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Retire Early
Lifestyle
Retirement; like your parents, but way cooler
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In 1991 Billy and Akaisha Kaderli retired at the age
of 38. Now, into their 4th decade of this
financially independent lifestyle, they invite you
to take advantage of their wisdom and experience. |
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Travel on a
Budget: How to Save on Airport Parking
Sheldon Masters
Airport parking can be a sneaky
expense that blows your travel budget before you even board the plane. But what
if you could little to no money on airport parking without the stress? You can!
With smart strategies, a little planning, and insider tips, you’ll keep more
cash in your pocket for what really matters: your trip.
Book Your Parking Spot Early
Avoid last-minute parking; reserve your spot weeks (or even months) in advance.
Many off-site and on-site parking lots offer cheap airport parking and
early-bird discounts on advance parking reservations.
Use
online booking platforms to compare prices in order for you to lock in on
airport parking deals. For instance, you can save a spot if you're looking for
Philadelphia Airport parking options on
such apps. Bonus? You’ll avoid the panic of circling a full lot.
Compare On-Site vs. Off-Site Parking
On-site airport parking (run by the airport) is the most convenient but usually
the priciest. It's recommended for very short trips (hourly rates may be
reasonable), if you’re running late (no shuttle wait), and for maximum
convenience.
On
the other hand, privately owned off-site lots are often cheaper—sometimes half
the cost—and many include free shuttle service to the terminal. Other advantages
include less crowds, there are covered or uncovered options, and so on.
You
can compare and pick either one through booking apps. For example, you can
select a parking service that works for you if you want to
reserve LAX parking before you drive to
the busy airport.
Use Credit Card or Membership Discounts
Check if your credit card, frequent flyer program, and so on offer airport
perks. Many premium travel cards include discounts and/or airport parking deals
at major parking providers.
Remember: always check your card’s benefits portal before booking by reaching
out to their dedicated customer service representative, air travel advantages
website, and the like.
Opt for Long-Term Economy Lots
Most airports (both major airports and local air hubs) have long-term economy
lots farther from terminals but with budget-friendly rates. They’re safe,
well-lit, and offer regular shuttle service. Pro tip: factor in shuttle
time—arrive 15-20 minutes earlier than usual if you decide to go for long-term
economy lots for airport parking.
Try Park-and-Ride or Hotel Parking Packages
Some hotels near airports offer 'park and fly' deals—book a room for one night,
and they’ll let you park free for a week or longer. Even if you don’t stay
overnight, this can be cheaper than long-term parking. This option isn't
exclusive to big chain hotels - even independent motels or small operators offer
the aforementioned service.
Call ahead or search for 'park and fly hotels near [your airport]' to check out
your options.
Use Cashback Apps and Coupon Sites
Never pay full price without checking for discount codes or cashback. There are
cashback apps and coupon sites that you can look into. A quick search could save
you money on parking costs per reservation - savings that you can use on
something else.
Consider Peer-to-Peer Parking
Many peer-to-peer parking apps let locals rent out their driveways, garages, or
unused parking spaces near airports—often way cheaper than traditional lots.
Top
pros of using peer-to-peer parking include: having access to unique, low-cost
spots that are sometimes closer than off-site lots, secured services, and so on.
Meanwhile, the cones include less predictable availability of parking slots and
no shuttle service.
Ask About Free Parking Hacks
Some airports have free parking tricks if you know
where to look. Examples range from cell phone waiting lots (free for
pickups), restaurant validation (some airport-adjacent eateries validate
parking), to ride-share drop-off (skip parking entirely if you can get a cheap
ride).
Split Costs with Fellow Travelers
Traveling with friends? Carpool and split parking fees. Some lots charge per
vehicle, not per person—so sharing a ride means everyone saves.
Avoid Premium Services (Unless Necessary)
Valet service, covered, or 'premium' parking can double your cost. Unless you’re
in a blizzard or driving a luxury car, uncovered economy parking is just as safe
as its more premium counterparts.
Check for Weekly or Monthly Maximums
Some lots cap fees after a certain number of days. Examples include a seven-day
max rate (where you pay for a week even if gone for 10 days) and monthly
passes (a cheaper option than daily rates for long trips). Always ask before
booking.
Time Your Arrival and Departure Strategically
Parking fees often run in 24-hour blocks. If you arrive at 2 PM and return at 3
PM the next day, you’ll pay for two days. Adjust by an hour or two to stay
within one day’s rate.
Look for Hidden Fees Before Booking
Some lots advertise low rates but tack on taxes and service fees (this will up
your costs up to 20% more), shuttle fees, early and/or late exit penalties, and
many more. Remember to always read the fine print.
Use Alternative Transportation if Possible
Sometimes skipping parking altogether is the best budget move. Try out public
transit options such as train or bus lines to your airport, rideshare apps, and
a bike-and-taxi combo if you live close by.
To Conclude: Park Smart, Save Money on Airport Parking
Airport parking doesn’t have to drain your wallet. By booking early, comparing
options, using discounts, and thinking outside the lot, you can save hundreds
per year—money better spent on flights, food, or fun.
Next time you travel, try just one or two of these tricks, and you’ll see the
difference. Happy (and budget-friendly) travels!
For more on
Retirement Topics,
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About the Authors
Retire
Early Lifestyle appeals to a different
kind of person – the person who prizes their
independence, values their time, and who doesn’t
want to mindlessly follow the crowd.
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