Airport Parking: Which Type is Best for Your Travel Plans?
By Christopher Shoup | Updated 2025
source: Dave and Les Jacobs/Getty Images
Traveling, whether for leisure or business, can be a breeze or a stressful ordeal. At ParkOn, our travel experts are here to make your journey as smooth as a Sunday morning. From deciding how long you’ll be away, what to pack, how many suitcases to bring, to planning downtime at the airport (like enjoying airport amenities or relaxing in airline lounges), many factors shape your travel experience. One of the biggest challenges? Getting to and from the airport. This decision can be stressful, time-consuming, and costly. For example, in a city like Los Angeles, even if you live just 10 miles from LAX, a round-trip rideshare could cost $70-$90, especially with peak-time surcharges. For many, driving and parking at the airport is the better choice. With expanded options like short-term, daily, long-term, valet, economy, and off-site parking, choosing the right one depends on your trip length, budget, and convenience needs. Here’s a breakdown of the main parking options at most medium to large U.S. airports:
Short-Term Lots
Short-term lots are designed for those dropping off or picking up travelers, not for travelers parking for their trip. These lots are ideal for accompanying someone to the terminal or greeting them upon arrival. Located close to terminals, they’re convenient but expensive due to their proximity and short-stay focus. If you’re being dropped off and want extra time with loved ones before your flight, short-term lots are a great option for them.
Daily Parking
Daily parking is available at all major airports, typically in garages or lots connected to terminals. Charged hourly, these options often apply a full 24-hour rate plus additional hours if you exceed a day. While convenient for quick access to terminals, daily parking is costly. Below are the updated daily parking rates for major U.S. airports as of April 2025:
- Atlanta (ATL): $19
- Baltimore/Washington (BWI): $16
- Chicago O’Hare (ORD): $42
- Dallas Fort Worth (DFW): $32
- Indianapolis (IND): $23
- Los Angeles (LAX): $60
- Miami (MIA): $25
- Nashville (BNA): $16
- New York Kennedy (JFK): $20
- New York La Guardia (LGA): $40
- Newark (EWR): $21
- Orlando (MCO): $24
- Phoenix (PHX): $33
- Portland (PDX): $24
- San Francisco (SFO): $18
- Seattle (SEA): $37
- Washington Reagan (DCA): $29
Long-Term Parking
Long-term parking is similar to daily parking but often more affordable, with some airports offering dedicated satellite lots that require shuttle transport. Rates are typically lower than daily parking, making it suitable for extended trips. Each airport defines “long-term” differently—some start at 3 days, others at a week. Check your airport’s official website for specific rates and lot locations to plan accordingly.
Valet Parking
Valet parking offers maximum convenience, allowing you to drop off your car right at the terminal entrance. At many major airports, you can reserve valet spots in advance. However, this premium service comes at a premium price, often $15-$25 more per day than standard daily rates. It’s ideal for travelers prioritizing ease and time savings over cost.
Economy Parking
Economy parking is a budget-friendly option at many airports, located farther from terminals and requiring a shuttle ride. Rates range from $8-$18 per day, significantly less than daily or valet options. However, economy lots fill up quickly, especially during holidays, and spots can’t be reserved in advance. Some airports provide real-time lot capacity updates online, helping you gauge availability before arriving. Economy parking is a gamble but can save money if you’re flexible.
Off-Site Airport Parking
For a hassle-free, cost-effective solution, off-site airport parking with ParkOn is the way to go. Off-site lots are increasingly popular due to their affordability, convenience, and reliability. With ParkOn, you can reserve your spot months in advance, ensuring availability even during peak travel seasons. Many lots accommodate stays longer than 30 days, perfect for extended trips. Off-site parking is significantly cheaper than onsite options because lot operators focus solely on parking, not airport operations. For example, in Los Angeles, ParkOn’s off-site lots are far less chaotic than navigating LAX’s economy lots and shuttles, saving you both time and money.
Why Choose Off-Site Parking with ParkOn?
ParkOn’s off-site parking offers unmatched benefits for travelers. Our rates are often 30-50% lower than onsite airport parking, helping you stick to your travel budget. Secure facilities with 24/7 surveillance keep your vehicle safe, and our shuttle buses run every 10-20 minutes, ensuring quick transfers to and from the airport. Booking in advance guarantees your spot, eliminating the stress of searching for parking on busy travel days. Whether you’re traveling for a weekend or a month, ParkOn makes parking simple, secure, and affordable.
Tips for Choosing Airport Parking
To pick the best parking option, consider these factors:
- Cost: Compare onsite rates (like $60/day at LAX) with off-site options like ParkOn, which can be half the price.
- Convenience: Look for frequent shuttles (every 10-20 minutes) to minimize wait times.
- Security: Choose lots with 24/7 surveillance and gated access for peace of mind.
- Location: Balance proximity to the airport with cost savings—off-site lots are often just minutes away.
- Reservations: Book in advance with ParkOn to secure your spot, especially during holidays.
Book Your Parking
Next time you’re driving to the airport, skip the stress of onsite parking. With ParkOn’s off-site parking, you’ll enjoy competitive rates, secure lots, and reliable shuttle service to and from the terminal. Our easy online booking lets you reserve your spot in minutes, giving you one less thing to worry about. Whether it’s peak season, construction is slowing things down, or you just want a seamless start to your trip, ParkOn has you covered. Reserve your parking and make your travel experience effortless!