Finding parking at RDU can feel tough. The airport served 15.5 million flyers in 2024. That represents a 6.5 percent increase from 2023. Bigger crowds fill lots quickly. Rates climb when space runs out.
Read this guide to find the best and most affordable suggestions. You will see every lot, current price, promo code, and quick trick. Whether you seek short-stay or long-stay parking at RDU, we have you covered.
Why do smart flyers plan to park at RDU early?
Raleigh-Durham International keeps smashing traffic records. The airport served more than 15.5 million travelers in 2024, representing a 6.5 percent year-over-year increase. More people on the move means more cars in the lots. A quick plan for parking at RDU saves time, cash, and stress. This guide walks you through every current option, including prices and tricks.
Map of core RDU parking options
- Premier: closest, covered, walk to both terminals.
- Central: large deck, mixed, covered and open.
- Express: Mid-price, shuttle curbside assistance, complimentary water.
- Economy: budget choice with 24-hour shuttle.
Off-site brands fill any gap when the airport lots hit capacity. We list the best ones further down.
Premier parking RDU details
- Rate $8 an hour or $32 a day.
- The ground level of the main deck.
- The license plate reader lets you exit without a ticket.
This space sells out on holiday weeks. Check RDU parking availability today inside the Park Assist app.
Central parking deck facts
- Rate $5.25 an hour or $21 each day.
- About 10 000 spaces.
- A real-time sign at the entry shows open levels.
- The current load often sits near seventy-five percent at midday.
Central suits three-day work trips. It also works for RDU short-term parking when you want covered shade but not premium cost.
Express lot breakdown
- Rate $4.25 an hour or $17 daily.
- Staff load bags from trunk to shuttle rack.
- Free water on board.
- It is a good pick for travelers with heavy gear.
Economy lot RDU guide
- Drive-up rate $3 per hour up to four hours.
- Daily maximum of $12 in Lots P3 and P4.
- Expansion is underway to add 7,000 more stalls.
- Free bus every twenty minutes day and night.
The economy keeps parking cost at RDU low for week-long travel or longer. It gives the best mix of price and on-site security.
Off-site parking near RDU you can trust
Here is the list of off-parking sites:
Fast Park & Relax
Covered stalls, phone charging, rate often under $10 per day with online code. Use the keyword fast park RDU on the Fast Park site to view current specials.
Hotel park sleep fly bundles
Airport Parking Reservations lists Quality Inn, Wingate, and Embassy Suites for $5.99 per day, including shuttle service.
On Air Parking
Third-party deck from $8.71 per day with free cancellation. Off-site deals give Cheap RDU parking while keeping your keys in your hand.
Compare RDU daily parking fee levels
|
Option |
Walk time or ride |
Covered |
Daily price July 2025 |
|
Premier |
1-2 minutes |
Yes |
$32 |
|
Central |
5-7 minutes |
Mixed |
$21 |
|
Express |
5 min shuttle |
No |
$17 |
|
Economy 3/4 |
10 min shuttle |
No |
$12 |
|
Fast Park |
3 min shuttle |
Yes |
$9–11 |
|
Hotel bundles |
5–10 min shuttle |
Varies |
$6–10 |
How do you slash the bill with an RDU parking promo code?
Active codes now include EWR8NOW for $8 off and HNYAPR3 for $6 off online bookings. Parking Near Airports lists RDU7 for $7 off off-site decks. Copy the code, select your dates, paste it at checkout, and watch the total drop.
Booking tips that boost savings
- Book RDU parking online at least one full day early.
- Travel on Tuesday or Wednesday to take advantage of lower demand.
- Set alerts in the Park Assist app for available parking spaces.
- Join the RDU Insider email for flash deals.
- Keep the printed QR on the phone lock screen for the gate reader.
- Keep your license plate clean for scanner accuracy.
- Snap a quick photo of the row sign to find your car when you land.
These steps trim minutes and dollars every trip.
What about RDU airport's long-term parking
Economy 3 now leads with $8 per day advance pay. Add a weather-resistant car cover if you are leaving for more than ten days. Choose covered stalls at Fast Park when hail or strong sun is forecast.
Best spots for overnight or weekend stays
For one night, choose Central level 2 near the elevators. It keeps you covered and near the exit ramps. RDU airport overnight parking guests also appreciate Express if their bags are heavy, and a shuttle drop-off at departures is helpful.
Covered parking RDU options
- Premier full cover.
- Central lower decks.
- Fast Park entire canopy.
Shuttle service from RDU parking lots
- Economy bus loops every twenty minutes.
- Express shuttle loads at your trunk, then drops curbside. Remember to tip drivers when they lift your gear.
Last-minute airport parking RDU advice
If all official lots flash “Full” use hotel decks tied to Airport Parking Reservations. They rarely hit capacity and hold back a few spaces for walk-in drivers.
RDU Airport Observation Parking
The platform sits beside Runway 5L and is open from 9 a.m. to sunset. Parking is free for two hours, which is perfect for a quick family outing. It also acts as an overflow wait zone when you pick up friends.
Safety first
All official lots use high-res cameras and patrols. Fast Park adds a gate arm and bright LED lighting to its rows. Keep valuables out of sight. Lock doors. Share the stall number with your travel partner.
RDU airport parking tips
- Check real-time status boards before leaving home.
- Compare RDU parking rates side by side.
- Use a parking at RDU airport reservation for peak holiday weeks.
- Keep an eye on the new Economy 3 expansion for extra stalls.
Do you need a smooth ride to the curb? RDU Black Car offers flat fares and plush seats.
Final Words
A small bit of prep turns parking at RDU from a headache to a breeze. Choose your lot, book early, use a code, and roll out. Whether you need luxury, budget, or quick turnaround, there is a solution. Parking at RDU continues to evolve with new technology, greener shuttles, and increased capacity. Make your next drop-and-fly simple and save cash for the trip itself.
Travel in comfort when you land too. RDU Black Car can be waiting with your name on a sign.
Frequently Asked Questions
It is $12 when you drive up or from $8 online with prepay.
The central deck gives a short walk and is mid-price.
Yes, in Premier and Fast Park decks.
Yes, when you need shade, weather shelter, or added security.
Same-day online booking works until capacity hits red status.
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Directly beside your car, the staff will help with bags.
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Nine in the morning until sunset daily.
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No, all RDU lots are cashless.
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