Our guide to booking overseas airport transfers
Article updated every 6 months. Last update: 18th April 2008
Author: Bob Atkinson (Travel Expert) Ask me a question.
Arriving in a foreign country can be a daunting experience. If you don't speak the language then finding your way from the airport to your destination can be a tricky task. There's always the option of local buses and trains as well as booking airport transfers. With a little forward planning, you can breeze through the airport and enjoy a stress free start to your holiday!
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Bob Atkinson
( Travel Expert)
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What type of transfer should I choose?
There are three main types of airport transfer available:
- Private Transfer by Taxi, Mini Bus or Coach - from most major airports and many smaller ones too, providers offer a tailor made service to suit your needs. The provider will then quote you a rate in a suitably sized private vehicle for your party size. They can quote for anything from a single traveller up to large groups as well as for those with limited mobility requiring specialist vehicles. This type of service only operates for your specified group and travels direct to your destination. Simply select where you wish to be picked up, where you are going and your party size. Once you have collected your bags you'll be met by a company representative and taken directly to your destination. You'll be given a time and place for your return journey to the airport at the end of your trip.
On leaving the arrivals hall you will be met by a company representative holding your name on a board. You will then be whisked away to your transport.
On return you will be given a time of collection which is normally reconfirmed to you by telephone while you are away.
It's important to note that when choosing your vehicle, most providers will allow four people in a taxi and infants will count as a person. Bear in mind the number of bags you have, as the general rule is one large bag and one piece of small baggage per person. If you have sports equipment or will be travelling with anything out of the ordinary, it is best to check before booking.
N.B. - Prices for private transfers are priced by the vehicle and NOT per person.
- Shuttle Transfer - This is where big savings can be made, which is great for those on a budget. Providers will operate a mini bus or coach service from a major airport to a variety of holiday resorts or city centre locations. The services operate on a regular basis and will depart at set times. Whilst you will share this service with other users, the benefit is that the prices are extremely competitive and offer great value and increased comfort compared with public transport.
On arrival you will go to the pick up point specified on your voucher and wait for your timed departure.
On return you will be told the location and time of your pick up and informed by telephone if this should change.
N.B. - Prices for shuttles are priced per person.
- Car Hire - If a transfer is not for you, why not consider renting a car and making the trip under your own steam? Car rental gives you the ultimate freedom and may even be cheaper than booking transfers. Use our car hire search now to check prices and availability.
Vehicles used tend to be modern and up to date with many being practically new, so you are sure of a decent ride to and from the airport.
What do I need to know when booking airport transfers?
When you book, you will need to know the following information:
- Name
- Number of people in the vehicle
- Arrival airport
- Flight number & time of arrival
- Destination name and address
- Contact telephone number while you are away
- Flight number & departure time on return
- Payment method
- Your home address and contact numbers
Don't worry if your flight details change - these can be amended before you leave the UK or with the overseas offices of your transfer or car hire company. You will be given contact numbers to help you.
Most companies accept all major credit and debit cards for payment, however some will add a handling charge for some of those - so check with the provider when booking.
Once booked you will receive confirmation via e-mail with your booking details and instructions of what to do and where to go. Keep this safe and put it with your travel documents - don't forget to take it with you when you travel!
Who do we recommend?
With so many companies to choose from it can be difficult to know where to start, so we have researched the market to find those with a wide range of choice as well as some that are more specialist. Browse our list below to find the right company for you, then click through to their web site for more information and how to book. It couldn't be easier!
Further guides on airport transfers
