Park for Less: Frugal Hacks to Save on Parking
February 16, 2023
Parking in the city can be a real hassle, and a major expense too. If you’re someone who drives frequently in urban areas, you know the struggle of finding a parking spot, and the ever-increasing cost of parking. However, there are a variety of different ways to save money on parking without sacrificing convenience.
In this post, I will share some of my favorite frugal hacks to help you reduce your parking expenses. Whether you’re a daily commuter, a frequent traveler, or someone who just wants to save on parking costs, our tips and tricks will help you park for less. From finding the best deals on parking apps to using public transportation, read on to discover the best ways to save on parking while keeping your vehicle safe and secure.
1. Why parking fees can be a drain on your budget
Parking fees can be a significant drain on your budget, especially if you live in a city where parking is in high demand. Whether you are visiting a shopping center, attending an event, or just running errands, the cost of parking can add up quickly. The cost of parking can vary depending on the location, time of day, and duration of your stay. If you are not careful, you could be spending a significant amount of money on parking fees each month, which can impact your overall budget and financial goals.
Moreover, the cost of parking is not just limited to the fees you pay at the parking lot or garage. It can also include the cost of gas spent driving around looking for parking, the cost of tickets when you accidentally park in a restricted area, and even the cost of towing if your car gets towed away. All these costs can add up and significantly affect your budget and savings.
Therefore, it’s essential to find frugal hacks to save on parking and reduce the impact of parking fees on your budget. With some planning and creativity, you can minimize your parking expenses and keep more money in your pocket.
2. Map out parking options before you go
One of the best ways to save on parking is to map out your parking options before you go. This is especially important if you’re heading to a new place or a popular destination where parking can be scarce. You can use online resources such as Google Maps or Parkopedia to get an idea of the parking options available in the area. This will help you plan ahead and make an informed decision about where to park.
In addition to mapping out parking options, you can also research parking rates and discounts available. Some parking garages or lots offer discounts for early bird parking, extended stays or loyalty programs. You can also search for coupons or promo codes online that can help you save on parking fees. Many cities also have apps that can help you find parking spots or even reserve a parking space in advance.
By mapping out your parking options ahead of time, you can save time, money, and reduce stress. You won’t have to drive around in circles looking for a parking spot, and you’ll have a better idea of what to expect in terms of parking rates and availability.
3. Use discount parking apps and websites
Gone are the days when you had to circle around the block looking for an empty parking spot or pay exorbitant rates for parking. Thanks to technology, there are now many discount parking apps and websites that can help you save money on parking.
One of the most popular apps is SpotHero, which helps you find discounted parking spots in garages and lots near your destination. All you need to do is enter your destination and the app will show you available parking options and their prices. You can even reserve and pay for a spot in advance, ensuring that you have a guaranteed parking spot waiting for you when you arrive.
Another app that can help you save on parking is ParkWhiz. Similar to SpotHero, ParkWhiz allows you to search for and reserve parking spots in advance at discounted rates. The app also provides you with detailed information about the parking location, such as the hours of operation, height restrictions, and amenities.
In addition to these apps, there are also several websites that offer discounted parking rates, such as Parking Panda and BestParking. These websites work in a similar way to the apps, allowing you to search for and reserve parking spots in advance at discounted rates.
By using these discount parking apps and websites, you can save a significant amount of money on parking fees. Plus, you can rest easy knowing that you have a guaranteed parking spot waiting for you, eliminating the stress of searching for parking in a busy city.
4. Utilize public transportation when possible
One of the best ways to save money on parking is to avoid it altogether. Utilizing public transportation is a great option for those who live in urban areas or for those who are traveling to a city for the day. Public transportation options such as buses, trains, and subways are often more affordable than parking in a lot or garage, and they can also save you time by avoiding traffic and parking congestion.
Doing a little research ahead of time to find the most convenient public transportation options can make all the difference. Many cities now have apps that show real-time schedules and routes for buses and trains, making planning your trip even easier. Plus, public transportation is often a more environmentally friendly option, so you can feel good about your choice to save money while also reducing your carbon footprint.
If public transportation isn’t a viable option, consider carpooling with friends or coworkers to split the cost of parking. This can be a great way to save money and make your daily commute more enjoyable. By utilizing public transportation or other alternative transportation options, you can save money on parking and reduce the stress and hassle of finding a spot.
5. Look for parking coupons and promo codes
When it comes to saving on parking, coupons and promo codes are some of the easiest ways to do so. Many parking lots and garages offer discounts if you book online or use a promo code during checkout.
Make sure to always check for these discounts before paying full price.
There are also many coupon websites and mobile apps that offer parking coupons and promo codes for various parking lots and garages. Some popular coupon websites include RetailMeNot and Coupons.com, while popular parking apps such as SpotHero and ParkWhiz also offer promo codes and discounts to their users.
Another great way to find parking coupons and promo codes is by following your local parking lot and garage operators on social media. They often post special promotions and discounts exclusively for their followers.
It’s important to note that some parking coupons and promo codes may have restrictions, such as only being valid during certain times or for certain types of vehicles. Make sure to read the terms and conditions before using any coupon or promo code to avoid any surprises.
Overall, taking a few minutes to search for parking coupons and promo codes can end up saving you a significant amount of money in the long run.
6. Consider monthly parking passes for regular parking needs
If you park regularly in the same location, monthly parking passes could be a great way to save money. The cost of parking daily can add up quickly and become a significant expense over time. Monthly parking passes usually offer a discounted rate for parking, making it a more affordable option for those who park frequently in the same area.
Many parking garages and lots offer monthly parking passes, and some may even have reserved spaces available. This can be especially helpful for those who need a guaranteed spot to park every day. Before committing to a monthly pass, it’s important to research the options in your area and compare prices to ensure you’re getting the best deal.
Monthly parking passes can also provide added convenience. Instead of having to pay each time you park, you can simply swipe your pass and go. This can save time and hassle, especially during busy periods when parking may be in high demand.
Before purchasing a monthly parking pass, be sure to read the terms and conditions carefully. Some passes may have restrictions on the hours you can park or may not be valid on certain days. It’s important to understand the details of the pass to ensure it meets your needs.
Overall, monthly parking passes can be a great way to save money on parking expenses for those who park regularly in the same location. By doing your research and comparing prices, you can find the best option to suit your needs and budget.
7. Park further away from your destination
Parking further away from your destination may seem counterintuitive but it can be a great way to save on parking fees. Many parking garages and lots charge premium rates for spaces near popular destinations, while the rates for spots further away are much more affordable. By parking further away, you can avoid these high fees and enjoy a leisurely walk to your destination at the same time.
In addition to saving money, walking can also be a pleasant way to explore the surrounding area and get some exercise. You may even discover new shops, restaurants or attractions that you wouldn’t have otherwise noticed.
Of course, this hack may not be feasible in all situations. If you’re in a rush or need to carry heavy items, parking further away may not be practical. However, if you have some extra time and don’t mind a little extra exercise, parking further away can be a great way to save on parking fees while enjoying the surrounding area.
8. Time your parking to take advantage of free or discounted periods
One of the best ways to save money on parking is to time your parking to take advantage of free or discounted periods. Many parking lots and garages offer free or discounted parking during certain times of the day or week. This could be early bird specials, late-night discounts, or even free parking on weekends or holidays.
It’s important to research the parking options in the area you’re planning to park in and see if any of them offer these types of discounts. This can save you a significant amount of money, especially if you’re parking for an extended period of time.
Another tip is to look for parking meters or pay stations that have different rates depending on the time of day. Some meters may have a lower rate during off-peak hours, such as early mornings or late evenings. It’s always worth checking the rates and timing your parking accordingly to take advantage of any discounts.
Additionally, some businesses or restaurants offer free or discounted parking to their customers. If you’re planning to visit a particular business or restaurant, it’s worth checking if they have any parking offers available. This could save you money and also make your visit more convenient.
Overall, timing your parking to take advantage of free or discounted periods is a simple but effective way to save money on parking. It’s worth doing your research and planning ahead to ensure you get the best deals and save as much money as possible.
9. Watch out for hidden fees and read parking signs carefully
When it comes to parking, it’s important to always read the signs carefully. Sometimes, signs can be confusing or misleading, so make sure to take your time and read them thoroughly before parking your car. Keep an eye out for any restrictions or time limitations on the signs, as well as any special parking rules for certain days or events.
It’s also important to watch out for hidden fees. Some parking garages or lots may have additional fees that aren’t immediately apparent, such as fees for using a credit card or fees for parking during peak hours. Make sure to read the fine print or ask the attendant about any potential additional fees before parking your car.
Another tip is to use parking apps or websites to research parking options and compare prices. This can help you find the best deals and avoid any hidden fees or unexpected expenses. Some of these apps even offer discounts or coupons for parking in certain areas or lots, so it’s worth checking them out before you head out to park.
By taking the time to read signs carefully, watch out for hidden fees, and use parking apps or websites, you can save money on parking and make sure your car is safe and secure while you’re away.