Regular business travelers or frequent holiday takers often have a strategy they rely on for dealing with airport parking. If you're using the same services or parking options you've relied on for years, it may be time to investigate some new options. As the economy has changed, so have the most economical airport parking strategies.
In the past, the airport you use the most may have charged reasonable rates for parking short or even long term. Maybe you looked at a few nearby off-site lots a few years ago, but the price difference didn't justify the added inconvenience.
That may have been the case even two years ago, but today many new alternatives for off-site parking are available. At the same time, many airports have raised parking rates substantially, plus they've expanded to include lots in remote areas that are anything but convenient.
You may find hotels near the airport now offer very affordable off-site parking with an overnight, pre-flight stay, plus free shuttle service to get you to and from the airport. You may be able to park your car for free for several days for the cost of only one night's stay, which is a great value over paying for long term airport parking.
Even if you figure in the added cost of parking at a hotel beyond the "free" nights you're allowed, it's possible it will be much less than the high cost of parking on site at the airport. As an added advantage, hotel parking is usually quite secure and usually offers 24 hour surveillance.
Specialized off site parking services are another great alternative to costly airport parking fees. Other types of businesses may also offer off-site parking at their locations, such as car repair businesses or even auto dealerships. In some cities, homeowners in the area around the airport may provide extremely low cost car parking in a very secure setting. Some even provide you with a ride to and from the airport for free or a very small additional fee.
If in the past you always relied on a cab to take you to and from your home to the airport, now might be the time to consider driving yourself. Many cab companies have substantially increased their rates. For short term travel, parking at an off site parking lot could equate to a substantial savings over cab fare.
In response to rising unemployment rates, more and more individuals are offering local transport services in their own vehicles for reasonable rates. This may include friends or family members who are currently unemployed or working part time. If you prefer to leave your car at home, but cab fare is very costly, you could "hire" someone you know to give you an affordable lift to the airport.
Public transportation services are another option to consider if you're trying to save cash on airport parking. Although taking a bus to the airport may not be the most convenient way to get there, it is a very low cost, reliable option for today's travelers.