Owais Crawford
Paying for parking at the airport can be a stressful experience, especially if you're running late or are unsure about the payment methods available. While some airports like Sacramento International Airport (SMF) no longer accept cash at parking lot cashier booths, they do have designated pay-on-foot self-service kiosks that accept cash payments. Denver International Airport also accepts cash payments at kiosks on Level 5. It's important to note that some airports, like Denver International Airport, offer premium reserved parking where you can book your parking spot in advance and pay automatically with a credit card, saving you time and hassle. Additionally, it's always a good idea to arrive early and keep your parking ticket safe, as some airports charge extra for extended stays.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cash payments | Accepted at kiosks at some airports, but not all |
| Cashless payments | Accepted at kiosks and booths at some airports |
| Payment timing | Before leaving the lot or at the entrance |
| Reservation | Not required but available at some airports |
| Security | 24-hour patrol at some airports |
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What You'll Learn
Cash payments for airport parking
When it comes to airport parking, various factors come into play, including the airport's policies, the type of parking, and payment methods. While some airports offer online reservations for parking spots, others operate on a first-come, first-served basis.
Payment Methods
Most airports offer multiple payment options, including cash, credit cards, and debit cards. However, some airports, such as Sacramento International Airport (SMF), no longer accept cash at parking lot cashier booths. Instead, customers paying with cash must use designated self-service kiosks located within the parking garage and outside specific terminals. Similarly, Denver International Airport (DIA) only accepts cash payments at kiosks on Level 5 by Doors 506-509.
Types of Parking
Airports typically offer different types of parking options, including short-term and long-term parking. Short-term parking lots are usually closer to the airport but tend to be more expensive. Long-term parking lots are often farther away and may offer shuttle services to and from the airport. Additionally, some airports provide reserved parking options, allowing travellers to book covered parking spots in advance, with payment made automatically to their credit cards.
Payment Timing
The timing of payment can vary depending on the airport. Some airports require payment upon entry, while others allow payment upon exit. It is essential to keep the ticket received during check-in, as it will be needed to make the payment upon exit. Losing the ticket can result in a maximum charge. Additionally, it is important to note that some airports charge by the hour, while others have daily rates.
Considerations
When utilizing airport parking, it is crucial to plan ahead, especially when returning at odd hours, to ensure shuttle services are still available. Additionally, taking pictures of the parking location and ticket can help in case the ticket is lost. Keeping valuables out of sight and storing them in the trunk is also recommended. Finally, for those renting out their cars, clear communication about parking fees is essential to avoid surprising guests with extra charges.
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Payment kiosks at airports
Payment Kiosks for Airport Parking
At many airports, cash payments for parking are no longer accepted at the exit booths or cashier booths. Instead, travellers who prefer to pay by cash are directed to designated self-service payment kiosks located within the parking facilities. These kiosks are typically placed at specific levels or lobbies of the parking garages, and their locations vary depending on the terminal or entrance used. For example, Sacramento International Airport (SMF) has cash payment kiosks in lobbies C, D, and E of their parking garage, with locations depending on whether travellers are arriving from Terminal A or Terminal B. Similarly, Denver International Airport (DIA) accepts cash payments only at the kiosks on Level 5 by Doors 506-509.
Payment Options at Kiosks
Kiosks for Flight Check-In and Baggage
In addition to parking payments, kiosks at airports also facilitate the flight check-in process. Nearly all airlines have adopted self-service check-in kiosks, where passengers can check themselves in for their flights and print their boarding passes. These kiosks are typically located near the check-in counters and resemble freestanding computer screens. To use a check-in kiosk, passengers can identify themselves by inserting a credit card, scanning their passport or ID, entering their flight confirmation code, or providing their frequent flyer number. After checking in, passengers can use the kiosk to change their seat assignment and initiate the luggage check-in process, including printing bag tags.
Pre-Booking and Online Payments
Some airports, such as Denver International Airport, offer the option to pre-book parking spaces online. Their Premium Reserved Parking service allows travellers to reserve covered parking in advance, guaranteeing a spot and reducing the time spent searching for parking upon arrival. Payment for such services is typically made automatically to the credit card used during the booking process. Additionally, some travellers opt to include parking fees in their overall trip costs, especially when renting vehicles or using ride-sharing services, to streamline the payment process and avoid surprises for their guests.
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Online parking reservations
While some airports still accept cash as a valid form of payment for parking, many are moving towards digital payments. Sacramento International Airport (SMF), for example, no longer accepts cash at parking lot cashier booths, instead directing customers to pay-on-foot self-service kiosks that accept cash. Similarly, Denver International Airport (DIA) only accepts cash payments at specific kiosks.
To avoid the hassle of finding parking and dealing with unexpected fees, it is often recommended to book parking reservations in advance, especially when travelling to busy destinations like New York City. Online parking reservation platforms, such as SpotHero and ParkWhiz, allow users to search for and book parking spots in advance, offering convenience and potential cost savings.
For instance, SpotHero enables users to search for parking options near their desired destinations, providing a range of choices, including long-term parking garages and valet services. This can be particularly useful when visiting popular New York attractions, such as Times Square, the Statue of Liberty, or attending events like the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade. By booking in advance, travellers can bypass cash-only lots and expensive official venue parking.
Additionally, some airports offer their own online parking reservation systems. Denver International Airport, for instance, provides a Premium Reserved Parking service, allowing travellers to reserve covered parking in advance. This guarantees a parking spot in the parking garage, streamlining the parking process and exit from the lots. Payment for such services is typically made automatically to the user's credit card.
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Criminal activity at airport parking lots
One of the primary criminal activities at airport parking lots is vehicle theft. Airport parking lots offer a wide selection of vehicles, and thieves target these locations due to the likelihood of cars being left unattended for extended periods. According to FBI statistics, a car is stolen every 23 seconds in the United States. While most car thefts occur on streets or at owners' residences, the risk per hour is much higher in parking lots. A British study found that cars in parking lots were four times more likely to be stolen than those parked on the street.
In addition to car theft, smash-and-grab incidents and thefts from vehicles are also prevalent in airport parking lots. Opportunistic criminals target vehicles left unlocked or with valuables visible. The Denver airport (DEN) has experienced a rise in auto thefts, prompting increased security measures, including additional HALO cameras and new barriers in parking lots. Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport has also seen a tripling of vehicle thefts in recent years.
Violent crimes, including armed robberies, assaults, and carjackings, have also been reported at airport parking lots. These incidents pose a direct physical threat to travellers, aviation workers, and crews. Assaults, including sexual assaults, have targeted airport staff and travellers, particularly in parking areas. Corrupt airport staff have also been implicated in theft and illicit activities such as drug trafficking.
To mitigate these issues, airports have implemented various security measures. These include installing CCTV systems, motion detectors, voice-activated security sound systems, emergency phones, and panic buttons. Additionally, controlling access to specific areas through gates, security booths, and fencing can help deter criminal activity. Adequate lighting, landscaping, and regular maintenance are also crucial in reducing the risk of criminal incidents.
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Payment methods at parking kiosks
Denver International Airport also has kiosks that accept cash payments, specifically on Level 5 by Doors 506-509.
Some airports may only have unattended gates with kiosks that accept credit card payments. It is always a good idea to carry a credit or debit card as a backup payment method.
Additionally, some airports offer the option to book parking in advance online, which may require payment by credit card. This can guarantee a parking spot in a covered parking garage and save time spent searching for parking spaces.
It is important to note that payment methods may vary depending on the specific airport and parking lot, so it is recommended to check the official website or contact the airport directly for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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Frequently asked questions
It depends on the airport. Some airports, like Sacramento International Airport, no longer accept cash at parking lot cashier booths. However, they have designated self-service kiosks in the parking garage that accept cash payments. Denver International Airport also accepts cash payments at kiosks on Level 5 by Doors 506-509.
It depends on the airport and your preference. Some airports offer reservations, while others operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Reservations can save you time and guarantee a spot, especially during busy periods.
Payment methods and timings vary across airports. Some airports require payment upon entry, while others allow payment upon exit. It's always good to carry cash or have multiple payment options available.
Staying beyond your reserved time may result in additional charges. Some airports charge by the hour or day, so you will be required to pay for the extra time. It is important to plan your parking duration accordingly and be mindful of potential delays.
Yes, there are off-airport parking options, such as Park and Ride services. These are usually cheaper but may require shuttle services, which can be less convenient due to their schedules. It's essential to research these alternatives and their payment methods to find the best option for your needs.
