Parking your vehicle is just one of things that is commonly overlooked expense when going on a trip. Unfortunately this kind of thing can add up quickly. Between busy airports, holiday travel and long trips, you can easily end up paying more than anticipated. This can even cost you more than your rental car or even the flight itself. But here is a little known secret, it doesn’t have to be a big expense. With a combination of the right strategies and a little extra planning, you can cut a lot of those expenses and make your getaway a lot less stressful.
Avoid the headache, here’s a few proven ways to help save you big on airport parking.
1. Booking a Parking Spot in Advance
Airport parking is one of those hidden travel costs that can sneak up on you and quickly add hundreds to your trip. The good new is that it doesn’t really have to be. With just a little planning, you can avoid the high rates and the stress of finding a spot. Just like flights and hotels, airport parking prices fluctuate based on demand. If you wait until the last minute, you’ll almost always pay more—and during peak travel times, you might even find lots sold out completely.
Booking your parking online in advance can save you up to 60%, while guaranteeing you a spot before you even leave home. It’s simple, quick, and worth it for the peace of mind. Websites like SpotHero, ParkWhiz, or AirportParkingReservations.com let you compare rates at on-site and off-site lots, so you know you’re getting the best deal.
Pro Tip: Use websites like SpotHero, ParkWhiz, or AirportParkingReservations.com to compare prices and secure deals.
2. Look Beyond On-Site Parking
When it comes to airport parking, on-site lots are usually the most expensive option—and the costs can add up quickly, especially for longer trips. A smarter alternative is to use off-site parking facilities located just a few minutes away from the airport. These lots typically charge much lower daily rates while still providing the same convenience you’d expect. Most off-site facilities are safe, secure, and well-maintained, with features like video surveillance, lighting, and staffed entrances to give you peace of mind.
The best part is that most of all of them include free 24/7 shuttle service that takes you straight to your terminal and picks you up when you return. It’s a simple way to save big without adding hassle to your travel day. For many travelers, off-site parking can cut costs in half while still keeping the process quick, easy, and stress-free.
3. Take Advantage of Hotel Park-and-Fly Packages
Many travelers don’t realize that staying at a hotel near the airport can actually save money on parking. Many hotels offer convenient “Park and Fly” packages that include one night’s stay along with free or heavily discounted parking for the duration of your trip. Even if you don’t need the hotel stay itself, the bundle can still cost less than paying for standard airport parking alone. This option is particularly helpful during peak travel seasons when on-site airport lots are crowded or expensive.
These packages also come with added convenience. Most participating hotels provide free shuttle service to and from the airport, so you don’t have to worry about dragging luggage or coordinating rides. For travelers with early morning flights, this option allows you to rest comfortably at the hotel the night before, park safely for the duration of your trip, and catch your flight stress-free.
4. Use Coupons, Discounts, and Loyalty Programs
Many airport parking companies offer promotions, special deals, or loyalty programs that can help you save or even earn free days of parking. Signing up for these programs are usually free and can pay off over time, especially if you travel frequently. In addition to loyalty rewards, there are often online coupons and discount codes available. A quick search before booking could instantly save you 10–20% or more on your parking fees. These sites include Airport Parking Reservations, onairparking.com, and the parking spot .com. If you are a AAA member, there are more ways to save as they offer coupons and discounts for airport parking as well as shuttle services through their partnership with theparkingspot.com
Don’t forget to check your credit cards and travel rewards programs, too. Some cards offer perks like free airport parking, statement credits, or exclusive discounts with partner parking lots. Combining loyalty points, online coupons, and credit card perks can drastically reduce—or even eliminate—the cost of parking for your trip. By doing a little research ahead of time, you can ensure that you’re paying the lowest possible price while keeping your car safe and your mind stress-free.
Pro Tip: Use sites such as aaa.com, Airport Parking Reservations, onairparking.com and theparkingspot.com
5. Consider Alternatives to Driving
Sometimes the easiest way to save on airport parking is to skip it entirely. Depending on your trip, taking a rideshare, public transit, or even asking a friend for a ride can be much more cost-effective—especially for shorter trips. Rideshare apps like Uber or Lyft make it convenient to get to the airport without worrying about finding a parking spot or paying high daily rates. For longer vacations, it’s worth doing a quick comparison: calculate the total cost of parking for your trip versus the round-trip rideshare fare.
For example, if airport parking costs $15 per day, a 10-day trip would set you back $150. By comparison, an Uber to and from the airport might only cost $80 total. Beyond saving money, skipping parking can also save time and reduce stress, letting you focus on enjoying your trip rather than worrying about your car.
Airport parking does not have to break the bank. By planning ahead, taking advantage of hotel park and fly packages, searching for discounts, exploring off site parking or just skipping parking altogether, you can save yourself a good amount of money while keeping your travel experience as smooth as can be. Doing the research before your trip can put more money in your pocket to enjoy your destination, instead of spending it on parking fees.
