Depending on how close to your starting location and the number of days, it may be cheaper to take a taxi or have a friend drop you off. Many cities have a light rail or a bus to the airport that is cheaper than a 5 day parking lot stay.

If it's 35 miles+, I find a town car rental to the airport cheaper than a taxi. A fixed rate, plus tip, let's me plan ahead of time.

Depending upon the aiport, there are a ton of alternative parking options. What airport are you talking about?

We've used the cheap lot at the aiport many times, as recently as last week. Here, the shuttles run every few mnutes 24/7. Works great.

For longer trips, the Park & Fly rate at an airport hotel can be cheaper than parking. Some hotels charge rewards members a modest amount (Marriott was $50 for 17 days) just for parking.

In my limited experience, it depends on the airport. At BWI, FastPark is wonderful. Great service. Timely, effortless shuttles. Nice lot. At Newark, I had to walk in a downpour to the shuttle. When I got back, I had to call them to pick me up. The lots are full of potholes and most of the operators want to take and keep your car keys.

Mike....

I agree with hispanic. The answer depends entirely on your airport, which you haven't told us. In any case, you'd get more replies if you posted on the US board (assuming you are talking about a US airport).

If I were flying out of EWR or BWI, I would park somewhere free or cheap and ride the train. The shuttles from the train station to the terminals are quite efficient.