The parking expenses could be high and this is especially so if you are in a central business district, near an airport or any venue that is hosting an event. Due to the availability of many parking options, it is a challenge to determine the best value for your parking needs. In this article, I will discuss the ways of comparing parking prices taking into account the location, time, security measures, and convenience.
Why Parking Prices Vary
Parking prices can fluctuate based on several factors:
Location: Car parking in business districts, at airports or near tourist destinations is normally expensive since many people require them. It is a fact that the nearer to the target, the higher the amount of money you will have to part with.
Duration: The cost of parking may also differ according to the type of parking required, whether it is short term or long term. Daily rates are not the same as hourly rates, and some of the facilities may provide a lower price for long-term parking.
Type of Parking: The various categories of parking facilities include multi-story car parks, surface lots, or valet services, which attract different prices. Covered parking within the compound is normally more expensive than open air or uncovered parking bays.
Security Features: Those centres with special amenities such as security cameras, security guards, and gates will be more expensive than those with no or limited security measures.
Additional Services: Some of the parking structures include additional amenities such as car wash bays, EV charging points, or luggage help. These conveniences can affect the price of the product or service being offered in one way or the other.
How to Compare Parking Prices
To get the best deal on parking, follow these steps:To get the best deal on parking, follow these steps:
Research Online: Take advantage of the comparison websites and applications that compile the parking options in your preferred location. Such sites enable you to check on the price, read the reviews, and the availability of the products at the same time.
Consider Proximity vs. Cost: Consider the cost of parking against the convenience of the location of the car park. At other times, it is cheaper to park a little further from the hotel and walk or take a shuttle which is not much of a problem.
Check for Discounts: Take time to look for discount or promotional codes especially if you are going to book your parking space in advance. Most of the parking facilities provide a discount on the rates if the parking is booked online, booked in advance or if the client is a regular one.
Evaluate Security and Services: Think about what you are paying for. A slightly higher rate may be justified to have the added security or the convenience of not having to look for another parking lot in the event that one has to leave the car for an extended period of time.
Read Reviews: Other users’ testimonials can give information about the state of the facility, the treatment of the employees, and the level of security. This can assist you in deciding whether it is worth to pay a lower price for a product or service.
A Study on the Parking Charges of the Major Airports in UK
- Parking Option: Timber Yard Parking – Park and Ride
- Distance from Terminal: 3. 5 miles
- Price: £63. 00
- Details: This option provides park-and-ride facilities, which means that you leave your car and get to the terminal by a shuttle. It is cheaper for those who are ready to leave their car a little farther from the terminal.
- Parking Option: Rose Parking Meet and Greet
- Distance from Terminal: 3 miles
- Price: £63. 00
- Details: Meet-and-greet service is convenient as it involves your car being picked from the terminal; this is even more so if you are carrying bulky luggage or if time is of essence.
- Parking Option: Airport Parking – Birmingham – Self Park
- Distance from Terminal: 1 mile
- Price: £64. 60
- Details: Parking near the terminal but not in the terminal, this option is cheap yet convenient as it permits one to park his or her car and walk or take a short bus ride to the terminal.
- Parking Option: Platinum Parking Manchester – Park and Ride
- Distance from Terminal: 10 miles
- Price: £65. 00
- Details: This service is a park-and-ride service that is situated further away from the terminal; it is suitable for those who are willing to spend less and who are not so concerned with the time they waste getting to the terminal.
- Parking Option: Gatwick Easy Parking – ELITE PARK – Park and Ride
- Distance from Terminal: 6 miles
- Price: £72. 00
- Details: A moderately-priced park-and-ride that is more expensive than the basic ones but cheaper than the luxury ones and has a shuttle to the terminal.
Parking Price Comparison: For instance
Let’s compare parking prices in a typical city center scenario:
City Center Multi-Story Car Park: $5 for an hour and $30 for 24 hours. Has provisions for covered parking, security services with cameras operating throughout the day and night, and proximity to shopping centers.
Surface Lot near Public Transit: $2 per hour, $15 for 24 hours. Outdoor parking, not much security, but close to the bus and metro terminals.
Valet Parking at a Downtown Hotel: $12 per hour, $45 for 24 hours. Comprises of valet parking, indoor parking and other services such as car washing and polishing.
In this case, the multi-story car park is more or less in the middle with fairly good security and coverage. The surface lot is the cheapest for a short stay while the valet parking is relatively expensive but offers the most convenience and service.
Conclusion
The process of comparing parking prices is not as simple as comparing the figures. Through location, duration, security and other services, one can be able to make a decision that will suit the budget as well as the needs of the client. Whether it is a short stop for a few hours or a long term parking, some time spent in researching can help you find the most affordable parking for your car.
The next time you need parking, do yourself a favor and look at the prices and services offered. You will be amazed to find out that you can save a lot of money just by planning!
