If you’re flying, you have a choice of several parking options around Schiphol. Depending on the length of your trip, your budget, and your preferred level of convenience, you can choose self-parking, shuttle parking, or valet parking.
In this blog, we explain the differences between these parking options and what you should keep in mind when reserving a parking spot near Schiphol.
The Valet Guys is an independent parking service provider and is not affiliated with, associated with, or part of Royal Schiphol Group.
What parking options are available near Schiphol?
There are several parking companies operating in the vicinity of the airport. Services, locations, and rates vary by provider. In general, you can choose from the following parking options:
- Park on your own in a nearby parking lot.
- Shuttle parking with transportation to and from the airport.
- Valet parking, where your car is picked up at an agreed-upon location.
Which option is best for you depends on your budget, the length of your trip, and how much convenience you want.
Self Parking
If you choose self-parking, you drive your own car to the parking lot of the provider you’ve selected. You park your car in an available parking space and then continue on to the airport.
With some providers, you keep your car key. Other providers ask you to leave the key behind so that vehicles can be moved on the premises if necessary. Therefore, always check the parking provider’s terms and conditions in advance.
Shuttle Parking
With shuttle parking, you drive to the provider’s parking lot. From there, a shuttle bus will take you to the airport. After your return flight, the shuttle will pick you up again and take you back to the parking lot.
Travel time to the airport varies depending on the parking location. When planning your trip, be sure to factor in the transfer time, any waiting time, and the time it takes to park your car.
Valet parking
Valet parking is a parking solution in which you hand over your car to an employee of the parking provider at a prearranged location. The employee then takes your car to the parking lot.
When you return, your car will be brought back to the agreed-upon time and location. This means you won’t have to drive to an off-site parking lot or take a shuttle bus yourself.
How much does parking cost near Schiphol?
Parking fees vary by provider and depend, among other things, on:
- The duration of the parking period.
- The moment you make your reservation.
- The travel period and expected crowds.
- The distance between the parking lot and the airport.
- The preferred parking and transportation service.
- A covered or uncovered parking space.
- Any additional services.
Parking rates may be higher during holiday periods and other busy times. By reserving online in advance, you’ll usually have more options and know in advance what you’ll be charged.
Check out The Valet Guys’ current parking rates for more information about the available options.
Indoor or outdoor parking
With some parking providers, you can choose between an outdoor parking space and a covered parking space.
An outdoor parking spot is usually more affordable. With covered parking near Schiphol, your car is better protected against rain, hail, snow, sunlight, and other weather conditions.
Reserve a parking space online
By reserving your parking spot in advance, you’ll avoid having to search for a suitable parking spot on the day of your departure. Plus, you can compare the rates, terms, and services of different providers beforehand.
When making a reservation, always check:
- What services are included in the price?
- Whether there are any additional charges for shuttle transportation.
- Whether there are surcharges for delays or late-night arrivals.
- Whether you need to leave your car key behind.
- What are the cancellation policies?
- How the transfer or shuttle is arranged upon return.
You can reserve a parking spot online through The Valet Guys’ website.
Parking Lot Safety
If you’re leaving your car for several days, it’s important to check what security measures the parking provider has put in place.
When comparing parking lots, consider the following, among other things:
- The fence around the property.
- Presence of video surveillance.
- Lighting in the parking lot.
- Staff presence.
- Access Control.
- The provider’s terms and conditions and liability policy.
You should also read independent customer reviews to get a better idea of what others have experienced with that parking provider.
Have Your Car Cleaned While You’re Traveling
Some parking providers offer additional services, such as washing or cleaning your car. While you’re traveling, your vehicle can be cleaned inside, outside, or completely.
The services and prices vary depending on the package you choose. Check out the car wash options available during your trip.
What should you keep in mind?
In addition to price, there are several practical considerations that may influence your choice:
- Travel time: Check how long it will take you to get to the airport from the parking lot.
- Availability: Popular parking locations can fill up quickly during holiday periods.
- Hours of operation: Check whether the provider is available at the time of departure and return.
- Luggage: Check whether the shuttle or transfer location is suitable if you are bringing a lot of luggage or heavy luggage.
- Delays: Check how the provider handles delayed or early flights.
- Additional costs: Please be aware of any surcharges that are not included in the base rate.
Parking for a short trip
For a short business trip or city break, valet parking can be appealing because of the short drop-off time. You don’t have to drive to an off-site parking lot yourself and then wait for transportation.
For short-term parking, always compare the total price. Any fixed service fees can have a relatively large impact on the total rate for a stay of one or two days.
Parking for a Long Trip
For longer vacations, the price per parking period often becomes a more important factor. A parking lot located some distance from the airport may then be more cost-effective than one right next to the departure halls.
When parking for an extended period, pay special attention to the security of the parking lot, the rules regarding the storage of your car keys, and the procedure upon your return.
How does parking work at The Valet Guys?
As an independent parking provider, The Valet Guys offers parking services in the Schiphol area. The exact procedure depends on the service you book.
Step 1: Make a reservation
Book in advance through the website and enter your travel and contact information correctly. You will then receive information about your chosen parking option and the agreed-upon location.
Step 2: Follow the instructions you received
On the day of departure, follow the instructions in your reservation confirmation. Depending on the service you selected, drive to a parking lot or to an agreed-upon drop-off location.
Step 3: Park Your Car or Transfer Ownership
With self-parking or shuttle parking, you park your car according to the provider’s instructions. With valet parking, you hand your vehicle over to an employee according to the arrangements made in advance.
Step 4: Notify Us of Your Return
Upon your return, please contact the parking provider according to the instructions you received. You will then be taken back to the parking lot, or your car will be brought to the agreed-upon location.
Conclusion
There are several parking options available near Schiphol. You can choose between self-parking, a shuttle service, or valet parking. Be sure to compare not only the rates, but also travel time, security measures, hours of operation, terms and conditions, and additional fees.
By booking in advance and carefully reviewing the services offered, you can choose a parking solution that suits your trip and personal preferences.
Check out The Valet Guys’ parking options for more information about the services available.
The Valet Guys is an independent parking provider. Any mention of Schiphol is intended solely to indicate the geographic area and travel destination. The Valet Guys is not affiliated with, associated with, or part of Royal Schiphol Group.