Bizarre: this is how much parking costs at Schiphol during the May holiday

You don't want to know, but you have to know this: parking at Schiphol is really bizarrely expensive this May holiday. And let that just be the moment when half of the Netherlands runs with their suitcases to the rolling suitcase, because more and more people are choosing to vacation during the May holiday instead of in the summer. (Could it be because of the heatwaves?) And so: massive exodus. But also massive price increases for everything around that exodus, and parking is now officially the new gold.

Parking at Schiphol: how expensive can it get?

Well, very expensive. Where you could previously score by planning a bit cleverly (booking early, walking a long distance, hoping for a deal), now even with forward thinking, you're just in big trouble. For a week of parking at Schiphol during the May holiday, you can easily spend between €130 and €250 . And no, you're not parked in a heated private garage with champagne upon arrival. Just outside, in a spot, among other vacationers with ski boxes or stuffed roof boxes.

A week of parking is therefore worth a plane ticket

Let's put it in perspective: for that same amount, you could also book a round trip to Ibiza with hand luggage and maybe even a first cocktail. Or a new bikini, beach bag, and sunscreen for the whole family. But no, you're just paying it for the spot where your car is sitting bored while you're lying on the beach.

Why is it so expensive?

The demand is enormous. And the supply? Not necessarily increased. Everyone wants to go away during the May holiday, and Schiphol knows that. They play it smart, supply and demand, you know. And yes, people prefer convenience: nice with their own car, no hauling, you determine your travel time. But convenience = expensive. Especially now.

Alternatives (yes, they really exist)

Fortunately, there are ways to bypass these parking towers. Because hello, you can better spend that money on cocktails or sun hats.

Kiss & Ride with your dad, sister-in-law, or dear neighbor

Old-fashioned but oh so effective. Let yourself be dropped off and picked up. A big hug and wave moment, and zero parking costs. Loving and economical.

Park + Sleep + Fly hotels

Many hotels around Schiphol offer this brilliant concept: you sleep there the night before your flight and can leave your car for free or cheaply. Sometimes even including a shuttle to the departure hall. Think of places like Ibis or Van der Valk – just google and you have your deal.

Private parking services (with valet)

There are companies that pick up your car at Schiphol and park it safely on a lot a bit further away. Upon your return, your car is ready for you again. Saves stress and sometimes also money. A handy comparison site is Parkos.nl.

Park at a station outside Amsterdam and take the train

For example, park at a station like Amersfoort, Leiden, or Utrecht and take the train to Schiphol from there. Often cheaper and you avoid the traffic jam.

Flying from Eindhoven or Rotterdam? Lucky you

The price increases are most felt at Schiphol. If you're flying from Eindhoven or Rotterdam, the parking rates are still somewhat friendly to your wallet. Another reason to think outside the Randstad.

This is how you save money on your vacation start

• Book your parking spot at least 4 weeks in advance
• Use price comparison sites like Parkos.nl
• Also look at vacation packages with parking options
• Plan your departure smartly: early or just late in the day
• Travel together: carpooling is more fun and cheaper

Conclusion: parking is the new business class

So dear people, just a heads up: if you're going on vacation this weekend, check your parking options, and do it now. Because the last thing you want is to start your vacation with a parking frustration of €250.

Or, even better: spend that money on fun things. Because let's be honest, a sun vacation without parking money worries is just a bit nicer, right?

Source: Now.nl