Family Trip Deals

Before we set sail on our first cruise, we were so excited. Careful planning (or so we thought) dictated that we fly to our embarkation destination via the largest, but nearest airport. For us that was Detroit Metro. At that time I also didn’t have a clue on how to pack lightly, and I’m still working on that one. With enough luggage to last for a couple of weeks we unloaded our vehicle in the long term parking lot. To make a long story shorter, the trip was fantastic and shopping in the various ports was great. Luckily we didn’t spend all the money we’d taken because we needed it to pay the ginormous parking fee waiting for us back in Detroit.

Off-site airport parking is a boon for travelers, and often proves to be cheaper than parking lots run by airports. In addition if you can snag online discounts, this option is even more attractive. Satellite parking lots face competition, so here are a few insights to help you save big.

1. Keep a tab on offers. As the race for success becomes intense, all sites run attractive offers giving away coupons or web only deals. Many offer an e-coupon that entitles the user to a day’s free parking at selected parking lots. And don’t pooh-pooh the amount, a saving is a saving Other offers give away a day if you park for two days or 50% off on the first days parking fee.
2. If you are a frequent user of parking lots check for offers where a parking operator with a major presence near airports you use offers a 50% discount if you purchase a certain number of parking vouchers online or on the phone using your credit card.
3. Many parking sites have a different rate for different parking positions. Check on the kinds of parking and rate differences. You could save up to $ 55 for a seven day parking.
4. Ask for rates depending on the length of stay. Rates vary so if you are going to need parking for a week then you could get a higher discount than the daily rate on offer.
5. Many run a frequent user program where repeat customers are offered many facilities. This is similar to frequent flier programs.
6. Find out if the lots you use offer special discounts to members of AARP, AAA, or other similar organizations. In fact, AAA members save between 10-20% on parking. Some sites even offer the service of picking up and dropping your car from the airport terminal. This shuttle service is an absolute blessing when you have tons of luggage or the airport isn‘t nearby.

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7. Take the time to do your research. Compare providers, their rates, additional offers, as well as facilities at the place you need to park. If you are clever you can get more for less.

8. Let your mouse do the clicking. Internet search are less time consuming rather than going through a phone book. Booking online can also yield an online discount code or a coupon you can print and present to the cashier at the parking lot.
9. Keep track of promotions especially during holiday seasons. Many lots accept coupons and give away discounts offered by consumer products .
10. Often pre-booking parking can get you a saving of even 60% and more.
11. Hotels often offer parking specials, so make use of the extra facility being offered by the hotel you plan to stay in.
12. Some travel agents who book flight tickets offer advice or coupons for parking at the point of exit and entry. Ask you agent when you book your flight.

This is definitely an instance where convenience can be a savings too.