Spot Hero App
Perhaps this article is long overdue. Earlier this year, I used the Spot Hero app for the first time. I didn’t write about the app then because, like certain things, I figured I was a late adopter and it would’ve been a ho-hum topic. But in the ensuing months, I brought up Spot Hero in a few random conversations, and several people hadn’t heard of it. So here we are. Today, I’m talking about the greatness of Spot Hero and why it’s worth using while traveling – or even close to home.
What is the Spot Hero App?
Spot Hero is a digital marketplace which connects drivers wanting to reserve and pay for parking spaces with a variety of locations, including lots, garages, and valet services. In the 2011-2013 timeframe, the service focused on seven large markets, but by late 2020, had expanded to over 300 North American cities, including well over 7,000 garages.
My Situation
I live in an overall region where either flying or driving to Washington, DC can make sense. Based on my schedule, driving was best, where I was meeting a buddy for the Mogwai show at 930 Club. Earlier, I booked the Conrad; read about the underwhelming stay here. I wasn’t particularly interested in paying their ~$70 going rate for valet parking (the only hotel option, of course) even if I could do so with Amex Surpass/Business Platinum Hilton credits or gift cards. I almost caught myself saying out loud, “there’s got to be a better way!”
The Greatness of Spot Hero
Now, I’m describing about what has made Spot Hero such a pleasure during my limited use.
Substantial Savings
I decided to hop on Spot Hero’s site and mess around. Quite helpfully, Spot Hero doesn’t require an individual to create an account to get a feel for it. Within a minute or so, it was abundantly clear that I could save big-time by booking with Spot Hero. For my one-night stay where I only needed parking for 24 hours, I noticed plenty of options in the $20 neighborhood.
Even better, expanding my search a few more blocks beyond the Conrad, I found a highly-rated garage for closer to $10. To be exact, I paid $11.75 for garage parking and walked about three blocks to the hotel.
Considerable Inventory
Another positive is that DC and plenty of other cities offer a plethora of Spot Hero options to pick from in a variety of price ranges. Some work better depending on driving needs, vehicle size, valet options, etc. Parking options without in/out privileges can be cheaper, in general. Individuals who are open to leaving keys with a garage attendant have even more to pick from.
For what it’s worth, my lot had no in/out privileges. Plus, I knew heading into the booking that I may need to leave my car key with an attendant. The price was right, and I was okay with all of this, especially considering the following.
Excellent Instructions
Spot Hero wisely appreciates that no parking situation is exactly the same; garages and lots have their unique quirks. Each garage I browsed had detailed instructions for a smooth parking experience. They go into a great amount of detail. Indeed, I must admit I was apprehensive about using Spot Hero at first, but their helpful site, app, instructions, and descriptions made me more comfortable. And while rates were cheap, why not get that reservations booked? More on that’s next.
Flexible Bookings
Spot Hero touts that reservations can be canceled up until the minute before they begin to receive a full refund via the app, website, or phone. I originally booked another garage but cancelled and rebooked for a cheaper rate without any issue. For what it’s worth, Spot Hero immediately charges your credit card for the booking but automatically refunds the amount back to the card if or when cancelled.
Similar to booking with certain customer-friendly airlines, travelers can lock in a cheap rate immediately but have the flexibility to book a superior one knowing they can cancel the original – no risk, and all the reward!
Portal-Compatible!
Perhaps some of you are already thinking about this. Do other savings methods, such as online portals, work with Spot Hero? I can say from my firsthand experience, yes! I went with TopCashBack, as I could stack the normal cash back percentage rate with a limited-time offer for even more. All-in, I earned $2.99 in portal rewards from this booking. I paid $8.76 for safe parking in downtown DC for 24 hours. What a bargain!
Conclusion
Spot Hero certainly isn’t everywhere, though. I’ve sought Spot Hero options for certain destinations in my metro area but came up with peanuts. Regardless, I’ll confidently use Spot Hero in my future travels, saving big while responsibly parking. I’m interested to hear about your big wins using Spot Hero. Where have you saved the most using the Spot Hero app?
