If you’re going on a long trip, listen up.
It’s never fun to have to figure out what to do with your car while you and the family or your buddies go on a trip. Do you get someone to drive you to the airport? Do you take a cab? An Uber?
All that stuff can get super expensive and it can be really inconvenient when you land and you just want to get home quickly. But, then you have to figure out the best way to long term park at the airport.
We’re well-versed in the world of airport long term parking and we’re here to help. There are a few key things you need to know about before you drive to the airport, so pay attention.
Airport Long Term Parking
The most convenient place to park is at the airport, right? Well, there are pros and cons to that. Let’s get started.
1. Expensive, but Convenient
Parking right at the airport is probably the most convenient place to leave your car. They’re usually located right on the grounds with easy access to the terminal, so you can get your bags out and run right in.
The only problem is that it can get kind of pricey to leave your car for an extended time, with most airports charging well over $100 per week.
2. Medium Security
Of course, you want your car to be well looked after while it’s in the airport’s care. Airport lots are fairly well secured. However, they’re usually massive, so it’s a lot for the attendants to look after.
With the high volume foot traffic of the airport grounds, these lots might actually be more susceptible to vehicle theft in the long-term parking areas.
3. Barely Any Amenities
It’s highly unlikely that you’ll find any parking deals online through the airport. The best you’ll get is a quick shuttle to your terminal if you have to park far away. As we’ll see, if you’re looking for coupons, it’s more likely that you’ll find some with 3rd party lots.
Off-Site Airport Parking
There are usually loads of off-site long-term parking lots surrounding the airport.
4. A Better Deal
These off-site lots are privately owned, and thus, set their own prices. They’re usually competitive with the airports themselves, almost always offering better deals. If you are able to book ahead, you can save a bit more money, as well.
At RSWAirportParking.com, for instance, you can book ahead and find great deals.
5. Airport Tax Fee
Because these lots take away business from the airport parking, they have to pay an “airport tax fee” to use the land surrounding the airport. Expect to have to pay for this. Usually, it’s included in the price, but you’ll notice it included on a receipt.
6. Safest Option
These lots are usually fenced in and occupy a smaller area than the airport lots. This makes it easier to guard the premises and create a safer environment for your vehicle.
Way less foot traffic and activity mean that private lots are far more secure.
7. Cheap with More Amenities
Most off-site parking lots will offer big-time savings for long term occupants. There are usually a few lots competing against one another, so you can always shop for the cheaper option as well.
Depending on the lot, you’ll see covered or indoor lots, charging stations, and there’s almost always a shuttle to get you to the airport.
Hotel Airport Parking
The last option is to use local hotel parking. It’s a good way for hotels close to the airport to make a bit of extra money.
8. Usually Cheap
Hotel parking, since it’s extra money for the hotel, is usually pretty cheap. It’s better to use if you’re gone for a long time because the daily rates are lower. This is great for longer business trips and other things like that.
Booking online ahead of time is one of the nice features of hotel parking, as well.
9. Unguarded
Parker beware: hotel lots are usually unsecured. You’re getting a reserved spot in the hotel’s lot, which is not usually high-priority for hotel security, so only do this if you are comfortable with that.
10. Long Shuttle Waits
With hotel parking, you’ll get luggage assistance and a free shuttle over to the airport terminal. Unfortunately, however, there are many tales of long waits for the hotel shuttle.
If you want to catch your flight on time, leave plenty of time for it to arrive.
Which Is the Best?
Depending on what your situation is, each parking option does hold some perks. To us, the best option when you account for price, security, and convenience, off-site airport long term parking is the best. It offers the most for the lowest price.
For more posts and advice on travel, visit our blog.
