1. Learn to become a “fast scanner”

Being able to identify what is and isn’t a spot from afar (as well as sizing up whether your car will fit) is the foundation of good parking. Keep the flow of traffic moving by scanning ahead, and not slowing to an inchworm-like crawl for every space in between cars.

2. Be aware of both your car AND your surroundings

Getting to know your car and your surroundings is just as essential when it comes to efficient parking. If you haven’t already, it may a good idea to lightly tap a bush or shopping cart to truly know where your front and rear bumpers actually are, from the perspective of the driver’s seat.