Tips for Airport Parking

Finding a parking space at an International airport can be a difficult task, especially if you plan on leaving your vehicle there for a few days or longer.  Here are some tips to keep in mind…

Unfortunately, thieves break into cars and usually they have a plan of attack, so to speak.  Airports are a good place to score on some vehicles or parts of vehicles.  When parking at an International airport or a local airport, be sure to know where to park and how to select the right spot to keep yourself safe and your vehicle safe.

The best thing you can do to ensure safety for your vehicle while you are out of town is to find a parking place within view of the exit booths and toll booths. These areas are usually busy and with people leaving and employees headed to the toll booths, crooks are less likely to try do steal anything that is in a visible area.  If that are is not available, seek a spot near a shuttle pick-up location as there is always increased foot traffic both coming and going and also people standing and waiting for shuttles.  They will no doubt notice something off or odd.  

Most airports have some type of surveillance cameras in place, so well-lit areas are the next best bet.  Many times a parking attendant will drive through long-term parking as part of a daily routine.  Remember however, that hard-core criminals will no doubt know the scheduled times of these checks, but if you ensure that you are parked where a camera or attendant can see your vehicle, you are helping your own situation and discouraging potential thieves.

Some people think that backing into a parking place is easy and allow for an easier way to get out of the parking structure upon your return, however, parking nose first makes your vehicle’s truck visible to others in the complex and thus, more difficult for an attempted break in.

Removing anything inside your vehicle which appears valuable is first and foremost!  Do not leave any portable GPS systems, iPods, radios, or highway passes in plain sight.  If you have any valuables, place them in the glove compartment or take them out prior to your heading to the airport.  Be certain that you have nothing of value in your trunk, as do not need to chance a hefty loss from that area, should the vehicle be stolen.  Using common sense is primary, however sometimes when we are busy, rushed or stressed to get everything together, we tend to forget. Plan ahead to avoid any errors in your judgement.  If you have serious doubts on vehicle safety, take a shuttle to the airport or have a family or friend take you and pick you up!