What you pay depends on where you park and how long you stay
The Parking Spot is an off-airport parking company that operates lots near major airports across the United States. Unlike parking in the airport garage itself, The Parking Spot charges a daily rate and includes a free shuttle to the terminal. The cost per day varies by airport location — some charge $8 to $12 per day, while others charge $15 to $20 or more, depending on demand and the specific airport.
The company operates at roughly 20 airports, including Atlanta, Dallas, Denver, Los Angeles, Miami, New York (JFK and LaGuardia), Orlando, Phoenix, San Francisco, and Washington DC. Each location sets its own pricing, and rates can change based on the season and how far in advance you book.
You reserve a spot online through The Parking Spot's website or by phone. When you arrive, you park your car and take the shuttle to your terminal. When you return, you call the shuttle number or use their app to request a pickup from baggage claim, and the shuttle brings you back to your car.
Key Takeaways
- The Parking Spot charges a daily rate that varies by airport, typically ranging from $8 to $20 per day depending on location and how far in advance you book.
- The company includes a free shuttle to and from the terminal with every reservation, so you do not pay separately for transportation.
- You reserve online or by phone before your trip, and the company holds your spot until you return.
- Rates are usually lower when you book several days or weeks ahead, and higher during peak travel seasons like holidays.
- The Parking Spot operates at roughly 20 major U.S. airports, but not all airports have a location.
How pricing works at different airports
The Parking Spot does not charge the same rate everywhere. A lot near a smaller airport may cost $10 per day, while the same company's lot near a major hub like Los Angeles or New York can cost $18 to $25 per day. The price reflects local demand, real estate costs, and how busy the airport is during your travel dates.
Most locations offer lower rates if you book in advance. Booking two weeks ahead might save you $2 to $5 per day compared to booking the day before you travel. Some airports also have seasonal pricing — rates climb during Thanksgiving, Christmas, and summer vacation weeks, and drop during slower travel periods.
The Parking Spot's website shows the rate for your specific airport and dates before you complete your reservation, so you can see the total cost upfront. You pay when you book, not when you pick up your car.
Comparing The Parking Spot to airport garage parking
Airport parking garages are run by the airport itself and are usually located inside or directly attached to the terminal. The Parking Spot is off-airport, which means your car sits in a separate lot a few miles away. The trade-off is cost: off-airport lots like The Parking Spot are often cheaper than airport garages, but you spend time waiting for and riding the shuttle.
An airport garage might charge $20 to $30 per day or more, with no shuttle included — you walk or take a tram. The Parking Spot might charge $12 to $18 per day at the same airport, but you add 10 to 20 minutes for the shuttle ride each way. If you are parking for a week, the savings can add up to $50 or more, but the convenience trade-off matters if you are tired or traveling with young children.
Some airports also have valet parking through The Parking Spot at certain locations. Valet costs more than self-park but saves you the shuttle wait — an attendant parks your car for you.
What happens if you need to extend your stay
If your trip runs longer than you planned, you can extend your reservation through The Parking Spot's website or by calling their customer service number. The extension is charged at the daily rate for your airport on the dates you add. You do not lose your original reservation — the company straightforward adds days to the end of it.
If you need to leave earlier than planned, most locations allow you to end your reservation early without penalty, though this depends on the specific airport's policy. Check the terms when you book, or call The Parking Spot directly to ask about early checkout policies at your location.
How the shuttle system works
The Parking Spot runs shuttles from the lot to the airport terminal throughout the day and evening. When you arrive, you park in your assigned spot and walk to the shuttle station at the lot. Shuttles typically run every 10 to 20 minutes, though wait times can be longer during peak travel hours like early morning or late evening.
When you return from your trip, you call the shuttle number provided in your confirmation email or use The Parking Spot's mobile app to request a pickup. You give them your parking spot number or license plate, and they dispatch a shuttle to baggage claim. The shuttle brings you back to the lot, where you retrieve your car and drive away.
During very busy periods, shuttle wait times can stretch to 30 minutes or longer. If you have a tight connection or are returning late at night, factor in extra time for the shuttle ride when planning your return to the airport.
Cancellation and refund policies
The Parking Spot's cancellation policy varies by location and how far in advance you booked. Most locations allow free cancellation if you cancel at least 24 hours before your reservation starts. If you cancel within 24 hours of your arrival, you may lose your payment or be charged a cancellation fee.
If you cancel and receive a refund, the money is returned to the payment method you used when you booked. Refunds typically process within 5 to 10 business days, though this depends on your bank or credit card company.
Read the specific cancellation terms for your airport location before you complete your reservation. The Parking Spot's website displays these terms during checkout.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Parking Spot cheaper than parking at the airport?
Usually yes, but it depends on your airport and how long you park. The Parking Spot often costs $5 to $10 less per day than airport garage parking, but you spend time on the shuttle. For a week-long trip, the savings can be $50 or more. For an overnight trip, the convenience of airport parking might outweigh the small savings.
What if my flight is cancelled and I need to leave the lot?
Call The Parking Spot's customer service number on your confirmation email. Most locations allow you to retrieve your car and cancel your reservation if your flight is cancelled. You may receive a refund for the unused days, depending on the airport's policy.
Can I add a driver to my reservation?
Yes. When you pick up your car, any driver listed on your reservation can retrieve it. If someone not on the reservation needs to pick up the car, contact The Parking Spot before your trip to add them. Some locations may charge a small fee or require additional information.
Does The Parking Spot accept all payment methods?
The Parking Spot accepts major credit cards, debit cards, and digital payment methods through their website. When you book, you can see which payment options are available. Payment is processed when you complete your reservation, not when you pick up your car.
What if I lose my parking spot number or confirmation?
The Parking Spot sends a confirmation email with your spot number, shuttle phone number, and lot location. If you lose this email, you can log into your account on their website to view your reservation details, or call their customer service line with your name and reservation dates.