Did you try booking Dublin Airport parking only to realize that it came with charges you did not anticipate? Well, you’re in good company! A lot of holidaymakers are taken aback when they discover additional costs on their invoices. These hidden fees can turn an affordable parking spot into an expensive mistake. Don’t fret; we will help you evade those costs.
Dublin Airport has had its share of problems, such as service charges and sudden price increases. Putting them all together, the parking never seems to be cheap. Some companies give you a low price to appeal to you but charge hidden fees later. Others tend to charge extra for bookings that require changes or even things like shuttles and credit card payments. It can be a bit annoying, doesn’t it?
The worst part? Much of these charges are hidden within the terms and conditions. Failure to read them might cause you to pay a higher amount. But do not fret! This blog will identify these hidden fees and provide clever ways to avoid them. On top, you will learn smarter ways to save for airport parking.
Why Your ‘Cheap’ Dublin Airport Parking Isn’t So Cheap
Coming across cheap deals for parking spots is both beneficial and troublesome. You may think that you’ve hit the deal of a lifetime, but the amount you pay is unexpectedly high. Why is that the case? Hidden charges.
Tragically, so many airport parking service providers get away with this. Travelers seem to get it too late. Make sure you look out for them before utilizing booking services for airport parking.
Also, consider using offsite parking facilities to help mitigate those hefty costs. Curbside check-in can also be done with these offsite parking facilities, which is a win-win.
Common Hidden Charges That You Need to Be Aware Of
A lot of travelers think booking airport parking is a breeze, but oftentimes the ideal price they think is too good to be true surpasses their expectations. Additional services out of nowhere come into play, turning a modestly priced option expensive. For example, some extras include administration charges, credit card processing fees, shuttle service fees, and sometimes even fees for showing up too early or too late. Many of these fees are conveniently placed at the end, and travelers are often blindsided by them. Knowing these hidden costs in advance makes your parking needs a lot easier and will involve less money being spent.
Booking Charges – Instantly Right Within Services Causing Extra Headaches
Many airport parking providers tend to slap an extra payment right off the bat for reserving a parking space online. Nowadays, when booking a parking space online, it tends to cost a little more than usual but declines during peak seasons. This is something often overlooked and adds too many problems for people needing to hop on their flights. You could also try and cancel this fee by checking the provider’s terms and conditions and seeing whether or not they allow assumptions for surfers or other more cost-effective websites.
Charges for Shuttle Services – Are They Free?
While most airport parking providers promise “shuttle service without additional charges,” most tend to advertise with false statements. In some cases, the provider may include the cost with the final payment or tack it on separately. Some charge per trip, while others impose a per-person fee. This is especially problematic for larger families or groups. Always check whether the shuttle is genuinely without charge or whether there are any other terms and conditions attached prior to booking.
Fees for Late Check-In or Departure Time – An Expensive Shock
Changes to your traveling itinerary may lead to late check-in or early check-out. Some services dealing in parking at airports may impose fines for this. A late check-in might still lead to an additional fee simply termed as a “modification.” Similarly, if you cut your stay short, then you may not receive any money back for time you do not use. To prepare against these issues, closely analyze the terms and conditions provided by them and ensure they provide flexibility.
Credit Card and Transaction Fees – Paying More Than You Should
Travelers often overlook the fact that using a credit card for payments attracts additional fees. Some parking providers add a processing fee when payments are made by card, which increases your total fee. Although this fee may appear inconsequential, it can have an impact, particularly with long-term parking. There are also some services that charge an additional fee for online transactions. To eliminate these charges, make sure to read payment policies and pay with cash if feasible.
Price Surge Traps – How Parking Costs Change Without Warning
Like airline tickets, airport parking spaces are controlled by a certain quota, and their prices fluctuate based on how many spaces are being sold and utilized. Some providers adjust their prices to higher rates during travel peak seasons, weekends, or when reservations are made last minute. It can be the case that when searching, a low price is visible, only to find out that the actual parking fee is considerably higher if they fail to book right away. It can be challenging to find a reasonable price with referred rates. Remember to book ahead of time and do price comparisons with other providers to get good value for your money.
Cancellation and Modification Fees – Pay Particular Attention!
If you need to change or cancel your parking reservation, you may incur a fee. Some providers have an inflexible approach to modifications, charging for even the simplest changes. Cancellation fees can be steep for prepaid reservations. Others may afford more freedom by allowing cancellation without charge, but only within certain time limits. To steer clear of these charges, it is best to seek out providers that exhibit more flexibility and read the Terms and Conditions section prior to booking.
How to Avoid Hidden Fees and Save Money
Unwanted charges can turn your budget-friendly Dublin Airport parking into an expensive blunder within no time. The good news is that this additional expenditure can be mitigated with the right measures in place. Here is how:
Make Bookings Early
Waiting until the last minute tends to be more expensive. Make a reservation at least a few days in advance to ensure that your spot is secured and a better price is provided.
Look At Multiple Parking Providers
It’s good practice not to accept the first offer you receive. Ensure you search for the best price, as there can be extra costs such as booking fees, shuttle services, and late payment fees.
Pay Attention To Detailed Instructions
Ensure to review the terms and conditions set by the provider. Seek information that deals with fees for cancellation, late arrivals, and transactions.
Choose Flexible Parking Options
Changes and cancellations with some providers can be painfully expensive. Select a service that offers free modifications and fast refunds if your plans change.
Ask About Shuttle Costs
Always confirm whether the shuttle service incurs extra charges before booking, as it is sometimes assumed to be free.
Check for Credit Card Fees
Certain providers will mark up the price just for card usage. Select those that don’t have payment processing fees or do not accept card payments at all, if cash is an available option to you.
Look for Discounts and Promotions
Many offsite parking providers offer discounts for new customers, those who book online, or those who sign up for and use loyalty programs.
Following these can ensure that unwanted expenses are avoided, resulting in a stress-free experience at the airport.
Best Alternatives to Overpriced Airport Parking
Along with Dublin airport parking, other airports struggle with high rates and additional charges. A better solution to saving money is to go with offsite parking. Offsite parking structures located a little further from the airport provide the same comfort for much less. Rather than complete serviced cold parking, you get a secure slot and shuttle to the terminal at a much more reasonable price.
One of the best alternatives is RS Express Parking. Along with offering the best rates, it also saves you money spent on expensive airport parking. Like RS Express Parking saves money, we operate with an economy-driven ethos, setting us apart from Dublin Airport parking. Moreover, we offer flexible cancellation and modification policies without extra fees. Unlike Dublin Airport parking, we provide transparent pricing without unexpected fees.
The most important aspect is that your car is secured within a safe and monitored lot as you travel. If you are looking for a service that provides excellent service and charges anti-dodging airport parking fees, then RS Express Parking is your destination. Get hassle-free parking and great savings all at once! So, why wait? Get in touch at +353 83 489 6505 and message us at support@rsexpressparking.com.
FAQs
What are the most common hidden fees in Dublin Airport parking?
Booking fees, credit card fees, shuttle service late charges and cancellations are the commonly masked fees for Dublin Airport. Lots of additional fees add up to inflate the total amount payable by you greatly.
How can I avoid having to pay those unexpected costs while booking airport parking?
Comparing various services will almost always reveal better pricing. Booking early and using offsite garage parking will also help minimize your cost.
Do all service providers for airport parking include shuttle services in their amenities?
Not everyone, but some claim to offer “free” shuttle services, but they include the fee in the total price. Always ask if there are any additional costs for the shuttle before you confirm your reservation.
Why is it that the cost of airport parking space is greater when done at short notice?
Many parking service providers will apply dynamic pricing, which means that the cost will increase depending on the availability of the service. Booking the service in advance guarantees you a lower price as well as saves you from additional fees at the last minute.
Is parking spaces away from the terminal a better option than Dublin Airport parking?
Certainly! There is also offsite parking like RS Express Parking, which is secure, inexpensive, and has no extra charges for the service. You can also get excellent service, complimentary meet and greet service, and more value than on-site airport parking.
