Airport parking will be in high demand during the holidays; Here’s what you need to know to beat the crowd
Millions of Americans plan to travel this holiday season.
Nearly 25 million passengers are expected to disembark on flights from US airports during the Thanksgiving travel week, November 20-27.
This is a 6% increase in capacity compared to 2019, according to Hopper lead economist Hayley Berg. Similarly, a large influx of tourists is also expected for the December holidays.
With so many people heading to airports, it should come as no surprise that the roads, terminals, gates, services, and parking in the airport area will all be crowded if you’re gearing up for a vacation.
And airports around the country are bracing for an increase in parking, warning that parking lots will be at full capacity during the holidays.
“We anticipate holidays to be busier than in 2021, based solely on our current passenger activity throughout this year and the continued recovery of the air travel industry,” said Jeff Lea. post-pandemic,” said Jeff Lea. Minneapolis-St. Paul’s International Airport (MSP), director of strategic communications, added that even “before the holiday season, we experienced days of high parking demand at all of MSP’s parking ramps.”
Related: Airport parking crisis? How to save money while securing a space
In the Washington, DC area, crowds are expected to be the norm from late Veterans Day through New Year’s Day, the Washington Metropolitan Airports Authority (MWAA), the watchdog said. Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) and Dulles . International Airport (IAD).
Traveler tip: Plan ahead for a smooth ride, including being prepared for parking shortages.
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Here’s what to know if you’re driving to the airport for the upcoming fall and winter vacations.
Research before you leave the house
Start your trip to the airport before you leave home by checking the airport’s website for up-to-date parking information.
For example, this week Chicago Department of Aviation warned travelers about traffic congestion and delays at Lot D near O’Hare Airport (ORD) Terminal 5 as work on building a new six-story garage next to the international terminal just started. The airport asks passengers to allow more time when parking and to consider additional options, such as parking further in economy-class Lot F at the airport’s Multimodal Facility, accessible through the airport transfer system.
At Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport (MKE), director of public relations and marketing Harold Mester said that “with the new service from JetBlue and Spirit, we expect a busy travel season.”
He recommends that visitors download the MKE SmartPark app to reserve parking during their vacation. “This ensures parking in any of our parking options. The app also allows travelers to use their smartphones to scan in and out while earning loyalty points. can be exchanged for free parking later.”
Many airports offer current parking on their websites, including New York’s three airports — John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), LaGuardia Airport (LGA) and Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) — can also help you to plan parking games.
Coming soon
MWAA advises departing passengers to plan to enter the terminal two hours before their domestic flight and three hours before their international flight to be able to board their flight on time, which is helpful advice for those travelers vacationing at all US airports.
It adds that factors such as traffic, parking and lines can slow passengers’ journeys when flying during popular travel times. In other words, this is not the time to try to cut things down or leave the house late, especially if you’re looking for a place to park your car at the airport, which can take a lot longer than you do. allocated in the past.
Book room
MWAA notes that parking will be in high demand — especially on weekends and holidays. One way to combat the parking crowds: Book your seat in advance as this will guarantee a spot, even if the sign says “full”.
“Over the past few months, we’ve seen an increase in demand for parking at the airport and are encouraging travelers to book now, as well as look at alternative ways to get to the airport, such as using bus stops. carpooling, subways and hotels, said Paul Malandrino, vice president and manager of Reagan National Airport.
our test Airport parking reservation guide advance and book as soon as you can. The earlier you book, the better your chances of winning a spot.
Another thing to keep in mind is that by booking your parking and paying in advance, you can usually tap into some savings. All in all, you’ll be able to save the most by booking and paying for the most premium parking options ahead of time.
MSP’s Lea also recommends that visitors their parking reservation. “We always advise travelers to reserve parking spaces in advance to save money and ensure availability, which can be extremely beneficial when there is high demand during the holiday travel season. Pre-booked parking is guaranteed. guaranteeing tourists a $2 discount per day over the price increase while driving.”
At many busy airports around the country, you can also find off-site parking lots that offer airport transfers. If you can make a reservation, it’s best to do so for these establishments.
Ask in advance how often the shuttle runs and how long it takes to arrive at the airport so you can plan your transit time accordingly. Bonus: Off-site parking facilities are often significant savings compared to parking at the airport.
Related: Maximize rewards and discounts on airport parking
Use public transport
Another option is to leave the car at home. In the Washington area, the MWAA recommends Metrorail as an option for getting to the airport without a car and avoiding traffic congestion.
The Silver Line metro station at Dulles International opens on November 15as announced by MWAA.
“The addition of the Silver Line will be a game changer and we look forward to introducing Dulles travelers to a new level of convenience,” said Richard Golinowski, Vice President and Manager of Dulles International Airport. when the busy holiday travel season begins. .
Amtrak also provides an option for travelers to arrive at the airport without driving. This is possible via direct rail service to four US airports: Baltimore/Washington Thurgood Marshall International Airport (BWI), Hollywood Burbank Airport (BUR), Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport (MKE) and Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR).
Organize a trip
If public transportation isn’t an option at your home airport, consider booking a ride-hailing service, like Lyft or Uber, or a taxi. Due to the large number of visitors heading to the airport, it is best to use ride-hailing app reservation feature if you choose this option.
This may not be the fastest or cheapest way to get to the airport but you’re better off finding and paying for parking. In addition, you can Earn up to 10 points per dollar on Lyft with Chase through 2025. You can also earn US miles, loyalty points and statement credits on Uber Purchase.
Related: Start checking out Uber and Lyft as soon as you land
bottom line
Airports will return to 2019 passenger levels and even higher this holiday season. As a result, the parking lots are expected to be near full capacity.
Don’t wait until the last minute to plan your parking. Reserve a spot or arrange to use alternative transportation.
