How to Get Cheap Car Parking at Airports
Car parking at airports can be a pain. The volumes of passengers going through UK's air hubs has been increasing steadily over the last decades. This has resulted in a scarcity of parking space as never seen before, and as might be expected, has led to hiked rates. The Guardian, in an article, reported that parking rates in the UK seemed to be making a significant chunk of travelling budgets.
The average traveller simply dips their hands into their pockets not knowing that they can actually save money on their car space. Some may know, but think the process is probably too convoluted. However in reality, it only takes a few steps and a keen eye.
Here are 4 things you can do to get yourself cheap car parking at the airport.
1. Compare a Number of Services
The first thing you have to do is to check out several services to have a general idea of the prices. This will give you a realistic expectation of how much you can save.
2. Book in Advance
Booking early might get you some cheap airport parking rates. The earlier you book, the more you might save. Some may give you discounts for booking 24-48 hours early, but for sure-Pounds-off, a week in advance is the best.
3. Combine Your Hotel and Parking
If you can book a hotel room for a night and parking as one package, you can get yourself a decent discount. For example, if you book a night's stay and a week's parking combined at some of the hotels near Gatwick airport, you will spend about 100 pounds, depending, of course, on the star rating of the hotel. The same hotel room and parking length will cost you 150 Pounds if you book them separately.
4. Check all Types of Car Parking at the Airport
Some services are offered by the airports themselves and these are usually close to the terminal. As such, you should expect everyone to want them and this means their prices will be high. You might want to broaden your search by considering third party services, too. These are called offsite parking and they can be inconveniently far from the terminal - although not always.
The other option you have are private services. These are offered by residential or business property owners with enough space to allow airport passengers to park their cars. They are not fully committed to the business and so you just have to do your due diligence to make sure what you are getting is safe.
Private parking is not always the cheapest, though. Sometimes it can be really close to the terminal and that ought to drive the rates up. The ones far from the terminal are the cheapest but then you have to sacrifice the convenience that comes with easy access to the terminal.
Pay Attention to the Security
Make sure the space you're getting does not put your car in harm’s way. A good parking service should basically have good markings and CCTV cameras installed. Those with the best services bear a Park Mark award and this can be a sure-fire way of telling the good and bad ones apart. Be sure to check reputable parking airport reviews to get more insight into what you are getting.
About the Author
Ruth Ingracia loves to write about fashion, travel and money-saving tips. She wants to share her travel experiences and how she saved a lot of money during her trips. Follow her stories and learn learn how to save money, travel and live life frugally.
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