If you are driving in an area that you are unfamiliar with, you may be unaware of where parking garages or public parking is available and how much the parking will cost. This is where parking apps come in. Parking apps typically use your current location or an address you input to help you determine where public parking is, what percentage of the parking is currently available and what the estimated cost of the parking will be. This will help you find parking nearest the venue you are going to, at a price you can afford. But, while there are many benefits to parking apps, there are a few downsides as well. Learning the pros and cons will help you determine if you should rely on these apps when looking for public parking in an area you are unfamiliar with. 

The Cons of Using a Parking App

• Most Information is User Generated

One of the biggest downsides of using a parking app is that most information is user-generated. This means that those that use the app provide current information as to where public parking garages and lots are and how much each of those garages or lots charge. People can make mistakes and accidentally input the wrong information or the information may not be updated for some time in small towns or on apps that don't have a large user base. 

• The Information May Not Be Reliable for Large Events

The other disadvantage to parking apps is that the information displayed tends to be the standard rates. If there is a large event in town, such as a concert or New Year's Eve parties, many garages and lots increase their price. The app may not reflect event parking prices. 

The Pros of Using a Parking App

• Helps You Determine Where Public Parking is

One of the biggest advantages to using a parking app is that the app can help you determine where public parking is. This is especially useful if you are on vacation, in town on business or in an area that you are not familiar with. You may be unsure where you can find public parking in many downtown areas and the last thing you want to do is waste time driving around looking for public parking. The app can guide you straight to the options that are available. 

• Gives You a Rough Idea About the Price to Park

While the prices displayed on the app may not always be exactly accurate, the app does give you a rough idea about the price to park. You can then use the estimated costs to budget approximately how much parking will run you in certain areas. 

Many parking apps display current information. But some may have information that is outdated or no longer current. Reading reviews of the apps will help you find an app that is frequently updated and has good user reviews. This will help you find a parking app that most likely has good information you can rely on.