There’s a small but mighty secret to cutting down parking costs when dining or shopping in the city: parking validation. While it might not be as flashy as a big discount code or app deal, validation can quietly save you several dollars — or even cover your entire parking session — when you know how to use it strategically.
Even better, you can stack parking validation with cashback apps like Fluz, Rakuten, or Ibotta for even more savings. Let’s break down how parking validation works, where to find it, and how to combine it with cashback for maximum value.
What Is Parking Validation?
Parking validation is a discount or complete waiver on your parking fee offered by businesses to their customers. Typically, if you park in a participating garage or lot and make a qualifying purchase at a nearby restaurant, store, or entertainment venue, the business will stamp or scan your parking ticket to reduce or eliminate the parking fee.
For example, many urban shopping centers and restaurant districts offer the first hour or two of parking for free with validation. Some go even further, covering full parking for patrons who dine or spend over a certain amount.
Always ask when you arrive or check the business’s website. Many list parking validation policies under their “location” or “FAQ” sections. For instance, you can check out The Grove in Los Angeles for an example of how validation works at a large retail destination.
Where to Find Parking Validation
Validation is especially common in:
- Restaurants located in busy downtown areas
- Shopping malls and urban retail centers
- Movie theaters
- Hotels and some entertainment venues
- Doctor’s offices and medical centers
Validation policies are often posted at the entrance to the parking garage, at the cashier counter, or on the business’s website. If it’s unclear, simply ask — businesses are usually happy to explain their parking perks.
Combine Validation with Cashback Apps for Double Savings
Here’s where things get even better: you can often combine parking validation with cashback from apps like Fluz, Rakuten, and Ibotta.
For example, if you know you’ll be visiting a specific restaurant or shopping center, use Fluz to purchase a gift card ahead of time. When you pay with that gift card, you’ll earn instant cashback — all while still receiving parking validation from the business.
Similarly, Rakuten and Ibotta frequently offer cashback for purchases at participating retailers and restaurants. Activate those offers before you dine or shop to stack your savings.
Tips to Maximize Parking Validation
- Check spending requirements: Some businesses require a minimum spend for validation, like $20 at a restaurant or $50 at a store. Plan your trip accordingly.
- Validate before you leave: Don’t forget to have your ticket validated while you’re still inside the business. Some locations won’t honor validation once you’ve exited.
- Know the time limits: Validation often covers the first one or two hours of parking. If you stay longer, you’ll pay for the additional time at standard rates.
• Ask about partnerships: Some parking garages partner with multiple businesses in the area. If your destination doesn’t validate, nearby stores might.
