to haul the kids and all their luggage across a big parking lot, drop off one parent and the children at the entrance to the airport first.

Hitch a ride

If the airport is not unrealistically far from your home or the home of a family member or friend, you can save money on parking fees by calling in a small favor. Having someone drop you off is ideal because it not only eliminates the stress of parking your car, it also saves you money. Just make sure that you cover your chauffeur's gas expenses, and of course, always offer to return the favor when it is his turn to travel.

Park somewhere else

A lot of people do not even consider the option of parking their cars anywhere but at the airport, but at inner-city airports this is actually a good alternative to steep airport parking fees. Most likely you have driven by privately owned lots without even noticing them. These lots not only cost less, their closed gates translate into better security than airport parking lots. They also usually offer a complimentary shuttle to the airport. With a lower bill, better security and comparable convenience, it only makes sense to park in a private lot.

Keep these tips in mind the next time you travel. Whether you are going on a weekend business trip or a big family vacation, it is easy to save money if you are smart about your airport parking choices.

Airport parking fees are a rather unpleasant way to end your vacation