When you're going on a holiday, it is always a good idea to leave your car at the airport with secure parking. Especially if you are going away for any length of time, this ensures your car is safe and ready for you when you step off that plane after the trip. Some companies even offer a detailing service so your vehicle is clean and polished when you drive it home.

But parking at the airport involves more than simply calling up a parking company, booking in and dropping off your car. Here are a list of do's and don'ts that will help you get the right deal and have your car in the same state as when you left it.

The most important thing is to make your booking ahead of time, to ensure that the airport parking company has available spaces for you to park your car. Certain times of the year can be very busy for airport businesses so don't just assume they will be able to fit you in. Also make sure that the insurance policy for your car is up to date and includes cover for vandalism and theft. You may be parking with a secure company but that doesn't mean something can't happen. By the same token, you should be positive that the car security is set at the highest secure mode to defend against any unwanted intruders.

To further deter criminals, be sure that the vehicle doesn't have any valuables or other materials that might tempt people, especailly in visible sight. Making sure that all car doors are locked will also prevent having something stolen from the vehicle. This may sound like a given but it's amazing how many people accidentally leave the car unlocked at the airport. Don't let it be you!

Make sure you remember exactly where you parked the car, and if possible avoid parking near bushes, trees or fences. Vandals can hide in these areas and if your car is out in the open where lots of people can see it then it's less likely to be damaged. Even better though is parking with a secure company so that this won't even be an option. Parking near security cameras is a great idea too.

Don't forget to keep your receipt because the last thing you want to do when you get back from your trip is spend hours searching for your vehicle. And be sure to follow all the above suggestions. You are going on a holiday, so you want to enjoy your time away, not worry if you're car is going to be okay.