15 Smart Ways to Save Money at Boston Logan Airport

Boston has a special place in my heart. It’s a fun city to visit and catch a game or grab a bite near the Seaport. But one thing I’ve learned is that things can add up fast and before you know it. This is true for airport like Boston Logan Airport where you can easily spend more than you have to.

In this article, we’ll cover some “smaht” ways that you can keep more money in your pockets at Logan. With a little planning, you will be surprised on how much you can save on things like parking and food.

How to Save on Parking and Driving 🚗

Parking at Logan can be one of the most expensive parts of your trip. Here are a few strategies to use for pre-booking discounts, cheaper lots, and off-site parking options to minimize your daily rate.

1. Reserve Your Airport Spot Early

The official Massport parking system offers an Advance Parking Reservation with a limited number of spaces. Booking ahead of time can secure a lower daily rate (like $29) compared to the standard drive-up price.

2. Choose the Economy Garage for Long Trips

For stays longer than a few days, use the Economy Parking Garage. It’s the cheapest on-site option, and a free shuttle will connect you to all the terminals.

3. Use Off-Site Parking Lots

Many private parking businesses operate just outside the airport. Companies such as PreFlight or Select Airport Valet are generally much cheaper than the official garages and include complimentary shuttles.

4. Compare Rates on Parking Apps

Check online platforms like SpotHero or Looking4Parking. These websites let you compare prices for both official and third-party lots, often leading to a discounted booking.

5. Park at a Suburban Logan Express Lot

Drive to a dedicated Logan Express station outside the city (like Braintree or Woburn). Parking is inexpensive (around $7 per day), and you ride the bus to the airport. Tip: Kids ride free with a paying adult, which is a great saving for families.

6. Take Advantage of the Back Bay Bus

If you’re coming from Boston, the Logan Express route from Back Bay is the single best transit deal at just $3 to the airport, and the ride back to the city is free.

How to Save with Transit and Transportation 🚆

The MBTA (or the “T”) offers some of the best ways to get to the airport and usually cost just the standard subway fare. These options are traffic-free and simple to use.

7. Ride the Silver Line for Free from the Airport

If you’re arriving at Logan, the MBTA Silver Line 1 (SL1) bus is completely FREE from all terminals. It drops you right at South Station, where you can connect to the subway and commuter rail.

8. Use the Blue Line Subway

Take the free Massport shuttle from your terminal to the Airport Station. From there, pay the standard MBTA fare (currently $2.40) to ride the Blue Line into the city. It’s the most reliable way to beat traffic.

9. Try the Water Ferry

For a quick, scenic connection to Long Wharf downtown, use the MBTA Water Ferry. It’s usually priced well below what a taxi or ride-share costs during busy hours.

10. Use the Free Massport Terminal Shuttles

Remember that all on-airport shuttles—connecting terminals, the Airport Station, and the Water Transportation Dock—are always free to ride. Use them to move between different transit points without paying extra.

How to Save on Food and Drink 🍔

Airport food is notorious for high costs. Here are some tips to help you avoid the worst markups and grab the best possible deal on your next meal or drink.

11. Pack Your Own Snacks and a Water Bottle

Pack non-liquid food items before you leave home. Bring an empty reusable water bottle and fill it up at the drinking fountains or bottle refill stations located after security. This avoids high prices for bottled water and simple bites.

12. Opt for Quick-Serve Meals

Skip the pricey sit-down restaurants. Look for faster options like Potbelly Sandwich Shop, Kelly’s Roast Beef, or locations that offer salads and sandwiches for a quicker, cheaper bite.

13. Order Ahead to Save Time and Impulse Buys

Use the airport’s BOS2GO mobile ordering system. Planning your meal purchase this way often prevents you from making hurried, more expensive decisions at the first available vendor.

14. Visit Food Courts or Markets

Check out the vendors inside (Terminal C) or the general food court areas. These spots often have a greater variety of vendors, driving prices down a bit compared to single-brand restaurants.

15. Grab a Coffee Before You Get to Security

While prices are still higher than downtown, major chains are sometimes found in the pre-security areas. If you’re picking up a traveler, grabbing your coffee is usually much cheaper than inside the gate areas.

These are just some simple strategies I’ve used (and still use) to save on parking, transportation, and dining. So don’t overspend, especially when you don’t have to.