Air travel has become more popular nowadays, with travelers opting for the convenience of air travel over other means. Airport parking is an important part of any journey, as it provides a place to store vehicles while travelers are away.
For this reason, many airports offer both on-site and off-site parking options. These parking space adjustments have been put in place by airports to enable more people to drive to the airport. But which one should you choose? Here we look at the difference between on-site and off-site airport parking to help you make an informed decision.
What is the Difference Between Off-Site and On-Site Airport Parking?
Both off-site and on-site airport parking allow you to park your car for a period of time while you are traveling. The main difference is that off-site parking is operated by a third-party company rather than the airport itself, whereas on-site parking is run directly by the airport.
On-Site Airport Parking
On-site airport parking is usually the closest parking option to the airport terminal and is typically more expensive than off-site parking. However, it comes with many benefits that make it attractive to travelers. With the expansion of parking lots in airports, there are usually plenty of parking spaces available, and you can find a spot close to the terminal building.
If you’re in a hurry or you’re traveling with a companion, on-site parking is the way to go. This type of airport parking comes with shuttle services to the terminal and back, so you can get to the airport quickly and conveniently. Here are some of the benefits you can enjoy with on-site airport parking:
Comfort
On-site airport parking comes with many amenities that make it more comfortable than off-site parking. These can include valet services, covered and indoor parking, multi-level parking lots with elevators and escalators, and air conditioning systems.
Disabled people are also taken care of because onsite parking lots offer disability-accessible parking spaces. In addition, it’s easy to maneuver wheelchairs, strollers, or baby carriers over a short distance.
Trustworthy
On-site airport parking is affiliated with the airport, so you can trust them to take care of your vehicle while you’re away. The staff is usually well-trained, and the parking slots are equipped with features such as automated gates and ticketing machines that make it more secure.
Price
Onsite parking lots are always located close to the terminal, which is why they are usually more expensive than off-site options. However, if you compare it to other means of transportation, such as a taxi or shuttle service, on-site airport parking may be a cheaper option in the long run.
What makes it more expensive than offsite parking is that it requires many resources, such as security agents, and regular maintenance, which costs money.
Off-site Airport Parking
Off-site airport parking is a great option for budget travelers who want to save money on their airport parking. It is usually located further away from the airport, and it’s operated by a third-party company, which makes it cheaper than onsite parking.
The distance between off-site airport parking and the terminal varies depending on the size of the airport, so you may need to factor in travel time when choosing this option. Nevertheless, there are many benefits to off-site airport parking, which makes it an attractive option for travelers.
Price
One of the main advantages of off-site airport parking is that it’s much cheaper than on-site parking options. This means that you can save money if you’re a budget traveler or just looking to keep your travel costs down. You may be wondering why it is cheaper than on-site airport parking.
Parking spaces that are far from the airport require less money because they have to compensate for the distance. There are also fewer facilities and amenities, so the overall cost is lower. The longer the distance between the parking lot and the terminal, the cheaper it will be. If you’re looking for cheap airport parking, this is definitely an option to consider.
Flexibility
When you park your car offsite, you don’t have to worry about being tied to a particular time frame. You can come and go as you please, which makes it much more convenient for those who need to change their travel plans unexpectedly.
Many Comforts
On-site airport parking is limited because of the heavy traffic at the airport. However, an off-site parking lot offers more comfort because there are fewer cars and more space to move around. You can also leave your car in the lot for a longer period of time if you wish.
Some lots will also let you call ahead and book a spot before you arrive. This makes it easier to find a parking spot, especially during busy travel periods. Offsite airport parking is also located near airport hotels and is able to offer additional services, such as car washing and detailing, airport hotel shuttle services to and fro the airport, and even airport lounges for members.
Offsite Airport Parking Offer Coupons
To stay ahead in this competitive business, many off-site airport parking lots offer discounts and coupons. If you’re looking to save money on your airport parking, you can find a lot of discounted deals online or through the airport’s website. You can also go directly to the parking lot and talk to the staff about any promotional deals they may have.
You Can Reserve Your Spot
Another great thing about off-site airport parking is that you can reserve your spot beforehand. This will help you avoid any unnecessary waiting time and save you money if the lot has a reserved rate.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for convenience, on-site airport parking is the way to go. But note that it comes at a higher price point. However, if you’re on a budget and seeking an economical parking option, off-site airport parking is your best bet.
It’s cheaper than on-site options, offers more flexibility and security, and some lots even offer coupons or other promotional deals. Plus, you can reserve your spot beforehand to save time and money. So, next time you’re traveling, try to compare both options and make the best choice for your budget and convenience.