Parking at CLT Airport

Quick Questions about Parking at Charlotte-Douglas 🚗

🅿️ What is the cheapest option for long-term parking at the airport? Long Term Lots 1 & 2 are usually the most economical within the airport.
⏱️ What if I'm just picking someone up quickly? The Cell Phone Lot is free for waiting, and the Hourly Deck offers the first 15 minutes free, ideal for quick pickups in front of the terminal.
💻 Can I reserve parking online? Yes, it's recommended to book online through CLT's official website or its app to ensure availability and sometimes get better rates.
♿ Is there accessible parking? Yes, all CLT parking facilities have designated accessible spaces near entrances and elevators.
🚌 How do the parking shuttles work? CLT operates free 24/7 shuttles to its on-airport parking lots. Off-airport parking (like The Parking Spot) has its own transportation services.
💡 Is it safe to leave my car in the long-term lots? While generally safe, some older reviews mentioned poorly lit or neglected areas. It's good to take usual precautions.
⚡ Is there EV charging? Yes, the Hourly Deck (levels 4, 5, and 6) and some off-airport parking lots like The Parking Spot offer charging stations.

Passenger Experiences with Parking at Charlotte-Douglas International Airport

Charlotte-Douglas International Airport (CLT) offers a variety of parking options designed to meet different needs and budgets. The general user experience indicates that while the variety is wide, the key is to choose based on the length of stay, budget, and how far in advance one plans. Signage and shuttle frequency are points that sometimes cause confusion or delays, especially during peak hours.

Image from Youtube

Below, we explore the parking options from the perspective of those who have been there, enriched with a user experience insight drawn from real passenger reviews on platforms such as Yelp, Google, Reddit, and TripAdvisor.

On-Airport Parking Options

CLT has multiple parking options within its premises, from free short-term waiting areas to premium services.

📍 Cell Phone Lot

A free designated area for drivers waiting to pick up passengers. Located near the terminal on Josh Birmingham Parkway.

✅ User Perspective (Positive): Very useful for avoiding circling or paying for short waits. It serves its purpose of reducing congestion.
❌ User Perspective (Challenges): Can fill up quickly, especially during busy flight times. The lack of a roof makes it uncomfortable in adverse weather conditions.

📍 Hourly Deck

Located directly opposite the terminal, ideal for very short stays (first 15 minutes free). Features EV charging stations (levels 4, 5, and 6).

✅ User Perspective (Positive): Unbeatable convenience for dropping off or picking up passengers. The first 15 minutes free is a great perk.
❌ User Perspective (Challenges): Finding a space during peak hours is a common challenge. Signage for elevators and pedestrian access could be improved, according to some users.

📍 Daily Decks

Multi-level parking structures for multi-day stays, offering more economical rates than the Hourly Deck. Connected to the terminal by complimentary shuttle buses.

✅ User Perspective (Positive): Good value for multi-day trips. The relative proximity is valued.
❌ User Perspective (Challenges): Shuttle frequency can be inconsistent, with reported waits, especially during off-peak hours. Locating the exact shuttle pickup points is sometimes confusing.

📍 Daily North Lot

An option for long-term parking, located north of the airport, with shuttle service to the terminal.

✅ User Perspective (Positive): A useful alternative when other lots are full. The shuttle service is functional.
❌ User Perspective (Challenges): Some users have perceived the lighting as insufficient at night, causing some unease.

📍 Long Term Lot 1 and 2

The most economical on-airport long-term parking lots, with courtesy shuttle buses.

✅ User Perspective (Positive): The cheapest option for leaving a car for many days within the airport grounds.
❌ User Perspective (Challenges): Shuttle waits are the most common complaint; they can be long and frustrating. Some areas may appear neglected or poorly maintained.

📍 Express Deck Preferred and Express Deck Self-Park

Quick access parking with frequent shuttle service.

✅ User Perspective (Positive): Generally quick access and more frequent shuttles than in the more economical lots. A good option if speed is prioritized a bit more over cost.
❌ User Perspective (Challenges): More expensive than long-term options. Although shuttles are more frequent, occasional delays can still occur.

📍 Valet Parking

Premium service with vehicle drop-off and pick-up in a designated area. Available from 5:00 am to 10:00 pm.

✅ User Perspective (Positive): Maximum convenience, ideal for those traveling with a lot of luggage, young children, or simply wanting to avoid the hassle of finding parking.
❌ User Perspective (Challenges): It is the most expensive option. Delays in vehicle return have been reported during peak demand hours.

📍 Accessible Parking

CLT ensures all parking facilities are accessible, with designated spaces near entrances and elevators, and adapted transportation services. Reservations can be managed via the airport app.

✅ User Perspective (Positive): The availability of spaces in all areas and their strategic location are well-regarded.
❌ User Perspective (Challenges): The clarity of signage to these specific spaces could be improved to make them easier to find.

Rates and Reservations (Information as of May 2025 - Subject to Change)

Hourly Deck: USD8.00 per hour first day | USD32.00 daily maximum | First 15 minutes free.
Daily Decks: USD20.00 daily maximum
Daily North Lot: USD14.00 daily maximum
Long Term Lot 1 & 2: USD12.00 daily maximum
Express Deck Preferred: USD24.00 daily maximum
Express Deck Self-Park: USD20.00 daily maximum
Valet Parking: USD45.00 daily maximum

It is highly recommended to book online through CLT's official website or its app (available on the App Store and Google Play) to secure a spot and potentially get better rates. Always verify current prices before your trip.

General parking inquiries: +1 704 359 5555 or press the "INFO" button at the blue call boxes in lots and decks.

📍 Off-Airport Parking

There are parking alternatives managed by private companies outside the airport grounds, often offering more competitive rates in exchange for additional travel time.

📍 OneAirParking

External parking service with economical options and free shuttle to the terminal.

✅ User Perspective (Positive): Competitive rates. The shuttle service, when punctual, serves its purpose.
❌ User Perspective (Challenges): Reliance on the shuttle and its variable frequency can add stress if traveling short on time. Booking in advance is recommended as it can fill up.

📍 The Parking Spot

An option located approximately 0.6 miles from the airport, offering both covered and uncovered parking. Provides a free 24/7 shuttle service with pick-up directly at your vehicle and luggage assistance. Amenities include EV charging stations.

✅ User Perspective (Positive): The door-to-door shuttle service and luggage assistance are highly valued. Covered parking options and additional services are a plus.
❌ User Perspective (Challenges): Shuttle wait times can be variable (10-40 min during peak hours). Rates may be higher compared to other off-site options.

🚍 Shuttle Services in Parking Areas

Charlotte-Douglas Airport's shuttle service covers both on-airport parking lots and facilitates the arrival of shuttles from off-airport parking lots operated by private companies.

On-Airport Shuttle Transportation

CLT offers free 24/7 shuttles connecting parking areas (Long Term Lots, Daily Decks, Daily North Lot, Express Decks) to the terminal, generally with a frequency of 10-15 minutes. Return pick-up stops are on the inner lanes of the lower level (Arrivals/Baggage Claim).

Image from Youtube

On-airport shuttles do not service off-airport parking lots.

Off-Airport Shuttle Transportation

Companies like OneAirParking and The Parking Spot operate their own buses or vans. Frequency and wait times can vary, as they are managed by each individual company.

OneAirParking: Free 24/7 shuttle, frequency based on demand.
The Parking Spot: Door-to-door 24/7 shuttle, estimated wait of 10-40 min at peak.

📌 Key Differences Between Airport and Private Shuttles

Feature	CLT On-Airport Shuttles	Private Parking Shuttles
Cost	Free	Usually free (included with parking)
Frequency	10-15 min (target)	Varies by demand (e.g., 10-40 min)
Hours	24/7	24/7 (company dependent)
Pick-up Points	Within airport parking lots and terminal.	At private facilities and designated terminal spots.
Operator	Managed by CLT	Managed by each private company

🔎 Conclusion: Which Parking Option to Choose?

The best parking option at CLT Airport depends on your budget, how long you need to park, and the level of convenience you're looking for:

✈️ For short trips or quick pick-ups/drop-offs: The Hourly Deck is the most convenient due to its proximity to the terminal. The Cell Phone Lot is ideal for free waiting.
💰 To save money on long-term stays (on-airport): The Long Term Lot 1 & 2 are the most economical, but be prepared for potential shuttle waits.
🚗 For greater convenience and speed (on-airport): The Express Deck offers a good balance, and Valet Parking is the premium option.
🌍 For those seeking more economical off-airport alternatives: OneAirParking and The Parking Spot are good options, but consider the additional travel time and shuttle frequency.

Regardless of your choice, booking online in advance is highly recommended to secure your spot and, in many cases, get better prices. Always check the latest information on rates and availability before your trip.