By taking note of certain things with regard to airport parking, you will make your life so much easier.
For anyone who travels a lot, the probability of having used airport parking is very high. However, it can be quite a hassle to get the right spot, especially if you opt not to use the valet parking, or even engage the services of companies like Parkos. These companies will give you some relief from the stress of parking at the airport.
By taking note of certain things with regard to airport parking, you will make your life so much easier. That is why we have decided to compile a list of do's and don'ts for you, so that the next time you are traveling you have the relevant knowledge.
Do’s
Online reservations
By making online reservations, you remove the hassle of trying to find parking space. You also have the advantage of enjoying favorable rates, especially if you make your bookings early.
Make sure you are clear about what the parking fees are so that you do not pay any more than you need to.
Use valet service
Have you ever been in a situation where you are late and know in a few minutes you will miss your flight? Now add the stress of having to look for parking and finding none available, especially near the terminal. It can drive the best of us crazy, yet, by using the valet services, your only concern will be to make sure you make it to the ticketing window before it closes.
The other service the valets provide is help with the luggage; this can be especially useful if you are traveling with your family members; especially kids. You do not want the hassle of trying to carry many pieces of luggage while fighting with that toddler who cannot keep still.
Consider offsite parking lots
If you do not have a very good budget, you can consider offsite parking, which comes at an affordable price. They usually are privately owned and run and will typically invest in the best security measures, as a way of drawing in customers.
Keep your parking ticket
It is easy to lose your parking ticket and find yourself trying to deal with the drama of trying to get your car out of the airport parking without it. You will also need the ticket if you find that there is an issue; for example, someone hits your car, or try to break into it.
Research and do a site visit
Before making your choice on the parking lot, do a site visit, and see what they have in terms of security measures. A lot that has 24/7 monitoring services are the best. Look for one where the security team regularly patrols to make sure everything is ok.
If you can, get one with an overhead cover to protect your car against the elements like rain or sunshine. Also, make sure that there is sufficient lighting in the area to minimize the risk of an attack when getting into your car.
If the parking spot is far away from the terminal, inquire about the shuttle services, especially the schedule, so that you can allocate sufficient time to get to the terminal. It will also be necessary to know upfront what it will cost you to use the service.
Don’ts
Leave valuables in the car
When you leave your car at an airport parking, remove anything that may attract a thief. It will require that you leave no valuables in the vehicle, including purses, wallets or car seats. The cost of vandalism from an overzealous petty thief can be an annoying inconvenience.
Disregard deals
Before you make your booking for the parking, try and see what incentives you can get. It could be a discount, coupons, or any other attractive deals. You will save some money by taking advantage of such offers.
Park anywhere
Be careful about where and how you park. Follow the airport system because it takes into consideration best parking practices among them sufficient spacing between the vehicles. If you park wrongly, you will only have yourself to blame if someone drives into your car.
Forget to lock your car
Make sure you lock your vehicle; and if you have an alarm system, remember to arm it. At the very least, make it as difficult as you possibly can for anyone who attempts to break into it your vehicle.
Final thoughts
Airport parking has made it very convenient for many travelers to have full control over how they will commute to and from the airport. However, before you use the facilities, be clear about what it will cost you, what deals you can enjoy, how secure your vehicle will be, among other factors.
Do your part to ensure that your vehicle is safe by being careful about how you park, not leaving valuables, and making sure that you lock the car?
