Let's be real – figuring out SAN airport parking costs feels like decoding ancient hieroglyphics half the time. Last summer I circled Terminal 2 for 45 minutes trying to avoid $40/day parking, and guess what? Ended up paying $42 at an off-site lot because I didn't do my homework. Don't be like me. Whether you're a budget traveler or just hate parking surprises, this guide breaks down every parking dime you'll spend at San Diego International Airport.
Official SAN Parking Options and Current Rates
The airport runs three main parking areas. I'll be straight with you – none are cheap, but they're crazy convenient if you're running late. Terminal 2 Parking Plaza is where I usually end up when I'm cutting it close for my LA flights.
Terminal 2 Parking Plaza
Best for: Southwest, Alaska, Delta flyers
| Duration | Rate | Walking Time to Terminal |
|---|---|---|
| First hour | $10 | 5-7 minutes |
| Daily max | $35 | Covered walkways |
| Overnight | $35 per 24hrs | |
| Oversized vehicles | $40/day |
Terminal 1 Parking Plaza
Best for: United, American, Frontier passengers
| Duration | Rate | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| First hour | $10 | No covered walkways |
| Daily max | $30 | Often fills by 10am |
| Electric vehicle charging | + $4/hr | Limited stations |
Hourly Parking
Rates at both terminals:
| Time | Terminal 1 Cost | Terminal 2 Cost |
|---|---|---|
| 0-20 minutes | $7 | $7 |
| 20-40 minutes | $12 | $12 |
| Each additional 20 min | +$5 | +$5 |
Pro tip: That $32 Uber might be cheaper than 3 hours in hourly parking.
Watch for peak pricing: During holidays and summer, SAN airport parking cost jumps 15-20%. I got nailed with $42/day at Terminal 2 over Thanksgiving. They don't exactly announce it with flashing signs.
Off-Site Parking Providers Near SAN Airport
Here's where you save real money. After testing six lots last year, here's the real scoop beyond their shiny websites:
| Provider | Daily Rate | Shuttle Frequency | My Experience |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aladdin Airport Parking | $14-$18 | Every 7-10 min | Fast shuttles but tight spaces |
| Laurel Parking | $12-$15 | Every 15 min | Budget friendly but slow returns |
| Park 'N Fly | $18-$22 | Every 5-7 min | Premium service; worth the extra $ |
| WallyPark | $16-$20 | On-demand | App works great; shady lighting at night |
Off-Site vs On-Site Cost Comparison
For a 5-day trip:
| Terminal 2 Parking Plaza | $175+ |
| Aladdin Airport Parking | $70-$90 |
| Savings | $85-$105 |
That's a rental car upgrade right there. But remember – add 20-30 minutes for shuttle transfers during peak hours. Missed one last June and almost blew a flight to Vegas.
Money Saving Hacks for Airport Parking
Book off-site parking 3+ weeks early: Rates jump 30% within 14 days of travel. My February booking at Laurel was $12/day vs $16 for same-week bookers.
Other proven tricks:
- ParkSleepFly packages: Pre-paid parking plus hotel stay. Paid $120 total for parking + Ramada Inn room last month. Parking alone would've been $105.
- Credit card perks: Chase Sapphire Reserve gives $15 monthly Lyft credit. Stack with Lyft Pink ($19/month) for 15% off airport rides.
- Hotel shuttles: Several airport hotels (Hilton, Sheraton) offer free long-term parking with one-night stays. Did this when flying to Hawaii – parked 9 days free.
When On-Site Parking Makes Sense
Despite the higher san diego airport parking cost, I'll bite the bullet when:
- Flight departs before 7am (shuttles run less frequently)
- Traveling with 4+ bags
- Returning during rainstorms (covered walkways rule)
Special Parking Situations at SAN
Oversized Vehicles
RV parking costs will make your eyes water:
| Vehicle Type | Terminal 1 | Terminal 2 | Off-Site Options |
|---|---|---|---|
| SUV/Truck over 7' | $40/day | $40/day | Limited availability |
| RVs/Vehicles over 8'6" | Not permitted | Not permitted | Must reserve at specialized lots |
Disabled Parking
ADA spaces available in all lots – same rates but closer to elevators. Pro tip: Terminal 2 has more covered ADA spots. Always display placard clearly – saw someone get ticketed last month for "improper display."
Parking Alternatives Beyond Lots
When parking costs at San Diego Airport make you nauseous:
Rideshare Reality Check
From downtown San Diego to SAN:
- UberX/Lyft: $25-$35
- Uber Comfort: $35-$45
- Wait times: 8-15 minutes average
Cheaper than parking for trips under 4 days. But surge pricing during Comic-Con? Forget about it.
Public Transport Options
The 992 bus runs every 15 min from Santa Fe Depot ($2.50). Great option if you pack light. Took 37 minutes from Little Italy last Thursday.
Parking Cost FAQ
What's the cheapest SAN airport parking cost for a week?
Off-site economy lots win – Laurel Parking at $12/day x 7 days = $84. On-site would run $210+.
Do parking rates change during holidays?
Absolutely. Thanksgiving week saw 20% spikes last year. Book early or use off-airport lots with fixed pricing.
Is there free cell phone waiting lot?
Yes! Off North Harbor Drive with 60 spots. Wait time limit: 1 hour. Saved me $12 in hourly parking last pickup.
Can I prepay for on-site parking?
No – huge gap versus other airports. You pay upon exit. Budget accordingly.
The Parking Reality Check
After tracking my parking expenses for 18 months, here's the raw data:
| Parking Method | Avg Cost Per Trip | Stress Level (1-10) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Terminal 2 Garage | $35/day | 3 (super easy) | Business travelers |
| Off-site economy lot | $14/day | 6 (shuttle timing) | Budget travelers |
| Rideshare | $60 roundtrip | 2 (most relaxing) | Short trips |
| Public transit | $5 | 8 (luggage hassle) | Solo travelers |
Final thought? If I'm gone less than three days, I Uber. Four to seven days, I book Aladdin Parking online. Anything longer, I negotiate with hotel shuttles. The san diego airport parking cost doesn't have to ruin your trip – just plan smarter than I did that chaotic summer day.
Parking Resources Worth Bookmarking
- SAN official parking page (real-time availability)
- SpotHero app – compares 12 off-site providers
- ParkingAccess coupon codes (15% off at 3 major lots)
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