Flying soon? Essential tips for parking at the airport

Travelling can be exhilarating, but figuring out airport parking. Not so much. However, with some planning, you can easily park and focus on the exciting adventure ahead.  

Whether for a weekend getaway or a business trip, here are some valuable tips to help make getting to and from the airport parking stress-free and cost-effective. 

Plan ahead and book your spot 

Picture this: it's the morning of your flight, and instead of a stroll to the gate, you're circling packed lots, watching the minutes tick by. Don't be that traveller. 

Reserving your parking spot ahead of time is one of the simplest ways to avoid last-minute stress, especially during popular travel times like the holiday season or March Break. 

Services like Park'N Fly, Canada’s national airport parking provider servicing travellers in major hubs, including Ottawa, allow you to book online or via their app easily. Not only does this guarantee you a spot, but it also often comes with discounts on the standard parking rates. 

Travel tip: CAA Members can reserve their parking spot with Park'N Fly and save 10 per cent off the discounted online rate at participating locations. Forgot to make a reservation? No problem—show your CAA Membership card to get 25 per cent off the regular posted drive-up rates. 

Consider security features   

When choosing a parking lot, prioritize the safety of your vehicle. Look for a secure lot that is monitored and well-lit, with features like frequent monitoring and on-site staff to ensure your car remains safe during your trip. These details provide extra peace of mind while you're away. 

Checking your flight status before leaving 

Before leaving for the airport, it's smart to double-check your flight status with your airline. Flights can be delayed, rescheduled, or cancelled due to weather, mechanical issues, or other unforeseen circumstances. Staying informed about changes can save you from arriving at the airport only to realize your flight is pushed back a few hours, and you are left waiting in the terminal. 

Airlines keep you updated with ease. Download their app for real-time flight alerts, like gate changes, boarding times, and baggage claim info. You can also check updates on their website or sign up for email or text alerts when booking. 

Arrive early to skip the rush 

Even with a reservation, it's wise to give yourself a generous buffer when heading to the airport. Unexpected traffic or last-minute delays, as you confirm whether you packed your passport, can chip away at your time. Arriving early at the parking lot lets you park, gather your belongings, and head to the terminal at a relaxed pace. 

Plus, if you're using a service like Park'N Fly, they offer shuttles to take you comfortably to and from the terminal, so you won't have to lug bags across a large parking lot—no rushing required. You can check their website to find out the travel time from the shuttle to the airport, but the shuttles run 24 hours a day, seven days a week.  

Keep a photo of your parking spot 

Before you leave your car, snap a quick photo of your parking area, including any nearby signs or markers. With so many vehicles in airport lots, it's easy to forget exactly where you parked—especially on longer trips. When you return, a photo or a quick note on your phone can save you time and frustration. 

Use technology to simplify the process 

When leaving or returning from your trip, the last thing you want to worry about is fumbling for the pre-paid parking ticket. To streamline the process, download the airport parking app to make entering and exiting a breeze so you can focus on getting to your gate on time (or back home).  

For instance, the Park'N Fly app makes it easy to book parking in seconds, manage reservations, and even scan yourself in and out of the lot. 

Partners and/or offers are subject to change without notice. Conditions may apply. 

Park’N Fly Rewards program benefit eligibility will be determined by member tier. 

Valid CAA/BCAA membership must be used at time of purchase at participating locations or online (where applicable). One offer per Member, per visit. No cash value. Offer calculated on pre-tax amount and cannot be combined with other offers or promotions unless otherwise specified. Discount is applied after all other eligible discounts and pre-tax. Offer availability subject to discontinuation or change without notice. Trademarks and registered trademarks are property of their respective owners. Additional restrictions and conditions may apply. *10% savings off the online rate are applicable on daily and weekly airport parking reservations when the CAA Member number is entered in the reservation discount field on the www.parknfly.ca or the Park’N Fly app. **Save 25% off the regular posted drive up rates when the CAA Member presents their CAA Member card at checkout and no reservation is made. See Park'N Fly locations for full details. All rates and surcharges are subject to applicable taxes and cannot be discounted. Offer cannot be combined with any other offer or discount. Offer not applicable with Aeroplan points program. Partners and/or offers are subject to change without notice. Conditions may apply. CAA discount not available at Park’N Fly Montreal & Edmonton locations. If you require support with the Park’N Fly App or Park’N Fly Rewards program, please reach out to info@parknfly.ca for assistance.