Jun 25, 2024
How to Save Money on Hotel Parking
Traveling often comes with unexpected expenses, and hotel parking can be one of the biggest surprises. However, with a bit of planning and savvy strategies, you can save money on hotel parking without sacrificing convenience. In this guide, we’ll explore various tips and tricks to help you keep your parking costs down during your next hotel stay. Let’s dive in!
Research Before You Book
The first step to save money on hotel parking is to do your homework before booking a hotel. Parking fees can vary widely depending on the location and the hotel.
How to Research:
- Check the Hotel’s Website: Look for information on parking fees. Some hotels might even offer free parking.
- Call Ahead: If parking information isn’t clear online, call the hotel directly to inquire about their rates and any available discounts.
- Compare Hotels: Use booking platforms to compare hotels with and without parking fees. Sometimes a hotel with slightly higher room rates but free parking can be more economical.
Look for Parking Packages
Many hotels offer special packages that include parking as part of your stay. These packages can provide significant savings compared to paying for parking separately.
How to Find Packages:
- Search Online: Use keywords like “hotel parking package” or “park and stay package” along with your destination city.
- Ask the Hotel: When booking, ask the reservation agent if any parking packages are available.
- Membership Discounts: Check if your memberships, such as AAA or loyalty programs, offer special deals that include parking.
Consider Off-Site Parking
Off-site parking can be a great way to save money on hotel parking. Many off-site lots offer lower rates and sometimes provide shuttle services to and from the hotel.
How to Use Off-Site Parking:
- Research Nearby Lots: Look for parking lots or garages close to your hotel. Websites like ParkWhiz and SpotHero can help you find and reserve spots.
- Compare Rates: Make sure to compare the daily rates of off-site parking with the hotel’s parking fees.
- Check Shuttle Services: Ensure the off-site parking offers a reliable shuttle service if the distance to the hotel is significant.
Utilize Public Transportation
If you’re staying in a city with good public transportation, you might not need to bring a car at all. Using public transit can save you both parking fees and the hassle of driving in an unfamiliar city.
Benefits of Public Transportation:
- Cost-Effective: Public transportation is usually much cheaper than parking fees.
- Convenience: Avoid the stress of finding parking and dealing with traffic.
- Environmental Impact: Reduce your carbon footprint by using buses, trains, or trams.
Carpool or Rideshare
If you’re traveling with others, consider carpooling or using rideshare services instead of bringing multiple vehicles. This can cut down on the number of parking spots needed and save money on hotel parking fees.
How to Coordinate:
- Plan Ahead: Arrange rideshares or carpool plans before your trip to ensure everyone is on the same page.
- Use Rideshare Apps: Services like Uber and Lyft can be convenient and sometimes offer promotions for new users.
Take Advantage of Free Parking
Some hotels, especially those located outside of city centers, may offer free parking as a perk for their guests. This can be a major money-saver, especially for longer stays.
Finding Free Parking:
- Suburban Hotels: Look for hotels in suburban areas or smaller towns where free parking is more common.
- Extended Stay Hotels: Many extended stay hotels offer free parking as part of their amenities.
- Promotions and Deals: Keep an eye out for promotions that include free parking as a special offer.
Negotiate or Ask for Waivers
Sometimes, simply asking for a discount or waiver can result in savings. Hotels may offer discounts for long stays or waive fees under certain circumstances.
How to Negotiate:
- Be Polite and Inquire: When checking in, politely ask if there are any parking discounts or if they can waive the fee for your stay.
- Explain Your Situation: If you’re a frequent guest or staying for an extended period, mention this as it might make the hotel more willing to accommodate your request.
- Loyalty Programs: Use your hotel loyalty program status to negotiate parking fees.
Conclusion
In conclusion, saving money on hotel parking is all about being proactive and exploring your options. By researching ahead, considering off-site parking, using public transportation, and leveraging hotel packages and discounts, you can significantly reduce your parking expenses. Remember, a little effort can go a long way in making your trip more affordable and stress-free. Happy travels!