Different Types of Airport Parking
Most large airports such as Heathrow and Gatwick offer a number of different
options for car-parking, obviously dependent on the differing needs of
their customers. Increasingly bookings can be made online, which can save
a lot of time, effort and money. It is important, though, to know the
different types of airport parking before you begin the booking process.
On-Airport Parking
On-Airport Parking refers to parking that is available within the boundaries
of the airport. With airport sizes endlessly increasing to meet the demands
of increasing numbers of customers, it can be a long way from the edge
of the airport boundary to the terminal and often there is not transport
offered from the car parks to the terminals. Generally speaking the closer
you park to the terminals the greater the cost will be as you pay for
convenience of being closer to the terminal. Either way, if you are parking
within the airport boundaries make sure that you check the transfer times
from your car parking spot to the terminal.
Off-Airport Parking
If on-airport parking refers to car parking within the airport boundaries,
off-airport parking refers predictably to car parking outside of the boundaries
of the airport. Due to transport links the transfer times from off-airport
parking can often be less than for on-airport parking. It also has the
advantage of being generally cheaper than on-airport parking. This is
by no means a general rule though, so once again it is best to contact
the airport and check.
Valet Parking
For those that can afford it the most convenient parking method has got
to be the valet service. Generally you will be met at the terminal by
a driver who will take your car to an on or off-airport parking space
leaving you free to check in with minimal transfer time from your car
to the airport. When you return, the driver will bring your car back to
you outside the terminal. This is by far the most convenient option, particularly
for those with large families or large amounts of luggage.
An alternative to airport parking is to hire a car from a local depot
and drop it off at the airport, therefore negating the need for parking.
Just make sure that your car
insurance covers you for this. If not, you can get a quote
from a company like Beat That Quote.
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