Parking on a Dime When Traveling by Air
Flying can be expensive. But even if you're on a budget, you can still enjoy all the convenience and luxury of air travel. With prior planning and an open mind, you can save yourself hundreds on the cost of airfare, car rentals, and all the necessities in between.
If your trip is going to take you away from home for an extended period, airport parking fees can really add up. Long-term parking rates can sometimes mean an expense of $100 or more! Here are some suggestions for saving on airport parking:
Park and Fly
You can now find small hotels, located near airports, that offer "park and fly" deals. In general, these packages allow travelers to park their cars at the hotel during their trips. The hotel provides shuttles, or can recommend other public transportation, to help travelers reach the airport on time. If your schedule permits, consider purchasing a night at one of these hotels and save on parking for the duration of your trip.
Reserve Your Space
Many websites now offer travelers the ability to reserve a parking space at the airport for a lower rate. Planning your parking in advance will let you avoid most unexpected parking fees and will give you an accurate estimate of your overall parking expense. Promotions and coupons are sometimes available through these websites as well to help you save a few extra dollars.
Use Public Transportation
You can avoid airport parking fees altogether by using public transportation. With a little advanced planning on the day of your trip, you can spend significantly less. Taking a bus or other means of public transportation can save you from the possible delays of searching for a parking space at more crowded airports. If the bus schedules in your city are easy to manage, you can even plan your ride home before you leave.
Ask for a Ride
Another way to eliminate the cost of parking is to obtain a ride to the airport from a friend or family member. Make sure to ask well in advance so that he or she can make the proper arrangements. In general, the tank of gas or other small favor you may spend for your ride will be much less expensive than a long-term parking fee.
Looking for more ways to enjoy your flight while sticking to your budget? Take a look at our tips on airfare savings and learn how to shop smart for your next trip.