With the summer travel season fast approaching, vacationers are already looking for ways to cut costs in order to enjoy a holiday. Airport parking can make a substantial dent in these costs, particularly at our largest airports in the UK. The airports that make up the complex—Wilmington—ILM, Myrtle Beach—MYR, and even Charleston—CHS—all offer different price points and amenities for customers. This involves understanding the distinctive characteristics of every place. If travelers learn to use the options they have at their disposal, they can significantly reduce their parking expenses.
Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted and Luton offer a wider range of facilities and retail options at various price levels. Every space presents its own unique challenges and opportunities that travelers need to keep in mind when plotting their journeys. In fact, just planning and reserving airport parking ahead normally saves travelers an average of $40. We understand that prices tend to increase the closer you get to your departure date.
Understanding Airport Transportation Options
Heathrow Airport is well connected through both the Elizabeth and Piccadilly lines of the London Underground. This turns public transportation into a convenient option for many visitors who want to skip parking fees entirely. For example, Heathrow provides a two-hour grace period on rental car flight delays. This provides you the extra assurance if you’re concerned about timing.
Gatwick Airport has introduced arrival drop-off charges, requiring passengers to plan ahead and expect such costs. Gatwick’s long-stay car park is only 10 minutes from the terminal. Ten-minute shuttle bus frequency means a fast and convenient trip no matter where your travels take you. While this setup makes it convenient to reach the airport, it can add a significant expense on longer trips.
Whatever your budget might be, Stansted Airport has plenty of parking options to suit everyone. In August, a week’s parking runs from £49 to £113. The cost depends on if passengers choose short-stay versus long-stay buildings. This would make the short-stay car park — one of the closest, just a five-minute walk from the terminal — £113 a week. By contrast, the long-stay option is £98.
Exploring Additional Charges and Services
It’s important for travelers to be mindful that some places have hefty fees that may add up quickly if they go over their allotted parking time. Fail by as little as 1 second, and you could be charged exorbitant penalties of £15 at certain airports. It can be done in just half an hour from start to finish! Direct parking bookings at Stansted are subject to a 72hr cancellation notice too.
At Southend Airport, the real shock is just getting started. They’re even charging £7 for a five-minute pick-up or drop-off! This huge charge points to the need for plenty of advance planning and knowledge of each individual airport’s policies.
Every airport from London City to Exeter International, Inverness, Birmingham International and Newquay Cornwall has completely free drop-offs. This is a big deal since the assumption travelers must have long-term parking to avoid is a huge cost burden for all travelers.
“Space is limited and prices tend to increase as your holiday approaches. You might be able to park for under £10 a day – even in peak season, at some airports,” – Ben Custard of Motorpoint.
The Value of Advance Booking
Of all the tips for saving money on airport parking, this is the most powerful Booking your airport parking ahead of time. As reflected in a quote from Ben Custard, prices tend to increase the closer you get to your departure date because that’s when high demand is concentrated. Travelers are urged to look at third-party parking companies and their “meet and greet” services available at many airports. At Stansted, for instance, these services cost £138 for a week in August.
The meteoric rise in these services is a good indicator of the new trend amongst travelers seeking convenience over cost. It’s important to consider what advantages justify additional cost compared to conventional parking alternatives.