Airport parking safety: Tips for Solo Travelers
Exploring the world on your own terms is an exciting experience. However, being a solo traveler comes with its own set of challenges, particularly when it comes to staying safe. To help you navigate these challenges, we’ve put together some essential tips for ensuring your safety when using airport parking.
Choose well-lit parking zones
With so many different options when it comes to airport parking — just look at the different options available in Schiphol Airport alone — you’re always spoilt for choice when it comes to picking where to park. Because of this, we do recommend doing your research before setting on where to leave your car. If you’re opting to park your car by yourself rather than using a valet service, you should check out the car park area.
We always recommend parking your car in a well-lit car park area. This is especially important if you’ve got an early departure or late arrival time meaning you’ll be searching for your car in the dark. Not only will a well-lit car park deter anyone with malicious intent, but it’s easier for you to find your car as well.
Be organized — book early
If you want an added layer of safety to your solo travel, then book your car parking space in advance. This means you have more control over where you leave your car, getting access to the better spaces with an early booking. Better still, you’ll have a designated spot waiting for you so you won’t have to go searching for a parking space in unfamiliar surroundings. Not only is this safer, but more time-efficient as well.
Employ someone else to park your car
As touched upon earlier, if you’re coming back in the early hours, it can be worth looking at the valet services provided at airports such as Barcelona Airport for instance. Accessing valet services means you’re never going to be in the car park at all. Instead, you can drive right to the terminal, handing your car over to someone else to park. Similarly, when you arrive, the valet will be there with your car at arrivals, so you can remain around tons of other people, never being alone in a large car park.
Hide your valuables
It may seem obvious, but you are going to be leaving your car alone for a few days or weeks. Despite the best efforts of any car park, there is always the possibility of thieves entering the premises. As such, we recommend not leaving valuables in the car, or at least not having them visible through the windows. It’s best not to tempt thieves.
Travel Light and Efficient
When preparing for your trip, evaluate your luggage needs based on the duration of your stay. For shorter journeys, aim to pack lightly and efficiently. This approach is especially useful if you need to park farther from the terminal, as it minimizes the hassle of managing bulky bags. By traveling with less luggage, you reduce the likelihood of finding yourself in a vulnerable position alone in the parking area..
Keep Others Informed
If you’re venturing out solo, it’s wise to share your travel details with trusted friends or family. Provide them with a comprehensive itinerary, so they are aware of your plans. This can be reassuring for both you and them. In case of unexpected changes or emergencies, having someone who is updated on your journey can be crucial. Regularly updating your contacts on any alterations to your schedule adds an extra layer of security.
Opt for Proximity to the Terminal
For solo travelers, choosing parking close to the terminal can enhance your safety. It minimizes the distance you need to walk to and from your vehicle, reducing the time you spend in potentially risky areas. Being closer to the terminal helps you stay in well-lit and more populated zones.
Additional Safety Measures
These tips are a starting point for ensuring your safety in airport parking areas. Consider implementing additional security measures for your vehicle and always trust your instincts. If something feels off or uncomfortable, don’t hesitate to alert airport staff or security.
