How to Save Money on Airport Car Parking

It's not the big screen TV that makes life expensive, it's all of the daily expenses that slowly bleed people dry. Case in point, parking at the airport. It's an expense that most people don't figure into their vacation or business travel. But it can certainly add up to a King's ransom after just a few days. Here are some tips on how to save money on airport car parking.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Do the math on how much it will cost ahead of time. With many cities and towns offering public transportation and private companies that specialize in ride-share popping up all the time, it may make the most sense not to park at the airport at all. Determine the average daily cost of the parking lots and then multiply it by the amount of time you'll be gone. If that cost is greater than the price to take other transportation, then skip parking at the airport altogether.
2. Rely on the kindness of friends and family to drive you to the airport. Everyone has that one friend who is always asking for a ride to the airport. The truth is people usually begrudgingly say "yes." They may talk about what a pain you are behind your back, but they'll do it. If they do drive you, just make sure to give them gas money or offer to return the favor next time they are going out of town.
3. Look for coupons for parking lots. These tend to come in the mail in little booklets or fliers. You can also find them online as many of the parking lots at the airport have official websites. These also allow you to make online reservations, which saves time and gives you the peace of mind of knowing you'll have a spot. This is especially helpful during holiday time.
4. Ask about a weekly rate. When you pull into the parking lot, see if you can save money by getting a special rate for staying 7 days or more. Many parking lots offer this as an incentive. You can save up to 25 percent.
5. Become a frequent parker at one specific place. Just like there are discount memberships for other factions of your life, airport parking places are now offering memberships for frequent travelers. It usually costs nothing to join. The more you park, the more you save.
6. Park far away from the airport. This trick is helpful for the person who doesn't mind the extra 10 minutes on both sides of their trip. Airport parking is like real estate. It's all about location, location, location. The closer you are to the airport, the more you'll pay. Drive a few extra blocks and save some money.

Tips & Warnings

• Carpool to the airport with other members from your office. If you don't get reimbursed for the parking expense, it's a great way to split the cost.