Are you tired of paying expensive airport parking fees? You’re not alone. With rates skyrocketing, knowing how to reduce the cost of parking at the airport is more important than ever. But why are the costs so high in the first place? And what are the benefits of learning how to save money on it? In this article, we’ll answer these questions and provide you with ten money-saving tips to cut your airport parking expenses.
Did you know that London Heathrow Airport (LHR) and Abu Dhabi International Airport (AUH) are two of the most expensive airports in the world for car parking, charging an average of £200 and £190 for a week, respectively? The high cost of parking can put a significant dent in your travel budget, but it doesn’t have to be this way.
There are numerous advantages to learning how to reduce parking costs. Firstly, it will help you cut your travel expenses and leave you with more money to spend on your vacation. Additionally, it will reduce your stress levels and eliminate the hassle of trying to find a parking spot at the last minute. Whether you’re travelling for business or pleasure, knowing how to reduce the cost of parking at the airport can make a huge difference.
In this article, we’ll provide you with ten money-saving tips that will help you save big on parking fees. From using credit cards that offer rewards to looking online for coupons, there are numerous ways to cut the cost of parking at the airport. So, without further ado, let’s dive into the world of airport parking and learn how to save money on it.
Tip 1: Book in Advance
If you’re planning to travel by air and need to park your car at the airport, booking in advance can save you a lot of money and hassle. By reserving your parking spot ahead of time, you can secure a guaranteed spot at a lower rate than you would pay if you showed up on the day of your flight. Moreover, booking in advance allows you to choose from a variety of options such as covered parking, valet service, or long-term parking, which might not be available if you wait until the last minute.
The ideal time to book in advance depends on the type of parking you require. For instance, if you’re looking for short-term parking, booking a week or two before your travel date should be sufficient. However, if you’re planning to park for a more extended period, such as a month, it’s recommended to book a few months ahead to get the best rate and ensure availability. Some airports also offer discounts if you book several weeks or months in advance.
There are several benefits of booking in advance.
- First, it guarantees you a spot, so you don’t have to worry about circling the parking lot and missing your flight.
- Second, it saves you money, as you can take advantage of discounted rates.
- Third, it offers you peace of mind, knowing that you have a spot reserved, and you won’t be late for your flight.
- Finally, it allows you to plan your trip better and focus on enjoying your travels without any unnecessary stress.
Think of it this way: booking in advance is like reserving a prime spot at a concert or sports event. You wouldn’t want to show up on the day of the event and hope for the best, would you? Of course not! You would want to secure your spot ahead of time to guarantee a stress-free and enjoyable experience.
Booking in advance not only saves you money, but it also saves you from the hassle of circling around the parking lot and searching for an available spot. Trust me, I’ve been there, and it’s not fun. By reserving your spot early, you can take advantage of additional benefits such as shuttle services to the terminal, car wash services, and even valet parking options.
Tip 2: Use Comparison Websites
Comparison websites are an excellent tool for travellers looking to save time and money on parking at the airport. These websites offer a variety of search-and-book services, making it easy to compare prices, locations, and amenities for different parking options. Simply enter your departure airport, travel dates, and parking preferences, and these websites will show you a list of available options, along with their prices and features.
The most popular comparison websites in the UK include Travel Supermarket, Parkhero, and Looking4Parking. Each of these websites offers a variety of parking options, such as on-airport, off-airport, and meet-and-greet parking.
To use comparison websites to find the best offers, start by selecting your departure airport and travel dates. Then, choose the type of parking you prefer, whether it’s on-airport or off-airport, and select any additional features you might want, such as shuttle service or valet parking. Once you’ve entered your preferences, the website will show you a list of available options, along with their prices, locations, and features. You can then compare these options and choose the one that best fits your needs and budget.
Tip 3: Check Websites for Online Discount Codes
Discount codes, also known as promo codes, are special codes that offer a percentage or fixed amount off the regular price of a product or service. These codes can be found on coupon websites, airline websites, or promotional emails from parking companies. To find discount codes for airport parking in the UK, try checking out websites like Groupon and weather2travel.
Once you have found a discount code that suits your needs, using it is easy. Simply enter the code during the booking process on the parking company’s website. The discount will then be applied to the total cost of your reservation. Discount codes can offer significant savings, sometimes up to 60% off the regular price.
To get the best deals, it’s a good idea to check multiple discount code websites and compare prices from different parking companies. Don’t forget to read the terms and conditions of each code to ensure that it applies to your desired parking location and dates. Using discount codes can be an excellent way to reduce the cost of parking, so be sure to take advantage of them when planning your next trip.
Tip 4: Consider Off-Site Parking
Off-premises parking is an alternative to on-site airport parking that can save you both time and money. They are located a short distance away from the airport and are usually much cheaper than parking directly at the airport. There are many reasons why off-premises parking is usually cheaper than on-site parking. One of the main reasons is that these remote parking lots are not subject to the same airport taxes and fees that on-site parking lots are. Additionally, off-premises lots are often smaller, which means that they have lower overhead costs.
If you are considering Park and Ride in the UK, there are many popular options available. Some of the most popular off-site options for different airports include Purple Parking for Heathrow Airport, JetParks for Manchester Airport, and NCP for Birmingham Airport. These parking options are all reputable and offer competitive rates. We recommend that you conduct some research and compare prices and services offered to find the best alternative parking options for your specific airport.
In addition to saving money, there are other benefits to using the ‘Park and Ride’ options. External parking lots are often less crowded than on-site parking lots, which means that you are more likely to find a spot close to the entrance. Additionally, many parking companies offer shuttle services to and from the airport, which can save you time and make your travel experience more convenient. Overall, if you are looking to cut costs and have a hassle-free airport parking experience, off-premises parking is definitely worth considering.
Tip 5: Use Loyalty Programs
Airport loyalty and frequent flyer discount programs are designed to reward customers who frequently use airport parking services. These programs offer a range of benefits, from discounts and free parking to exclusive access to premium parking spots. One of the main benefits of these programs is that they can help you save money over time, especially if you travel frequently.
To use airport parking loyalty programs, you typically need to sign up for the program and create an account. Once you’ve signed up, you can earn rewards by using the parking services affiliated with the program. Depending on the program, you may earn points for every pound you spend on parking or receive discounts for using the service on a regular basis.
Some of the most popular parking loyalty programs in the UK include the Heathrow Rewards program, the Gatwick Parking Premium Membership, and the Manchester Airport Parking Rewards program. These programs offer a range of benefits, including free parking, priority access, and discounts on parking fees.
To cut costs using parking loyalty programs, it’s important to use the service frequently and accumulate points or rewards. You can also look for special promotions and discounts offered by the program, such as bonus points for signing up or discounted rates for off-peak parking. By taking advantage of these offers, you can make the most of your parking loyalty program and pay less for parking over time.
Tip 6: Use Credit Card Rewards
Credit card rewards programs can be a great way of reducing the cost of airport parking in the UK. These programs allow you to earn points or cashback on your purchases, which you can then redeem towards parking fees. Some credit cards offer bonus rewards for airport parking, making it an even more attractive option.
Here are some credit cards that offer rewards for parking in the UK:
- The British Airways American Express card offers 5 Avios points for every £1 spent on parking with Parkvia.
- The American Express Preferred Rewards Gold Card offers 1 Membership Rewards point for every £1 spent on parking with Purple Parking.
- The Hilton Honors Platinum Visa card offers 2 Hilton Honors points for every £1 spent on parking with Purple Parking.
To use credit card rewards to cut costs on parking, simply use your rewards credit card to pay for your parking fees. Then, redeem your rewards points or cashback towards your parking fees to reduce your overall cost. Make sure to read the terms and conditions of your credit card rewards program to understand how to earn and redeem rewards points, and to take advantage of any bonus rewards offers for parking. With credit card rewards programs, you can pay less for parking while earning rewards for your other purchases as well.
Tip 7: Look for Hotel Package Deals
If you are planning a trip and need car parking at the airport, you might want to consider hotel package deals for parking. Hotel package deals offer a combination of hotel accommodation and parking at a discounted rate. This can be a great way to reduce the costs of parking, especially if you travel for an extended period.
By booking a hotel package deal, you can enjoy a comfortable night’s sleep before your flight and leave your car in a secure parking lot at the hotel for the duration of your trip. When you return, you can pick up your car and drive back home without any hassle. This can be a convenient and affordable option for those who live far away from the airport or have early morning flights.
To find hotel package deals for parking, you can search online or contact the hotels directly. It’s important to compare prices and read the fine print carefully to ensure that you are getting the best deal possible. Some hotels may require a minimum stay or offer limited parking spaces, so be sure to check the details before booking.
To use a hotel package deal for parking, simply book the deal in advance and follow the instructions provided by the hotel. This may include a shuttle bus pick-up time and location or a meet-and-greet service at the airport. It is important to read the terms and conditions of the package deal to ensure that you understand the restrictions and requirements.
By researching and booking in advance, you can find the best deals that suit your needs and budget. Taking advantage of hotel package deals will help you pay less and enjoy a stress-free trip.
Tip 8: Use Alternative Transportation
Alternative transportation options can be a great way to reduce the costs of parking at airport car parks. Taking public transportation, such as a bus or train, or using a ride-sharing service can be significantly cheaper than paying for parking at the airport. In addition to cutting costs, using alternative transportation can also be more environmentally friendly and reduce traffic congestion around the airport.
Some popular alternative transportation options for getting to the airport include taking a bus or train, using a ride-sharing service like Uber, or using a car-sharing service like Zipcar. Many cities in the UK have reliable public transportation options like the National Express and trains that connect directly to airports, making it easy and convenient to travel to and from the airport without a car.
Using alternative transportation can also be a more relaxing and stress-free way to travel. By avoiding the hassle of finding a parking spot and dealing with airport traffic, you can arrive at the airport feeling more refreshed and ready for your trip.
Overall, using alternative transportation options can be a smart and cost-effective choice. By choosing public transportation, ride-sharing services, or car-sharing services, you can cut costs, reduce your carbon footprint, and arrive at the airport feeling less stressed and more prepared for your travels.
Tip 9: Check for Military or Government Discounts
Military and government discounts can be a great way to pay less for parking at the airport. These discounts are often available to active-duty military personnel, veterans, and government employees. Not only do these discounts cut costs, but they also show appreciation for the service provided by military and government workers.
To check for military or government discounts on airport parking, start by researching the parking options at your airport. Many parking providers offer these discounts, but they may not be widely advertised. Look for a section on the provider’s website that specifically mentions military or government discounts, or contact the provider directly to inquire about available discounts.
To use the discount, you may need to provide proof of military or government employment, such as a military ID card or a government employee ID. Be sure to have this information ready when making your reservation.
Military and government discounts can be a great way to save money on parking while also showing appreciation for the service of those who protect and serve our country and government.
Tip 10: Be Mindful of Extra Fees
It’s essential to be mindful of extra fees that can quickly add up and increase the overall cost of your trip. One common extra fee is the airport access fee, which some parking providers charge for access to the airport’s grounds. Additionally, some providers charge for additional services such as car washing, valet parking, or early/late pick-up or drop-off. These fees can vary greatly, so it’s important to read the terms and conditions carefully before booking your parking.
To avoid or minimize extra fees, consider comparing the prices and services of different parking providers to find the best value for your money. Additionally, look for providers that offer inclusive pricing or bundled packages that include additional services for a lower price.
Other tips to avoid extra fees include being punctual and following the provider’s instructions for pick-up and drop-off, as some providers may charge additional fees for late or early arrivals. You can also consider using alternative transportation options, such as public transport, taxi or ride-sharing services, or airport shuttle buses to avoid parking fees altogether.
Final Thoughts
In this blog post, we have considered 10 tips for saving money on parking in the UK. From choosing the right type of parking to comparing prices and being mindful of extra fees, these tips can help you cut costs, reduce your stress levels, and ensure a successful trip.
No matter where you are travelling, parking can be a major expense. Take time to research your options, compare prices, and look for discounts or packages that provide additional services to reduce your costs. With a bit of planning and research, you can easily pay less for parking at the airport.
We hope this blog post has provided useful information to help you plan affordable and stress-free parking. Remember that every penny you save on parking fees is a penny you can spend on making your trip more memorable.