Finding a parking spot, especially in crowded urban areas or during peak hours, can often be a frustrating experience. Fortunately, modern navigation apps like Google Maps and Apple Maps offer features designed to help users locate available parking spots efficiently. With the integration of advanced features like parking availability indicators and recommendations, these apps make it easier than ever to plan your parking and save time.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through how to use these apps to find parking spots, additional tips for efficient parking, and troubleshooting common challenges.
Why Use Navigation Apps for Parking?
Navigation apps provide more than just driving directions. They are designed to make your journey smoother, including the often-overlooked task of parking.
Here are some reasons to rely on maps for parking:
1. Real-Time Availability: Many apps display real-time parking availability, helping you avoid wasted time driving in circles.
2. Convenience: Find parking spots near your destination effortlessly.
3. Integration with Directions: Apps can guide you directly to the parking lot or street parking.
4. Cost Management: Some apps indicate the cost of parking, allowing you to choose based on your budget.
5. Safety: Reduce stress and distractions while driving by planning parking in advance.
How to Find Parking Spots Using Google Maps
Google Maps offers robust parking features, including suggestions for nearby parking spots and real-time availability in some areas.
Here’s how you can make the most of it:
Step 1: Search for Your Destination
1. Open the Google Maps app on your device.
2. Enter your destination in the search bar and tap on it to load directions.
Step 2: View Parking Options
1. Once your destination is set, tap Directions.
2. At the bottom, look for the Parking icon (a “P” symbol) or the Find Parking option (available in some regions).
3. Tap on Find Parking to see a list of nearby parking spots, including garages and street parking.
Step 3: Select a Parking Spot
1. Choose a parking spot based on distance, availability, and cost.
2. Google Maps may indicate the availability as Limited, Moderate, or Easy.
Step 4: Navigate to the Parking Spot
1. Once you’ve selected a parking option, tap Add Parking to set it as your first stop.
2. Start navigation to the parking spot, after which you can walk to your final destination.
Additional Features in Google Maps
1. Parking Difficulty Indicator: Some locations display an icon indicating the ease of finding parking, rated from Easy to Limited.
2. Save Parking Location: After parking, tap the blue location dot on the map and select Save your parking. This helps you easily find your car later.
How to Find Parking Spots Using Apple Maps
Apple Maps, available on iPhones and other Apple devices, also offers parking-related features in partnership with third-party apps like SpotHero.
Step 1: Search for Your Destination
1. Open the Apple Maps app.
2. Enter your destination in the search bar and tap on it.
Step 2: Look for Parking Options
1. Scroll up on the destination information card.
2. Tap Parking (if available) to see a list of nearby parking garages and lots.
3. Some locations will link you to third-party apps like SpotHero for detailed parking options.
Step 3: Navigate to a Parking Spot
1. Select a parking location and start navigation.
2. Once parked, you can mark your car’s location by tapping Mark Location in the Apple Maps app.
Third-Party Integration with Apple Maps
Apple Maps integrates with apps like SpotHero and ParkWhiz for advanced parking features.
These apps allow you to:
1. Reserve parking spots in advance.
2. View detailed pricing and availability.
Filter parking options based on preferences like EV charging or covered parking.
Using Specialized Parking Apps
For those who need advanced features or are in areas where parking is particularly challenging, dedicated parking apps can be a great solution.
1. SpotHero
Features: SpotHero allows you to reserve parking spots in advance, view pricing, and find discounted rates.
How to Use: Search for your destination, view available parking spots, and book directly through the app.
2. ParkWhiz
Features: Similar to SpotHero, ParkWhiz offers real-time availability and allows for reservations.
How to Use: Enter your destination and select a parking spot based on filters like price and proximity.
3. Parking Panda
Features: Focused on pre-booking parking spaces, Parking Panda provides a seamless experience for event parking.
How to Use Maps for Street Parking
While parking garages are a popular choice, street parking can be more economical and convenient.
Google Maps Street Parking Tips
1. Use the Street View feature to identify areas with available street parking.
2. Check for restrictions like time limits or permit-only zones.
3. Some cities display real-time street parking availability directly in Google Maps.
Apple Maps Street Parking Tips
Apple Maps integrates with city-specific parking information services to show nearby street parking options. Check your city’s supported features in the app.
Tips for Finding Parking Spots More Efficiently
1. Plan Ahead: Use maps or parking apps to search for parking before you leave home.
2. Reserve Spots: Book parking in advance through apps like SpotHero or ParkWhiz.
3. Avoid Peak Times: Parking is easier to find during off-peak hours.
4. Use Public Transit: Combine driving with public transport to park in less crowded areas.
5. Look for Shared Parking: Apps like JustPark connect you with homeowners renting out driveways.
How to Save and Find Your Parking Location
On Google Maps
1. After parking, open the Google Maps app.
2. Tap the blue dot that represents your current location.
3. Select Save your parking.
4. To find your car later, open Google Maps and tap on the saved parking location.
On Apple Maps
1. After parking, open the Apple Maps app.
2. Tap Mark Location.
3. Use the pin to navigate back to your parked car.
Common Challenges and Solutions
1. Difficulty Finding Spots in Busy Areas
Solution: Use apps with real-time availability or consider parking slightly farther from your destination.
2. High Parking Costs
Solution: Compare pricing across multiple apps and choose budget-friendly options.
3. Forgetting Parking Location
Solution: Always save your parking location in your maps app.
4. Limited Availability of Parking Features
Solution: Check for app updates or explore third-party apps for additional functionality
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can Google Maps Show Real-Time Parking Availability?
Yes, but this feature is only available in certain cities and locations.
2. Can I Reserve Parking Through Apple Maps?
Apple Maps integrates with third-party apps like SpotHero to allow parking reservations.
3. Are Parking Apps Free?
Most parking apps are free to download but may charge a fee for reservations.
4. Do These Features Work Offline?
Some apps allow you to download maps for offline use, but parking availability may not update without an internet connection.
Conclusion
Finding a parking spot is no longer a stressful task thanks to the features offered by Google Maps, Apple Maps, and dedicated parking apps. By planning ahead, using real-time data, and reserving spots where necessary, you can save time and ensure a smoother parking experience.
Whether you’re navigating a busy city or heading to a specific destination, the right tools and techniques can make all the difference. Explore the parking features in your preferred maps app, and enjoy hassle-free journeys from start to finish.