Holiday Parking Hacks for UK Drivers
Going on holiday doesn’t need to mean leaving the car at home.
While there are always risks associated with being on the roads, there are plenty of ways to guarantee a safe and successful trip for you, your passengers, and your vehicle itself.
From busy streets in tourist hotspots to lengthy delays on the motorway, there are some things we can’t avoid. But with some careful prep, you can get savvy about your parking and avoid getting stung by high prices.
Protect your car while you’re away
Firstly, you shouldn’t assume that your car will be safe at night.
Even without valuables left on display, opportunist thieves may still attempt break-ins. Don’t forget that used cars with high specifications can be just as attractive as brand-new ones.
If you’re parking your vehicle on the street or in public car parks for prolonged periods, here’s how to keep it safe:
- Remove valuables, including satellite navigation and removable info-entertainment systems.
- Use steering wheel locks to prevent theft, especially if leaving your vehicle for multiple days.
- Park in well-lit areas to reduce vulnerability and increase exposure, especially for high-end vehicles.
Plan with parking apps
If you’re heading off on a staycation, it’s likely that you’ll be able to make the most of public car parks with the bonus of payment by app.
Parking applications can help you find more affordable and secure spots before arriving. Booking in advance will help you to streamline your journey and compare prices for the best deal. Above all, real reviews from genuine customers will point out any obvious safety flaws.
Top tip: Unfortunately, scammers capitalise on unsuspecting tourists in app-linked car parks. Avoid scanning any QR codes in public and always take time to verify an application before downloading it onto your phone.
Use Park & Ride services
If you don’t feel like driving in the city centre, Park & Ride might present a brilliant opportunity for you. These services run in various parts of the UK, including popular tourist stops like Cambridge and Manchester and facilitate car-free travel to city centres.
It works by leaving your car on the outskirts in either a free or very affordable car park. In exchange, you get a direct bus or rail journey to your destination. It’s a convenient option for shopping and day trips, and might be much safer for older, less reliable vehicles.
Avoid holiday parking fines
Finally, it’s important to have your wits about you when you’re driving in a new place. There are a few common mistakes that can lead to penalties, including:
- Misreading signs
- Overstaying in a paid car park
- Using a reserved parking bay
- Accidentally driving in the bus lane
Something as simple as using the timer function on your mobile phone could help you avoid hefty fines. With these simple tips, you’ll be on your way to a smarter holiday and a safe time on the roads.
