Driving to the airport is often the best option for a lot of travellers, as airport transfers can be expensive, inconvenient or unreliable. The problem that then presents itself is parking your vehicle, especially if you will be gone for an extended period. The long term parking options offered by the airport itself are often ridiculously expensive, as they do not want to encourage people to park in their lots long term.
Luckily, at every airport there are a number of private parking provider's which offer reasonable rates and a safe location to park your vehicle. They are generally located close, but not quite within the airports grounds. These parking providers represent the best value for money option if you need to park your car at the airport, but you still need to take care in choosing one that is right for you. Below are just a few of the things you should consider before using an airport parking operator.
Proximity
As you can imagine, when choosing airport parking, you always want a provider that is as close as possible to the airport! Most airport parking operators are very close to the airport, for your convenience. Some are so close you can walk, while most have a complimentary transfer service to get you to the terminal as quickly as possible. Even with a transfer service, you don't want to be too far from the airport. Before you choose a parking operator, do some research online to find out just how far they are from the airport.
Security
Security should be, without a doubt, your number one concern when parking your vehicle long term. No one wants to return from a long trip, only to find their car has been damaged or even stolen. Airport parking operators are well aware that vehicles parked long term are susceptible to thieves and they implement a number of security measures to protect the vehicles in their care.
Before trusting your vehicle to the care of an airport parking service, take care to review their security policies and procedures. CCTV surveillance is a must and the best operators also have security guards on site 24/7. In addition to this, the parking compound should also be secured by a solid fence and alarm systems.
Services
Sometimes it is the little extras that sway your decision, so you should always be on the lookout for what additional services your chosen parking operator offers. As already mentioned, most parking operators offer a complimentary shuttle bus. Ideally, this should run on a regular schedule all day. If it doesn't, be sure that the timings of the shuttle match up with your arrival and departure times, or else you may be left with an annoying cab ride to the parking lot!
Other services such as valet parking, complimentary drinks, lounge waiting areas and washing and vehicle care services may or may not interest you depending on your situation. To ensure you get the best value for money, choose an airport parking operator based on which additional services you will get the most use out of.
For more information, or a quote for a parking your car at the airport during your next trip, contact a convenient airport parking operator today.