If you live in or around Boston, you know the drill. You’ve got a flight out of Logan. You’re already mentally preparing for the traffic on the Zakim, the inevitable backup in the Sumner Tunnel, and the frantic check-in process. But before you even get to the TSA line, you have to solve the oldest riddle in Massachusetts travel history: Where do I put my car?

For years, travelers have resigned themselves to a painful fate—pulling into the Central Parking garage at the airport, grabbing a ticket, and watching their vacation budget evaporate before the plane even takes off. We’re talking upwards of $41 to $45 a day for the privilege of being onsite.

But here’s the reality: You don’t have to do that.

If you’re willing to drive just a few minutes outside the terminal loop, the landscape of parking changes entirely. We’re going to break down the off-site vs. on-site debate, look at the math (because the numbers in the screenshot above don't lie), and highlight a few hidden gems that let you keep your keys and your cash.

The Real Cost: Off-Site vs. On-Site at Logan

Let’s be honest about the economics here. Convenience usually costs a premium. If you park at the terminal, you are paying for the luxury of walking from your car to the gate. But is a 5-minute walk worth an extra $300 on a week-long trip?

If you look at the current landscape of parking options, the disparity is wild.

• On-Site/Valet: You are looking at roughly $50.00 per day.
• Off-Site Economy: You can find spots as low as $5.99 per day.

And no, it’s not a typo.

When you start looking at the data, specifically regarding distance and ratings, the fear of "off-site" starts to fade. Many travelers assume off-site means "miles away in a muddy field." In reality, we are talking about paved, secure lots in Revere, Chelsea, or East Boston that are merely an 8 to 18-minute shuttle ride away.

Main Mistakes Travelers Make When Booking Airport Parking

We’ve written about travel logistics for years, and we see the same errors pop up constantly.

1. The "I'll Just Figure It Out There" Strategy This is the most expensive mistake you can make. Some people are genuinely unaware that private parking lots exist nearby. They drive straight to the terminal, see the "Full" signs or the posted rates, and panic-park in the most expensive garage because they are crunching for time. If you are in an extreme time crunch, meaning your flight boards in 40 minutes, the $45/day garage might be your only choice. But if you are someone who likes to plan ahead, you have better options.
2. Ignoring the "Keep Your Keys" Factor For many car owners, handing over keys to a valet is a source of anxiety. Will they change my seat settings? Will they take it for a joyride? (Ferris Bueller planted that fear in all of us). One of the biggest advantages of certain off-site lots is the "Self-Park" model. You park, you lock up, you take your keys. Nobody touches your vehicle until you return.
3. Overestimating the Shuttle Delay People fear the shuttle. They worry it won’t show up. However, looking at the ratings for local lots like Airport Parking Boston 1 sitting at a 4.9-star rating, it’s clear that these businesses live and die by their shuttle reliability. If they didn't get you to the terminal on time, they wouldn't be in business.

A Closer Look: Where Should You Actually Park?

Based on pricing, convenience, and traveler feedback, three specific options stand out right now. These cater to different types of travelers, from the budget-conscious to those who want the absolute closest spot possible.

1. The "Peace of Mind" Option: Airport Parking Boston 2

If you are looking for a balance of price and proximity, this is a heavy hitter. Located roughly 13 minutes (3.6 miles) from the airport, it strikes that sweet spot.

Why travelers choose it: The biggest selling point here is control. This is a Park-it-yourself facility. You aren't pulling up to a chaotic valet stand where twelve guys are yelling instructions. You find your spot, you park, and you keep your keys. There is zero hand-off, which means no waiting in a secondary line just to drop off your vehicle.

The lot is well-lit and monitored, which is essential for private property parking. But the real win is for extended trips. If you are flying to Europe for two weeks, daily shuttle fees or valet surcharges can pile up at other locations. Here, the rate is straightforward. Your car stays exactly where you parked it.

Check out the deal for Airport Parking Boston 2 here.

2. The "Budget King" Option: Airport Parking Boston 1

If you look at the comparison chart, this location is offering rates around $5.99/day. In the context of Boston real estate, that is practically free. It is slightly further out (about 18 minutes / 8.6 miles), but for that price, the extra 10 minutes on the shuttle is negligible, especially if you are saving $40 a day compared to the terminal.

Why travellers love it: Similar to its sister lot, this is a self-park facility. No staff hand-off, no check-in lines. It is designed for the long-haul traveler who wants to spend their money on their vacation, not on a slab of asphalt. It’s secure, private, and monitored. If you are going away for 5-7 days or more, the savings here are enough to pay for a nice dinner (or two) at your destination.

Grab the lowest rate here.

3. The "I Hate Waiting" Option: Broadway Motors Airport Parking

For those who get nervous if they are too far from the runway, Broadway Motors is the answer. Sitting just 8 minutes (2.8 miles) from Logan, this is as close as you can get without practically being on the tarmac.

Why travellers love it: Aside from the incredible 4.7-star rating and the proximity, Broadway Motors offers a level of service that feels a bit more premium. It is a gated, well-lit secure lot with 24/7 self-serve access and a key drop box. They are known for fast support (responses under an hour) which is great if your flight gets delayed and you need to communicate with the lot.

They also offer "Extra Services." If you’ve ever come home to a car covered in snow or dust, you’ll appreciate that they offer optional car wash and oil change services while you are gone. Coming home to a clean car is a highly underrated travel hack.

See the offers for Broadway Motors Airport Parking here.

Holiday Travel Tips: Getting to Logan Without the Headache

If you are flying during peak times like Thanksgiving, Christmas, or even school vacation weeks, the rules change slightly. The tunnel traffic gets heavier, and the shuttles run fuller.

• The 30-Minute Buffer: Whatever your GPS says the travel time is to the parking lot, add 30 minutes. You need time to park, unload luggage, and wait for the next shuttle cycle.
• Shuttle Awareness: Most off-site shuttles run on a loop or on-demand. When you park, ask the driver for the direct number or the specific pickup zone at the terminal so you aren't wandering around Arrival/Departure levels when you return.
• Pre-Book Everything: During holidays, even off-site lots fill up. Showing up without a reservation is a gamble you shouldn't take.

Summary: Stop Overpaying for Pavement

Let’s look at that data one more time.

• Airport Valet: $50/day.
• Hampton Inn: $50/day.
• Airport Parking Boston 1: $5.99/day.

The math is simple. You can pay a premium to be 10 minutes closer, or you can use that money to upgrade your seat on the plane.

Parking doesn't have to be the stressful part of your trip. By choosing off-site options like Airport Parking Boston or Broadway Motors, you get a secure spot, a quick shuttle ride, and full control over your vehicle.

Make parking easy. Plan ahead, secure your rate, and enjoy the trip.