Airport parking is one of those costs that's easy to overpay for simply by taking whatever lot is closest, without comparing what else is available.
The main parking options
- On-airport parking (short-term, long-term, and sometimes economy lots run by the airport itself) is the most convenient, usually with a shuttle or walkway to the terminal, but it's typically the most expensive option for trips longer than a few days.
- Off-airport private lots are usually cheaper than on-airport long-term parking, running their own shuttle service to the terminal — the trade-off is a slightly longer total time to reach your gate.
- Park-and-fly hotel packages bundle a hotel stay near the airport with free or discounted parking for the length of your trip, which can be a good option if you're flying out early or arriving late and would want a nearby hotel anyway.
- Valet parking, where available, costs more but saves the most time and effort, worth it mainly for short trips or when time matters more than cost.
How to actually save money
- Book in advance online — both on-airport and off-airport lots frequently offer lower rates for reservations made ahead of time versus driving up and paying the drive-up rate.
- Compare off-airport lots, not just the airport's own options — the airport's website won't show you cheaper third-party lots, so it's worth a separate search specifically for off-airport parking near your airport.
- Check your trip length against each option's pricing structure — some lots charge a flat daily rate that gets relatively cheaper the longer you park, while others don't scale that way.
- Ask about park-and-fly hotel packages if you're already considering a hotel stay before an early flight — the "free" parking can offset most or all of the hotel cost.
What to check before you book any option
- Whether the lot is covered or uncovered, if weather protection matters to you
- Shuttle frequency and how long the ride to the terminal actually takes, especially for off-airport lots
- Cancellation policy, in case your trip dates shift
- Security features (lighting, cameras, gated access) if you're leaving a vehicle for an extended trip
Frequently Asked Questions
Is off-airport parking cheaper than airport parking?
Independent flight booking assistance service. Not affiliated with any airline. This is a toll-free number, free to call from anywhere in the US.
Usually yes, for trips longer than a couple of days, though you'll typically add a short shuttle ride to reach the terminal. Compare both before booking, especially for longer trips.
Does booking airport parking in advance save money?
Often, yes — many on-airport and off-airport lots offer lower advance-reservation rates than their drive-up pricing.
What is a park-and-fly package?
A bundled hotel stay near the airport that includes free or discounted parking for your trip's duration — a good option if you're already planning to stay near the airport before an early flight or after a late arrival.
Is valet parking worth it at the airport?
It costs more than self-park options, but saves time and effort — most worth it for short trips or when convenience matters more to you than the price difference.
Independent flight booking assistance service. Not affiliated with any airline. This is a toll-free number, free to call from anywhere in the US. Learn more