Airport parking can add a surprising amount to the cost of a trip. Comparing parking options before you leave home can help you find a convenient place to park and understand the full cost in advance. SpotHero lets you search and reserve airport parking online or in its app, with options that may include airport shuttles, covered parking, self-parking, and valet. Availability and features vary by airport and facility.
Here’s how to use SpotHero to compare airport parking options and find one that fits your budget and travel plans.
1. Search for your airport on SpotHero
Start on SpotHero’s website or app and search for the airport you’re travelling from. Enter your parking dates and times, including when you expect to arrive at the lot and when you plan to pick up your car after your return.
Use your planned lot arrival and exit times rather than only your flight times. You may need extra time to park, take a shuttle and get through airport security. Check your itinerary and the facility’s instructions before choosing your reservation window.
SpotHero offers airport parking alongside hourly, monthly and event parking. Its availability depends on the airport, date and participating facilities.
2. Compare the total price
When comparing cheap airport parking with SpotHero, look at the total reservation cost – not just a daily rate. The price shown at checkout includes applicable taxes and fees, according to SpotHero’s FAQ. Some facilities may charge a separate fee for oversized vehicles, so check the listing and Parking Pass if your vehicle is taller or longer than a standard car.
Compare options for the same dates and times. A lot farther from the terminal may cost less, but the savings may not be worthwhile if its shuttle is infrequent or the trip takes longer. Consider the total experience: price, distance, shuttle service, facility hours and how you’ll access the lot.
3. Use SpotHero filters to find the right facility
Filters can help narrow the search to options that meet your needs. For airport trips, look for a facility with an airport shuttle if you need transportation to the terminal. SpotHero also lists amenities such as covered parking, valet, self-park, on-site staff, EV charging and accessibility features, where available.
Think about the trip you’re taking. Covered parking may be useful if you want your vehicle sheltered from the weather. Self-park lets you park the car yourself, while valet may suit travellers who prefer to hand over the vehicle. If you’re travelling with children or extra luggage, check shuttle arrangements and the walking distance from the lot to the pickup point.
4. Read the parking details before booking
Before paying, open the facility details and read the full instructions. Confirm the exact address, access hours, vehicle restrictions, shuttle information and how to redeem the reservation. The Parking Pass may tell you whether to scan a QR code, show the pass to an attendant, use license plate recognition or follow another entry process.
Check whether the facility allows in-and-out access. SpotHero says this depends on the location, and most partner facilities do not allow multiple entries and exits during one reservation. Also confirm whether the facility is open when you expect to arrive and return. These details can prevent a low-priced option from becoming inconvenient on travel day.
5. Book online and save your Parking Pass
Once you’ve chosen a facility, complete your reservation through SpotHero. The company says it provides an instant prepaid reservation by email, and you can also access the Parking Pass through your SpotHero account or app. Follow the exact redemption directions on the pass when you arrive.
Save the Parking Pass somewhere easy to find before you leave. You can keep it in the app or email, and SpotHero says you can print it if needed. If your chosen facility requires a printed pass, make sure you have one with you.
6. Check cancellation and reservation times
Plans can change, so review the cancellation policy before booking. SpotHero says reservations can generally be canceled up until the minute before they start for a full refund, though exceptions may apply. Check the Parking Pass and the terms for your specific location, especially if the facility has its own restrictions.
Arrive and leave within the time window on your reservation. SpotHero’s FAQ says entering before or exiting after the reservation period may result in a facility penalty. Some active reservations can be extended if availability allows, but don’t assume extra time will be available. Set your reservation to cover your expected arrival and return, with a reasonable buffer for travel delays.
7. Plan for the shuttle and return trip
If your lot offers an airport shuttle, confirm where to catch it and how often it runs. Allow enough time for the shuttle ride and any wait before departure. On your return, follow the pickup instructions provided by the parking facility or on your pass. Shuttle arrangements vary, so check the listing rather than relying on assumptions based on another airport.
Keep the facility address and instructions handy in case you need them after landing. If your flight is delayed, check whether your reservation can be changed or extended and contact SpotHero or the facility if you need help.
Tips for finding cheaper airport parking with SpotHero
- Compare multiple facilities: Look beyond the first result and compare price, distance, shuttle access and hours.
- Search with accurate times: The total price depends on your reservation window.
- Book early when possible: SpotHero says availability varies by facility; select airport spots may be reservable farther in advance than typical listings.
- Check nearby options: A facility a little farther from the airport may offer a lower price, but include shuttle time in your decision.
- Review the fine print: Check for vehicle-size fees, access restrictions, printing requirements and cancellation exceptions.
- Compare like with like: Make sure you’re comparing the same dates, hours and parking type.
Is SpotHero a good way to find cheap airport parking?
SpotHero can make it easier to compare participating airport parking facilities and reserve a space before your trip. It’s especially useful when you want to review prices and amenities in one place, but the best option depends on your airport, travel dates and priorities. A low price matters, but so do shuttle access, facility hours, reservation instructions and the time needed to reach your terminal.
To find the right SpotHero airport parking option, enter your travel dates, compare the full price, read each facility’s details and save your Parking Pass. A few minutes of planning can help you start your trip with a clear parking plan and fewer last-minute surprises.