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FAQs About Short Term Parking, Long Term Options, And Monthly Airport Parking

Should you choose short-term parking or another airport option? There are an average of 7,000 or more spaces at most large and medium hub airports, according to an Airports Council International (ACI) and International Parking Institute (IPI) survey. If you're not sure which of the many available spaces will meet your needs, take a look at what you need to know about airport parking.

What Is Short-Term Airport Parking?

This type of airport parking is the ideal option for anyone who isn't boarding a flight. If you need to pick up or drop off a friend, relative, co-worker, or anyone else, you may want to explore the short-term options. Many airports locate short-term lots close to the terminal entrance. The location makes it easy to quickly access the building and won't leave you hauling luggage over long distances.

According to the ACI and IPI survey, large and medium hub airports are more likely to offer short-term spaces in parking structures than lots. Seventy-eight percent of large hub airports have short-term spaces in parking structures (garages), while only 17 percent offer this option in surface lots. Eighty-five percent of medium hub airports have short-term garage parking. This number falls to five percent for surface lot spaces. 

While short-term lots are convenient, they are often more expensive than the long-term option. If you plan to travel for several days or weeks, you will spend more to park in a short-term area. 

What Is Long-Term Airport Parking?

As the name implies, this type of lot provides parking for longer periods. These are sometimes known as satellite lots and are located far from the terminal building. You may need to walk a farther distance or even take a shuttle to get to and from a long-term lot. 

Even though it may not seem like a time-saving or convenient option, these lots are usually much less expensive than other options. Like short-term options, large and medium hub airports often offer more garage-style long-term parking than surface lot spaces. 

What Is Monthly Airport Parking?

Do you travel constantly for work? Are you planning a trip that's more than a few weeks? Some airports consider monthly parking an extended long-term option. Others may rent these spaces as long-term leases. This means you may pay one monthly fee or lease the space for a specified period (such as one year). 

A monthly lease is a solid choice for someone who flies weekly for work or works at the airport. Again, these long-term lots are often satellite parking. You may need to take a shuttle to and from your spot. But you will save on the price of parking over the month or the year.