One of the most stressful aspects of a busy airport is finding a convenient spot to park. Especially when onsite parking is limited, solely relying on it is frustrating. Even then, some fight it out for a spot at the airport. At the same time, others go for the more convenient route: offsite parking. In this blog, we’ll explore 12 compelling reasons why offsite parking near an airport is a better and smarter choice for your next trip.
Advantages of offsite parking
1. Lower cost
Offsite airport parking is cheaper than onsite parking. Whether you are choosing short-term or long-term parking, you wouldn’t have to spend the bulk of your travel budget on parking. For reference, if you are booking Newark (EWR) offsite parking through globalairportparking.com, the rates start at just $6/day, whereas onsite parking can cost $30 to $40/day.
2. Convenience
Most people assume onsite parking is the most convenient option. But they forget to take into account the high costs, limited availability, and the difficulty of navigating the lot through heavy terminal traffic. Offsite lots, on the other hand, are affordable, offer abundant options, and are usually a few minutes from the airport, which makes them more convenient. Instead of going through the stress of driving through the terminal congestion, you could board the complimentary shuttle to the airport.
Also Read: On-airport vs off-airport parking costs
3. Enhanced security
While both parking options are generally safe, offsite lots are considered safer because they are dedicated to offering 24/7, personalized security. Most offsite lots implement several security measures, such as camera surveillance, gated entry, and routine staff patrols to keep your vehicle safe. This doesn’t mean onsite lots aren’t safe. But many onsite parking lots have yet to update their security measures, leaving room for security breaches and other threats.
4. Guaranteed reservation
One key advantage of offsite parking is the chance to book in advance and guarantee a spot. This is not always possible with onsite parking. Onsite parking availability can fluctuate drastically, especially during peak travel season. This could reduce the number of available parking spaces as well as hike up the parking rates, which is a double whammy for us travelers.
5. Car care services
Some offsite parking lots offer car care services. This includes services like car washes, detailing (interior and exterior cleaning), and minor maintenance and repairs like battery charging, fluid top-ups, and tire pressure checks. With these services available, you can return to a clean car after your vacation.
6. Customized services
Onsite parking lots aren’t exactly known for providing anything more than a parking spot. Offsite parking, on the other hand, provides customizable services that meet different customer requirements. Oversized vehicle parking, electric vehicle charging stations, and special assistance for travelers with disabilities are a few of the tailored services available. Valet services are also available at most offsite parking lots, which makes it even more convenient for travelers.
Other advantages of offsite parking
1. Weather protection options
Offsite parking lots offer a variety of options, from covered to uncovered spaces. You can choose to park your car in a covered parking space when weather conditions are particularly harsh or unpredictable, to ensure your vehicle will be safe until your return. Although onsite parking also offers this service, it comes at a premium rate, while offsite lots offer covered parking at more affordable rates.
2. Top-notch customer service
One common complaint against onsite lots is poor staff management. Offsite parking at the same time is known for its excellent customer service. Whether you need help with your luggage, have questions about the shuttle, or valet parking, they are there to help. Some of the lots even have waiting rooms where you can relax while you wait for your shuttle, and the staff will make sure you are comfortable until you board the shuttle to the airport.
3. Shuttle services
One advantage of offsite parking is the shuttle service directly to the terminal. This especially comes in handy for families traveling with young children and travelers hauling a lot of luggage. Getting a spot onsite is good, but you are not guaranteed a spot next to your terminal, which often means walking all the way to your terminal with your luggage. This can be avoided by taking a free shuttle service via an offsite parking facility.
4. Avoiding airport traffic
This brings us to the next topic: congested airport traffic. Choosing to park your vehicle at an offsite lot away from the airport will help you bypass the inevitable traffic congestion around the airport. This reduces travel time significantly and helps keep the start of your journey as stress-free as possible. You can use the free shuttle service and advance booking feature to further avoid busy airport traffic.
5. Fast service
People usually think onsite airport parking offers faster service since it’s closer to the airport. But it’s a common misconception. With onsite parking, you’d first have to navigate hundreds of cars to enter the airport grounds, then drive around in circles in an attempt to find an open spot. This alone takes several minutes. Next, depending on the parking lot and its proximity to the terminal, you’d have to haul the luggage yourself to the airport, and this may be quite a distance. But with offsite parking, a more convenient, hassle-free option, you can drive up or book a spot in advance, have an attendant help with your luggage, and board a shuttle that takes you straight to your terminal.
6. Easy reservation
When it comes to pre-booking a spot, offsite parking is easier than onsite parking. The rates are cheaper, the interface is very user-friendly, and you can book a spot, usually in three steps or less. If you are booking EWR offsite parking via globalairportparking.com, for example, you just have to visit the site, enter the name of the airport, select the date and time, choose the lot that fits your budget, and any other requirements, and pay. That’s it. Your parking is reserved and ready!
Final thoughts
The worst part of airports in the US is the parking. Many of us have had to fight fellow travelers for a parking space. But fortunately, we now have offsite parking lots. They prove to be a smart, convenient choice for modern travelers. No drama, no fights, just book ahead, and a spot is guaranteed.
Offsite parking helps save money, has reliable shuttle services, and enhanced security. These, combined with easy online booking, offer a level of convenience that onsite parking still struggles to match. That being said, choosing offsite parking isn’t just about choosing these perks; it is also about starting your trip with less stress and a greater sense of peace.
