subject: National Airport Parking Choices for Washington D.C. Travelers [print this page] Cell Phone Waiting Area Cell Phone Waiting Area
If you're picking up a family member or a friend from the airport, you can use the airport's cell phone waiting area. You're not allowed to leave your vehicle while inside the waiting area, and you can only stay for a maximum of 2 hours, but this beats burning gas to pass the time or pay the hourly parking rates at the airport garages.
Long Term Parking
If you're flying out of Reagan airport for an extended business or vacation trip, daily parking is by far the most financially sound option. Still, like in any other city, airport-run facilities are always available at an inflated price because of their proximity to the terminals. For less expensive alternatives, the best choice would be the off-airport locations offering highly competitive rates.
Off-Airport Alternatives
Most of the good hotels near the airport offer very affordable long term parking rates. Courtyard Crystal City (half a mile from the airport) and Sheraton Crystal City Hotel (1.20 miles from the airport), both located along Jefferson Davis Highway, have a daily parking rate of only $8 at their indoor parking facilities, for example.
The Obvious Choice
For a hypothetical 5 day trip, you'll be paying $100 at the airport garages, $60 at the economy lot, while only $40 at hotel parking locations. Factor in the complimentary shuttle service that will take you to and pick you up from your terminal at the end of your trip, your choice for your National Airport parking becomes quite obvious.
Book Your Parking in Advance
Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA), being very close to federal government offices including the White House, is relatively restricted than most other airports, in terms of security, number of flights, and international entry. Nevertheless, with 18 million passengers using the airport every year, National Airport parking can still be a problem, especially during the holidays. This can be easily avoided, however: just know your options and book your parking in advance.
National Airport Parking Choices for Washington D.C. Travelers
