Parking & Travel Insurance: Your Secret Travel Duo 

Let’s be real: when planning a trip, parking and insurance aren’t exactly the fun bits. But here’s the thing—they’re the unsung heroes that keep your holiday from turning into a horror story. As someone who’s had flights cancelled, cars broken into, and parking bookings gone rogue, I’ve learned how these two boring-sounding things can save your sanity. 

Why They’re Better Together 

Picture this: You’ve booked short stay parking at Gatwick for a weekend city break. It’s quick, close to the terminal, and you’re buzzing… until your kid spikes a fever the night before. Trip cancelled. But if your travel insurance covers pre-paid parking costs (many do!), you can claim back that £60 parking fee. Win. 

 

Or say your flight’s delayed by 12 hours. Suddenly, your two-day parking booking needs extending—cha-ching, extra costs. Decent travel insurance can cover that too, if your policy includes “travel disruption” perks. 

 

How to Nail the Combo 

 

Read the Small Print 

Not all insurance policies cover parking. Look for phrases like “pre-paid expenses” or “travel arrangements”. I once claimed £85 for parking after a storm grounded my flight—because my policy specifically mentioned it. 

 

Book Refundable Parking 

Always tick the “free cancellation” filter to compare airport parking deals. I use this for Gatwick short-stay—it costs £5 more, but worth it for peace of mind. 

Bundle Up 

Some sites, like Holiday Extras, let you add insurance when booking parking. I saved £20 last summer bundling both, and the policy covered my parking fees when I had to reschedule. 

 

Watch Outs 

 

• Cheapest insurance ≠ best. A £10 policy might exclude parking claims. 

 

• Take photos of your parked car. If it’s damaged, you’ll need proof for insurance. 

 

Bottom Line 

Parking and insurance are like tea and biscuits—separately fine, but better together. Next time you book a short stay parking Gatwick, pair it with a solid insurance policy. You’ll sleep easier knowing that even if your trip goes sideways, your wallet won’t. 

 

Now, go enjoy that holiday—and maybe pack an extra biscuit for the journey.