Drivers have been encouraged to do some research as they could be needlessly overpaying for their parking. You may also want to rethink where you choose to park near your home.
Expert Tips for Saving on Parking Costs
Motoring experts at online car selling platform Autotrader have shared some tips on how to save on parking costs. Tom Roberts from the group said: "A few simple habits can make a real difference to what you spend on parking." He emphasised that planning ahead is definitely worth it. The expert stated: "Booking in advance almost always beats paying on the day, with even a few hours' notice unlocking a lower rate. Comparison sites and apps let you see all your options in one place rather than just pulling into the first car park you see."
He added: "It's also worth checking whether your destination has any free or discounted parking nearby, particularly in retail parks or leisure venues where parking is validated." Another tip for achieving significant savings: "And if you're making a regular trip, a monthly or weekly permit from a local operator can work out significantly cheaper than daily rates adding up over time."
Most Congested UK Cities for Parking
The group used data from parking site Parkopedia to identify which UK cities have the least parking relative to the number of cars on the road. Bradford was the most congested, with 18,394 spaces available for some 215,600 cars, meaning just 85 spaces per 1,000 vehicles. Sunderland followed, with 115,500 cars competing for only 11,461 spaces, resulting in just 99 spaces per 1,000 vehicles. Leeds, Sheffield, and Birmingham were also among the most congested.
Finding Parking Near Home
If you struggle to find a spot near where you live, Mr Roberts has some advice. He said: "If you're regularly struggling to find parking near home, the first step is to get to know your local area beyond the obvious spots. Many drivers default to the same streets or car parks out of habit, but there are often quieter roads just a short walk away that are far less competitive. It's also worth exploring whether your local council offers a residents' permit scheme; if one exists and you're not using it, you could be missing out on protected spaces." He recommended trying apps like Parkopedia or JustPark to find spaces you might not know about, such as privately rented driveways, which "can be a real lifeline in denser areas".
Reducing Parking Stress
Mr Roberts said planning ahead where you will park can save a lot of stress on the day of travel. He explained: "Booking a space in advance using a parking app is a great option. Not only does it guarantee you somewhere to go, but it often works out cheaper than turning up and paying on the day. It's also worth thinking about park-and-ride options on the edge of the city, which can be quicker and far less frustrating than crawling through traffic looking for a space in the centre. And if your plans are flexible, avoid peak times; mid-morning on a weekday is typically much calmer than a Saturday afternoon."
