As a seasoned traveler, you know that airport parking can be a hassle. Finding a spot, navigating the lot, and paying for parking can all add unnecessary stress to your already busy travel day. But fear not, with our insider tips and tricks, you’ll be able to navigate RDU airport parking like a pro. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about airport parking at RDU.
Airport parking RDU refers to the parking options available at Raleigh-Durham International Airport, which serves the Research Triangle region of North Carolina. With a wide range of parking options, including economy, park and ride, and valet parking, RDU airport parking provides travelers with convenient and affordable solutions for parking their cars while traveling. In this article, we will explore the different airport parking options available at RDU, their costs, and the benefits of each.
RDU Airport Parking Options
When it comes to parking at RDU, there are several options available to travelers. Each option has its pros and cons, so it’s essential to understand your choices before making a decision.
Hourly Parking
If you’re only going to be at the airport for a short period, hourly parking is an excellent option. Located right outside the terminals, this parking option is convenient but expensive. Hourly parking rates at RDU start at $3 per hour, with a daily maximum of $24.
Daily Parking
Daily parking is an excellent option for travelers who need to park for an extended period. It’s located a short distance from the terminals and costs $2 per hour, with a daily maximum of $12.
ParkRDU Central
ParkRDU Central is a covered parking garage located between Terminals 1 and 2. It’s an excellent option for travelers who want to park close to the terminals without paying hourly rates. Daily rates start at $14, with a weekly maximum of $98.
ParkRDU Premier
ParkRDU Premier is a premium parking option located on the ground floor of the ParkRDU Central parking garage. It offers covered parking and is located closest to Terminal 2. The daily rate starts at $18, with a weekly maximum of $126.
Economy Parking
Economy parking is the most affordable parking option at RDU. It’s located a short distance from the terminals and costs $2 per hour, with a daily maximum of $8. It’s an excellent option for travelers on a budget who don’t mind taking a shuttle to the terminals.
Tips for Parking at RDU
Now that you know your parking options at RDU let’s cover some tips to help make your parking experience as smooth as possible.
Reserve Your Spot in Advance
If you know you’ll be parking at RDU, consider reserving your spot in advance. This will ensure that you have a spot waiting for you when you arrive, saving you time and reducing stress.
Use the ParkRDU Mobile App
The ParkRDU mobile app is an excellent tool for navigating the airport parking lots. It allows you to reserve your spot in advance, track shuttle buses, and pay for parking from your phone.
Consider Off-Site Parking
Off-site parking lots can be a more affordable parking option than the on-site lots at RDU. Many off-site parking lots offer shuttle service to and from the airport, making it a convenient option for travelers.
Consider Alternative Transportation
If you live in the Raleigh-Durham area, consider alternative transportation options like Uber or Lyft. This can be a more affordable option than parking at the airport, and you won’t have to worry about navigating the lots.
Allow Extra Time for Parking
No matter which parking option you choose, it’s essential to allow extra time for parking. The parking lots at RDU can fill up quickly, especially during peak travel times. Giving yourself extra time to park can help reduce stress and ensure that you make your flight.
Consider Parking Rewards Programs
If you’re a frequent traveler, consider joining a parking rewards program. RDU offers a rewards program called ParkRDU Rewards, which allows you to earn points for every dollar spent on parking. These points can be redeemed for free parking or other rewards.
FAQs for Airport Parking RDU
What are the available parking options at RDU?
RDU has several parking options available for passengers, including ParkRDU Central, ParkRDU Economy 4 and 3, ParkRDU Premier, and ParkRDU Express. ParkRDU Central is located within walking distance of both terminals, while ParkRDU Economy 4 and 3 offer shuttle service to the terminals. ParkRDU Premier provides covered parking and a dedicated shuttle service for passengers flying to select international destinations. ParkRDU Express is ideal for short-term parking and is also located within walking distance of both terminals.
How much does parking at RDU cost?
The cost of parking at RDU depends on the parking option you choose. For instance, the daily rate for ParkRDU Central is $24, while ParkRDU Economy 4 and 3 charge $14 per day. For those looking for covered parking, ParkRDU Premier is available at a daily rate of $30. ParkRDU Express provides hourly parking at $3 per hour and daily parking at $18.
Can I reserve a parking spot at RDU?
Yes, you can reserve a parking spot at RDU by visiting the airport’s parking website. Reservations can be made for ParkRDU Central and ParkRDU Express. ParkRDU Economy 4 and 3 and ParkRDU Premier do not currently offer reservations.
Is there a shuttle service available for RDU parking options?
Yes, RDU offers shuttle service for ParkRDU Economy 4 and 3 and ParkRDU Premier. ParkRDU Central and ParkRDU Express do not require shuttle service as they are located within walking distance of the terminals.
Are there any discounts available for long-term parking at RDU?
Yes, RDU offers a long-term parking option at the ParkRDU Economy 4 and 3 lots. The daily rate is $14, but if you park for 7 days or more, you will receive a discounted rate of $10 per day. The discount is automatically applied when you exit the lot. However, ParkRDU Central and ParkRDU Premier do not offer long-term discounts.