How to Find Your Car in a Dark Crowded Parking Lot

You have just had the night of your life at a concert, but now comes the dread of finding your car after the snow. Here are a few helpful tips that can save you a lot of time and stress when trying to find your car in the dark. Please remember to always be aware of your surroundings and try not to get in the way of busy concert traffic.

Tip 1:

It is a good idea to print out the directions for the venue or a parking map before you go to a concert. Circling where you are on a parking map can be a helpful way to find your car, especially if your phone dies. Parking maps and information on parking can usually be found on the venue’s website.

Tip 2:

Park your car next to a noticeable or unique landmark. Just be sure to remember how to get back to the landmark! (read my horrible story on this, under Blog Stories) In a parking garage, note or write down the floor and spot number.

Tip 3:

Take a picture or video of your location. This is helpful because it shows exactly where you are. You can always delate it later whenever you are back to your car. Keep in mind things may look different in the dark.

Tip 4:
Make your car stand out. If you want to find your car faster in a parking lot, make it stand out. You can add a brightly colored flag, bright colored sun shade, stickers or a stuffed animal in the back window.

Tip 5:

If you have absolutely no idea, a good place to start is the beginning of the parking lot. From there, work your way systematically down each row of cars checking each car until your car is found. You can also set off the car alarm to help you locate it. Remember that this method may take some time, but as the lot thins out, your car will become easier to find.

Tip 6:
Try using a Car Locator app. There are some things to keep in mind when using an app. Make sure you pick one that does not require signal or internet connection. This is important because, many venues have Signal Dampers or not signal in their parking lots. Make sure your phone will have enough battery by the end of the night to help navigate you.

Here are a few Free Car Locator Apps that work both on Android and iPhone.

• Find My Car

  • This app works with your GPS Location to help find your car.

• Waze

  • This app can help you find parking, help you find your car and also serve as a navigation app.