Know where to go
Make sure you don’t end up where you’re not supposed to, and that you park in the correct bay for the amount of time you plan on being away. If you park in the short-stay parking area by mistake, you could pay megabucks when you return from your work trip three days later. In the same breath, don’t make the error of parking in the long-stay bay unless you need to. Many airports also offer free parking if you stay for under 30 minutes, if someone is dropping you off.
Remove your valuables
Despite being in a secure parking area, there’s still a chance your car may become a target for thieves - not the car itself, but what’s inside. Remember to stow valuable items in the boot. Always double-check that all your doors are locked by pulling the handle - car jamming is a reality in South Africa.
Check that you removed any leftover food items
That half-eaten chicken pie you had this morning on the way to the airport can quickly turn into a nasty-smelling, mouldy mess, especially if your car is not in the shade. The last thing you want to do is come back from your holiday and be overwhelmed by a rotten smell as you open your door. Click here for tips on exorcising evil smells from your car.
Put your parking ticket in a safe place
If you lose your ticket you may have to pay a hefty release fee upon your return. Put it somewhere safe - preferably not in your jeans pocket if you intend on washing them while you’re away! Rather pop them in the side pocket of your handbag or suitcase so you don’t lose it somewhere in transit. Take a photo of the ticket (the time and date should be clearly visible) in case you have to convince someone of exactly how long your car was there.
Remember where you parked
When you leave your car, make a mental note of the bay, the floor, its colour-coding, and parking bay number, so you’re not dazed and confused when you want to collect your car to drive home. Look at your surroundings - how far is the car to the elevator, or any other artificial landmarks? If you have trouble remembering, Google can also be of assistance if you used the maps app. To help you, take a photo of your car in the parking bay with the level/number/letter/colour displayed on the wall.
Valet parking is the easiest option - if you can afford it
Some of our local airlines offer valet parking with their partners at discounted prices. It gets less expensive the longer you stay. Certain valet parking businesses also offer a free car wash, such as Automotion in Cape Town.
Make use of an Uber, bus, Gautrain or airport shuttle
It may work out to be much more affordable, especially if you’re going to be away for a while.
