Ridesharing services, hitching a ride with a friend, or calling a good old-fashioned taxi are just a few of your airport transportation options. Another (frequently overlooked) option is to drive your own vehicle and leave it at the airport for the entire duration of your trip.
Even if you’re a car owner embarking on a trip of a lifetime, the safety of your vehicle will likely remain a top concern, especially when parking at the airport. Long after you drive toward Departures, park your car, and catch your flight, you’ll find yourself thinking, “Am I going to come home from my dream vacation only to find that my car’s been broken into?”
But what exactly is airport parking? More importantly, is it safe for your vehicle? Here is everything you need to know about leaving your car at the airport to board a plane.
Types of Airport Parking
When leaving your vehicle in an airport parking space to catch a flight, there are generally two options: short-term and long-term parking. However, some airports may also offer offsite parking.
- Short-term parking: A convenient option offered in an on-site airport parking lot or indoor parking garage. This is a viable option for those travelers who need to park their vehicle for 1-7 days.
- Long-term parking: A cost-effective option for trips lasting anywhere from a few weeks to a few months.
- Offsite parking: Many airports also offer offsite parking lots located farther away from the airport. Here, travelers can use the running, free shuttle service to and from the terminal.
Note that while offsite parking may be more budget-friendly, it has fewer security measures than onsite parking and could require additional travel time due to shuttling.
On-Site Airport Parking Options
If you plan to leave your car at the airport in an on-site airport parking lot, there are advantages and disadvantages to consider.
One advantage of onsite airport parking is that there are, generally speaking, more available spaces compared to offsite airport parking lots. Additionally, it can be more cost-effective when compared to parking options in downtown or central areas that often have higher rates.
However, while considered safer than off-site parking, you still run security risks like theft and vandalism if you leave your car at a local airport.
Offsite Airport Parking Options
For those looking to save money on airport parking or seeking additional services, using an offsite parking lot near the airport may be the ideal solution for their parking needs. Offsite parking facilities offer shuttle rides directly to the terminal, adding extra convenience for travelers.
One of the main advantages of offsite car lots is the cost. Off-airport parking lots generally cost about half as much as parking directly at the airport, with an additional 15 to 20 minutes of travel time.
Remember, prices and offerings can vary between facilities, so it’s important to conduct thorough research on each option before making a decision.
To find the best deals on offsite parking near an airport for a convenient experience, consider using websites like AirportParkingReservations.com, which offers discounts and promotions for various airport locations in Canada and the United States.
Essential Tips for Long-Term Airport Parking
Before entrusting your car to a long-term airport parking facility during your travels, there are several steps you should take to ensure that your vehicle is ready for extended periods of idle time.
These precautions will help mitigate risk while you’re across the country or venturing abroad. Visit this article for a more detailed long-term car storage checklist.
- First, check your tire pressure and top up any necessary fluids, such as oil and windshield washer fluid
- Clean the exterior and interior. That way, you don’t come home to a messy car.
- Remove any valuables from your car before leaving it in the parking facility.
- Use a car cover to protect your vehicle from the elements (if it’s an uncovered parking lot rather than an indoor parking garage).
- When available, choose covered, well-lit, highly-monitored parking for maximum security.
- Lock the doors and remove extra keys from the parked car.
Options To Consider As Alternatives to Airport Parking
For many travelers, opting for ride-sharing services or public transportation can be a more convenient and budget-friendly option than airport parking. When embarking on longer trips, the costs of storing a vehicle at the airport over an extended period can reach exorbitant levels.
To avoid costly parking fees, consider services like
- Taxis
- Ride-sharing apps
- Buses
- Trains
One of the main benefits of using ride services and public transportation is the potential cost savings. By eliminating the need for airport parking, you can save money on parking fees.
If you’re a frequent flyer, consider parking your vehicle in a residential area near the airport. With Neighbor, a peer-to-peer car storage marketplace, you can find hosts within a few miles of the airport, offering either short-term or long-term vehicle parking (or both). Overall, renting a spot in a private garage or residential driveway is considered the safer and more cost-effective option (compared to leaving your car parked on a residential street).
When deciding between modes of transportation, it’s important to factor in the length of your trip and compare the overall costs.
Insurance Considerations for Long-Term Airport Parking
To plan for long-term airport parking, review your insurance policy and adjust coverage to protect against theft, vandalism, or damage. Consider adding long-term vehicle storage insurance to your existing policy.
This additional coverage protects against theft, vandalism, or fire that may occur during extended parking periods.
Before leaving your vehicle in a long-term airport garage facility, check whether your insurance policy covers vehicle storage and make adjustments accordingly.
You may need to increase your coverage limits or opt for additional protection afforded by a comprehensive coverage plan.
Summary
When deciding whether to leave your car at the airport during your travels, it’s important to weigh factors such as convenience, cost, security, and insurance coverage before making a final decision.
Leaving your car parked in your driveway over your week-long getaway may be the more affordable option. However, when left unattended in your driveway, your vehicle may be in greater danger at home than at an off-site or on-site airport parking lot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Airports Let You Leave Your Car?
Yes, most airport facilities offer long-term secure parking facilities where you can park your car securely for a daily or weekly rate.
Is It Safe to Leave a Car at the Airport Overnight?
Leaving your car at the airport overnight is generally safe if you take precautions such as picking a covered parking spot, using a steering wheel lock, removing valuables, and locking your car.
What Is the Difference Between Short-Term and Long-Term Airport Parking?
Short-term parking is generally used for up to one week, while long-term parking is reserved for week-long stays (or longer).
What Are the Benefits of Offsite Airport Parking?
Offsite airport car lots offer cost savings and additional services, such as shuttle rides to the airport.
