The Problem With Airport Parking And Why It's Actually Getting Worse

Airport travel is more stressful than filing taxes or making a dreaded visit to the dentist. Whether you're dealing with traffic en route to your terminal, the risk of missing a flight, luggage mishaps and fees, or surviving the airport with your little ones, airports can be a test of patience and character. Among all of the many opportunities for stress levels to rise, airport parking is one of the biggest culprits. The experience can be more than unpleasant, from locating a parking spot (which can be ridiculously far from where you need to be) to the overwhelming task of locating the vehicle upon your return. The concerns of insufficient security or even potentially returning to a damaged vehicle are additional reasons that airport parking could be risky.

The biggest issue with airport parking is the incredibly expensive prices. The cost for parking spaces can rise to eye-watering amounts: Doha's Hamad International Airport is way up there as one of the most expensive airport parking in the world at $538 per week, followed by London Heathrow Airport at $324. Two of the most expensive U.S. airports to park in are San Francisco Airport at $245 and Boston Logan International Airport, priced at $232 per week (via Simple Flying). Even with handy tips and trendy yoga rooms to lessen the stress of airport travel, these types of prices suck the fun and peace out of the airport experience. However, with the promise of convenience, some travelers (begrudgingly) make their way to their designated airport parking spot.

There are times when you will want to consider parking at the airport, and many travel experts agree that the least expensive option will almost always be off-airport parking. One of the most eye-opening realities is that an airport earns millions of dollars a year from airport parking. On a daily basis, airports experience hordes of travelers seeking parking, staying anywhere between a few minutes to weeks on end. The stress of airport parking doesn't seem to be subsiding any time soon, as growing challenges and dissatisfaction, a reliance on parking as a stream of airport revenue, and a demand for more parking space continue.

Even if you don't have anyone to give you a lift or public transport isn't available, there are other solutions that may lessen the load on your mind and your budget to avoid the stresses of airport parking. Uber and Lyft are widely available on airport premises around the country, and these ride-sharing options could help you avoid the airport parking lot. Additionally, parking at a hotel and catching a shuttle to the airport could also be a better alternative. Sometimes, hotels offer deals and flexible arrangements, including affordable hotel rooms and parking packages. Scouting out any loyalty programs with credit cards, parking services, or even the airport for discounts could be a good idea too — anything to get around the relentless headache of airport travel before you even make it on the plane.