subject: Vacation And Holiday: What To Do With Your Car? [print this page] Family holidays are fraught with difficulties, problems and things to see to before the big day. You've organised time off work, you've carers for your pets and you've arranged for somebody to watch your house; but what about your car? This is a necessity often left until last minute, and sometimes forgotten altogether. If you live in the Midlands, there are other options than car parking at Birmingham airport. You should explore your options long before you make a decision.
Leaving It At Home
If you're confident of the safety of your car at home, this will probably be your preferred option. A lot of people won't embrace the idea of car parking at Birmingham airport, for they can't have peace of mind knowing their car isn't at home. A driveway or garage will help swing the decision, but leaving it parked outside your home in a nice neighbourhood could also be okay. You'll save on the cost of airport parking, but how will you get to the airport with all of your luggage?
Airport Shuttles
A lot of big cities are serviced by airport shuttle buses. If you live near a large metropolitan area that has a large tourism industry, you'll likely find buses, coaches and trains running from the centre to the airport. This will probably be your cheapest option, but it means carting all of your luggage with you and getting into the city itself.
Airport Taxi Service
Local taxi services which are within a certain radius of the airport will offer reduced rates. You might find that a 30 mile trip to the city would cost you 50, but a 30 mile trip to the airport could cost you a fair bit less because of these rates. Agreeing to arrange your return trip through a company could also save you some money, as they see it as guaranteed service.
Favours of Friends
Now is the time to call in that favour from Jane, or Ted, or Phil. If you don't have any favours to call in, just ask nicely. Having a friend act as a taxi service for you will mean that you don't have to arrange anything set in stone like you would with a taxi company, and it'll probably be cheaper. Offer to pay for their fuel, of course, but buy them a gift or give them a little money for their time. If they refuse to accept these gifts, make sure that you'll be willing to do the same for them when that time inevitably rolls around.
Airport Parking
Car parking at Birmingham Airport isn't the worst option. Security is high and the costs are often affordable if you book in advance. Don't believe the myths about sky-high prices for protection of your car whilst you're on holiday.
