What Times Should I Book For My Airport Parking?
Arrival at the Car Park: What you need to know
All off airport car parks suggest allowing at least 30 minutes from arrival at car park to drop off at airport terminal. As these car parks rely on coach or mini bus transfers, it is worth considering allowing at least 45 minutes transfer time during busy periods, as the first coach/minibus may be full. This is where Meet and Greet comes into its own, as you do not need to allow this extra travel time due to the fact that you are dropped off and picked up at the airport!
Arriving early shouldn’t be a problem in most cases but bear in mind you may only be permitted to access the car park up to 2 hours earlier than planned. If your early arrival takes you into the previous 24-hour period, you will be charged an extra day’s parking.
On your confirmation, you will have full details regarding the arrival procedure and how long it takes to get to the airport from your chosen car park.
Drop-off Time
For Park and Ride parking, enter the time you think you will arrive at the car park. If you change your mind and want to arrive up to an hour earlier or later than this time, you do not need to amend your booking, it will be fine.
If you are having a meet and greet service, you need to book the time you want to be met at the airport. If on the day you are running more than 15 minutes earlier or later than booked, it’s important to call the chauffeur’s number to let them know, giving them as much notice as possible.
Pick-up Time
If the car park has your car keys, please use your flight landing time, otherwise if you add extra time for delays, your car may not be ready to collect if you land on time.
If you know you are going to get back more than an hour earlier than you booked (e.g. for a flight change), please let the car park know as early as possible, so they can make sure your car is waiting for you.
Alternatively, if you are going to park your own car and keep your keys, you can add a couple of hours or more onto your landing time (in case of delay) if you wish. However, please bear in mind that some car parks may have a higher price for longer hours; although all car parks have a grace period of at least 2 hours and some up to 6.
Delayed Flight
If your car park has asked for your return flight details, they will use this to determine your expected arrival back at the airport. This means they will know in advance if your flight is delayed. In the event that your flight is significantly delayed and takes you beyond the end of the last day you have booked and paid for, then expect to pay any extra days’ car parking fees.
Incorrect Arrival or Return Time on Booking
Assume caveat same as above for early arrival or late return, ie. you’ll have to pay extra if your arrival or return takes you into the day before/after you have booked. An earlier than booked arrival will mean your car may not be ready, so again inform your car park as soon as possible. Of course, even if you are very late returning your car will be safe, so don’t worry! If you call the car park regarding any issues arising, they will inform you of possible additional costs. Once your booking has commenced you will not get a refund for any days that are unused due to incorrect timing on your part.
Finally: Remember to book your airport parking as soon as you know your travel details and receive the best possible price. If there is a possibility you may need to adjust your travel arrangements, make sure you book a ‘flexible’ parking package.