National Airport parking is fortunately less of a hassle at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) in Arlington County, Virginia than in most other large airports elsewhere. Reagan Airport is the closest commercial airport to Washington’s central business district. Previously called the Washington National Airport, it was renamed in 1988 in honor of former U.S. president Ronald Reagan. DCA Airport handles over eighteen million passengers annually.
Hourly and Daily Parking
There are over 9,400 National Airport parking spaces open to passengers at present. Approximately 2,956 of these are in the economy parking facility in the south end of the airport. Hourly and daily parking are allowed at airport garages A, B, and C. Hourly parking can be quite costly at $4 per hour, not to exceed $36 for a full 24 hours period. Still, this is the best parking alternative for those who have business at DCA and would need to park for up to 2 hours. If you aren’t sure of the time, you’re better off taking a daily parking spot at the rate of $20 per day. Finally, there’s always the economy lot for only $12 per day.
Parking for Handicapped Passengers
There are numerous designated National Airport parking spaces for handicapped travelers, conveniently located near elevators and shuttle bus stops. Cars with disabled persons on board needing parking assistance are encouraged to display their city-issued plates or placards to the uniformed parking crew, who will also assist in locating a convenient parking space if the assigned areas are already full.
Cell Phone Waiting Area
There’s also a courtesy cell phone waiting area for drivers who are picking up someone at the airport. You can’t leave your vehicle while inside the waiting lot and you can park for up to 2 hours, but this still trumps burning gas cruising around the airport or paying the hourly parking rates at the airport garages.
Long Term Parking
If you’re leaving your vehicle at DCA Airport during a week long business or vacation trip, daily parking is clearly the most prudent option. Of course, just like in any other city, airport-run parking spaces are always offered at premium prices for their proximity to the terminals. For less pricey DCA parking alternatives, the best bet would be the off-airport garages and lots providing comparatively much cheaper rates.
DCA Airport Parking Lens on Squidoo
Off-Airport Alternatives
Take a look at the hotel parking services at DCA and you’ll be surprised by the budget-friendly long term options. Sheraton Crystal City Hotel and Courtyard Crystal City both located very close to the airport on Jefferson Davis Highway, charge only $8 per day at their indoor parking facilities, for example.
The Obvious Choice
For a hypothetical 5-day trip, parking at the airport garages will set you back $100, $60 at the economy lot, but only $40 at the hotel parking locations. Add the complimentary shuttle service that will take you to and pick you up from your terminal at the end of your trip, your choice for your National Airport parking becomes quite apparent.
Book Your Parking Ahead of Time
Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA), at the very center of the nation’s capital, is comparatively more strict than most other airports, in terms of security, number of flights, and international entry. Still, with over 18 million passengers using the airport yearly, National Airport parking can sometimes be a a bit difficult especially during the peak seasons. This can be easily avoided, however: just be familiar with your parking alternatives and book your parking space in advance.
Photo: Derek Key on Flickr
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