Must-Read Before Returning Home for Summer Break: Airport Long-Term Parking Savings Guide

The peak travel season for returning home is approaching. Every year, people spend four to five hundred dollars on official airport parking for two weeks. This guide will help you cut that cost. 【Three Types of Options】Official Economy Lots: Most expensive but most hassle-free. The advantage is not having to wait long for a shuttle, suitable for short stays under 3 days. Private lots near the airport: The main choice for long-term parking. Booking online in advance costs $8-15 per day, half the price of walk-in. Choose ones with fences and cameras. Indoor/covered spots for a few extra dollars are well worth it at airports with many birds and trees. Hotel Park & Fly packages: Stay one night and get 7-14 days of parking. Perfect for red-eye flights or early morning departures. It often ends up being cheaper than booking parking alone. 【Price Comparison Tips】Use comparison websites by searching the airport code + parking to see everything at once. Then, compare again on the parking lot's official website (they often have website-exclusive discount codes). Booking with Amex or certain credit cards may also offer additional cashback. 【Five Things to Do Before Parking】1. Take a video of the car, circling it once, as proof. 2. Empty the car's visible interior. 3. Leave enough fuel/charge for the return trip (especially in winter). 4. Take a photo of the parking spot number. 5. Do not leave keys in the car, unless it's valet parking. 【Picking Up Your Car】For long-term parking of two weeks or more, check tire pressure first after getting in the car, and wait a minute after starting before driving off. Cars with weak batteries risk not starting after two weeks. For batteries over three years old, fully charge them before leaving or just replace them. Which ones are good for specific airports, let's share in the comments. I'll start: For LAX, choose those along the 105. For SFO, choose the ones in South San Francisco.