Are you considering using an airport car parking garage for the first time? Or have you not used one for a long time? Melbourne Airport is a massive airport, so it might be intimidating if this is the case. Both short-stay and long-stay airport parking options are available, based on the vacation or business trip duration.
In this post, we’ll provide you with advice on saving time, effort, and even money by utilizing both forms of airport parking and answering the common questions.
Is it possible to arrive at the airport without pre-booking a parking space?
Most airports don’t require pre-arrangement of parking spaces, so cars may just show up and park when they arrive. However, this may end up costing you more money. Melbourne car parking, for example, charges its “on-the-day” pricing if you don’t pre-book, which is more expensive.
Parking at airports may be subject to time restrictions
There may be time limits on how long you may stay, depending on the car park. For example, pre-booked parking in Melbourne has a 99-day maximum, whereas on-the-day parking has no such restriction.
What about parking for “meet and greet” guests?
“Meet and greet” parking is available at several airport car parking lots, such as Melbourne’s. In a way, it’s comparable to valet parking, except you have to put your vehicle in a specific spot on your own. Your car will be ready for you when you give over your keys when you return.
Having your car cleaned for an extra fee may also be possible.
Consider the option of using parking facilities provided by a third party
With a third-party car park, you may be able to save money on airport car parking. Shuttle services to and from the airport are one of them. Depending on the schedule, you may have to wait for the shuttle to arrive at your destination.
Upon your return, you’ll also have to figure out where to catch the shuttle at the terminal. There are a lot of passengers on the bus. And this means that it might take a long time for the vehicle to get to them all. Valet or “meet and greet,” certain third-party car parks may offer services (see below).
At any given moment, a wide range of airport car parking bargains is available, with more options accessible at bigger airports.
Local car parks
Businesses situated near an airport might provide free parking. Compared to on-site and third-party security solutions, this might be one of the most cost-effective alternatives.
Additionally, if you park far away from the terminal, you may have to use a taxi or public transportation to get to the airport, which might be a headache if you have a lot of bags.
Parking at an airport is only for passengers traveling on their own dime
Recently, airport vehicle parking firms have allowed homeowners to rent out their driveway and garage parking spots for use by visitors.
Parking at a third-party facility may be less expensive. But you’ll have to arrange transportation to the airport, and there’s no guarantee that your car will be as safe as if you parked at the airport. Searching around for a secure parking area near the airport may be an option, though.
Express parking at the airport might save you money
When it comes to airport car parking, the phrases “express” and “money-saving” don’t always go hand in hand. If you’re looking for a cheap parking alternative, you’ll have to drive farther away from the terminal buildings, which will take longer to get to your gate.
Consider using a valet if you’re looking for “quick” airport parking. Airport central parking may be a better choice if you’re pressed for time. Using a third-party vendor saves money, but at the expense of additional time and effort.
Cheap airport car park comparison
There are a lot of comparison websites that can help you get the best prices on airport parking.
Is valet parking something you’d want to inquire about?
While valet parking is a bit of a splurge, it does make things a lot easier. You may drop off your vehicle at the valet parking spot of your choice for an extra charge. It is then the valet’s responsibility to do a quick visual or automated digital examination of your vehicle to ensure that it is in the same condition when it is returned to you. The valet service will make sure your car is waiting for you when you return.
It all comes at a price that should not be considered if you’re looking for inexpensive airport parking.
