Peak Season Airport Parking: Tips and Tricks

What are the Factors that Affect the Peak Season for Airport Parking? 

• The Seasonality of Travel Demand 

Travel is very seasonal, and it tends to follow regular patterns. If you travel during the peak seasons, particularly summer, then you’ll see higher prices for airport prices. Flights will go up generally during the summer months, but especially between June and August. Another particularly expensive period is during the Christmas season when people want to go away for the holidays, some want to fly to see their families, and prices are skyrocketing. Essentially, if flight prices are higher due to travel demand, then the airport parking prices will follow suit. 

• The Availability and Capacity of Airport Parking Facilities 

An increase in demand will be reflected in the price. If there’s less capacity due to an increase in passengers booking up parking slots, then this will have a knock-on effect on how much it costs. However, if there is lots of availability at the airport parking facility, then you’ll find the prices are cheaper.

• The Special Events and Holidays that Increase Travel Traffic 

There are several events and holidays that will increase travel traffic. Some are annual events that occur every year, and some are one-offs that’ll have a huge impact i.e., a post-lockdown travel boom. 

Big sporting tournaments are one of the most influential price-altering events – flight prices will skyrocket during the Olympics, the World Cup, the Super Bowl, and others. These are localised events, though, so they will only affect flight prices for those countries – however, the general increase in travel traffic can affect airport parking prices. 

The summer holidays affect travel traffic the most when an influx of families are whisking the kids on a sunny summer holiday abroad. Holidays like Christmas will also influence travel traffic, with fewer flights than in the summer months decreasing availability and increasing prices.

How to Plan for Your Peak Season Airport Parking Needs? 

• Check the Latest Travel Advice and Regulations 

Be sure to keep up to date with the latest travel advice, including how long to get to the airport before your flight. If the current advice is to arrive three hours in advance, allow an extra thirty minutes to find a parking spot and get to the terminal. Keep an eye on Covid-19 regulations, too. Some countries still require proof of vaccination or a negative test, in which case, there might be delayed queues at the airport. Take this into account and plan your arrival time accordingly. 

• Book Your Airport Parking in Advance with FHR 

The best way to plan for your airport parking needs, particularly during the peak season, is by booking your airport parking in advance. You will save yourself money on airport parking (and your holiday) by being organised and booking in advance. As well as money, you’ll save on time and stress. 

Booking an airport parking slot might be the last thing on your mind on top of flights, hotels, and passports, but it’s the best way to help you kick off your holiday stress-free. Peak season will see more passengers trying to get a parking space at the most convenient and affordable car parks – booking your slot in advance with FHR means you get the car park that suits your budget and preferences. And most importantly, you’ll shave off 60% of the price! 

• Compare and Choose the Best Option for Your Budget and Convenience 

There are several airport parking options to choose from. There are on-site parking options that are on the airport grounds – they’re usually the more expensive option, but they are very convenient and will put you close to the terminals. 

Each airport might have different names for their car park options, but there will usually be a Short Stay car park and a Long Stay car park. Short Stay car parks will usually be close to the airport terminals – they’re best suited to weekend getaways or short business trips. Being so close to the airport is ideal if you’re travelling with young children or heavy luggage. Long Stay car parks tend to be further away from the terminals, but they will typically have free bus transfer operations that’ll regularly shuttle passengers to and from the terminal you want to get to. These are a good option if you’re going away for over 3 days.  

Off-site airport parking is usually more affordable. While they’re not on airport grounds, they won’t be far away. They tend to be trusted and recognisable car park brands, rather than the airport’s car park brand. They’re usually smaller and therefore will book up quickly, particularly during the peak season. 

Compare airport parking options and prices with FHR – all our car parks hold the Park Mark Award for security, helping your holiday get off without a hitch. 

How to Save Money and Time on Your Peak Season Airport Parking? 

• Use FHR’s Discount Codes and Loyalty Rewards

Are you a regular flyer? Then you could be taking advantage of FHR’s loyalty rewards. Build up rewards by booking airport parking, airport hotels, and airport lounges whenever you fly to make savings on future bookings. Discount codes are another great way to save money, providing additional price cuts on great-value airport parking. Want to stay in the know about upcoming further discounts, promotions, and deals? Sign up to our newsletter for regular updates.

• Opt for Off-Site or Valet Parking Services

If you want to save money on your airport parking during the peak season, we recommend an off-site car park. While they’re further away from the airport terminals than an on-site car park, there is usually a free shuttle bus transporting passengers to and from the terminals. It’s the most affordable option while providing peace of mind while you’re on holiday – all our car parks have 24/7 security cameras, regular patrols, and hold the Park Mark Award.

When it comes to saving time, the best option is to use a valet parking service. While this is the most expensive airport parking option, it is the most convenient. It’s a great option for families with lots of heavy luggage and small children in tow. Depending on the airport, a trusted employee will collect your car at the departure terminal, or you will drop it off at the valet drop-off point. Either way, this cuts down a good chunk of time. 

• Arrive Early and Follow the Instructions

To avoid delays, arrive at the airport early. While the general guidance is to arrive at the airport three hours before an international flight, allow extra time to account for parking time. There might be traffic getting into the airport or difficulty finding a slot – if you didn’t pre-book. Follow the instructions that will tell you where your car park is located, where your parking slot is, and how to pay for a seamless, efficient airport parking experience. 

Compare airport parking prices and options and book with FHR for a seamless airport parking experience.