Arranging an airport transfer is an essential part of any holiday, yet it’s one that people sometimes neglect. Do that at your peril, especially if you are arriving at an airport without lots of ground transportation options. Here’s our guide to getting the best from airport transfers.
Before You Travel
By the time you’re ready to book your airport transfer, you will already know where and when you are landing and details of your departure – always check the tourist information site for the country you are visiting to make sure you have the latest up to date info. Keep this information handy in case you need to make a booking. Many of the best deals are available online, so let your mouse do the clicking and look out for bargains – there are several web-only deals out there.
The Company
It can be a bit nerve-wracking booking an airport transfer with a company you don’t know, but a reputable company will have all the information you need to set your mind at rest. For example, you should easily be able to find out what happens if you need to alter your booking because of a last minute emergency. Perhaps you are travelling with a child or someone in a wheelchair and need a specially fitted vehicle. Or maybe you always end up travelling with more luggage than you need and will have to have a vehicle with extra storage capacity. Whatever your query, the company should be able to answer it.
The Booking
Once all your questions have been answered, it’s time to make the booking. This is usually a simple process, but make sure that you check and double check that you have input the correct arrival and departure dates before you make your payment. And double check the email confirmation, too. If you make a mistake it should be fixable if you’ve booked far enough in advance. Your confirmation should also include details of who is collecting you, in some cases the car he or she will be driving and a local number to call if there is an issue.
The Pickup
One issue to resolve in advance is what happens if your flight is delayed. A reputable airport transfer provider will monitor the flight arrival times to make sure that you are picked up when needed. You won’t be stranded and you will also enjoy seeing your name on a sign as you exit the airport. With the right company, you will even get help with your luggage at the baggage reclaim – how’s that for service? In no time at all you can be whisked to your hotel in private, air conditioned comfort and you will soon be sitting by the pool sipping a cocktail. Ole!