Ruth Haines
Parking your car at the airport is a convenient option for travellers, but it can be expensive. Airports offer a variety of parking options, including short-term and long-term parking, with prices varying depending on the proximity to the terminal. Short-term parking lots are intended for dropping off and picking up passengers, while long-term parking lots are usually located further away from the airport and offer lower rates for those planning to park their cars for the duration of their trip. Off-site parking is another option, often providing additional amenities such as 24-hour security and covered parking, but requiring additional travel time to the airport. To save money, travellers can book in advance, utilise coupons, or consider parking in a residential area near the airport.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Parking options | Short-term, long-term, off-site, on-site, residential, park-and-ride, garage, economy, terminal, valet, accessible, motorcycle, cell phone waiting lots |
| Cost | Varies by airport and duration of parking. Short-term parking can be $17-$59 per day. Long-term parking for a week can be $42-$273. A month of parking can be $180-$1,170. |
| Reservation | Not always necessary, but may be cheaper. |
| Payment methods | Cash, credit card, mobile application, website |
| Security | On-site parking generally safer than off-site. Risk of theft and vandalism. |
| Additional amenities | Shuttle service, covered parking, 24-hour on-site security, car washes, valet parking, dent guards |
| Preparation | Check tire pressure and fluid levels, clean the car, remove valuables, use a car cover, lock the doors, take a picture of parking location and ticket |
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What You'll Learn
Short-term vs long-term parking
Short-term and long-term parking options are generally available at airports. However, the specific differences between the two can vary across airports. Some small airports may only offer short-term parking, while others may provide both options.
Short-term parking is designed for travellers who need to park for a few hours or a day. These parking lots are usually located near the terminal for added convenience and are ideal for picking someone up or dropping off a passenger. Short-term parking is typically more expensive than long-term parking, with higher daily rates. For instance, short-term parking at Orlando International (MCO) can cost $17 per day, whereas long-term parking at Philadelphia International Airport costs around $12 to $15 per day.
Long-term parking is for travellers who need to park for the duration of their trip, usually requiring at least one overnight stay. These lots are often farther away from the terminal, which makes them more affordable. Long-term parking lots are generally secure, with features like 24-hour surveillance, fenced lots, and security patrols. However, they may require additional travel time, and you may need to use a shuttle service to get to and from the terminal.
To save money, it is recommended to book long-term parking in advance, as some lots offer discounts for online reservations. Additionally, off-site parking options, such as private garages or residential driveways, can be more cost-effective and safer than on-site long-term parking.
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On-site vs off-site parking
When it comes to parking your car at the airport, you have two main options: on-site and off-site parking. Both options have their advantages and disadvantages, and the best choice for you will depend on your specific needs and priorities.
On-site parking, or parking at the airport itself, offers the benefit of proximity to the terminal. This is ideal for travellers who are in a hurry and need to get to their flight as quickly as possible. On-site parking lots also tend to have more available spaces, which can be advantageous during peak travel seasons. However, the convenience of on-site parking comes at a cost, with higher parking fees typically associated with these lots. Additionally, on-site parking lots can be massive, resulting in a long walk to the terminal despite the close proximity. These lots can also fill up quickly, making it stressful to find a spot during busy travel times.
Off-site parking, on the other hand, is typically located some distance from the airport and offers lower parking fees. This option is ideal for travellers who have time to plan their trip and will be gone for an extended period. Off-site parking lots often provide shuttle services to and from the airport, although this may add to the overall travel time. Additionally, off-site lots tend to invest more heavily in security measures, such as 24/7 security guards and surveillance cameras. They also often provide additional services such as car washes, oil changes, and luggage storage, giving travellers more options to meet their needs.
It's worth noting that the availability of parking spaces can be uncertain with on-site airport parking, especially during peak travel seasons. Off-site parking provides travellers with an alternative option, and many opt for this choice due to its affordability and convenience. Off-site parking lots tend to have lower operating costs, allowing them to pass on significant savings to travellers. Additionally, off-site lots often have loyalty programs and partner with other organizations to offer extra savings and benefits, such as waived reservation fees and discounts.
When deciding between on-site and off-site airport parking, it's essential to consider your budget, time constraints, and specific needs. Both options have their pros and cons, and by weighing these factors, you can determine which choice aligns best with your priorities.
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Preparing your car for long-term parking
Check and Inflate Tires
Ensure your tires are inflated to the fullest pressure. This will ensure a safe drive back home and prevent flat tires.
Top Up Fluids
Check the car's fluid levels and top up any necessary fluids, such as oil and windshield washer fluid.
Clean the Car
Clean both the exterior and interior of your car. This will ensure that you return to a clean car, free of dust and dirt.
Remove Valuables
Remove all valuables, chargers, tablets, laptops, and important documents from your car. These items may attract thieves, and you don't want to come back to broken windows or locks.
Park in a Covered Space
If possible, choose covered parking to protect your vehicle from weather elements such as sunlight, rain, or snow. If an indoor parking spot is not available, consider investing in a good-quality car cover.
Lock the Car and Remove Extra Keys
Remember to lock your car doors and windows. Also, do not leave any extra keys in the car, as thieves could use them to access your trunk or even steal your car.
Note Down Parking Information
Take a picture of the nearest parking location sign and your parking ticket. Additionally, note down important information, such as the parking space number, level, or section. This will be helpful if you lose your ticket or forget where you parked.
Plan and Compare Parking Options
Compare the different parking options available at your airport. On-site long-term parking lots are usually located farther from the terminals and may offer shuttle services. Off-site parking options may be more budget-friendly and offer additional amenities like 24-hour security and covered parking. Check for deals and discounts, and consider booking in advance to save money.
Adjust Insurance Coverage
Review your insurance policy and adjust your coverage to protect against theft, vandalism, or damage. Consider adding long-term vehicle storage insurance to your existing policy for extra peace of mind.
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Safety and security
When it comes to parking your car at the airport, safety and security are paramount concerns. While it is generally safe to leave your car at the airport, there are several precautions you should take to ensure the security of your vehicle and its contents.
Firstly, it is essential to understand the different parking options available at or near the airport. Airports typically offer short-term and long-term parking. Short-term parking lots are usually located near the terminals, providing convenience for dropping off or picking up passengers, but they are often more expensive. Long-term parking lots, on the other hand, are situated at a distance from the terminals and offer more affordable rates for travellers intending to park their cars for the duration of their trip. Some airports also provide off-site parking options, which are generally more cost-effective but may have fewer security measures in place.
To enhance the safety of your vehicle, consider opting for covered, well-lit, and highly monitored parking areas. These features provide an extra layer of security and deter potential thieves or vandals. Additionally, it is crucial to remove all valuables from your car before leaving it in the parking facility. Ensure that no items of value are left visible, and place them in the trunk or carry them with you. Taking pictures of your parking location and ticket can also help you locate your car upon your return and serve as a backup in case of ticket loss.
Another safety consideration is the duration of your trip. Most airports accommodate parking for up to a month, but some can allow longer stays with special arrangements. It is important to check the policies of your specific airport, especially if you plan to be away for an extended period. Additionally, review your insurance policy and consider adjusting your coverage to include protection against theft, vandalism, or damage. Adding long-term vehicle storage insurance can provide peace of mind during your travels.
Lastly, taking care of your vehicle's maintenance before leaving it in long-term airport parking is essential. Check your tire pressure and top up any necessary fluids, such as oil and windshield washer fluid. Cleaning both the exterior and interior of your car can also make a pleasant return home. If possible, use a car cover, especially in uncovered parking lots, to protect your vehicle from the elements.
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Payment methods
At Melbourne Airport, customers are encouraged to book ahead and pay online to get the best rates. If you choose not to book ahead, you will need to use a credit card, Apple Pay, or Google Pay to enter and exit the car park. It is important to use the same card and payment method when exiting the car park to ensure that parking rates are calculated correctly.
Similarly, DFW International Airport encourages customers to pre-book their parking to save money. Customers can use the airport's customer portal to request a refund, check on a refund status, or pay their parking invoice.
Some airports, like LAX, allow customers to reserve a parking spot online. Customers can provide their credit card or other payment information to authorize LAWA's third-party payment processor to store their payment method for future authorized transactions. Customers can update or remove their stored payment method at any time by contacting LAWA.
Additionally, some European airports have been known to have customers pay at a kiosk before getting into their cars, while most American airports tend to have customers pay as they leave.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, most airports offer a variety of parking options, including short-term and long-term parking.
Short-term parking lots are typically located near the terminals, making them more expensive. They are intended for dropping off and picking up passengers and are not designed for overnight parking. Long-term parking lots, on the other hand, are usually located further away from the terminals, making them more affordable. They are intended for passengers who plan to park their cars for the duration of their trip.
There are several ways to save money on airport parking. Firstly, consider off-site parking, which is often more budget-friendly than on-site parking. Additionally, look for coupons or deals online, as you can find significant discounts on local parking. Booking in advance can also help you secure lower rates compared to drive-up rates. Finally, check your credit cards, insurance, and memberships for any potential deals or discounts on airport parking.
It is generally recommended to book airport parking in advance, especially if you want to secure a specific spot or take advantage of lower rates. However, the availability of airport parking spots also depends on travel demand and the location or number of passengers at the airport.
There are several precautions you can take to ensure your vehicle is ready for extended idle time. Firstly, check your tire pressure and top up any necessary fluids. Clean both the exterior and interior of your car and remove any valuables. Use a car cover for protection if the parking lot is not covered. Additionally, lock the doors and remove any extra keys from the parked car.
