Transportation to the airport isn’t something travellers usually give much thought to unless something goes wrong. But choosing the right airport transfer can not only help prevent losing time and money, it can help set the tone for your entire trip. Here’s what you should know before you book a private airport transfer, group shuttle, taxi, or Uber.
Private Transfers vs. Group Shuttles
Group shuttles are often marketed as an economical alternative to a private transfer, but the difference in price doesn’t come close to making up for the difference in time, comfort, convenience, and overall value.
Picture this. Once you hop off your flight and collect your luggage, you can either:
- Be greeted by your professional driver and escorted directly to your accommodations with complimentary gifts and insider tips. Or,
- Search through the crowds for your group shuttle, squish into the back seat of a 12-seater, idle in the parking lot for 40 minutes, then hop from one resort to the next before finally starting your vacation tattered, tired, and car sick.
Not to mention the journey back. Travellers who book private airport transfers can enjoy more time in their destination and avoid an unnecessarily long trip to and from the airport.
Realistically, the cost difference between a shared airport transfer and a private one is quite marginal. Budgeting an additional $30 or so per passenger can provide an exponentially better start to your getaway.
“I am a huge fan of private transfers,” says Jessica Pong, Flight Centre product expert and former flight attendant. “Why don’t more people do this?”
If you’re like most Canadians, your vacation is one of the most important times of your year. So invest your time wisely and get the most out of your destination.
Private Transfers vs. Taxis and Ubers or Other Ride Shares
While taking a taxi or rideshare can be a pleasant, safe, and straightforward experience, booking a private airport transfer in advance ensures that your ground transportation will be all of those things.
Postponing your ground transfer plans until your arrival can leave you vulnerable to hiked taxi rates and communication challenges. Besides that, you’ll be competing with innumerable other travellers hoping to score last-minute transportation.
Some rideshare apps allow travellers to book a trip in advance, however, there is some fine print you should be aware of. Even pre-booked Uber rides are subject to last-minute surge charges, and other brands like Lyft only offer trip reservations in limited regions.
Book your private airport transfer in advance for full cost transparency and a convenient and safe pick-up process.
Meet Two of Our Favourite Airport Transfer Service Providers
Olympus Tours: Olympus Tours provides first-rate airport transfers in Mexico, the Dominican Republic, and Panama. Their signature concierge transfers include extra perks like complimentary Wi-Fi, sparkling wine, and sweet nibbles. For an added layer of safety, all vehicles are equipped with driver tracking.
Buffalo Tours: Operating throughout Asia, Buffalo Tours emphasizes responsible travel and sustainable tourism. Their private airport transfers include a personal greeting at the airport, complimentary water and cold towel, Wi-Fi, and a local guide available upon request.
“How Do I Book a Private Airport Transfer?”
Whether you’re planning a round-the-world trip, cruise holiday, all-inclusive vacation, or just need a plane ticket home, our Expert Travellers can help you compare and book all of your trip details, including your rides to and from the airport.
Expert Traveller Tip: One of the many perks of booking a Better Beach vacation with Flight Centre is that private airport transfers are always included.
Ready to start your journey? Let us take care of the legwork. Connect with an Expert Traveller today by calling 1-855-796-8359, chatting online, or popping by the Flight Centre store in your neighbourhood.
