Planning a vacation or business trip involves making lots of choices, and today decisions are often based on price. You want the best possible deal on your hotel and auto rental. You want real value for what you pay for tours or the maximum amenities for your money. Travelers often approach airport parking from a similar frame of mind.
Budget conscious travelers are certainly going to look for alternatives to the most expensive airport parking options. They may decide to park at a distant lot and opt to take a shuttle to the airport to cut costs. Today, some travelers even opt for private off-site parking options offered by homeowners or businesses located in close proximity to the airport.
Yet regardless of how much you want to save money, cost shouldn't be all you consider when deciding where to park your car while you travel. Security, service and convenience are three important factors to evaluate before you opt for any car park facility.
Instead of assuming a parking option is secure, make an evaluation based on what you see and can find out either in person or online. Will your car really be secure? Are the facilities gated, and is live surveillance in place 24 hours a day?
Does any area of the facility look unsafe, or easily susceptible to break-ins? Does the parking option you're considering have a history of break-ins, thefts or complaints about stolen vehicles or belongings?
Security problems can occur in any type of parking facility. Don't assume that just because you're right outside the airport, your vehicle is safe. Check with the airport if you're using on-site parking, or check online for complaints about any off-site parking service you consider using.
Service is another important factor to consider when deciding on airport parking. How long will you need to wait to be driven to the airport if you're parking off-site, or for a shuttle to return you to your car? Is shuttle service reliable and adequate enough for the size of the parking lot you're considering? Do you need to call for shuttle service and then wait, or will it be available right away?
You might also consider how friendly, polite or helpful shuttle drivers are, plus how comfortable the shuttle is to ride in. Is it air conditioned, or adequately heated? Is it large enough that riders are comfortable, or is almost everyone standing, cramped and uncomfortable?
Convenience is the final factor to consider when you're choosing airport parking. If you're traveling with a large amount of luggage or your entire family including small kids, it might be worth it to pay more to be closer to the airport. If it's the middle of winter, you might want to choose a covered parking option rather than have to deal with cleaning a foot of snow off your car when you return.
In many cases, you can compromise slightly on cost for a great deal more convenience. You'll still enjoy some savings, but you won't put up with inconveniences that can cause stress or delays you know you won't be in the mood to handle.