Graduation Travel Tips

Graduation is just around the corner. Many times, grads love to celebrate their accomplishments with a trip or vacation of a lifetime, before they settle into a full time job. If this sounds like you or someone you know, check out our list of travel tips just for grads:

1. Don't be afraid. This is our #1 piece of advice! Jump feet first into your life long dream. You already accomplished graduation [whew!], now it's your turn to have fun!
2. Research your options. Do you know what WOOFing is? Never heard of Airbnb? Maybe it's time to do some research into all the alternatives out there. Traveling somewhere fun and new doesn't have to be a financial burden. Have the credentials? Why not spend a semester in South Korea teaching English? 
3. Save your pennies. No matter what option you choose, travel is going to take some money. Do the hard part now while you finish up school. Take on a few extra hours at work. Eat dinner at home for the next month and forego your daily Starbucks. A penny saved is a penny earned!
4. Get the most bang for your buck. Sure, places like Italy and the UK are popular destinations, but that also makes them expensive. Why not consider Thailand, Belize, or Cambodia? At many of these destinations, you are able to eat on $10 a day and can receive a massage on the beach for just a few bucks! What's not to love?!
5. Wait just a few months. Summer is often the busiest and most expensive time to travel. If you spend a few more months at home and leave for your trip in say, September, you will be able to score fantastic deals! 

A1 Express wishes to extend a heartfelt "Congratulations" to all of the new graduates! If you are driving yourself to the airport and need a place to park, check out our website and download our Tampa Airport Parking coupon to save money on your reservation! 

Tampa Airport Parking Frequently Asked Questions

Have questions about our Tampa Airport Parking service? Looking to find out more before booking with us? Don't worry! We answer your frequently asked questions below! As always, don't forget to make your free online reservation with us!

How Far from the airport is your lot?
We are located less than a mile from Tampa International Airport.

What exit from the freeway do I take to get to your parking lot?
Everyone takes the Spruce Street exit. For complete directions and maps. Click Here

How long does it take to get to the airport form your parking lot?
We ask you to allow approximately 15 minutes for check in and getting to the airport.

Do I need a reservation?
Reservations are not required, but recommended for Thanksgiving and Christmas holiday travel. Click Here to book your reservation.

How do I get back to your lot when I return from my trip?
You need to call for a pick up when you have your bags and are ready.

How long does it take to get picked up from the airport?
Pick up time should be 15 minutes or less.

Will you help with my luggage?
Yes, our shuttle drivers will help you load and unload luggage up to 50 pounds.

What auto services do you offer?
We offer a variety of detail services. For a list of services Click Here.

How do you calculate parking charges?
Our parking rates are based on a 24 hour period beginning when you check in at our parking lot. We allow a 2 hour grace period from that time. Sales tax of 7% also applies.

What discounts if any do you offer?
We offer a free day coupon with a seven day minimum stay. Click Here for a coupon.

Can I combine discounts?
No. You are limited to one discount per stay.

Do you offer an airline employee discount?
Yes, airline employees with proper ID get a 50% discounted rate.

Do you offer any frequent parking rewards programs?
Yes. Click Here To Sign Up.

Tampa Airport Parking Coupons

Who doesn't love Tampa Airport parking coupons? Better yet, who doesn't love a free day of Tampa Airport parking? Here at A1 Express, we know that if you are searching for parking at TPA, you are on the hunt for some fantastic Tampa Airport Parking Coupons.  If you have to drive yourself to Tampa International Airport, you are going to have to find and pay for TPA Airport parking. Coupons for Tampa Airport Parking can help save you time and money on a service that you will already be using!

At A1 Express, we are proud to offer Tampa Airport parking coupons and a simple, three-click online reservation tool to make booking your TPA parking a little easier.We are committed to providing customers with the cheapest Tampa Airport parking rates possible on a daily basis, but we love to throw in a TPA parking coupon so that you can save a little extra money on the side. 

Why do we love coupons for Tampa Airport Parking so much? Because we understand that TPA Airport parking can come as an unexpected cost during your travels. Printing out our Tampa Airport Parking coupon is one of the best ways to same money on parking at Tampa International Airport. 

Try our FREE online Tampa Airport parking reservations tool and reserve your TPA Airport parking right here on our blog, or directly from our website.  Don't forget to join us, add us and follow us and keep an eye out for more unique Tampa Airport Parking deals!

Check out our featured Tampa Airport parking coupon below and stay tuned for more savings in the future:

Now that you have your TPA parking coupon, don't forget to make your free online Tampa Airport Parking reservation right here on our blog, or from our website! We want you to save money AND reserve your very own Tampa Airport Parking space! 

Why Off-Airport Parking?

The benefits of using off-airport parking at Tampa Airport are as numerous as the cars parked there! Because of the large number of travelers passing through Tampa Airport, finding a parking spot has become increasingly difficult. Wherever you decide to park, there is usually a sliding scale of services, from cheaper self-park to more extravagant valet with waxing services.

 Off airport parking offers a reasonable option to the packed and expensive conditions of the usual Tampa Airport parking garage. This alternative usually costs a fraction of what airport parking at TPA costs, and is perfect for short or long term trips.

When you think about parking solutions at Tampa International Airport, you should take time and consider the benefits of off-airport parking.

A1 Express offers Tampa Airport Parking options for every budget and there is something for everyone. A1 Express offers 24/hour security, and friendly staff that can help you along the way. In addition, A1 Express offers free online reservations. Although reservations are not required, they are suggested so that you have a parking spot set aside just for you when you arrive at the parking lot.

Benefits of Off-Airport Parking:

1. Affordable Rates: It is easy to analyze the rates of short-term, long-term and off-site airport parking to get the best deal. In many cases, the prices can be found online. You can also research the rates over the phone by requesting information in order to find out the most affordable airport parking. Using off-site parking means that you can enjoy more affordable rates with several other benefits such as added security, online reservations, and complementary shuttle rides to/from the airport. These options make off-site parking a fantastic choice.

2. Fast Service: You may think it becomes faster to use on-site parking at the airport, but this is not necessarily the case. At many airports with on-site parking, you have to drive around in an attempt to find an open spot. This process can be quick, or it can take 10-15 min, if you are lucky to even find a parking space. In addition, you must pull out your luggage and drag it with you to the terminal. Similarly, with short-term parking, you must take your own luggage to the airport, and this may be quite a distance. When you use off-site Tampa Airport parking, you are able to drive right up to the pick-up section and have a staff member park your vehicle for you. The employee unloads your luggage out of your car and loads it into the shuttle to take you to the airport. This is a hassle-free solution that is typically much faster.

                                                                                                                                                              

3. Convenience: While travelling, you may be stressed about trying to find a secure parking spot at the airport. When you are using the off-site parking services you are using the services of private company that is focused on customer service and customer needs. A1 Express is proud to offer affordable Tampa airport parking options that can make your travel experience easier and more convenient when you arrive at the airport as well as when you return home from your trip.

                                                                                                                                                              These are just a few of the many benefits of off-site Tampa Airport Parking which saves your time and money. Book your off-site parking in advance, secure your spot, and take advantage of special deals.

Common Sense Airport Hacks

Our friends at Toggl designed this super awesome graphic depicting how to make it through the airport with the least amount of stress as possible! Air travel doesn't have to be difficult if you don't overthink it! A little common sense goes a long way! Start your trip off right by making your free online reservation with A1 Express in order to reserve your Tampa Airport Parking. 

Tampa Airport Parking Process

Parking at Tampa International Airport doesn't have to be stressful, expensive, or time consuming! Once you make your free online reservation with A1 Express Airport parking, you have already won half of the battle! There are just a few more steps that must be completed in order for you to have a stress-free Tampa Airport parking experience.

We require 15 minutes to check you in and shuttle you the airport. So, we strive to make our airport parking service simple and easy for you. Once you arrive, follow these simple steps for an easy parking experience:

• Check-in at the counter
• Obtain your claim ticket
• Allow driver to load your bags
• Take the shuttle to the airport
• Arrive at curb side stress free!

Merry Christmas from A1 Express!

We want to take a moment to wish you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!!
Don't forget to book your Tampa Airport Parking with A1-Express and save time and energy in the new year!

Instead of wasting away half of your 2016 searching for parking spots, make your online reservation with us and let us do the rest! You will even enjoy a ride in our complimentary shuttle. This means we will battle Tampa Airport traffic while you sit back and relax. What could be better?

Online reservations are always free! Take advantage of savings and book with us!

4 Holiday Travel Survival Tips

There are roughly two weeks until Christmas! Crazy, right? Millions of people will be hitting the sky this holiday season to travel and visit friends and loved ones. Prepare to save your sanity with these four survival tips:

1. Reserve your parking in advance. Since you and millions of others will be traveling this holiday, it is important to reserve your A1 Express Airport Parking in advance. Reserving ahead will often save you money, and certainly saves you the stress of searching for a spot last minute. You can even reserve right here from our blog. Don't forget to show us your AAA card and save! 
2. Pack light. We know, you might be going somewhere cold and may need to bring heavier clothing. Don't fall into that trap! Do a simple online search for packing tips for winter travel and you will be all set. Carrying on your bag will save you tons of time and you wont have to worry about your bag ending up in a different city than you are. 
3. Avoid wrapping. Those pretty presents you spent hours wrapping? TSA might find them sketchy and may have to unwrap them to check the contents. Avoid wasting hours of work by simply wrapping any gifts when you arrive at your destination.
4. Eat something. Low blood sugar sucks. Being hangry sucks. Getting upset for no reason isn't great either. Staying hydrated and keeping your tummy full can do wonders for your sanity this holiday travel season. Pack a few healthy snacks and leave for your flight on a full stomach. 

Happy Thanksgiving!

HAPPY THANKSGIVING from A1 Express!!

Some people just hop in their car and drive 15 minutes to Grandmas, but many Americans have relatives and friends in other states or part of the world. If you are a part of this elite group and you have to get your travel on Thanksgiving, remember these three tips:

1.     Longer Lines are for your Safety! We all love safety, especially on holidays, right? With the recent terror attacks/threats, TSA and airport security will be heightened, so expect to wait a bit longer. With your expectations already low, your slightly-longer-than-normal security wait won’t seem so bad!

2.    Bad Weather Backup! Bad weather almost always plays a factor in thanksgiving travel. Look up alternate flight routes/other carriers that fly to your same destination, and be prepared to act fast if your flight is delayed for a long period of time and/or cancelled.

3.    Leave Early! We usually recommend arriving at our Tampa Airport Parking facility 2-2.5 hours in advance of when your flight leaves. If you are traveling on Thanksgiving, we suggest leaving 3-3.5 hours of time. After all, sitting at your gate drinking Starbucks is a whole lot better than calling your airline because you missed your flight.

Be safe and Happy Thanksgiving! 

Tampa Airport Parking Coupons

Newsflash: There are exactly TWO weeks until Thanksgiving [scary!] and a little over a month until Christmas! You probably have your flight booked for your winter holiday trip out of Tampa International Airport, but you most likely forgot about how you will get to and from TPA. This is when you must consider your Tampa Airport Parking options.

Here at A1 Express, we know that if you are searching for TPA parking, you are also on the hunt for Tampa Airport parking coupons. Coupons for Tampa Airport parking can help you save money and time on a service that you will already be using this holiday season. We are proud to offer Tampa Airport parking coupons and a simple, three-click online reservation tool to make booking your TPA parking a little easier.

We are committed to providing customers with the cheapest Tampa Airport parking rates possible on a daily basis, but we love to throw in a TPA parking coupon so that you can save a little extra money on the side. We fully understand that the holidays are a busy [and expensive!] time of year for most people, and we get that Tampa International Airport parking can come as an unexpected fee, but we strive to help you save money in any way we can.

Traveling over the holidays can get expensive and stressful, but printing out our Tampa Airport parking coupon is one of the best ways to save money on TPA Airport parking. That way, you can use the extra money you are saving to purchase special gifts for your loved ones.

Try our FREE online TPA parking reservation tool and reserve your cheap Tampa Airport parking right here on our blog or directly from our website. Don't forget to add us, join us, and follow us in order to keep an eye out for more unique Tampa Airport Parking deals!

Check out our featured Tampa Airport parking coupon below and stay tuned for more savings in the future:

We wish you a safe and fruitful holiday filled with family and friends!

Directions to Tampa International Airport

 

 

Trying to find our Tampa International Airport parking location is super simple! Follow these easy directions and contact us if you have any questions. Don't forget to make your free online Tampa Airport parking reservation from our website, or right here from our blog! We look forward to seeing you soon! 

Directions from St. Petersburg, Sarasota and Bradenton:

From I 275 North, take the airport exit #39 follow signage for Tampa International Airport after taking Airport Exit, then take the Spruce Street exit on right. At first light turn right onto O'Brien Street. Take the first right into the Avion Park complex then follow signage to A-1 Express office.

OOPS!!! Took exit 39 for Kennedy Boulevard instead of Airport exit?
Go 2 lights to Kennedy take a left at the light get in right lane for Spruce Street exit. The first light on Spruce Street is O'Brien take a right. We are on the corner. Enter into the Avion Park complex and follow signage to A-1 Express office.

Directions from North Tampa, Brandon, Lakeland:

Take I-275 south to the Airport exit stay in right lane follow signage to Spruce Street exit, at first light turn right onto O’Brien then turn right into Avion Park follow signage to A-1 Express office.

Direction from Clearwater, Palm Harbor, Dunedin:

Take Hwy. 60, follow Airport exit stay in right lane follow signage to Spruce Street exit, at first light turn right onto O’Brien then turn right into Avion Park follow signage to A-1 Express office.

Directions from Veteran’s Expressway:

Take express all the way to the end follow the signs for Airport exit stay in right lane follow signage to Spruce Street exit, at first light turn right onto O’Brien then turn right into Avion Park follow signage to A-1 Express office.

Tampa Airport Parking Tips

So you booked your flight out of Tampa International Airport, printed out your Tampa Airport Parking Coupon, and are just now starting to think about your TPA Airport parking options. We know, airport parking is probably the last thing on your mind, but it is a necessary evil when you are driving to the airport. Check out our handy list of Tampa Airport parking tips:

1. Make your free online Tampa Airport parking reservation with A1 Express and receive the cheapest Tampa airport parking rates. You can even reserve right here from our blog!  

2. If you haven't already, print out your Tampa Airport Parking coupon and save big!  

3. Check your flight status with your airline because you never know if your plane will be delayed and/or early! 

4. Arrive at our facility 2 hours before your flight. While we are only located a few minutes away from Tampa International Airport, we want to make your journey as stress free as possible.  

5. Sit back, relax, and enjoy our complementary shuttle to your TPA terminal. 

Best Times to Book Holiday Travel for 2015 and Save!

Believe it or not, the holidays are just around the corner! Along with the holidays comes tons of people traveling through Tampa International Airport to destinations around the world! This could be stressful, but preparation is key! We want you to be as prepared as possible! As a result, we have complied some helpful tips and tricks regarding booking your airfare out of Tampa International Airport over the holiday season.

•  SkyScanner found that if you book your Christmas flights THIS WEEK (the week of Sept. 28), you will save an estimated 9.1% on fares! Late to the game? Booking between November 2-8 will save you an estimated 4.8% savings on Christmas travel. Something is certainly better than nothing!
• Book your Tampa Airport parking with us in advance to save money! Traveling for an extended period of time? Take advantage of our special Tampa Airport Parking coupon deal for even bigger savings. As soon as you book your flight, don't forget to make your online TPA parking reservation and avoid the stress of full lots during the holidays.
• Flexibility with your travel dates goes a long way. For example, the day before Thanksgiving, Wednesday, is one of the most expensive to travel. If possible, it is suggested to add one or two days to your trip or head up a bit early. Even booking on Tuesday has the potential to save you big bucks.
• Research your options and always book direct. Use Travelocity and Kayack to check out all of your options, but always book directly from the airline itself. Booking direct is always best, and sometimes the price is even cheaper! Bonus: the loyalty points by booking direct are awesome!
• If possible, bring only a carry-on and a personal item. Thousands and thousands of checked bags go missing during the holiday season, and 2015 travelers will not be immune. Bringing a carry-on will expedite the check in and out process and will provide the peace of mind that your bags are in your hands at all times. 

As always, don't forget to make your Tampa Airport parking reservation from our website, or directly from our blog or Facebook page. Check out our TPA parking coupons and save! 

Tampa Airport Parking Coupons

Who isn't looking for Tampa Airport parking coupons? Let's face it, if you have to drive yourself to Tampa International Airport, you are going to have to find and pay for TPA Airport parking. Coupons for Tampa Airport Parking can help save you time and money on a service that you will already be using.

A1 Express offers Tampa Airport parking coupons and an easy to use airport parking reservations tool to make each trip you take a little easier. We are committed to providing customers with the lowest airport parking rates possible on a daily basis, but it doesn't hurt to throw in a TPA parking coupon so you can save a little extra money on the side.

We totally get that parking at Tampa International Airport can come as an unexpected fee during your travels and we strive to help save you money any way we can. Traveling can get expensive, but printing out our Tampa Airport parking coupon is one of the best ways to save money on TPA Airport parking.

Try our FREE online Tampa Airport parking reservations tool and reserve your TPA Airport parking right here on our blog, or directly from our website.  Don't forget to join us, add us and follow us and keep an eye out for more unique Tampa Airport Parking deals!

Check out our featured Tampa Airport parking coupon below and stay tuned for more savings in the future:

Now that you have your TPA parking coupon, don't forget to make your free online Tampa Airport Parking reservation right here on our blog, or from our website! 

How Dirty is the Airport? Airline Hygiene: Exposed!

Our friends at Travelmath.com published an article on airplane and airport hygiene. Some of the statistics may shock you about what you might touch when flying out of Tampa International Airport. Check out the findings below and don't forget to make your Tampa Airport parking reservation right here on our blog or on our website. We strive to make our facility as neat, clean, and hygienic as possible in order to give you the best Tampa Airport parking experience!

Tampa Airport Parking Coupons

It's that time again! A1 Express proudly presents Tampa Airport Parking deals and coupons to our loyal customers. We understand that parking at Tampa International Airport is often an unexpected fee during your travels and we want to help out in any way we can! Traveling can be expensive, but printing out our TPA parking coupon is one of the best ways to save money on Tampa Airport parking. So join us, add us, follow us, and then look out for some fantastic discounts from A1 Express.

Check out our featured coupon below:

Now that you have your money saving Tampa Airport parking coupon, don't forget to make your free online reservation on our website! 

Best Free Travel Apps of 2015

Smartphones are all the rage these days, and apps are a popular way to make travel easier and cheaper. Why do all the research when you can hit that download button, put in your information, and let the app do all the work for you? We have compiled a quick list of some of our favorite travel apps to make your life easier:

• Airbnb. Free. This app allows you to rent unique places in over 190 cities in any budget. You can use the filters to set your budget, and can even request an entire house. Airbnb allows you to get to know the local neighborhoods on a more personal level.
• Tripit. Free. For the planners to track every detail of their trip. Customize your itinerary and keep plane, train, and dinner reservations all in one tidy little place. 
• Google Translate. Free. Traveling to a foreign country? This app is a lifesaver! You are even able to scan simple text, such as menu items or train time tables, and it will translate it into your desired language.
• Gas Buddy. Free. Road trip? Need to fill up that rental car? This popular travel app searches your location and compares gas prices on the spot. Super helpful way to save a few bucks! 
• Hotel Tonight. Free. Sure, you usually have your hotels all lined up for your entire trip, but sometimes things just don't go as planned. This app helps you find last minute deals on leftover hotel rooms minutes or hours before you need to check in. In a tight spot, it can be a lifesaver. 

While these travel apps are a great way to aid in a stress-free trip, A1 Express will leave you at ease when you drop your car at our lot and hop on our free shuttle to Tampa International Airport. Reserve online today and save. 

What to Wear When Flying

Whether you are flying on a short domestic flight, or a long-haul international one, your in-flight wardrobe must be considered. We have some helpful tips on what to wear when you fly out of Tampa International Airport:

• Choose loose, breathable fabrics. Tight tops or pants can restrict blood flow, and no one wants an accident thousands of feet off the ground. In addition, comfy, natural fabrics are easier to relax in. 
• Comfy shoes. You will most likely be screened at TSA, so take that into account before donning your high top lace up Converse. If you are going straight to a business meeting as soon as you land, pack a small pair of heels in your personal item for when you land, or stick to professional but comfortable ballet flats.
• Dress relatively conservatively. Don't arrive at the gate wearing shirts with curse words or scantily clad humans on them. Airlines have been known to turn away passengers or make them turn their shirts inside out before even letting them board. If you wouldn't wear it to church with your Grandma, don't even think about wearing it on a plane.
• Layer it up! What if it is 90 degrees when you board your flight and then in-flight temperature drops to a frigid 73. Those shorts or dress you chose to wore suddenly will be doing more harm than good. Dress in layers when flying so you are able to add and subtract clothing articles depending on the climate. 
• Deodorant and clean clothing. It may be tempting to douse yourself in perfume or cologne before a flight, but resist the urge. Many people are allergic to the scent and you may even find yourself hard to stand in such close quarters. Wear strong deodorant and clean clothing and you should be all set. 

Once you have your in-flight wardrobe squared away, don't forget to make your online reservation with A1 Express to save on your Tampa Airport Parking! 

Bad Weather in Tampa: 5 Travel Tips

Summer is upon us and with this season comes a huge potential for encountering bad weather in the Tampa Bay Area. Sure, rain and wind may be relaxing when you are curled up at home with Netflix and a cup of coffee, but no one wants to deal with mother nature's wrath when traveling! Check out our foul weather travel tips to help make your next trip out of Tampa International Airport a little less stressful:

1. Check the forecast. It may be obvious, but check the forecast of your departure, destination, and any layover cities. Sunny skies? Fantastic! If you see the potential for weather at least you will be able to prepare for potential disruption in the future.
2. Contact your airline. See bad weather where your plane will be flying? Call your airline to inquire about flight routes and get an idea of any delays or cancellation you might encounter. 
3. Ask for the "spirit" of the law. Sure, your terms and conditions may say that the airline doesn't owe you anything, but it never hurts to ask! Flight desk staff often have the ability to give meal or beverage vouchers, transfer you to a new flight for free etc. You never know until you ask! 
4. Avoid the crowds. Don't stand in line to speak with a desk agent if the line is crazy long. Call the airline's 1-800 number and chances are you will speak to an agent much quicker than your fellow travelers. Staying away from the crowds will help reduce your stress.
5. Stay calm during your flight. If your flight does take off and encounters bad weather, your chances for experiencing turbulence are high. Don't fret, stay calm, and fasten your seat belt. Turbulence is no worse than driving along a road with potholes. If you know flying gives you anxiety or stress, prepare accordingly.

Although the weather may be bad, A1 Express Airport Parking will be here to safely shuttle you too and from Tampa International Airport. Don't forget to make your free online reservation to ensure your Tampa Airport Parking is ready and waiting upon your arrival! 

The Airport Parking Trend

Now-a-days, more and more people are forgoing the traditional "show up at the airport and try and find parking," and choosing the less stressful alternative known as off-airport parking. A1-Express has been serving Tampa International Airport as an off-airport parking carrier for many years, so we know what you want and strive to serve your every need.

Choosing off-airport parking will actually save you time and money! Whether you live in Tampa and plan to park with A1 Express, or you reside in a far off city, chances are your large airport boasts an off-airport parking facility. Instead of driving around for 15 minutes searching for a parking spot that is safe and budget friendly, why not make a free online reservation from the comfort of your own home, weeks before your departure date? Not only will you eliminate some of the stress related with Tampa Airport Parking, you will be paying much less per day than the airport charges.

In the time that you would spend looking for a parking space on airport property, you could be pulling into our facility and enjoying a free shuttle ride to the airport while you car rests securely on our lot. Who likes to drive through the confusing airport anyway? Leave that to our experienced staff and prepare for your trip!

Well, what are you waiting for? Make your online reservation today and start your Tampa Airport Parking journey. Revolutionize your travel!