We’ve all faced it! The stress starts as you get closer to LAX Airport and rises to epic proportions at the prospect of not finding a LAX parking spot. Unless you’re a Hollywood A-lister or just really super-rich, finding a spot at LAX’s long-term, overnight or hourly parking spots is unavoidable each time you fly out of Los Angeles. The aim, of course, is to get in and out of your LAX parking lot as quickly as possible while spending the least amount of time and money, right? With that in mind, we’ve collected a list of the six most important LAX parking tips that all travelers out of LAX should be aware of. And, while some of them can seem rather obvious, it never hurts to brush up on the fundamentals!
Park smart and travel safe, people!
1. The farther away you park from LAX, the less expensive it is
True story – especially when it comes to LAX overnight parking! There are cheaper options a little farther away from the central parking terminals, such as the Lot C economy parking at 96th and Sepulveda. There are also plenty of offsite lots near LAX that offer the same or even better parking facilities and free shuttle service. However, bear in mind that shuttles from these locations usually run at fixed intervals, and there are few things more worrying than waiting as the hour ticks closer to your departure. If you decide to save money and park farther away, make sure you leave with plenty of time on hand, arrive early, get to your terminal as early as possible and enjoy a cocktail or two.
2. Go offsite, LAX traveler
There are several alternatives to the official airport LAX parking lots. Even the most casual google search will tell you what they are. One name you’ll repeatedly see popping up is the Way.com website and with good reason! The Way.com app and website have been helping millions of harried travelers find affordable and secure parking at LAX. All you need to do is choose Los Angeles International Airport from the drop-down list, choose your travel dates. You’ll then be rewarded with plenty of LAX parking options. You’ll get to choose from LAX overnight, outdoor, covered, indoor, and valet parking options, all at very affordable prices and with no cancellation charges!
3. Put your stuff out of sight
Parking your car at LAX or just about anywhere in LA for an extended period of time is often risky, and crooks will take advantage of people’s frantic scramble to get to their terminal on time. These sticky-fingered opportunists will be on the lookout for signs of careless parking. If your door is left open or your belongings are in plain sight, it’s like an open invitation to them. LAX officials have implemented a “Lock it, Hide it, Keep it” campaign and increased protection for a recent decrease in parked car thefts; however, it is still something to be mindful of.
4. Use the FlyAway Bus
The FlyAway bus is part of LA’s (somewhat) burgeoning public transportation efforts. The FlyAway stations provide travelers with LAX long-term parking as well as LAX shuttles. These buses serve several parts of Los Angeles, departing from Westwood, Van Nuys, Santa Monica, Hollywood, and Union Station. You can check departure times online and book your seat for a low fee ($10 or less).
5. Use the LAX cell phone parking lot for pick-ups
Yes, the LAX cell phone lot is no myth; such a thing exists! People picking up arriving passengers can park for free the cell phone lot adjacent to parking Lot C, off 96th Street, for up to two hours. The lot is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, but vehicles must be supervised at all times.
6. Know where you need to go
This may seem kind of obvious, but take the time to familiarize yourself with the airport. Frequent LAX travelers may have all of their shortcuts memorized. Still, for the average traveler, it’s best to become acquainted with your parking lot-to-terminal walk before you arrive. Since LAX is a one-way circle with parking structures in the center, planning your path ahead of time can help you avoid going round and round.
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