So you have spent a lot of time looking for the best deals on your flights and accommodation on the Internet. You have found a holiday package which suits the requirements of the children, you have also bought your travel insurance and holiday currency. What you are doing now is just wating for the departure day. The next issue is to find the most cost-effective and hassle-free way of getting to your check in desk. Below are some tips to help you choose the best airport parking and ensure your holiday will be perfect.
Don't leave it to the last minute...
Driving is the most traditional means of getting to the airport. However, turning up at your airport car park ad hoc can be costly - on the gate parking fees can be expensive! Pre book your airport parking to ensure you find the best deal possible.
Using price comparison websites can you help locate cheap airport parking and many websites even offer 'you won't find cheaper' guarantees. Peak seasons such as Christmas and school holidays can be more expensive, but as with flights, the earlier you book the more you save. Don't forget, even booking airport parking online on the day of departure will be cheaper than paying airport car park at the gate prices!
There are 3 types of parking at airports - On site, off site and Meet and Greet.
On Site Airport Parking
On site airport parking is normally close to the terminal and within the immediate vicinity of the airport. The joy of on-site parking is that you can normally walk from your car to the terminal; locations such as the Heathrow airport parking even has a swanky covered walkway which takes you directly into the check-in lounge!
It is worth remembering that at smaller locations such as East Midlands and Bristol airport parking, everything is inevitably closer to the airport site. Sometimes you can save money at a small airport by booking an off-site car park yet still be wonderfully near to the airport.
If you have children and wish to avoid the hassle of a long transfer or if you are on a quick business trip and want the most direct route home from the airport, on site airport parking is perfect for you.
Off Site Airport Parking
An off site airport car park is a car park located away from the airport, normally between 1 and 8 miles from the terminal. Off airport parking is great if you want to cut parking costs and don't mind taking a nifty shuttle bus from car park to airport.
It is important to be aware of the distance between the car park and the terminal so that you make sure you leave enough time for your transfer. Missing a flight is every traveller's worst nightmare. Doing so simply because you didn't realise it would take 30 minutes from car park to airport is just plain annoying! Most car parks also offer free 24 hours transfers, but double check this when you book in case you have late/early flights, or, unexpected flight delays.
Off site car parks normally offer excellent discounts on long stays so if you're going on a one or two week holiday, or even longer (lucky you!) this could be the best option for you.
Meet and Greet Airport Parking
Meet and greet services are the epitome of hassle free parking. Simply arrive at the airport, a chauffeur meets you, whisks your car away to a secure compound and leaves you to start your holiday without delay!
Meet and greet parking can't exactly be classed as cheap airport parking, but nor is it as extravagant as you might expect. The extra expense is definitely worthwhile if you are short on time, have children, have lots of luggage or outright detest the idea of taking a transfer bus. When you return from your trip, simply telephone your chauffeur from baggage reclaim. It couldn't be easier. Your car will await you when you exit the terminal, leaving you free to head home... and get started on the dreaded holiday laundry.
Stay Airport Car Park Safe
Ensure your car is safe in hands while you holiday. Choose airport parking which has an efficient security system to avoid any unfortunate incidents while you are away. Look for a Park Mark approved car park. They have been inspected by a specially trained Police Officers have excellent standards of security with CCTV and 24 hour patrols.
Finally, if none of these options appeal to you then its best to start being extra nice to family and friends in the hope someone will give you a lift. Bon voyage!
Airport Parking - How To Make It Easy