Airport parking can be one of the most unexpected costs of travel, with fees often rivalling the price of a budget airline ticket. The good news? Affordable airport parking is within reach if you know the right strategies and tools to use. Whether you’re flying from a major hub like Heathrow or a smaller regional airport, this guide will show you how to save money and make informed parking choices.
Why Is Airport Parking So Expensive?
The cost of airport parking is often driven by several factors:
- Convenience Fees: Parking located close to terminal entrances commands a premium due to its convenience.
- Peak Travel Seasons: Costs spike during holidays and school breaks when demand is highest.
- Premium Services: Options like valet parking and meet and greet services provide ease of use but come with a hefty price tag.
- Last-Minute Bookings: Parking prices often increase significantly for same-day or last-minute bookings, making planning ahead essential.
For travellers looking to save money, understanding these dynamics is the first step toward finding affordable solutions.
How to Get Affordable Airport Parking
1. Use Parking at Airports’ Comparison Widget
One of the easiest ways to secure cheap airport parking is by using the car parking comparison widget available on our website. Our tool allows you to input your travel dates and compare all available options, including short stay, long stay, meet and greet, and park and ride services.
For example, a traveller heading to Gatwick for a weekend trip could use the widget to compare prices for short-stay parking versus meet and greet services, factoring in convenience and cost. By doing so, they might discover savings of up to 70%, all in just a few clicks.
2. Explore Dedicated Airport Pages
Each UK airport has its own unique parking landscape, and Parking at Airports simplifies the search with dedicated landing pages for every major airport. For instance:
- Our Heathrow page outlines long-stay options that cater to international travellers.
- Our Birmingham page highlights off-site parking services for budget-conscious passengers.
- Our Bristol page includes detailed reviews and pricing for short-stay and meet and greet options.
These pages provide tailored advice, ensuring travellers make informed decisions based on their airport and needs. We cover all 28 UK and Ireland airports, so just click on the Cheap Airport Parking tab at the top of the page and select the airport that you are flying from.
3. Book in Advance
We have found that booking early can lead to significant savings. Parking prices are dynamic, much like airline tickets, and increase as the travel date approaches. By securing a spot weeks or even months ahead, you lock in lower rates and avoid the premium pricing often associated with last-minute decisions. The only downside is that you are paying so far in advance for your parking.
For example, booking long-stay parking at Manchester Airport a month in advance might cost £50 for a week, while the same spot could jump to £80 if booked on the day of travel.
4. Take Advantage of Discount Codes and Offers
Our site often features promotional codes that can provide extra savings. A current example is the ‘ezy-td12’ discount, which offers an additional 15% off. These codes are easy to apply during booking and can help you stretch your travel budget further.
Additionally, keep an eye out for seasonal deals. Many parking providers offer special rates during quieter travel periods to attract customers.
5. Consider Off-Site Parking Options
Off-site parking can be a game-changer for cost-conscious travellers. Options like park and ride or meet and greet services often provide the best balance between affordability and convenience.
Park and ride services, for instance, typically involve parking your car in a secure lot and taking a short shuttle ride to the terminal. Meet and greet services, while slightly pricier, allow you to drop your car at the terminal and have it parked for you. Both options are often significantly cheaper than on-site parking.
6. Avoid Last-Minute Decisions
Last-minute parking bookings can be costly, with prices often inflated due to limited availability. Planning ahead not only ensures you secure the best deal but also reduces the stress of arriving at the airport without a guaranteed spot.
7. Match the Parking Type to Your Trip
Choosing the right parking option is key to maximizing savings. Here’s a quick breakdown:
- Short-Stay Parking: Ideal for brief trips or pick-ups/drop-offs but usually the most expensive.
- Long-Stay Parking: Best for extended holidays, especially when booked in advance.
- Park and Ride: A cost-effective option for budget travellers willing to take a shuttle to the terminal.
- Meet and Greet: Perfect for those seeking convenience without the high cost of premium on-site parking.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
Even savvy travellers can make costly mistakes. Avoid these common errors:
- Skipping Price Comparisons: Failing to shop around can result in overpaying.
- Assuming On-Site Parking Is Always Best: Off-site options are often just as secure and significantly cheaper.
- Not Reading Reviews: Ensure the parking provider is reputable by checking reviews and ratings.
Extra Strategies for Saving
- Carpooling: Traveling with friends or family? Split the parking costs to reduce individual expenses.
- Public Transport: For ultra-budget-conscious travellers, consider skipping parking altogether and using trains or ride-sharing services.
- Loyalty Programs: Some parking providers offer discounts to frequent users or members of their loyalty programs.
Why Choose Parking at Airports?
Comprehensive Comparison Widget
Our unique widget simplifies the parking process, allowing our users to compare options, filter by preferences, and secure the best deals—all in one place.
Tailored Airport Pages
With our dedicated landing pages for all major UK airports, our site offers personalized insights and recommendations to ensure you find the perfect parking solution.
Trusted Partners and Transparent Pricing
Our site collaborates with reliable providers, offering clear pricing and user reviews so you can book with confidence.
Conclusion – How do you get Affordable Airport Parking?
Affordable airport parking doesn’t have to be a headache. By planning ahead, comparing options with Parking at Airports, and leveraging tools like the comparison widget and airport-specific guides, you can secure the best deals and save up to 70%.
Ready to save on your next trip? Visit our dedicated airport parking comparison widget and discover how easy it is to find affordable airport parking.