It is a priority to find affordable and reliable parking especially when you are traveling over a longer time frame. You may be traveling on work, or it could be for an extended holiday.
It may be that you’re going out of town for a weekend. Whatever the situation, you need to ensure that your car remains safe and secure, protected from the elements and vandalism.
Parking is an expensive proposition, and difficult to access unless you plan well ahead. Why pay a premium for parking when you can use that amount for something else? You can save those dollars for shopping or a meal in a fancy restaurant instead of wasting it on parking.
Is Airport Parking In Melbourne Expensive In Australia?
A 2019 study by Parkopedia Global Parking Index reports that Australia is the most expensive country in the world for daily parking. Australian cities Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane are among the top 10 cities for off-street parking.
In the central business districts in Australia parking charges have been reduced for new office and residential developments and this has resulted in more pressure on general parking facilities.
Post pandemic, there has been some relief but not of significant levels. With more people still working from home, parking lots haven’t seen as much business as they did earlier. However, there hasn’t been much effect on the price of parking, especially airport parking.
Hazards Of Unsafe Parking
One of the biggest issues with parking in unsafe places is that your car can get damaged. Cars that have been parked long term attract vandals and opportunistic thieves.
Many vehicle owners have returned to find their GPS system stolen, valuables left in the car missing, locks broken and more. Another issue is malicious vandalism such as scratching or dents made deliberately.
Vandals may also tear upholstery, break windows, headlights and mirrors. Since there are no responsible authorities who can be held accountable for the damage, you will end up with a hefty bill.
Parking in unsafe areas also leaves your car exposed to the elements. Harsh sunlight can fade the body paint and spoil the window linings. If you have parked under a tree, there is the risk of falling branches, leaves and twigs that can damage the paint and metal. Bird droppings and tree sap will also cause damage.
Unsafe parking areas rarely have CCTV coverage, and that is one of the main problems of parking in such places.
What You Should Look For
While selecting a parking space at the airport, it’s important that you know who or what agency is responsible for the safety of your vehicle, and how much control and management they have over this space. You can find more information at United Parking Melbourne.
Though all states and territories are governed by the same airport parking laws across Australia, many vehicle owners and even some car parking owners may not be fully aware of the regulations. For instance there are clear directions in law about the dimensions and clearances mandated for parking areas and parallel parking on the street.
Ensure that there is 24×7 security and surveillance of the area. It should be well-lit, well-ventilated and well-maintained. Some parking areas tend to get flooded during heavy rain and this can cause damage to your vehicle.
In some cases, owners have returned after their holidays to find that car parts have been stolen. This entails finding emergency assistance and more expenses to get the car repaired before they can drive back home, leading to high stress and anxiety. If you are traveling with seniors or children this can quickly become a nightmare scenario.
Affordable Parking: Get It Right
Do Your Research: Planning ahead is the way to stay on top of the parking game. While booking your plane or train tickets, look for affordable parking areas in the neighborhood. If it means parking in an off-site location, ensure that there is a shuttle service especially when you have luggage.
Comparison shopping: Most private parking companies provide their rates and other features online and you can select the one that best suits your requirements and preferences.
Book Online: Parking experts always stress that pre-booking online is the best way to get a good deal. It is stress-free, helps you to secure great deals, and costs much less than you would for drive-up.
Booking early puts you in line for discounts, offers and deals. You can leave home at the right time, without worrying about circling the parking area hunting for a space. All you need to do is scan your QR code at the entrance.
Sign Up: Most of the big airports have their own websites where they provide the latest parking news. Signing up puts you in line for promos or loyalty programs. You also get to know about any new developments or restrictions.
Go Local: If you have a friend in the vicinity why not ask them to do you a favor and park in their home or office? Another great idea is to check into a nearby hotel the previous day and use their parking lot. This will work out much cheaper than airport parking.
Apps: There are plenty of free and paid-for apps online that you can use to find good parking deals. Look at some of their options and find one that best suits you. You can save a significant amount by comparing prices and opting for the best one.
Residential: There are several residential areas with parking spaces lying vacant. Homeowners may be willing to rent out parking on a long term basis for an affordable price. This concept is worth exploring when you have the time and leisure to do it. Ensure that the area you choose is within easy access of the airport or train stations.
Community spaces: Shopping areas, malls, supermarkets or other public areas may offer affordable parking for both short and long term. Make sure that these spaces are safe, protected and that there are responsible persons available for redress when required.
Meet and Greet: This is a great option that’s convenient and stress-free though it’s a little more pricey. You will be met at the designated area by someone who will take charge of your car, help you with your luggage and put you safely on a shuttle bus.
You could even get freebies like a free wash. You can call the company for any other information, in case you’re delayed or have clarifications.
Finding the right parking can be a challenge, but all it takes is some time and effort to make it convenient, affordable and stress-free.
Article and permission to publish here provided by Maliney Jeasie. Originally written for Supply Chain Game Changer and published on September 15, 2024.
Cover image by wal_172619 from Pixabay.