Finding parking at concerts, sports games, or local festivals can already feel like a maze—and that’s before factoring in the cost. If you’ve ever paid $40 just to leave your car in a crowded lot, you’re not alone. But what if you could save a few bucks every time you parked near an event? With just a little planning and the right tools, you can turn those steep parking rates into an opportunity for instant cashback.
Here’s how to park smarter for events—and save while you’re at it.
What makes event parking so expensive?
Event venues know they have a captive audience. Stadiums, arenas, and outdoor event spaces often contract with premium parking providers who charge inflated rates based on demand. Plus, some locations only accept card or app payments, which means you might miss out on savings unless you prepare in advance.
According to SpotHero, parking prices near major events can surge as much as 100% on the day of the event. Add in service fees or surge pricing from ride apps, and it’s easy to see why many drivers are looking for alternatives.
Where Cashback Apps like Fluz fits in
Rather than paying full price at the gate or through a third-party app, you can earn cashback at Buffalo Wild Wings or other nearby merchants when planning your event night. Many major parking-adjacent businesses are Fluz partners—including gas stations, restaurants, and retail chains. That means you can often buy a Chili’s gift card online or get cashback at P.F. Chang’s and pair those perks with a restaurant’s parking validation program.
With Fluz, you can buy a gift card for the exact amount you need—just before paying—and receive instant cashback. You don’t have to pre-load funds or worry about leftover balances. To get started, download the app from Fluz.
Combine parking deals with loyalty perks
Want to take it a step further? Pair your Fluz savings with advance parking reservations using ParkWhiz, BestParking, or event ticketing platforms like Ticketmaster that offer bundled parking packages. These tools make it easy to lock in a spot and avoid last-minute rate spikes—while Fluz lets you cut costs on food, fuel, or other purchases during your trip.
Tips for stress-free event parking:
- Reserve your parking space online before the event
- Look for restaurants that offer validated parking
- Buy a digital gift card with cashback before you pay
- Check if nearby merchants are Fluz partners for additional savings
- Always read the fine print—some venues partner with third-party vendors that do accept gift cards
Final thoughts
Event parking doesn’t have to be a budgeting black hole. With a few smart tools and a cashback strategy, you can keep your wallet happy and your experience hassle-free. Whether you’re headed to a concert downtown or a football game in the suburbs, combining platforms like Fluz with parking apps can turn a frustrating task into a small win.
