How do you find a parking space at the busiest time of the year? Holiday parking strategies...

Chances are you’ll be headed to a crowded mall or shopping center in the next few weeks. So where are you going to park? 

Here are some effective holiday parking strategies for stressed out shoppers:

• Plan ahead. Instead of just hoping for the best, pick a time and a place. Generally speaking, the best times to find a good spot are 8:45 am, for a store that opens at 9, or later on in the afternoon. 4:00 pm is peak pooping-out time for the all-day shoppers limping to their cars. This gives you a jump on the evening dine-and-shoppers who will be hungry for spots at sunset. 

• If you prefer the prime-time hunt, prepare to circle your prey. Stay in close proximity to the entrance you’d like to use and keep your eye on the door. Try to make eye contact with exiting shoppers. Smile and wave if necessary. If you get the nod, you’ve probably scored a spot.

• If there is a parking garage involved, do yourself a favor and head straight for the roof. Not only are you more likely to find a spot, you’re less likely to forget what level you parked on. This strategy works at any time of the year.