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1:00 AM 22nd July 2023
travel

Summer Parking Hacks For Staycationing Brits

 
Image Credit: Unsplash
Image Credit: Unsplash
With staycations on the rise in the UK, Brits have been offered advice on how to find a parking spot in popular destinations.

The motoring people at LeaseCar.uk have revealed seven top tips for holidaymakers to avoid parking chaos and bag themselves a space as the summer season ramps up.

Despite the cost of living crisis, research shows that 73% of Brits refuse to give up their holidays with many opting for staycations instead of travelling overseas.

With Brits heading to popular UK destinations in their droves, domestic tourism hotspots are booming but the inevitable traffic congestion is leaving many frustrated.

The parking tips for UK tourist hotspots are designed to help Brits avoid the stress and inconvenience of not finding a parking spot.

From heading out early to pre-booking or renting a space on a local driveway using an app, road users can follow plenty of tips to increase their chances of bagging a spot.

Other advice includes researching where to park before heading out and using parking apps to find somewhere to leave the car.

A spokesperson for LeaseCar.uk said:
“The UK is full of beautiful seaside towns and hidden gems, and with the rising cost of living, more Brits are sticking to staycations and holidays on their home turf.

“Parking is always tricky around tourist hotspots during the summer break, but with more Brits predicted to flock to popular locations this year, it could prove challenging to find a parking spot.

“With the summer holidays approaching, the last thing families need is to spend ages trying to find a space to park their vehicle before starting their holiday or day out.

“Some tips to help secure a parking spot include heading out as early as possible and searching slightly further from the main attractions in back streets.”

Here are LeaseCar.uk’s seven summer parking tips:

1. Set off early


Heading out early is the easiest way to secure a parking space and beat the crowds. Arriving before 9 am while others enjoy a morning lay-in will also help drivers avoid traffic, congestion, and long queues so families can enjoy their whole day exploring without having the car parking hunt cut into their day.

2. Back streets

Most towns and resorts will have ample parking away from the main tourist hot spots in the back streets of residential areas. Many people won’t think to head further out if they are unfamiliar with the area in case it’s not as convenient, so drivers should consider diverting from the prominent parking areas if it is busy. However, always make sure to check any parking restrictions in place and make a note of where the car was left.

3. Use a parking app

Many trusted parking apps have been developed to help drivers find a parking spot conveniently. While some apps can navigate drivers in real-time to available parking spaces, others can be used to pre-book a place and save stress and hassle on the day.

4. Hire a driveway

Holidaymakers may consider hiring a driveway from a local to guarantee a parking spot while on their travels. Around the country, it has become popular for residents to list their driveways on websites so people desperate for a parking spot can rent them out, especially in areas where parking is scarce.

5. Think outside the box

If the rules allow it, don’t be afraid to park in the more unusual locations. Searching for a parking space in the summer break is grueling, so if a place of work, gym, or supermarket offers convenient parking, don’t be afraid to utilise it.

6. Be smart

The search for a parking space can be made easy if drivers have their wits about them. Keep an eye out for any signs revealing when and where street parking is allowed. Also, check the live digital displays on major routes, which detail which car parks are closest to capacity.

7. Be prepared

Nothing is worse than arriving at a destination and having nowhere to park. Researching online beforehand for the best places to park is a sensible idea, especially when visiting somewhere new. Asking friends and family who have already visited the area will also give drivers a better indication of where is best to park.

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