You know that you’ll still be able to make it on time if you hurry. This will set the tone of your journey as you will soon see that traffic is heavy and the parking lot at the airport is full. You’ll now need to plan how to park the car as quickly and efficiently as possible. These five tips will help you manage parking at the last minute.
Last-Minute Parking Tips for Travelers
These X tips can help you park with ease, whether you are at the airport or home on the day of the flight.
1. Pre-Booking Last-Minute
Pre-booking a parking space through an airport app or the website may allow you to get an available spot. However, you won’t be able to tell for sure if there are any open parking spaces until you arrive at the terminal. You should check online before you get in your car, call a taxi, or buy your ticket.
Many travellers cancel their parking spots at the last minute due to the fact that they choose to carpool with others or use a ride-sharing company. Airlines often offer discounts to fill vacant parking spots to make up for last-minute cancellations. Subscribe to the airport mailing list, and you may receive daily discount codes and membership incentives. These can save hundreds of dollars.
2. Use Hotel Parking
If you purchase a parking tag or call the hotel directly, they will allow you to park on their lot.
You can’t park your vehicle in the hotel parking lot, as it will be towed. You can sign up for the service online by searching your airport, dates, and departure times and choosing the cheapest options. Book online or over the phone once you have found a hotel you like. No room reservations are required, and cancellations are free. Use the free shuttle to get from the hotel to the airport.
3. Valet parking is available at some airports.
Parking at the terminal is a great option for those who are last-minute travellers.
Could you park your car, give the valet the keys and then walk right into the terminal? This airport employee, similar to a hotel valet, will send you both a digital and physical ticket in your email inbox.
You can also feel more relaxed if you spend a bit extra on time-saving items. You won’t be in a hurry if you know that valet parking is available. You’ll be less likely to make a mistake while driving if you know ahead of time that a valet will be available.
4. All Other Fast Tracks
Pre-booking a parking space is a good idea if you are unsure if you will find an empty spot immediately. You can also fast-track all other things. Choose one upgrade from the list below. It can be expensive to make all three upgrades.
- Clear Membership U.S. Citizens who are 18 years old and have a photo ID with them can sign up for a $179 Clear membership ($15 per month) at the Clear Me site. Clear is a private service for identity verification that uses biometrics like fingerprints and iris to get you through security checks. Do your research before signing up for Clear identification.
- TSA pre-Check: This program is for more proactive travellers. However, if you find yourself consistently late for your flights, it will be worth the investment. The program costs $85 per year and allows travellers with low risk to keep their shoes, belts, and jackets through the metal detector. Laptops and liquids will not be checked by the TSA. Plan ahead, as it takes several weeks for the approval.
- Ticket upgrades: Upgrade your ticket on the airport’s website or app before you leave for the airport. This will allow you to use the dedicated screening line or priority line. These upgrades are everywhere and work like a fast pass in theme parks.
You should never try to upgrade your tickets while driving. To avoid accidents, it is better to use a carpool or rideshare service to do multiple tasks.
5. Taxi, rideshare or carpool?
If you do not want to leave your vehicle at the airport or in a hotel parking lot for several weeks, you can ask a friend to pick you up. If you need to get somewhere urgently, it is better to call a taxi or rideshare service. You can focus on the upgrade (if necessary) and leave the driving to someone else. This is a better option for those who are stressed.
