Austin Airport Parking: A Local's Guide to Finding the Best Spot
Figuring out where to park at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) can feel like a trip in itself. Honestly, with all the different lots, garages, & off-site options, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. But here’s the thing: choosing the right parking spot can set the tone for your whole trip. A good choice means a smooth, stress-free start, while a bad one can mean unexpected costs & a frantic rush to the terminal.
As someone who’s navigated the Austin airport parking scene more times than I can count, I’m here to break it all down for you. We’ll go through everything from the super-convenient on-site garages to the budget-friendly off-site lots, so you can pick the perfect option for your next flight.
On-Site Parking at ABIA: Convenience is King
Let’s start with the official airport parking lots. These are the closest you can get to the terminals, & they’re all managed by the airport itself. The main trade-off here is usually cost for convenience.
The Red Garage: The Closest & Priciest Option
If you want the absolute quickest walk to the Barbara Jordan Terminal, the Red Garage is your spot. It's located directly adjacent to the terminal, offering two levels of covered parking. This is the VIP treatment of airport parking – you park, walk a few steps, & you're at check-in. It’s perfect if you're traveling with a lot of luggage, have kids in tow, or are just in a major hurry.
- Best for: Travelers who prioritize convenience above all else, business travelers on a tight schedule, & anyone who doesn't want to deal with a shuttle.
- Amenities: Covered parking, elevators, & direct terminal access. There's also a designated short-term parking area on Level 3.
- Cost: This is the most expensive on-site option, with daily rates around $32. The hourly rate is about $5. Keep in mind that these rates can change, so it's always a good idea to check the official ABIA parking website before you go.
The Blue Garage: A Smart Choice with a Short Walk
Just a bit further out than the Red Garage is the Blue Garage. It's still a very convenient covered option, connected to the terminal via a walkway. One of the coolest things about the Blue Garage is its smart parking guidance system. Little green lights show you exactly where the open spots are, so you don't have to waste time circling endlessly. They even have "Find Your Car" kiosks, which is a lifesaver after a long trip.
- Best for: Travelers who want a good balance of convenience & cost. It’s a great all-around option.
- Amenities: Covered parking, smart parking guidance system, "Find Your Car" kiosks, & EV charging stations.
- Cost: A little easier on the wallet than the Red Garage, the Blue Garage runs about $23 a day.
Economy Parking: The Budget-Friendly On-Site Lot
If you’re looking to save some cash but still want the security of parking on airport grounds, the Economy Parking lot is the way to go. It's the most affordable on-site option, but it is farther from the terminal. You’ll need to take a free 24/7 shuttle to get to the terminal, which usually runs every 15-20 minutes. The lot is uncovered, so your car will be out in the Texas sun, which is something to consider.
- Best for: Budget-conscious travelers, longer trips where parking costs can add up, & people who don't mind a short shuttle ride.
- Amenities: 24/7 shuttle service.
- Cost: At around $12 per day, it's a significant saving compared to the garages.
A Quick Word on the South Terminal
If you're flying Allegiant or Frontier, you'll be using the South Terminal, which is in a completely separate location from the main Barbara Jordan Terminal. You can't walk between the two, but there is a shuttle. The South Terminal has its own set of parking lots, including a Premium Lot (closest to the terminal, around $20/day) & an Economy Lot (further out, around $12/day). It's generally recommended to park directly at the South Terminal if you're flying from there.
Off-Site Parking: Better Rates & More Amenities?
Just outside the airport grounds, you’ll find a bunch of private parking companies all competing for your business. This is where you can find some of the best deals, & often, some pretty great perks too.
The Parking Spot (East & West)
You’ve probably seen their iconic spotted shuttles. The Parking Spot has two locations near ABIA, both on Highway 71. They offer both covered & uncovered parking options & are known for their friendly service. Their app is also super handy for making reservations & tracking shuttles.
- Best for: Travelers who want a reliable, professional service with the option of covered parking.
- Amenities: 24/7 shuttles, covered & uncovered options, luggage assistance, & a loyalty program.
- Cost: Rates can be as low as $13.25 a day, but it's always best to book in advance online for the best prices.
Park & Zoom
Park & Zoom is another popular off-site option that’s actually located on airport property, just across from the Hilton. They boast that their location allows their shuttles to get you to the terminal faster than other off-site lots because they don't have to get back on the main road. They also offer some pretty cool add-on services.
- Best for: Travelers looking for extra services & a quick shuttle ride.
- Amenities: Covered parking, valet service, EV charging, & even car care services like washes, details, & oil changes.
- Cost: Their self-park covered rates are around $15.95 a day, with valet being a bit more.
FastPark & Relax
FastPark & Relax is another great off-site choice, located on Spirit of Texas Drive. As their name suggests, they focus on getting you to the airport quickly. They offer 100% covered parking, which is a HUGE plus in the Texas heat & during stormy weather. They also have a unique Austin vibe, with a longhorn cattle program on-site & a commitment to sustainability with solar panels.
- Best for: Eco-conscious travelers & anyone who wants to guarantee their car is covered.
- Amenities: Fully covered parking, FastCharge EV stations, 24/7 shuttle service, & emergency car services.
- Cost: Rates start around $10.81 a day, making them a very competitive option.
Exploring Other Alternatives: The Rise of Peer-to-Peer Parking
Now, here's an option you might not have considered. For those who want something a bit different, maybe even more convenient or affordable, there's the world of peer-to-peer parking. This is where a service like Prked comes in. The idea is simple & pretty genius: homeowners who live near the airport can rent out their empty driveways or garage spaces to travelers.
Honestly, it’s a game-changer. You can often find a spot that’s not only cheaper than the big commercial lots but might even be in a more convenient location for you. With Prked, you’re connecting with a local who has an available, secure spot. It’s a great way to save money & avoid the chaos of the big lots. It’s definitely worth checking out, especially for longer trips where daily parking fees can really add up.
Pro Tips for a Smoother Parking Experience
- Book in Advance: I can’t stress this enough. Especially during peak travel times, the best lots & the best rates are found online, in advance. Many lots offer discounts for pre-booking.
- Join Loyalty Programs: If you travel frequently, signing up for programs like the ABIA Frequent Parker Program or the rewards programs at off-site lots can earn you free parking & other perks.
- Give Yourself Extra Time: No matter where you park, always budget more time than you think you need. For off-site lots, a good rule of thumb is to arrive at the lot at least 30 minutes before you want to be at the terminal.
- Take a Picture of Your Parking Spot: After a long trip, it's easy to forget where you parked. A quick photo of your spot or a note in your phone can save you a lot of wandering.
Choosing the right parking at Austin's airport really comes down to your priorities. Are you all about speed & convenience? The Red Garage is your best bet. Looking for a balance of cost & comfort? The Blue Garage or an off-site covered lot like The Parking Spot or FastPark & Relax are great choices. On a tight budget? The on-site Economy Lot or a peer-to-peer option through Prked will be your most affordable options.
Hope this was helpful in breaking down the choices! Let me know what you think & happy travels
