How to Use Economy Parking P6

Navigating airport parking can often feel like an expensive, stressful prelude to your journey. But what if there was an option that offered both affordability and convenience for your long-term parking needs? Enter Economy Parking P6. This comprehensive guide will walk you through how to use Economy Parking P6 effectively, ensuring a smoother, more budget-friendly start to your next trip.

Why Choose Economy Parking P6?

For many travelers, the primary concern when parking at the airport is cost, especially for extended trips. Economy Parking P6, often referred to simply as P6, is typically the most budget-friendly on-site parking option available at major airports like Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR). While it's located a bit further from the terminals, the significant savings often outweigh the slight increase in travel time.

P6 is particularly ideal for:

Long-term travelers: If your trip lasts several days or even weeks, P6 offers a much more economical daily rate compared to short-term or daily parking garages.
Budget-conscious flyers: Looking to cut down on overall travel expenses? P6 is designed with affordability in mind.
Those who don't mind a shuttle ride: Since P6 is located approximately three miles from the terminal area, a complimentary shuttle service connects you directly to your departure gate.

Locating Economy Parking P6: Your First Step

Finding Economy Parking P6 is straightforward, but it helps to know what to look for. Generally, P6 is situated a few miles from the main terminal complex. For instance, at EWR, it's located about three miles away, often across from major routes like Route 1/9.

As you approach the airport, keep an eye out for clear signage directing you to "Economy Parking" or "P6." These signs are designed to guide you directly to the lot entrance. It's always a good idea to check the official airport website or a reliable mapping service for the most current directions before you leave.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Use Economy Parking P6

Using P6 is a streamlined process once you understand the steps involved. Here’s a breakdown to ensure a hassle-free experience:

1. Pre-Book Your Parking (Highly Recommended!)

This is arguably the most crucial step for a smooth P6 experience. While you can often drive up, pre-booking your spot online, especially during peak travel seasons, guarantees you a space and can often secure you the best rates.

When to book: Aim to pre-book at least 24 hours in advance of your arrival.
How to book: Visit the official airport parking website or a trusted third-party parking reservation service. You'll typically enter your entry and exit dates/times and select P6.
Payment: If pre-booking, you'll pay with a credit or debit card online.
Confirmation: You'll receive a confirmation number and often a QR code via email. Keep this handy, either printed or on your phone.

2. Arriving at the Lot

Once you've navigated to the Economy Parking P6 lot:

Follow signs for pre-booked entry: If you pre-booked, make sure to use the designated "pre-booked ticket entry lanes" or follow signs for pre-booking. Do not use an E-ZPass lane for entry if you've pre-booked, as this could lead to being charged twice.
Automated entry: Your license plate might be scanned, and the barrier should lift automatically. If there's an issue, scan your QR code or press the call button for assistance.
Find a spot: P6 is typically a large, open-air lot. Drive around until you find an available parking space. Remember your parking section or row number to easily locate your vehicle upon return. Taking a photo of your parking spot with your phone can be a lifesaver!

3. Getting to Your Terminal

This is where the complimentary shuttle service comes in.

Locate the shuttle stop: Look for clearly marked shuttle stops within the P6 lot.
Wait for the shuttle: P6 shuttle buses generally run 24 hours a day, seven days a week, departing frequently (e.g., every 10-15 minutes).
Board the shuttle: The buses are often wheelchair accessible and have "kneeling" capability. The shuttle ride to the terminals typically takes around 20 minutes. Factor this travel time into your overall airport schedule, especially during peak hours.
Terminal drop-off: Shuttles will drop you off at your specific terminal (A, B, or C).

4. Returning to Economy Parking P6

After your trip, getting back to your car is just as simple:

Terminal pickup: Look for the "Parking P6 Shuttle" signs at the designated pickup locations outside your arrival terminal (e.g., Terminal A, Level 1; Terminal B, Level 1; Terminal C, Level 1).
Board the shuttle: The shuttle will take you back to the P6 lot.
Locate your car: Use the photo you took or the section number you noted to find your vehicle.
Exiting the lot: At the exit gate, if you pre-booked, your license plate might be scanned again, or you might need to insert the credit card used for booking. If you stayed longer than your pre-booked time, you'll pay the difference upon exit. If you didn't pre-book, you can pay using major credit/debit cards, E-ZPass Plus, or contactless payment methods. Cash is generally not accepted.

Maximizing Your P6 Experience

To make your use of Economy Parking P6 even smoother:

Check real-time information: Before heading to the airport, check the official airport website for real-time parking availability and shuttle status updates.
Allow ample time: The distance from the terminals and reliance on shuttle service means you need to factor in extra time for parking and transit. Don't cut it too close!
Consider off-site alternatives: While P6 is the cheapest on-site option, several off-site parking facilities near airports like EWR can offer even lower rates and additional perks like valet service or luggage assistance.
Know the rules for long stays: If you plan to park for more than 30 days, you'll need to contact the parking operator (e.g., ABM at EWR) upon arrival to avoid your vehicle being considered abandoned and towed.
Utilize complimentary services: P6 often offers services like battery jump-starts, flat-tire assistance, auto lockout service, and lost vehicle location. Don't hesitate to use the "HELP" phones in the lot if you need assistance.

Conclusion

Using Economy Parking P6 is a smart choice for travelers seeking affordable, long-term airport parking. While it requires a bit of planning and reliance on shuttle services, the cost savings can be substantial, making your overall travel budget stretch further. By understanding the process—from pre-booking to shuttle navigation—you can transform what might seem like a minor inconvenience into a seamless part of your journey.

Have you used Economy Parking P6 before? Share your tips and experiences in the comments below to help fellow travelers!

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: How far is Economy Parking P6 from the airport terminals?

A1: Economy Parking P6 is typically located about three miles from the main airport terminals. This distance necessitates the use of a complimentary shuttle service to reach your departure and arrival gates.

Q2: How often do the P6 shuttle buses run?

A2: The shuttle buses serving Economy Parking P6 usually run 24 hours a day, seven days a week, with departures approximately every 10 to 15 minutes.

Q3: Can I pay with cash at Economy Parking P6?

A3: Generally, Economy Parking P6 does not accept cash payments. Accepted payment methods typically include major credit/debit cards, E-ZPass Plus, and contactless payment options like Apple Pay or Google Pay.

Q4: Is it necessary to pre-book parking at P6?

A4: While not always mandatory, it is highly recommended to pre-book your parking spot at Economy Parking P6, especially during busy travel periods. Pre-booking guarantees you a space and can often secure a better daily rate.