When parking your car at an airport, finding a suitable parking spot can become challenging. You might find one way too far from the entrance, or one where the parking fee is exorbitant.
Of course, it is important that you have auto insurance to secure your car against any damages. There are many Canadian companies such as Surex who can help provide these policies at comprehensible rates.
Today, we will discuss a few tips and guidelines for car parking at the airport.
Car Parking in Airport: Types of Parking
There are ideally three types of car parking available at the airport. They are:
- Valet
- Long-term parking
- Short-term parking
Each of them comes with its unique benefits and at different fare rates.
Valet Parking
Valet parking is super helpful when you are in a hurry. For example, if you have to rush to the airport after leaving your car, opt for valet parking if the terminal has the option. This is an on-site airport parking option where you leave your car and its keys with a valet and can get on your flight.
Once your car is with your valet, you can go about catching your plane and leave the car in the responsible hands of professional valets.
There are some amazing benefits of leaving your car with a valet. For example, when your car is at the airport during your vacation, it goes through prim and professional cleaning and polishing. So when you return, you are handed over your car keys to a new and sparkly vehicle waiting right there for you.
Opting for valet service will cost you a one-time fee, plus per-day pricing. The per-day fees are calculated in a seven-day lump sum if you have a tentative date to return. So, if you have reached the airport during the rush boarding hours, drive up to the terminal and pass your car to a valet. There is more safety and security in this, especially when you are leaving town or the country.
Short-Term Airport Parking
Short-term parking is great when you are leaving your car at the parking spot for a limited amount of time (less than 24 hours). This option is available and ideal if you need to pick up or drop someone off at the airport. At times, if you need to meet someone during a layover, you can opt for short-term on-site airport parking.
For short-term parking, the fees vary depending on hours and day. If you are there for a few hours or 30 minutes, your fees will differ from the daily fee.
Long-Term Airport Parking
A long-term airport parking option is available if you need to take a flight. Long-term parking is an affordable option over valet parking.
This parking is the best option during winter. By doing so, you can keep your car safe from heavy snowfall that can be a hassle to clean off and drive right after returning. This is known as covered long-term parking.
Of course, if you need long-term parking during other seasons, you can opt for uncovered parking that is more affordable.
Off-Site Parking Options
Non-affiliated parking spots outside of the airport are an option if you have the time to park elsewhere before reaching the terminal. You can park your car off-site and opt for a shuttle service to drive you to and from the airport. Shuttle services will transport you and your luggage without any hassle.
Parking and Hotel Benefits
At times, your flight might be early in the morning. In these cases, you can opt to check into an airport hotel the night before. This option is helpful, especially if you live far away from the airport.
Many Canadian airports offer free Park and Fly services where you can check in the night before your flight. You can also take up this option if you land at early dawn and choose to stay at a hotel for rest and free car parking before heading home. The Park and Fly services often also come with a shuttle service to drive you to and from the airport along with your luggage.
Should You Insure Your Car Before Leaving it in Airport Parking Lots?
Car insurance can cover all damages and losses your car might sustain, including damage due to a storm, heavy rainfall, or snow while parked. Certain policies also cover damages from attempted or successful theft or burglary.
However, to avail of such coverages, you need to add the parked car policy (car storage policy) to your insurance. Remember that comprehensive coverage only covers on-road damages. Under this, the insurance provider would not be liable to compensate you if your car has sustained damages while parked.
Endnote
If you are looking to travel out of the city and want to keep your car safe, consider car parking at the airport or any affiliated services.
Insuring your car beforehand can help you receive compensation lest any mishaps damage your car. Insurance companies such as Surex can help you find the right insurance for your vehicle.
